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

Rancho Palos Verdes Debutante photography

Rancho Palos Verdes Debutante photography – Las Ninas

Rancho Palos Verdes Debutante portraits at the historic Neighborhood Church

We met the ladies at the Neighborhood Church on the sea cliffs of Palos Verdes. What an amazing property! We got their early to scout out the location and was lucky enough to have found the groundskeeper. He gave us a tour of the one time ocean view, 32 room luxury home. It was originally a summer home for a business mogul named J. J. Haggarty (built in 1927 for $750K) After Haggarty fell on hard times, he sold the mansion. It went through a few more owners through the years and eventually became abandoned! It hit the market for $300K in the 1950’s with no interest. After sitting for a few years, the church managed to put together an offer of $60,000 in 1959.

Check out what it looked like in 1928

Las Madrecitas – Las Ninas

This was our first year working with the Las Madrecitas (Las Ninas) charity group and we have already signed next year as well! Las Ninas is very similar to programs at National Charity League or Assistance League. The difference is their group is dedicated to serving the Orthopaedic Institute for Children (OIC). Each girl donates hundred’s of hours over her 4 years of high school. We photographed the girls in their white dresses at the Neighborhood Church for their Rancho Palos Verdes Debutante portraits. One on a white backdrop for the Evergreen Ball programs and and another with the ocean in the background. Each girl will choose a portrait that will be framed and displayed at the ball. We also photographed a group shot with all the debutantes, and another with their mothers. The next time we will see these ladies is at the ball, and then again at the Rose Ceremony and fashion show.

 

The Debutante Ball

Their Evergreen Ball will be at the Beverley Wilshire (Four Seasons Hotel) in Los Angeles.

You can read a news article about the 2016 Evergreen Ball here.

 

EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY

Gilmore Studios have been photographing Debutante Balls in Southern California since 2003. Jennifer Gilmore was a National Charity League debutante in Newport Beach during her teen years and loves working with these young women. Organizing event photography for large groups of people- in a short period of time is no easy task! Thanks to the hundreds of weddings they have photographed over the years, Jennifer and her husband Brian have no problem when it comes to working in a high paced environment.

Rancho Palos Verdes Debutante portraits
rancho palos verdes debutante photographer Los Angeles
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    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

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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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    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.
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    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.
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Wear something that feels like YOU. You’ll move more naturally and feel more confident, which always shows up in the final images.
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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.

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