Tiptree Cake Awards Announced 12 Best Cake Photographs To Celebrate National Cake Day

Just in time for National Cake Day, celebrated on November 26th, we have the picture-perfect way to mark the occasion: a showcase of the world’s best photographs of cake. The cake is a universal symbol of joy, celebration, and comfort, and there is no better way to showcase its beauty than through photography.

The World Food Photography Awards celebrates the very best in cake photography through its Tiptree Cake Award, one of the global competition's 25 categories.

More info: worldfoodphotographyawards.com | Instagram

12 PHOTOS

#1 Theodora Tsilikopoulou - Swan White Chocolate Cake

Pictolic reached out to Theodora Tsilikopoulou, a photographer and videographer based in New York. If you’ve scrolled through our list of stunning photos, you might have noticed the captivating shot of the ‘Swan White Chocolate Cake,’ which was captured by Theodora. We were eager to learn more about the process behind this photo.

First, we asked the photographer about her approach to styling and composing the Swan White Chocolate Cake photo. Here’s what Tsilikopoulou shared with us: “The Swan Cake, in its sculptural elegance, demanded a minimalist black-and-white composition. The simplicity of the frame speaks volumes—conveying the essence of the moment in its quiet, understated beauty. As I reflect on the fleeting passage of time, this image evokes a sense of nostalgia, a reminder of how quickly these precious moments pass.”

#2 Maja Smend - Rahul's Strawberry Cake

#3 Ming Tang-Evans - It's Raining Cake, Hallelujah!

A celebration of cake with 'My Little Cake Tin's' signature colorful and stylish edible floral decoration.

When asked about the specific details Theodora considers to make the photographed subject visually appealing, she kindly responded: “In every image, each element plays a distinct role, much like a theatrical production. Some components take center stage, while others work in harmony to complement the scene. The interplay of contrast, light, color, and subtle pops of detail all contribute to the final composition. With the Swan Cake, however, we’re witnessing a monologue—where the subject itself commands the attention, allowing the upsenses of surrounding elements to enhance its presence.”

#4 Fiona Hugues - Pear Trio

A trio of sugar-layer cakes with spiced cream and salted caramel pears.

#5 Baiba Opule - Blueberry Cake

Blueberry cake topped with cream, fresh berries, and flowers.

Next, we were curious about how photographing cakes and other desserts differs from shooting other subjects. The New York-based photographer shared with us: “Each subject requires its unique treatment, and while there are general principles most photographers adhere to, the approach can be as individual as the subject itself. I’ve always found a special kind of joy in photographing cakes and desserts—especially since I often bake them myself. There’s something inherently creative about the process of capturing them. It’s not so much a set method as it is an instinctive flow, an added spark of creativity that comes from within. Every cake, every dessert, every food or drink it seems to inspire its narrative, and I find that spontaneity to be one of the most rewarding aspects of the craft.”

#6 Chs Creative - Decadent Black Forest Cake

Tasked to deliver an extremely atmospheric, opulent cake using gold and chocolate with a mouth-watering dripping effect. The cake was to illustrate decadence at its extreme and illustrate the extravagance of indulgence.

#7 Donna Crous - Chocolate Pear Loaf

Baked pears in a chocolate and molasses loaf.

Lastly, the photographer told us more about her upcoming projects in the world of food photography: “A major source of inspiration for me comes from the world of arts. I often find myself studying the works of iconic artists like Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dalí, and Pablo Picasso. Their ability to convey complex emotions and stories through visual art often sparks new ideas for my work. Currently, I’m immersed in a project inspired by Frida Kahlo, drawing on my interpretation of one of her paintings. The way her work blends symbolism, emotion, and personal narrative resonates deeply with me, and it’s influencing the direction of my next creative endeavor.”

#8 Barbora Baretic - Lilac Inspired Cake

A cake that I made for my daughter's friend - a little princess and her magical birthday party in the park.

#9 Barbora Baretic - Blood Orange Cardamom Cake

Creating this image as a symbol of long-awaited spring was a pure joy. Blood oranges are incredible by their texture, color, and shine and that's what I wanted to capture.

#10 Kris Kirkham - Bundt Cakes

#11 Carolin Strothe - White & Black Currant Swiss Roll

#12 Anna Merkurova - The Final Touch