Newport Beach, CA & Gilbert, AZ • Sessions by appointment only

First Birthday Cake Smash Photographer

Smashing Cake – Modern One Year Old

Nothing better than a happy one year old on her birthday!  Being a first birthday cake smash photographer just might be the coolest occupation in the world, right? So much work goes into planning and building the set and it’s always a bummer to tear it all down after the session. These little ones don’t last long when they are covered in frosting, so we make sure to get a cute portrait session beforehand. This also helps baby get comfortable with the studio and photographer.

This little lady had a blast and is there a better way to end a cake smash session than in a bath? Overall, the first birthday cake smash was a smashing success. We can’t wait to show you the golf theme set that we built last week!

Follow our Cake Smash adventures on Instagram

Cake Smash Inspiration

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER

Gilmore Studios is a first birthday cake smash photographer also specializing in maternitynewbornchildren, family, and wedding photography in Orange County, CA. 

Contact us for more info about booking your studio or on location session in the Southern California area. Brian and Jennifer Gilmore specialize in studio & natural light photography in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, Huntington Beach, and surrounding areas in OC and Los Angeles.

Call 949-698-3968 or email us to book your fall and winter 2018 photography sessions. Cake smash sessions are $250 and by reservation only. All birthday cake smash sets are custom built to the client’s theme or color scheme and include a yummy cake from French’s Cupcake Bakery.

Meet the Gilmores:

Gilmore Studios serves Orange County, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. We specialize in wedding photography, family portraits, newborn and branding photography. Our studio has been in business since 2002.

Fun Facts:

PLace we call home:

Newport Beach & Queen Creek

Number of kids:

3 boys

Years in business:

Since 2002

As seen in:

Cake Smash

Featured On the blog

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Simple Sophistication

We are on Instagram
The open environment at Back Bay invites your kids to explore, walk, and twirl safely. I’m there to guide you into natural poses, creating moments that are genuine rather than staged. The golden hour (right before sunset) is the best time for a session at this location.
From photographing many first birthday sessions I’ve found that three to four weeks before your baby turns one is the sweet spot. Having it done ahead of time means you get to enjoy the session instead of squeezing it in. Plus you can have the binges back in time for a party. 

Also…if you are doing a custom backdrop you want to give us some time to create it and get all the pieces in the studio (which is usually 3-4 weeks).
My heart is full today. My youngest Cody is 17. I’m soaking up every moment I have left with him at home. Cody - I love being your mom. You are so kind and loving and always thinking of others. I miss your “2 puppies” and “snazzy” but love all the new things you do now. You are amazing! I love you infinity times infinity ❤️
The Easter Bunny is coming to the studio this weekend 🐰🌸

If you’ve been thinking about spring photos for your kids, this is such a fun way to do it. The set is ready, the bunny is practicing his best poses, and the photos turn out adorable every single year.

These are quick, easy mini sessions and perfect for little ones.

March 14 & 15
Spots are limited.

Come join the fun 👇
https://gilmorestudiosportraits.vsco.page/schedule/easter2026?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZnRzaAQap8xleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAacrHt61lfrlQegMzDWFG0Met5C9xMpLfQQzDe4yIxyrRlmzOroUwvTo5-JVZw_aem_gcm3iw3x2CD14mTBN_pOBg

Tag a friend who needs Easter Bunny photos this year 🐣
Debutante balls require preparation, coordination, and thoughtful lighting to photograph well. From formal portraits before the presentation to working with multiple photographers and managing ballroom lighting, every detail helps ensure the evening runs smoothly for the families attending.

Comment BALL if you’ve ever attended a debutante ball

Newport Beach, CA & Gilbert, AZ

Session by appointment only

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