Having worked as a Tacoma childrens photographer for over twenty years, I can tell you, in complete honesty, that this is the first time one of my first birthday babies knew exactly what I meant when I said “cheese”! And yes, she smiled like a little star! 

This sweet little one celebrated her first birthday photoshoot, along with her brother and sister. As a matter of fact, I have worked with all three of these adorable littles since they were newborn bundles. Being part of a family’s legacy in this way, makes my heart soar! But, I have another little secret to reveal. That stuffed elephant posing with the birthday girl? He’s been present for her and her sibling’s sessions. It’s a time-honored tradition in their family to have their cozy trunked friend by their side, each time we make memories together.

Tacoma Childrens Photographer

I’ll let you in on one last secret before I get into the details of the photoshoot. The first photo depicted below, where big brother has his foot kicked in the air, is one of my favorites from this shoot! I know moms and dads want those “picture perfect” poses to hang on the walls of their family home. But, it’s not uncommon for small children to be adventuring about during a session. I think, and truly believe, that being able to capture that adventurous spirit, while they are still young and imaginative, is something so deeply special!

For this sweet birthday girl’s session, in addition to being photographed with her siblings, we worked on three different setups. A classic portrait setup (that’s where the elephant stuffy comes in!), a rubber ducky bathtub setup, and a cake smash setup. The cake smash setup is often customized by having a chat with Mom and Dad about their vision!

This is where we get to let creativity run wild with an adorable backdrop and a personal-sized birthday cake! Often referred to as “cake smash” sessions, this is when the first birthday baby gets to dig their tiny fingers and toes into a birthday cake, just for them. It’s always a delight to see how they react to their first experience with birthday cake. Will it be timid, shy, or uninterested? Which is very common! Or will they dive in, face first to get a taste?

My sweet birthday girl, the one who beamed with a huge smile when I said “cheese”, was just curious enough. She got her fingers in there to see what this cake was all about, while also shining her light with that adorable smile of hers! To see each and every moment of this session, scroll through the photos in the blog below!

Are you searching for a Tacoma Childrens photographer to capture your sweet baby’s first birthday?

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