A first birthday is a joyful milestone — curious hands, messy smiles and everything in between.
Smash cake photography celebrates this stage in a relaxed, pressure-free way.
Smash cake sessions are designed to be fun, flexible and entirely led by your child.
There’s no expectation for how much cake is eaten, how messy things get, or how the session unfolds. Some children dive straight in, others take their time — both are perfect.
Sessions move at an easy pace, with plenty of time for breaks
Smash cake sessions usually include:
The focus is always on capturing your child’s expressions and reactions rather than forcing a particular outcome.
My smash cake photography style is natural and understated, allowing your child’s personality to shine.
Images are joyful, honest and full of character
— a celebration of this special milestone, just as it is.


Smash cake sessions should feel fun, relaxed and completely pressure-free — for both you and your child.
I take a calm, child-led approach, allowing your little one to explore the cake at their own pace, without expectations or rushing.
Sessions take place in my Melrose studio, with clean, simple styling that keeps the focus on your child rather than distractions.
The studio is set up to be mess-friendly and stress-free, so you don’t need to worry about the clean-up or how the session unfolds.
The result is natural, joyful images that feel timeless and truly reflect this milestone.



• Smash cake sessions are suitable for first birthdays and milestones • Parents provide the cake (guidance provided after booking) • Sessions are mess-friendly and stress-free • A £50 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking • Remaining balance is due on or before the session date
Smash cake sessions take place in my Melrose studio and are designed to be relaxed, fun and completely child-led.
Every child responds differently, so sessions are always adapted to suit your little one’s personality and pace — with no pressure and no expectations.
You’re very welcome to bring your own cake for the session.
If you’d prefer, a smash cake can also be ordered separately through the very talented Laura’s Cakes, who creates beautifully styled cakes that complement your session.
Cake orders are arranged independently and are not included in the session price. Full details and guidance will be shared once your session is booked.
If you’re looking for a smash cake photographer in Melrose or the Scottish Borders, I would love to hear from you.
Please get in touch to ask questions, check availability, or book smash cake photography session for your child.
👉 Contact me to book smash cake photography session.
M Banka Photo Studio, Station Gate, Melrose, UK
Mon | By Appointment | |
Tue | By Appointment | |
Wed | By Appointment | |
Thu | By Appointment | |
Fri | By Appointment | |
Sat | By Appointment | |
Sun | By Appointment |
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M BANKA Photography
2 Station Gate, Melrose td6 9ps