A Gender Reveal Like No Other...
A little while ago, I put out a model call to try a brand new idea I’d been dreaming up — a gender reveal paint smash session. I had an opening in the studio on the afternoon of this particular family's scan appointment, and they booked the slot straight away.
When they arrived straight from the clinic — envelope sealed — I could already feel the excitement in the air… and honestly, I was feeling a little nervous too! They had no idea what they were having, and now it was up to me to not just photograph this special moment… but actually create it for them.
And that’s exactly what we did.
How it worked:
We kept it simple and clean with a plain white backdrop and matching white tops for everyone (which we’d planned in advance for the best visual impact). Mum, dad, and the three older siblings were all involved — which made it even more meaningful.
To help ease everyone in — especially the little ones — we started with some fun, silly ‘practice’ photos to help them feel comfortable in the space. We did a few sweet family portraits with their scan photo (that didn't have any gender info on it) and then came the big moment…
Everyone put on a blindfold.
The envelope was handed to me.
And I was the only one in the room who knew.
(A surreal and incredibly special responsibility.)
I quietly poured the correct colour paint into their hands. Baby was a BOY! 💙
We had briefed the children beforehand — especially the youngest — that we were playing a “surprise” game. If they saw the colour or took their blindfold off early, they were to keep it secret until the big reveal. And they did amazing!
With paint in their hands, they began gently painting each other — laughing, giggling, still totally unaware of what colour they were using. Then, with a countdown, I told them to take off their blindfolds.
The moment of realisation, joy, and excitement was just magic.
Creating the experience, not just the image
As a photographer, I’m so used to capturing memories — but this was more than that. I got to create the experience, not just record it. To witness a family discovering such a huge moment together, surrounded by joy and laughter and colour… it’s something I won’t forget.
It was one of those rare sessions that reminded me just how deeply personal my work can be. The trust that this family placed in me — not just to capture their joy, but to hold and reveal their baby’s gender — is something I’ll always be grateful for.
A quick note on the practical stuff:
While this session was filled with fun and colour, safety and care were still a priority! Before booking, I let the family know:
- I use non-toxic, washable paints that are safe for skin.
- Most paint comes off easily with baby wipes (which I provided), though light staining is sometimes possible and may take a few washes to fully disappear.
- Clothes used might stain too — so I recommended wearing old or dedicated outfits, with plain bottoms and matching white tops or dresses for the best effect.
Cleanup was surprisingly smooth, and everyone left with smiles (and a little blue glow to their cheeks!).
Would I do it again? Absolutely.
Moments like this are what light me up. Creating space for families to connect, laugh, and make memories that are just as meaningful as the final images — that’s what it’s all about.
If you’re planning a gender reveal and want to do something a little different — something joyful, creative, and totally personal — I’d love to chat. Let’s create something beautiful that feels completely you.
Thanks for reading, and for supporting a small business where every session means the world. 💙
Warmly,
Azaria
