Dana Pugh Dana Pugh

Lovies Studio Session | Okotoks Family Photographer

I remember when Brian the Lion was a staple at our house. He was a small bear stuffie with a rattle inside and he came EVERYWHERE with us. We had bought him early on in my pregnancy so we feared losing him….how would we ever find a replacement? We never did lose him, but he did, eventually, get tucked away in a special memory box. His fur worn thin from so much love. I know so many families have attachment to special items like Brian the Lion and I would love to document that special bond for you. Introducing The Lovies Sessions!! New to the studio this year. Weekday mini sessions designed to document your child when they are at that age where they don’t go anywhere without their favourite toy or blanket.

To celebrate the launch of this new session offering. On Sunday, March 7th, I am opening a limited number of these sessions. They are $295(+gst). That includes a 30 minute session with up to 3 children from the same household and the complete set of digital images. Plus, you will have access to my brand new online store with a line up of amazing professional products. Contact me now to grab your preferred time slot.

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Canada Photo Convention

Calgary Family Photographer (Photo by Dana Pugh) danapugh.com I have just come home from speaking at the Canada Photo Convention in Vancouver. While I was away, I received an email saying that Georgia needed a headshot for something. So, I knew that upon walking in the door, I would take her down into the studio and grab a shot or two. This, of course, will not do for the headshot. It's too 'artsy' ;) but...for me, her mother, it will do just fine. I can see glimpses of the baby she once was and the woman she will become and the freckles that will connect the two.

This was not the first time I have presented to an audience of photographers, but there was something unique about this conference. Throughout the 3 days, almost every one of the speakers contradicted another speaker. But, there was no bickering only head nodding. The community that has been created at this convention is unique in this industry(at least in my experience). We are all artists. We realized that there are no rules in art and what feels right or works for one person may not resonate with you and that's OKAY. This is your business, your art, and you get to make the rules that work for you.

I'll be honest and say that I have had a number of negative experiences in the industry over the last year or two. It has made me hesitant to spend time with photographers outside of my inner circle because I don't need the negativity in my life. What I need is support...it's what all artists need because being an artist is difficult in a lot of ways. And, at the heart of what I took away from these last 3 days is that supporting each other only makes the industry stronger.

I can truly say that I was overwhelmed by the number of people who came up to me to tell me how much they loved my talk. I was a bit worried as sometimes it seems that family photographers and wedding photographers are on different planets, but, the truth is, we can learn from each other. We can be inspired by each other. We can support each other. No matter which planet we are from.

~ Dana

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Gender Differences

A big pile of snow in the front yard. The likes of which they say we haven't seen since 1901. What to do with that big pile of snow depends greatly on who you ask.Calgary Family Photographer (Photo by Dana Pugh) shortandsweetphotography.caCalgary Family Photographer (Photo by Dana Pugh) shortandsweetphotography.caCalgary Family Photographer (Photo by Dana Pugh) shortandsweetphotography.ca There is nothing quite as thrilling as hitting your bullseye. Except for maybe when it is your kid sister.

There is something so right about this being the first family session sneak peek on this blog. Long time clients who are now more than that. Love these kids(and their parents aren't half bad either).

~ Dana

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