Happy first birthday, Gilmour Studios!

24 Jul

A year ago Ruth Gilmour made a big investment in her business and opened a studio in Hamilton - we catch up with her in the midst of her birthday celebrations!

What’s your biz?

We are a photographic studio and team of photographers in Hamilton. We believe getting to know our clients and understanding their vision makes for exceptional photography, so building relationships is at the core of our work.

Our mission is to create photographs that feel as powerful as they look. We believe exceptional photography starts with understanding people; your vision, your story, your goals, your why.

Whether you’re building a business, elevating a brand, celebrating love, or documenting life as it is right now, we take the time to truly see you. Connection first. Camera second.

We don’t chase trends. We don’t force moments. We create images that resonate, visually striking, emotionally honest, and built to stand the test of time.
Because great photography isn’t just technical skill. It’s intuition. Energy. Empathy. And when you combine all three?That’s when something simple becomes unforgettable..

What was the spark that led to you opening the studio?

At the end of each year, I do a bit of a life and business audit, and by the end of 2024, not having a studio was very firmly in the “this is no longer working” category.

Constantly finding locations, working around bad light and lugging gear everywhere had become a logistical nightmare. I wanted a space that made shoots easier, gave the team a home and allowed the business to grow beyond just me and the boot of my car.

What has the studio done for your business?

It has completely changed how we work and what we can offer.

We now have the light, furniture, props and equipment ready to go, which creates a much calmer experience for clients and means we can photograph everything from branding and headshots to families, newborns, products, workshops and events.

It has also provided a home for our growing team. After years of working from home, having a real workspace still feels very fancy.

What has been some of the challenges in the past year?

There is always something to clean, move, fix or improve, and I’m constantly aware that the studio needs to earn its keep. It’s a little bit like having a third child, except this one has commercial rent.

The space was also dark, dirty and fire-damaged when we found it, complete with an old toilet sitting in the corner, so getting it to this point was definitely a labour of love.

What has been the highlight of the first year in the studio?

Seeing it become more than just a place to take photos.

We’ve had newborns, families, business owners, large teams, photographers, workshops and events come through the doors. I especially love seeing other people use the space in ways I would never have thought of.

The launch was also a huge highlight. It was the first time I had properly stopped to celebrate a business milestone, which, as a business owner, is apparently something you’re allowed to do!

What are you excited about next?

I’m excited to keep growing the team and finding new ways to use the studio.

I’d love to host more workshops, events, collaborative shoots and creative days, as well as continue making the studio an easy and welcoming space for photographers, businesses and content creators to use.