One of my favorite parts of being a Gilbert Arizona child photographer is getting to celebrate the sweetest milestones with families I adore. First birthdays are such a fun time — full of giggles, tiny hands, and sticky frosting. But this birthday session? It had a delicious twist — donuts instead of cake!
Yes, you read that right — a donut smash instead of a cake smash. And let me tell you, I might be a little obsessed. There’s something extra fun (and way less messy!) about little hands grabbing onto fluffy, frosting-covered donuts. Plus, the theme? “Donut Grow Up” — I mean, come on. It doesn’t get much cuter than that.
This session was even more special because I had photographed this little one’s big brother a few years ago for his donut smash. Same setup, same sweet sprinkles — but this time with a girly twist! A soft blue outfit, a big pink “1” sign, and of course, more donuts than anyone could count. We even had donuts stuck to the wall! (Yes, we get creative over here.)
The birthday girl was a total star. She smiled big, squished the sprinkles, and looked up at me with those bright eyes like she knew she was the center of attention. Watching her explore the sweet treats, giggle at the frosting on her fingers, and proudly sit in front of that big number one made my heart so full.
The best part? I always get to “help clean up” — which means I may or may not have eaten a few leftover donuts after the session. 😋 Win-win, right?
This session reminded me once again why I love doing cake smash photography in Gilbert, Arizona. It’s not just about the photos (though those are pretty adorable). It’s about celebrating who your child is right now — their silly expressions, their curiosity, their tiny milestones that go by way too fast.
Thank you to this sweet family for trusting me with another special moment. And happy first birthday to our little donut-loving girl — donut grow up too fast!
Ready to plan your own one-of-a-kind cake (or donut!) smash session?
Let’s make something sweet together! Reach out [here] to book your Gilbert cake smash photographer session and start planning the cutest celebration your baby will ever have.