
Colorado Springs Photographer Blog
In-Home Newborn Session in the Colorado Mountains
This cozy in-home newborn session in the Colorado mountains was the kind of slow, sacred magic that fills your chest and stays with you. Iβve photographed Laura and David through their journey into parenthoodβfrom their maternity session, to Livβs birth, to a handful of sweet family milestones since thenβand this session welcoming baby Dante felt like coming home.
It was everything I love about lifestyle newborn photography: connection, presence, and a whole lot of love. Liv played DJ while Dante snuggled peacefully nearby. There were snacks, pet cuddles, and the kind of laughter that only happens when youβre completely at ease. This Colorado in-home session reminded me that newborn photography is about more than documenting a new babyβitβs about honoring a growing family in all its tender, wild beauty.
A Story Years in the Making
Thereβs something so sacred about being invited back. About being trusted to witness a family not just once, but over and over again as their story unfolds.
Thatβs what this lifestyle newborn session in the Colorado mountains felt like with Laura and Davidβlike being welcomed back by dear friends. Iβve walked with them through their first pregnancy, the birth of their daughter Liv, and now, the arrival of baby Dante. And every time, I leave feeling full to the brim with gratitude.
A Cozy, Laid-Back Mountain Morning
Their home, tucked in the piney quiet of the mountains near Pine, Colorado, was warm and peaceful when I arrived. The sun spilled gently through the windows, Liv was upstairs showing me her favorite little DJ piano (and yes, I absolutely got a live concert), and baby Dante was snuggled nearby like a secret waiting to be discovered.
And this is what I love about in-home newborn photographyβitβs unhurried. Itβs intimate. Itβs filled with the kind of quiet beauty you canβt stage. David was still getting ready, Laura was upstairs putting the finishing touches on, and I was already in the middle of documenting what makes this season so special: the in-between moments.
Making Space for Siblings to Shine
At one point, I slipped a tiny 3D-printed axolotl into Livβs handβa little gift I brought for her. Because when a new baby arrives, older siblings deserve to feel celebrated, too. Her whole face lit up. Itβs a small thing, but those moments of connectionβof making kids feel seenβmean everything to me.
Real Life, Real Grace
And yep... if youβve been following my recent behind-the-scenes updates, this was the session where my dairy sensitivity reared its ugly head. But even that, as awkward as it couldβve been, was met with grace and understanding. These people are just good humans, and I feel lucky every time I walk through their front door.
Dante, by the way, is a little miracle. He had to be on oxygen for a few weeks due to Coloradoβs high elevation and thinner airβso we waited a bit longer than usual to do his newborn session. But that just meant he was extra alert, full of sweet stretches and sleepy expressions that made the whole day feel even more magical.
Why Lifestyle Newborn Photography Matters
Whether youβre in Denver, Colorado Springs, or tucked away in one of the many mountain towns that make this state feel like a storybook, lifestyle newborn photography offers something that studio sessions just canβt replicate: home. Your pace. Your people. Your pets, even.
This Colorado in-home newborn session was a soft reminder that photography doesnβt have to be posed or perfect. It just needs to be real.
And this? This was real love.
A Joyful Birthday Family Session in Denver, Colorado
Watching a family grow through the seasons of life is one of the greatest honors of this work. In this sunny Denver park session, I got to reconnect with a family Iβve photographed since their maternity daysβand this time, we were celebrating Remiβs second birthday.
It was full of light, laughter, and the kind of real connection that makes my photographer heart melt. If youβre into heartfelt storytelling, wildflower toddlers, and golden hour goodness, youβre gonna want to click through.
Thereβs something sacred about watching a family growβnot just in size, but in love, in connection, in all the little in-between ways that donβt show up on a calendar.
