The Big ONE
A Lakefront Cake Smash to Celebrate Baby’s First Birthday
There’s something so magical about that first birthday milestone.It’s not just a celebration of a year gone by—it’s a celebration of every giggle, every wobbly step, and every moment that made your heart burst. And what better way to mark the big ONE than with a lakeside cake smash full of sunshine?
There’s something so magical about that first birthday milestone.It’s not just a celebration of a year gone by—it’s a celebration of every giggle, every wobbly step, and every moment that made your heart burst. And what better way to mark the big ONE than with a lakeside cake smash full of sunshine?
As a Charlotte-area lifestyle photographer, I had the absolute joy of capturing this little guy’s first birthday in true summer style—on the shores Lake Norman with a handmade turquoise surfboard (great job mom!) , sandy toes, and a smash cake that matched the vibe perfectly.
The theme? The Big ONE—a beachy, laid-back play on turning one. We brought out a giant blue balloon, a mini surfboard, and a sweet sandy setup that felt effortlessly fun and natural. He wore a neutral romper and an adorable backward cap, giving us that perfect mix of casual and cool.
Let’s talk about the main event: the cake smash. Set on a surfboard, with a soft breeze off the lake and golden light pouring in, this moment felt straight out of a dreamy summer postcard. He dove right in, hands first, then face, giggling the entire time.
From wide-eyed curiosity to full-on cake-covered smiles, this birthday boy made my job easy (and incredibly fun).
These are the moments that make 1st birthday photography so special—unfiltered joy, pure discovery, and memories you’ll want to frame forever.
But for me, these sessions go beyond just “getting the shot.” I want to create space to capture the essence of this moment—who your baby is, how you hold them, the way you all laugh together.
Whether it’s mom, dad, grandparents, or chosen family, I make sure everyone who helped shape this first year is part of the story. These aren’t just photos to post—they’re memories to pass down.
Whether you’re dreaming up a lakeside adventure or a cozy backyard bash, I’d love to help you plan a first birthday session that’s as unique as your little one. I offer custom cake smash sessions in and around Charlotte, North Carolina, and I bring a relaxed, storytelling approach to every shoot.
And because these moments are about more than just your baby, I always encourage including parents, grandparents, siblings—whoever makes your family feel whole. These aren’t just milestone photos. They’re a time capsule of love, connection, and joy.
Ready to Book your Child’s photoshoot?
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