Are you planning to celebrate your baby's first birthday party? You know what they say, it's not a party without cake! But if you want to add some fun and humor into the mix, cake smash is definitely worth considering. This photo session involves your little one digging into their first birthday cake in all its glory. Sounds cute, right? Well, before you get too excited about this idea, let’s dive into the details of how much does cake smash cost.
What Is A Cake Smash?
Before we talk numbers, it's essential to understand what is involved in a typical cake smash session. Imagine setting up an adorable backdrop with brightly colored balloons or flowers while dressing up your child nappies and matching accessories like headbands or bowties. And then comes the moment of truth when your munchkin is placed in front of their very own personalized iced creation - complete with layers upon layers of frosting and sugary decorations.
The aim here isn’t just feeding them as much yummy sponge as possible but encourages exploration by playing around with it – leading kids into discovering new foods (and possibly creating funny faces for great pictures). While we can't guarantee that every newborn will love this experience equally – most bubs seem to relish getting messy while trying out something new!
What Determines The Price Of A Cake Smash Session?
There are many factors at play when determining the price point for these sessions:
Location
Cake smashes prices vary greatly depending on location (especially big cities) due to higher rents/studio overhead costs being passed on to clients.
Photographer Experience
Booking an experienced professional photographer might mean paying more than someone who has recently jumped aboard baby photography bandwagon because create stunning shots takes time and skill!
Package Inclusion & Add-Ons
While browsing different photographers’ options/ packages make sure whether props/themes/costumed/ outfits/decorations etc. are standard inclusions for the quoted price or might be considered additional costs.
Time Of Year & Seasonality
As with most services, the timing of a session can have an impact on its cost. For example, many people prefer having fall-themed backdrops during autumn months, which means they likely come at slightly higher prices.
What Are The Average Rates Of Cake Smashes?
It's true what they say - you get what you pay for! And this couldn't be more accurate when it comes to cake smash photography sessions. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to budget at different quotes:
| Location | Average Cost Range Per Session |
|---|---|
| Small Towns | $250-$400 USD |
| Big Cities | $500-$1200 USD |
If that seems expensive expensive "Don’t worry there 'are’ options to suit every budget” so keep reading!
What Options Do You Have To Smash Your Budget?
Okay.. So now we’ve discussed all those scary numbers and shed light on how much is typically charged for these delightful cake smash photo sessions... but if your saving efforts need something extra, here are our favorite helpful tips/tricks:
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Try booking your session off-season: As previously mentioned, seasonality plays a significant role in pricing decisions. Booking dates outside peak periods may result in lower charges because photographers have availability (plus its friendlier weather!).
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Ask about mini sessions: Mini-sessions provided great value – usually taking around 30 -45 minute where professionals capture enough shots within shorter times without multiple set-ups needed; trying utilizing these as cheaper alternatives rather than opting for longer shoots involving multiple costumes props.
Note: Bear in mind that less time equals less photos available from the shoot
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Provide your own outfit: Although some photographers include nappies/outfits/accessories with the package, wearing brand new iced-outfits isn't essential since it is all going to end up on the floor anyway. Put together your own prop basket and make a fancy backdrop out of crepe paper!
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Choose an outdoor location: Rather than renting studio photographer at premium rates – why not consider a casual cake smash in natural surroundings? This approach also provides unique backdrops that don’t require any decoration costs.
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Research local photography schools/programs: College students often offer discounted sessions as part of their course requirements - although these students may be less experienced, they'll still have behind-the-scenes professionals guiding them with equipment available from school libraries.
Note: (There might be more opportunities if you behave extra nice &supply fresh ‘homemade' snacks)
What Are The Benefits Of A Cake Smash Session?
While there are many great reasons for booking one of these fun-filled sessions – let’s remind ourselves what the key highlights are:
Memorable & Unique Keepsake
This occasion delivers photos most likely unlike anything else in baby’s memory book! The opportunity to look back at all smiles (and mess) years down line is too precious to passes.
Low-Effort Decoration
Cake smashes inherently require fewer decorations than typical parties which save money/time/stress factors involved while creating memorable moments (such as jealousy-inducing Instagram posts)
Fun Family Experience
These fun events give families something fabulous to do alongside professional shots! Involving loving family members personalizes each photo more and creates even more joyful memories of this carefree moment's experience.
Conclusion: Is It Worth To Pay For Cake Smash Photography?
Like most things in life, cake smash photography can vary greatly dependant on your budget/preferences/experience required. However, considering the joy it brings both parents/caregiver and babies alike definitely makes it worth having at least once! Remember though; cheaper options receive fewer quality realizations than choosing top-rated photographers. So smashing your savings might mean smashing expectations – don’t get discouraged though, impeccable baby pictures last a lifetime!