Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'Cake Smash'?
Cake smash photography sessions started in America a few years ago, but the trend has since made its way to Australian shores. The cake smash is usually done around the child’s first birthday, and the photos are often used on the first birthday party invitations, thank you cards or just to mark the milestone. It's often the first time a child has tasted cake and been allowed to do whatever they want with as much mess as possible!
That said a Cake Smash can be enjoyed at any age and is becoming more popular with 2nd, 5th, 18th, 21st, 30th, 40th and 50th birthdays! And why not?!
Where are sessions located?
My home studio is located in Everton Park, Queensland 4053. Outdoor sessions are currently located in a park area in Alderley 4051 or immediate surrounds. I do not currently offer travel or in-house sessions
What are your payment options?
Online booking requires a $150 non-refundable initial payment which you can pay by visa or mastercard. The balance of payment is due on the day of the session by card, or cash is also accepted and an email will be issued for this with link to pay.
How do I book?
Book your studio cake smash session online or contact 'Cake Smash with Kate' directly via the online enquiry form for other session types. Ideally sessions would be scheduled two - three weeks before you would like your gallery available to allow for editing.
Do you offer allergy free cake options?
No. Cake ingredients include, but not limited to, wheat, gluten, milk and milk products, eggs, soybean, sugar and may contain traces of nuts. Alternate options included are cupcakes, donuts, ice-cream, fresh fruit, watermelon or spaghetti!
You are welcome to bring along your own allergy free cake to the session and receive a $25 discount off the package fee. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to test and be aware and disclose of any dietary requirements or allergies.
Can I bring my own props to be included?
Yes of course! You may wish to include a personalised name banner, a toy, own outfit, custom cake or helium balloons if outdoors and I will do my best to incorporate these into the set for styling. Please send me a photo at time of booking. Additional fees may apply to new themes or BYO prop and outfit options
Please also bring a towel, wet wipes and change of clothes for you both in case it gets messy!
How long are the sessions and who can attend?
Allow 45 - 60 minutes session time. Please kindly aim to arrive 5 minutes prior to the scheduled session start time to allow for any nursing or outfit change for bub.
**STRICTLY TWO ACCOMPANYING ADULTS** only to a studio session. This is due to limited space within my studio and to limit distractions. If there is an older sibling they may attend also but must be supervised at all times with water and electrics present in studio. From my experience too many people present can be distracting for both the cake smasher and myself as the photographer working within the space. For best results please limit to one or two adults only attending.
Parent/Sibling Photo
An optional Parent/Sibling or Family Photo is included in my Cake Smash Packages (1 pose included).
This photo is for immediate family only (or 2 accompanying adults, ie mum and grandma). The photo is taken at the beginning of a session seated on the cake smash set floor (on bottoms with shoes off please) or if outdoors this will be standing together.
Further requests such as additional poses or variations etc may be denied so we can remain focused on the cake smash, or an additional fee of $50 per request to be paid on the day. Please contact me prior to the session if you have additional requests.
Alternatively consider booking an outdoor family session for another time.
Decorations and themes available
I have a number of backdrops, props etc and constantly adding to my studio collection of items to incorporate. If you have a new theme or set up idea please feel free to contact me (before booking) to discuss and I will do my best or offer a similar alternative based on my style and budget or provide you with a quote if I am unable accomodate within the budget. I aso have a selection of outfit options in sizes 0-1 for bub to use during the session, or they may wear their own of course, just send me a pic so I can style cordinate. Additional fees may apply to new themed or charactor outfits.
Optional Extras Available
Custom Name (cardstock) Cake Topper $20
Cake upgrades from $25
Twin Cake Smash with 2nd cake +$50
Rush Editing within 72hrs $25
Additional Single Digital Images $20
Weekend/public holiday surcharge $50
How are my images delivered to me?
Your online gallery will be delievered to your email and will include a selection of the best images of the day as chosen by the photographer. I will do my best to include a variety of shots with the cutest expressions to select from. Full instructions how to select and download your images will be provided in the email to you.
Your gallery will be available online for 14 days.
Please allow 2 weeks for editing turnaround and additional time to select your images. However if you need the images urgently then 'Rush' editing (within 72hrs) is available for an additional $25.
Do you offer prints?
Images provided are in digital (jpeg) format or upgrade your package to include prints. RAW or unedited images are not provided. Please contact me for printing enquiries.
How will my images be used?
Images may be displayed on my website, social medial accounts, flyers, posters or to enter competitions. Further information included in my Terms and Conditions available on booking.
What if my babe doesn't like the cake?
Every attempt is made on my part for your bub to enjoy the session however not every child is willing to dive right in and make a mess especially in front of camera! Sometimes a little help is needed with toys, music, snack/drink breaks or mum & dad getting involved in the fun. I am still able to capture some cute images even if bub is a little confused when presented with a delicious cake to smash!
Reschedule/Refund policy
A $150 non-refundable initial payment is required at time of booking to secure the session. The remaining balance is due on the day of the session by credit card or cash payment.
Please note a minimum of 48 hrs notice is required should you be unable to attend the scheduled session for any reason, a session for a later date can then be arranged subject to availability.
A $50 reshedule fee may apply if you notify within 48 hours that you are unable to attend the scheduled session for any reason as the cake and balloons will need to be created again.
No refund or reshedule is given due to your child's mood on the day. Resheduling a second time, within 2 weeks and you will forfeit your deposit.