Backyard Adventure Session | Calgary Family Photographer

Why have an at home session?

This is something I have been talking about since 2007. So, 12 years!!! Wow. At home sessions are a wonderful way to document your life in this moment. Kids rooms change and grow with them and, as many of my clients tell you, I always make an effort to document kids in their rooms. For the families that I have seen over and over again, this has provided them with a wonderful collection that shows not only how their child has grown, but how their room has changed as well. If only I had a photograph of the room I shared with my sister—complete with pink shag rug and daisy wallpaper. Sometimes with a masking tape line running down the centre which we dare not cross for fear of retribution.

It’s also a wonderful environment for small children who don’t like to sit still. This gives them the opportunity to have their photographs taken in a space where they are comfortable. It can be intimidating meeting a photographer—especially when they have a large camera. People sometimes feel like they have to perform(especially children). Being in their own home allows small children to take their time to warm up to me while they show me their favourite things and we play with familiar toys.

An at home Adventure Session means we spend time together focusing on some of your favourite activities. This allows me to capture some more ‘documentary’ type images while also taking kids aside for a few portraits as well. This family wanted to keep things super casual. We had a fun evening together just hanging out before supper in mid-October. They had such a cute house—filled with character. And, their children showed me the ropes…

I’m taking a limited number of Adventure Sessions in 2019 and space is filling fast. If you are interested in a spot, please contact me sooner rather than later to discuss the details.

A Backyard Adventure Session (with chickens)

With fall sessions already booking, I thought I would share a favourite Adventure Session from last fall. One of the most common questions I get asked is what is the difference between an Adventure Session and a Simply Portraits Session. Well...for starters, Adventure Sessions are the heart and soul of my business. No truly. These are the sessions I have spent over a decade doing here in the Calgary area. My goal is always to go on an Adventure with a family--whether that adventure is at a park, downtown or right in your own backyard. We explore, we discover, we laugh and have a relaxed time together. This allows me to create both casual portraits, as well as, some more candid or 'documentary' type images. It's really the best of both worlds. 

Here's the thing though--these sessions aren't quick. And, I know that not all families have time to spend on a session like this. You really have to set aside a morning or an afternoon for it all to happen. But--I encourage you to consider taking the day off from all other commitments and taking the time to just live in the moment with your family. To invest in what I have come to call 'slow portraiture'....it's very similar to the difference between fast food and a home cooked meal made entirely from scratch. You can tell the difference with every bite.

If you are interested in an Adventure Session in 2018, please contact me soon as my calendar is quickly filling up! Until September 1st, book a session and receive a free 12x18 print of your favourite image.

~ Dana

The Colours of the World | Calgary Family Photographer

I've been mentoring a lot lately. This always gets me thinking...about things like blogging and actually sharing the work that I create because...like I have said to many students--if I don't show it to anyone, how can I expect them to know that I've made it? ha. 

I really loved this session because I just got to play with the kids and really see their personalities. Sometimes it takes awhile for a family to relax and be themselves, but not this family ;) Before I knew it we were having a disco party in the living room ;)

The Summer of Cabins

Another session out at the cabin(it's a cabin because this one is in Alberta). I love doing sessions at people's cabins(and cottages...whichever you prefer). The first picture is literally the first image I took. Proof that not everyone is excited to see me. hahahaha...but, you'll see, she did warm up to the idea.

I thought I'd show one inside and one outside the cabin as well...a glimpse of summer life with this family.

Just a quick note that my schedule for 2014 is almost full. I currently have room for about a dozen more sessions. If you are hoping for a session with me this year(particularly if you are hoping for a specific date), please don't delay in contacting me. I'd hate to disappoint.

Now go outside and enjoy that summer sunshine while it's here ;)

~ Dana