How Do I Choose a First Birthday Photographer in Carlsbad?
It can be overwhelming choosing the right birthday photographer in Carlsbad. Some things to consider on your search would be – are you looking for studio or outdoor photos, does the photographer provide any wardrobe or the cake, how quickly will I receive my photos back after the session. I’ve photographed hundreds of first birthday sessions at my Carlsbad studio since 2009, and the families who are happiest afterward almost always booked based on those important things, not just price.
I’m Stacey Marsh, and I’ve been photographing first birthday cake smash sessions at Lovely Baby Photography in Carlsbad for almost 18 years now. A first birthday session is one of my favorite session types, because their sweet personalities are really starting to shine at this stage.
What Should I Look For in a First Birthday Photographer in Carlsbad?
This really can vary from client to client based on what is important to you. Clients that book with me are looking for a great experience, and they rely on my over 100 5-star reviews on Google. If you’re not sure, ask the photographer that you’re considering if you can see a full gallery. Read online reviews. And reach out to the photographer and ask any questions that you have.
How Much Does a First Birthday Photography Session Cost in Carlsbad?
This will really vary by photographer, based on their years of experience and if they have a dedicated studio or if they shoot outdoors, amongst other factors. At my studio, I offer an elevated experience and only shoot one session a day so that the focus is on your family and we have flexibility for baby’s mood. I also always include family / sibling photos at the start of the session and provide wardrobe for moms, along with older siblings (up to age 8). I provide wardrobe for your baby for the entire session with multiple outfit changes. And I provide the cake. I am a full service photographer and my pricing reflects my almost 18 years of experience along with spending a day with your family creating beautiful images and customizing each session for each family. My session fee is $300 and you can then purchase any images that you love from your session!
What’s Included in a Cake Smash Session at Lovely Baby Photography?
Every first birthday session at my studio includes a pre-session consultation, which can take place via email or we can set up a meeting in person to go over all of the details and plan your session. Here is what happens before your session:
- We plan out your family portion of the session and you’ll pick your backdrop as well as discussing outfit options for the whole family
- You will pick out three backdrops for baby’s solo images. Two for portraits and then the 3rd backdrop will be for baby’s cake smash set.
- You can pick a basic cake or with three weeks notice we can have a custom cake created for you by our partner bakery in your theme (no extra charge for this option).
- You will receive a planning sheet that goes over everything that you have chosen so that everyone is clear on everything prior to the session date
- I will work with you to let you know how to plan for the day
You’re in great hands! Lovely Baby Photography has photographed first birthday sessions in Carlsbad since 2009.
How Far in Advance Should I Book a First Birthday Session?
Most families reach out 2-3 months prior to baby’s birthday. But please don’t fret if you are just a few weeks out and haven’t planned ahead. Reach out anyways, as I do sometimes have last minute openings available. It is best to plan ahead if you can.
If your baby’s birthday falls between October to December, please reach out as soon as you can, as these months are my busiest of the year.
Why Does a Studio Session Work Better Than an Outdoor Cake Smash?
This really is a personal choice for families and one is not better than the other. BUT, I do only shoot sessions in studio because this is the style that I have fallen in love with. And if you book a studio session you don’t have to worry about outdoor elements – its very controlled in the studio.
In 17 years of shooting first birthdays, the sessions that go smoothly almost always share one thing in common: a controlled environment where the only variable is the baby’s mood, not the weather.
What Happens After the Session?
Immediately after I finish shooting your session, I will have you get baby comfortable and cleaned up while I prepare unedited images to share with you on that same day. I usually only need about 10-15 minutes to prepare the images. I have a comfy living room area with a couch, and families can sit and enjoy the images on my large screen television where you’ll be able to view the images that same day. We will go through the images together and I have a very efficient system to help you pick out your favorites. I also have gorgeous product samples of all of my books and albums so that you can feel and touch them and decide how you want to display your little one’s photos. Families in Carlsbad, Encinitas, Del Mar, and across North County San Diego book with Lovely Baby Photography to receive a beautiful and elevated experience.
If you’re ready to book, take a look at my cake smash photography page for available dates, or read about theme ideas for your session before you get in touch through my contact page.
