From Baby Bump to Cake Smash: Lumkile’s Camping Adventure
One of the greatest joys of being a photographer is seeing families return as their stories unfold. Just a year ago, I had the honor of photographing Venessa during her maternity session. She was glowing with anticipation, awaiting the arrival of her first child. Fast-forward to today, and baby Lumkile is celebrating his very first birthday with a one-of-a-kind camping-themed cake smash photoshoot in my Pretoria studio.
This return session wasn’t just about cake and balloons—it was about family, traditions, and capturing personalities exactly as they are.
Grandma Never Misses a Shoot
The Majija family is very dear to me, and one of the things that makes their sessions extra special is the presence of grandma. She was part of Venessa’s maternity photoshoot, and just as before, she joined us again for Lumkile’s cake smash. There’s something so precious about grandparents being part of milestones—it creates memories that span generations.
Sunshine in Yellow
For this session, the family arrived in bright yellow outfits. What a cheerful splash of color! It made the photos pop and gave everything a fun, energetic feel. Plus, they were heading off to a soccer match right after the shoot, so their coordinated look served double duty.
A Camping Cake Smash Adventure
The chosen theme was camping, and it was such a creative idea. With lanterns, wooden props, and greenery, we brought the outdoors into the studio. The rustic vibe paired perfectly with Lumkile’s curious expressions as he discovered his first birthday cake. Messy? Definitely. Memorable? Absolutely.
Not Every Baby Is a Smiley Baby (And That’s Okay!)
Every little one has their own personality. Some laugh and giggle through the whole session, while others—like Lumkile—are more serious and thoughtful. And you know what? That’s perfect. These photos are about capturing who your child really is at this age. Forcing smiles isn’t what makes memories last.
A Second Try at the Piano
Mommy Noxolo also had her heart set on some piano-themed portraits. Lumkile wasn’t quite in the mood during the cake smash day, so I invited them back for another mini session. The result? Gorgeous, calm photos at the piano that show his serious side in the most beautiful way.
Why I Love Return Families
Sessions like these are why I adore what I do. I first met the Majija family during maternity, then newborn, and now their cake smash milestone. Watching families grow and being trusted to capture every chapter is the biggest compliment a photographer can receive. These photos become part of their family’s story—and I’m so grateful to be part of it.
Wrapping It Up
Lumkile’s camping cake smash photoshoot in Pretoria was full of personality, family tradition, and love. From the bright yellow outfits to the rustic theme and the bonus piano portraits, it was a celebration worth remembering.
If you’re thinking about booking a cake smash photoshoot in Pretoria, I’d love to welcome you into my studio to create memories like these for your little one.
Go here to see more of our cake smash photoshoot work
