Newport Beach, CA & Gilbert, AZ • Sessions by appointment only
Gilmore Studios was established back in 2002 in Newport Beach, CA by husband and wife photographers, Brian and Jennifer Gilmore. They started out as wedding photographers but as their couples grew into families, the portrait side of their business took off. Today you could say they specialize in people. From fine wedding photography, commercial and events to family, children and newborn photography, Jennifer and Brian love capturing all stages of life for their clients.
We are located in TWO locations. A residential neighborhood in Newport Beach, CA and the border of Queen Creek and Gilbert, AZ. Our small Newport Beach studio is part of a 1/2 acre garden. We get the benefit of having studio space as well as an outdoor garden to photograph our clients. Our studio in Arizona is residential and perfect for branding & headshot sessions.
Brian Gilmore is a commercial, wedding & portrait photographer at Gilmore Studios. Brian runs the social media, blog, and marketing department at the studio.
Jennifer Gilmore is the owner/founder of Gilmore Studios and a photographer. Jennifer runs the daily tasks of the studio and keeps the business running.
Jennifer has always had a passion for photography. After earning her degree in psychology, Jennifer got a job as a wedding photographer's assistant. Jennifer worked hard practicing her skills and was soon asked to be the lead photographer at a wedding.
Filled with nerves and excitement, Jennifer called Brian (her boyfriend at the time) and asked him to be her second shooter. Brian had never touched a professional camera but agreed to help. To their surprise, they made a great photography team and continued to work together.
As they developed their camera skills, the photos got better and better. Later that same year, Brian shot as a lead photographer for this same company! Before they knew it, they were getting married and starting their own photography business together. That was back in 2003 and they never looked back.
Today, they have photographed hundreds of weddings (over 500) and even more portraits together. As their brides and grooms grew into families, the portrait side of the business would also grow. Their newborn, family, and kids portrait business took off and they have enjoyed photographing thousands of clients & friends over the years.
1. Keep posing gentle and natural.
At this age, kids don’t need stiff, formal poses. Simple prompts like “look over your shoulder,” “hold your dress,” or “twirl once” help them feel at ease and still keep the focus on the special meaning of the day.
2. Give them space to feel grown-up and little.
Eight is a magical age, old enough to understand the moment, but still so innocent. I like to sneak in a few detail shots of their hair, dress, or tiny hands to capture that in-between.
3. Talk to them like a friend.
An 8-year-old is more relaxed when they feel seen and heard. I always ask about their favorite part of getting ready, or what they’re most excited about. The best smiles come when they feel proud of what this milestone means. #BaptismPhotography #BaptismPortraits #ChildPortraitPhotography #LDSBaptism #ldstemple
1. Simple is beautiful.
Soft, neutral outfits photograph best on a white background. You don’t need fancy clothes or lots of props, just pieces that feel comfortable and timeless so the focus stays on you and your little one.
2. The magic is in the in-between.
Don’t worry if your child isn’t looking at the camera the whole time. Some of the most heartfelt moments happen when you’re snuggling, playing, or just being together.
3. It’s okay if it feels a little chaotic.
Kids wiggle, giggle, and sometimes melt down. I’m a mom too, and I’ve seen it all. I’ll guide you through every moment so you can relax and soak up this sweet time together.#maternityphotosession #maternityphotoshoot #maternityphotography #mommyandme
🇺🇸 Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸
Today I’m feeling extra grateful for the freedoms we have, the people who built this country, and every brave person who has served — past and present — to protect it.
Wishing you a day of fireworks, family, and a moment to appreciate just how lucky we are to call the USA home. ❤️🤍💙
#4thofjuly #GratefulHeart #USA #Freedom #GilmoreStudios
1. These photos will mean even more with time.
Right now, it might feel like a fun excuse to get everyone together, but years from now these are the images your family will go back to. The ones that hang on walls, show up in slideshows, and get pulled out during the holidays. It’s more than a session, it’s a gift for your future self.
2. Group photos are just the beginning.
Once I capture the big group shot, I break it down into smaller combinations like siblings, individual families, and grandkids with grandparents. You’ll walk away with a gallery that feels like a full family album.
3. I’ve got the chaos covered.
Big groups can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry. I know how to keep things moving, lighthearted, and fun. You don’t have to direct or organize anyone. Just show up and enjoy the moment, I’ll take care of the rest.
#extendedfamily #extendedfamilysession #familyphotographer
1. It’s totally normal to feel awkward at first.
You’re not professional models, you’re just two people in love. The best photos happen once you relax, talk, laugh, and just enjoy each other. I’ll guide you through it all.
2. Outfits matter, but comfort matters too.
Wear something that feels like YOU. You’ll move more naturally and feel more confident, which always shows up in the final images.
3. Your location should mean something.
Whether it’s where you had your first date or just somewhere that feels like you, personalizing your session makes the photos even more meaningful.