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

A Dino-themed Cake Smash for Your Little Explorer’s First Birthday

Welcome to Gilmore Studios, where we specialize in creating magical moments that capture the joy of childhood. Recently, we had the pleasure of photographing a special one-year-old birthday boy with our dinosaur-themed cake smash session. From prehistoric backdrops to our signature white cake crafted by a local bakery, this celebration for our little explorer was nothing short of epic.

The Main Event: Smashing Success

With our custom-designed white cake as the centerpiece, it was time for the main event – the cake smash! Crumbs flew, frosting smeared, and dinosaur figurines joined in the fun as he gleefully smashed his cake apart. Each moment captured on camera was a testament to the pure joy of childhood spontaneity. We love our dinosaur-themed cake smash!

Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Perfect Experience

At Gilmore Studios, we understand that every client is unique, which is why we strive to tailor each session to their specific vision. From selecting the perfect theme to coordinating with local vendors for delectable treats, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure a seamless and memorable experience. Our goal is not just to capture stunning photographs but to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Why Choose a Cake Smash Session for Your Little One’s Birthday?

Cake smash sessions offer a fun way to celebrate your child’s first birthday while capturing priceless candid moments. Not only do they provide a fun and memorable experience for your little one, but they also result in adorable photographs that you’ll treasure for years to come. Plus, with our wide range of available themes, there’s something to suit every child’s unique personality and interests.

Gilmore Studios is here to turn their birthday fantasies into reality. Contact us today to schedule your own themed cake smash session and let the magic begin!

 

 

little boy, little boy sitting, birthday, birthday outfit, birthday outfit inspiration, blue overalls, boy shirt, Gilmore studioslittle boy sitting, little boy photography, birthday, birthday photography, blue overalls, blue shirt, Gilmore studioslittle boy, little boy laughing, dinosaur shirt, dinosaur backdrop, smiling, Gilmore studioslittle boy, little boy standing, birthday, dinosaur themed backdrop, dinosaur shirt, birthday outfit, birthday inspiration, Gilmore studioslittle boy standing, little boy smiling, birthday, birthday outfit, dinosaur shirt, blue shorts, dinosaur backdrop, Gilmore studioslittle boy standing, little boy cheering, birthday, cake smash, dinosaur shirt, blue shorts, dinosaur backdrop, Gilmore studiossmiling boy, birthday boy, birthday outfit, birthday boy outfit, dinosaur, dinosaur themed, Gilmore studiosbirthday boy, little boy, white cake, dinosaur outfit, dinosaur backdrop, dinosaur inspiration, birthday theme, Gilmore studioslittle boy, standing, dinosaur outfit, birthday boy, birthday outfit, white cake, cake smash, themed birthday, Gilmore studiosdinosaur backdrop, birthday boy outfit, birthday, cake smash, white cake, dinosaur shirt, sitting, Gilmore studioslittle boy sitting, white cake, smiling, red dinosaur, dinosaur background, dinosaur outfit, blue shorts, dinosaur shirt, little boy, brown hair, Gilmore studiosbirthday boy, little boy crawling, dinosaur, birthday outfit, dinosaur inspiration, white cake, gilmore studiossmiling, laughing, bathtub, dinosaur, cake smash, birthday boy, Gilmore studioslittle boy, birthday boy, little boy making gesture, photography, inspiration, dinosaur themed, bathtub, Gilmore studiossmiling, dinosaur, dinosaur themed, birthday, cake smash, bathtub, red dinosaurdinosaur, close up, little boy, birthday boy, bathtub, cake smash, birthday inspiration, Gilmore studiosbathtub, dinosaur, cake smash, little boy, birthday boy, smiling, photography, Gilmore studiosbirthday boy, dinosaur, dinosaur themed birthday party, cake smash, bathtub, little boy, smiling, photography, Gilmore studiosbirthday boy, laughing, bathtub, dinosaur, dinosaur themed, cake smash, one year old, Gilmore studiosbirthday, cake smash, bathtub, dinosaurs, smiling, photography, birthday inspiration, Gilmore studios

Meet the Gilmores:

Gilmore Studios is a husband and wife team that serves Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Diego areas. We specialize in fine wedding photography, family portraits, and newborn photography. Our studio has been in business since 2002.

Fun Facts:

PLace we call home:

Newport Beach

Number of kids:

3 boys

Years in business:

Since 2002

As seen in:

Cake Smash

Featured On the blog

Read more
Simple Sophistication

We are on Instagram
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.

Newport Beach, CA & Gilbert, AZ

Session by appointment only