Family Photo Shoot at Home with Mermaid Cake Smash

Family Photo Shoot at Home with Mermaid Cake Smash

There’s nothing more heartwarming than seeing a family grow right in front of your lens—and this session was extra special. I photographed this sweet girl as a newborn just one year ago in their home, and now she’s back in front of my camera for her family photo shoot at home with mermaid cake smash included! Being invited back into a family’s space to celebrate a major milestone like a first birthday is the kind of full-circle moment that fills me with so much joy.

We started the session with relaxed lifestyle family photos in their cozy home—everyone barefoot, comfortable, and simply enjoying time together. The living room had the most beautiful soft light, and we used that natural setting to document all the love this little one has around her. Big smiles, giggles, snuggles with mom and dad—it was pure, everyday magic.

Then came the fun part: her mermaid cake smash! She was absolutely adorable in her shimmery mermaid tail and seashell crown, surrounded by waves of teal and lavender. The themed setup was the perfect pop of color and whimsy after the cozy neutral tones of the family portion.

Why Choose a Family Photo Shoot at Home with Mermaid Cake Smash?

Choosing to do your session at home adds an extra layer of comfort and personality to your images. You’re in a space that your little one knows and loves. That means fewer distractions, a relaxed pace, and authentic connection in every frame.

Adding on a cake smash gives you a playful, colorful way to celebrate that first big milestone—and a chance for your baby to shine solo (and get a little messy in the best way!). You get the best of both worlds: timeless family portraits and a themed birthday celebration all in one.

The Flow of the Session

1. Family Lifestyle Portraits
   We kicked things off with natural poses on the couch, on the nursery rug, and by the window. This little girl has such a joyful spirit, and it was so special to see how bonded she is with her parents.
2. Outfit Change & Setup Switch
   While we prepped the mermaid scene, she had a quick outfit change and snack break—no pressure, no rush. One of the perks of being at home!
3. Mermaid Cake Smash Fun!
   The setup included a custom cake with pastel ocean waves, starfish, shells, and a pearly topper. She dove in with a cautious finger poke at first… then full-on glee. Cake on her face, cake in her toes—it was everything a cake smash should be!

Tips for an In-Home Family Photo Shoot with Cake Smash

• Keep it simple. A small space is all you need for magic. Natural light, a clear spot on the floor, and your baby’s smile go a long way.
• Have a backup outfit. For both baby and parents—because you will end up with frosting somewhere!
• Choose a theme that fits your vibe. This family leaned into a soft, pastel mermaid theme, but anything from woodland to balloons to florals works great at home.
• Let it unfold naturally. Some babies dive into the cake, some need a little encouragement. Either way, it’s adorable.

A Full-Circle Moment

Photographing this baby girl as a newborn, and now again for her first birthday, was such a gift. It reminded me why I love what I do—documenting not just milestones, but the love that lives in the everyday moments between them.

If you’re considering an at-home session for your baby’s first birthday, adding a themed cake smash is a sweet way to celebrate. You’ll walk away with not only milestone memories, but images that tell the story of your family in this moment—real, cozy, and full of love.