pets

As a family photographer in Washington, MO, I always welcome pets to be included into family pictures. A photo session with the family pet is always a good idea! Happiness is a warm puppy and a grassy field in the soft light at the end of a summer’s day. I have been photographing this family […]

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For Photographers

If you’re just joining in, welcome!  If you’re reading this blog post, please know, I am hopeful that some of these tips will help you succeed in your personal life, as well as in your career, as you set boundaries for both.  In last week’s Part 1 post, I admitted the trials I faced, being a new mom, working as a teacher and for myself, as a photographer.  

This week, I am sharing how I create a schedule, which sounds like an easy, fortunate task, but is one of my hardest responsibilities, still!

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Personal

My photography studio is located in a small, lower level, of a historic building, along the Missouri River.  If you’re a client of mine, you’ve probably noticed my love-hate-relationship with the unique space, as backdrops fall, I trip over props, etc.!  It’s a narrow area to photograph families or even groups of four, and I really thought it was a problem that didn’t have an easy solution.

This DIY project had been on my mind for a few years, but wasn’t sure how I would produce something so versatile and safe without spending a lot of time on it.  After attending Heidi Hope’s studio workshop last spring, I wanted a wood plank backdrop even more, after shooting many photos in front of hers.  A couple weeks ago, my BFF and photog friend, Janelle, brought her husband’s truck to the studio and said, “let’s do this.”  That’s all it took!  I still question why it took me so long to actually work on this, because it was easy, fun, and I seriously went to bed with a smile on my face that night – only because it’s one more item, crossed off of my lengthy goal list.

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Personal

In the midst of editing a couple weeks ago, I looked at Joe and said that I feel bad we haven’t updated our family pics since Braxton turned one.  See, I made these cute canvas prints, that go so well with my living room colors, so the thought of updating pictures in our new house, […]

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Toddlers

Sam is taking this “Big Bro” thing pretty serious and he’s doing a fantastic job! Such a cute memory from Brayden’s three-month-session!

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Summer Sessions

Miss Eva’s session was full of girly colors, props, and lots of love from her family!  Everyone had to give her plenty of kisses, but she didn’t mind!   Interested in a Sitting Up Session for your baby girl or boy?  Don’t miss this happy, adorable stage of their life! Learn More

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Studio Session

Reese’s session was so girly and colorful for Spring!  I just love seeing this baby every few months for pictures!  She will only smily for mommy, but she’s so darn cute, we always get great pictures! Need only a few milestone pictures?  Contact us about our Milestone Mini Sessions! Book Now!

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Spring Outdoor Sessions

I have been taking Brinley’s pictures for a whole year now – and her mom always has the best props!  The table and chair set was her mommy’s when she was little, and it was the perfect addition to her birthday pictures!  Minnie made an appearance at her tea party, then we finished the session […]

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Studio Session

How cute is Lucy? And that vest she has on?! This family was great and Lucy was so funny. She’s the only baby I have ever seen use a fork to “smash” her cake! Hilarious! Thank you for the laughs, Lucy! Book a session

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Cake Smash

Look how beautiful these sisters are!  They look so much alike and photograph so darn cute together! I’m going to miss seeing this family every six months for pictures!  Happy first birthday, Cheyenne! And, happy-almost-fourth-birthday to Miss Hailey! Book Your Session

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Cake Smash

Can you guess what this little guy’s daddy does?!  Firefighting runs in the family and it suits Dylan very well!  I love the firetruck prop they brought along and the cake smash theme was so unique and fun to set up!  Happy birthday, Dylan!  I wonder if you will blow out those candles at your […]

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Mini Session

Valentine mini sessions were a hit this year! We had so much fun designing the sets and hanging out with some of the cutest kids around!  This is the second year that we were able to go outside for a few pictures!  A 65-degree day in January?!  Only in Missouri :).  XOXO! Be the first […]

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I'm dana

midwest newborn, cake smash + family photographer

I have always had a love for art and storytelling. Photography allows me to combine my journalism background and my artistic point-of-view, which has become my dream career!

I am a wife, mom, and small business owner. On the days when I'm not at the studio, you can find me at home, editing, busy with my boys, or maybe redecorating my house, because the artsy-side of my mind just doesn't stop!

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I'm dana

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