HAVE YOU MADE AND CHANGES TO YOUR SAFETY AND HEALTH PROCEDURES SINCE COVID-19/CORONAVIRUS?

Yes, absolutely.  The safety and health of all of our clients and staff is extremely important.  We have changed up our shooting schedule to accommodate complete cleaning between sessions and more.  You can view all of our new updated procedures here.

What is the pricing for your Cake Smash SessionS?

Big Apple Portraits is a no session fee photographer. This means you do not pay an upfront fee. You will come in for your 30 minute cake smash session and then return for a reveal appointment. At the reveal, you pick your package. You can find all the details and pricing here.

What props and sets are provided?

During your 30 minute session we will shoot at least 3 different setups. You will fill out a questionnaire regarding your cake color and outfit preferences. We will then use our extensive inventory of cake plates, banners, backdrops and more to match. You only need to bring the cake! Everything else is included. We have whisks, spatulas, vintage high chairs and so much more. Check out our pinterest board for an updated inventory and sample sets.

When is the best time to schedule a Cake Smash session?

It is best to schedule your child’s cake smash session about a month ahead of time. Cake Smash sessions are almost always best in the morning, based on the best time around their nap. Even if your one year old is beaming and happy at 6pm when you or your spouse come home from work, we have found that this is not the best time in the studio.

What do I need to bring to my Cake Smash session?

You will need to bring the cake, the outfits and snacks such as puffs and water for your child.

Do you set up themes for the cake smash portion?

We will work with coordinating your color preferences before your session. We provide all the props for each set including cake plates, banners, poofs, and decorations.

What type of cake should I bring?

We have lots of recommendations for cakes. Our absolute favorite is the cake from Whole Foods in the Time Warner Center. Whole foods cakes are affordable, not super sweet (which is not appealing to a baby with limited exposure to sugar) and they will do limited customization for free. You are welcome to bake or find your own baker. Magnolia Bakery is also right around the corner – we just recommend you pick your cake up early so there is time for the icing to soften. The cake should be 5-6” with a soft icing and a light color cake inside. Please leave the cake at room temperature about 2 hours before the session to ensure the frosting is nice and soft.

Do you include parent or sibling shots?

Yes, we do. However, Cake smash sessions focus on the baby. In the beginning of each session spend a few minutes playing games and warming to your child. We will absolutely include a family or sibling shot at the start of the session.

Do I need to bring any special outfits for my child?

You are welcome to purchase your own or use items from our closet. We have a selection of rompers, shorts, diaper covers, and tutus. Please check out our Pinterest board for the available options.

Any tips on how to prepare my child for their Cake Smash Session?

It is a good idea to do a trial run at home a few days before with a cupcake with frosting. Some kids have never had sweets before, or have a hard time feeling dirty or messy. Giving them a chance to experience these sensations for the first time at home can make it easier on the day of the session.

My child has a small scratch/bruise or their face, is that ok?

I know kids at this age are on the move! Lots of falling and tripping. If you child has a small mark on their face, do not worry as I am able to touch it up in post.

What if my child is sick?

A healthy child is a happy child. Please let me know within 24 hrs of your session if your child is sick, has a runny nose, or cough,  or anyone in your family has been exposed to Coronavirus so we can reschedule your session.  We never charge a sitting fee just for this reason. We want the best and biggest smiles possible. Thank you for keeping me and my family healthy too!

What if my child doesn’t eat the cake?

This does happen.  Some children love the cake smash and dig right in.  Others are hesitant.  I recommend making a cupcake or small cake and introducing the cake smash idea before (a few days/weeks before) our session date.  This way, your child will be familiar with the process and will know that they can smash the cake.  Also, bring or have on hand puffs or cheerios so we can stuff them into the cake.  Your child will want to grab them out of the cake and eat it.

Will mom or dad get messy?

You definitely will!  You will have to show your child that they can eat the cake so you might have to take a bite yourself.  Yum!  Also, your child may stand up and walk or crawl around, so you will have to keep putting your child back into the designated space.  Your will get frosting on your clothes so don’t wear anything you do not want to get ruined. You may also want to bring a change of outfit as well.

Can I invite my family members to the session?

Too many people trying to get your child to smile or talking tends to be a distraction. We kindly ask that you show your loved ones the keepsake memories.

How will we clean up?

The best part of having a cake smash at Big Apple Portraits is…. We do all the clean up! At the end of  the cake smash we will provide you with a towel so you can clean your baby. But we will clean the mess on the floor and the studio. Most kids are done (really done!) at the end of the session so you get to walk out the door and leave the mess for us.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO PICK MY PACKAGE ONLINE INSTEAD OF ATTENDING THE REVEAL SESSION?

No, reveal sessions are required. We do not charge an upfront fee so please plan to attend a reveal session if you book a session with us. We are very accommodating with schedules and will work with you to find a time that works best.  Due to COVID-19, online reveal sessions will be made available via Skype, Google Meet, or Zoom.

WHAT IF I WANT TO ADD MORE ITEMS ON TO MY PACKAGE OR THE GRANDPARENTS WANT TO PURCHASE PHOTOS TOO?

While we always encourage all decision makers to be present for reveal sessions, we know that is not always possible.  After you have made your initial purchase, we will load an online proof gallery to order additional images or products.  It is shared via email and you can feel free to share the link with friends or family.