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

Puppy Theme 1st Birthday Cake Smash

Puppy Theme 1st Birthday Cake Smash!

What can we say, this little guy LOVES puppies! It was only fitting to have a puppy theme 1st birthday session. We have loved photographing Jackson over the past year. I still can’t believe that he is already one! His mommy runs a well known blog called Sunshine Daydream and has been so great about giving us shout outs on her social media accounts! Thank you!

Custom Birthday Photography Sets by Gilmore Studios

Every birthday background that you see on our website is custom made with direction from our clients. We love creating these sets! Each one is unique and requires a lot of time researching and purchasing props. We have a large format printer that allows us to make our own backdrops. We have partnered with an amazing cake designer that works with us to create the perfect birthday cake to match the theme.

Tips and tricks

  • Allow at least 2 weeks for design and planning time.
  • To help your 1 year old will have a great session, let them try some cake a few days before your session. Some kids do not like the frosting on their hands!
  • Bring toys, books, or favorite snacks to the session. Sometimes a distraction helps!

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER

Gilmore Studios is a photographer team specializing in maternitynewbornchildren and family 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 2017 photography sessions. Cake smash sessions are $250 and by reservation only. Puppy themed 1st Birthday cake smash photography session. 

All cake smash sets are custom built to the client’s theme or color scheme and include a cake.

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

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Simple Sophistication

We are on Instagram
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.
1. Your baby sets the pace and that’s how it should be.
Newborn sessions are slow, quiet, and flexible. Diaper changes and cuddles? All expected. We’re on baby time, always.
2. The simple shots are the ones you’ll treasure.
You don’t need a dozen props. Some of the most timeless images are the ones where baby is just wrapped up in your arms, barely posed, just…loved.
3. Your only job is to show up.
You don’t have to clean the house, bring Pinterest ideas, or stress about how your baby will behave. We’ve got it covered, you’re doing great already.

Newport Beach, CA & Gilbert, AZ

Session by appointment only