The Origin of the Duck
When I first introduced cake smashes to my studio, I kept a close eye on photography trends coming out of America—there’s often a good sense of what’s coming next over there. That’s how I came across the idea of tub splashes, and I knew straight away I wanted to include them as part of my sessions.
So I bought my little tin tub, thinking it would be the perfect follow-up to a messy cake moment. But once it arrived and was sitting in the studio, it looked a bit… bare. It needed something more—something playful, classic, and recognisable. And what could be more natural than a rubber duck?
When I spotted him, the duck, the icon himself… I didn’t hesitate. He was just right. He came back to the studio with me that day, and he’s been part of the team ever since.
He started life as a simple prop. But over the years, he’s made his way into so many sessions, been adored by so many babies, and featured in so many photos that he’s become a bit of a star in his own right. It’s safe to say—he’s more than just a bath toy now. He’s a studio legend.
A Bit of History
While our studio duck has become a star in his own right, he’s part of a long and noble tradition. The first rubber ducks appeared in the late 1800s—though they weren’t squeezable or floaty just yet. Originally made from hard rubber, they were more chew toy than bath toy. It wasn’t until the 1940s that the classic yellow duck we all know and love took flight, thanks to softer materials and a growing obsession with cheerful bathtime companions.
By the 1970s, the rubber duck had become a household icon—and even found fame when Sesame Street’s Ernie sang “Rubber Duckie,” turning our little yellow friend into a pop culture legend.
Today, the rubber duck is a symbol of childhood, nostalgia, and whimsy—and here in the studio, he’s all that and more. He’s a prop, a mascot, and now… a multi-platform media phenomenon.
Duck Spa Day – Self-Care in Action
After years of tub splashes, cake smashes, and being gently chewed by hundreds of babies, our studio duck finally got the pampering he deserves.
Robed up, cucumbers on, and ready to recharge—this is what peak relaxation looks like.
Watch the full experience below and remember:
Wellness. Balance. Quack.
Rubber Duckie – the OG
It’s hard to overstate the impact of this bathtime bop. When Ernie serenaded his beloved bath buddy on Sesame Street in 1970, “Rubber Duckie” didn’t just charm children—it became a cultural moment. The song was so popular it actually made it onto the Billboard charts, and the humble rubber duck was officially launched into iconic status. If there was ever an original influencer in the world of bath toys, this was it.
Duck Bunting Glow Up: Because Obviously, Only the Best for our Star
He already had duck bunting, of course—but let’s be honest, it had seen better days. A little faded, a little wonky… not quite befitting the studio icon he’s become. So it was time for an upgrade. This new set brings coordinated fabrics, pom-pom trim, and a centrepiece flag worthy of a star. Because when you’re the face of Duck Week, even your soft furnishings need to rise to the occasion.
Now You’ve Seen His Range… He’s Available for Hire
From cake smashes to cinematic masterpieces, motivational quotes to literary greatness—our studio duck has truly shown the full extent of his creative range. And now? He’s open to new opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a brand ambassador, a bath-time morale booster, or a general waddle-based content specialist, he brings dedication, charisma, and a squeak you won’t soon forget.
Check out his profile below—and don’t be surprised if he turns up in your next studio session looking sharp in a tie and ready for business.