As a Colorado Springs Family Photographer, one of my greatest joys is building relationships with families over timeβbeing invited into their most tender seasons and capturing the real, raw, joyful stuff. And Iβve had the absolute honor of photographing Brittany and her sweet crew three times now. It started with their maternity session, all that belly-glowing anticipation. Then came the newborn snuggles, sleepy yawns, and that intoxicating quiet joy that only a new baby brings. And nowβnowβRemi is two. TWO! And friends, she is pure magic.
This latest family photography session in Denver felt like a full-circle moment. But not like a perfectly polished circleβmore like a hand-drawn one, full of charm and personality and realness. The kind of circle that says, "Weβve lived a little since then, havenβt we?"
We met up in a Denver park I hadnβt explored before, and let me tell you, it gave me all the creative goosebumps. As a Colorado Family Photographer, Iβm always looking for new pockets of beautyβand this spot was chefβs kiss. The golden light dancing through the tall grasses, the texture of the trees, the open sky? It felt like nature herself was singing a little birthday song just for Remi.
And oh my heartβthe way this family shows up for each other. You can feel it in the way they laugh together, the way Remi runs back into her mamaβs arms with total abandon, the way her grandparents look at her like sheβs stardust and sunshine all rolled into one chubby-cheeked toddler.
Iβve gotta shout out Brittany, tooβnot just because sheβs a warm, grounded, deeply loving mama, but because she recently relaunched her own developmental editing and copyediting business. Sheβs crazy talented, and if youβre a fellow creative looking for an editor who truly gets it, you can check out her work right here. Sheβs the kind of creative who lifts others up just by being herself.
Photographing families year after year like this? Itβs the heartbeat of what I do. Whether youβre based in the foothills of the Rockies or taking a little birthday adventure up to Denver, Iβm always down for documenting your story in a way that feels honest, emotive, and true. If youβre looking for a Colorado Springs Family Photographer or planning your own family photography session in Denver, know that Iβm here to make it easy, meaningful, and funβwith just the right amount of chaos and giggles sprinkled in.
Remi, you are sunshine and sparkle and sass in the best way. Happy birthday, little wildflower. I canβt wait to see who you become.
Looking to press pause and soak up this season with your kidsβwhether youβve got one wildly wonderful little human or a whole joyful crew under your roof? Iβm here for the real, playful, deeply connected stuff. β¨
From sweet second birthdays to full-on sibling shenanigans, Iβll guide you through a family session thatβs more like an adventure than a choreβand give you images that feel like home.
Make Your Family Photography Session an Adventure in Colorado Springs
Family photo sessions donβt have to feel stiff or forced. Imagine hiking through the stunning foothills of Colorado Springs, laughing, and connecting with your loved ones while I capture it all. This blog is all about turning your photography session into a true adventureβsomething that feels as natural as it looks.
Iβll share how you can choose the perfect spot, get your kids engaged in fun activities, and even let go of any expectations to simply enjoy the moment. Itβs about more than just pictures; itβs about making memories that feel as real as the mountains around us. Curious? Keep reading to learn how we can turn your family session into a true adventure.
How to Make Your Family Session Feel Like an Adventure
Capturing authentic, adventurous family moments is at the heart of what I do as a Colorado Springs photographer. Family photography doesnβt have to feel stiff, posed, or stressful. In fact, the best sessions feel more like an adventureβwhere you and your kids get to explore, play, and just be. Thatβs when the magic happens. Thatβs when we capture the giggles, the wind in your hair, the way your childβs tiny hand fits in yours.
If the idea of a βphoto sessionβ makes you think of forced smiles and rigid poses, let me show you another way. Hereβs how we can turn your family photos into an unforgettable experience.
Choose a Location That Sparks Joy
The backdrop for your session sets the tone, so letβs pick a place that feels like you. Love hiking as a family? Letβs wander a forest trail. Prefer barefoot beach days? Letβs chase the waves. Love cozy, at-home moments? Weβll turn your living room into the perfect storytelling space.
π‘ Pro tip: Choose a spot where your kids can run, explore, or interact naturallyβit keeps the energy high and the stress low!
The backdrop of your session plays a pivotal role in setting the mood. As a seasoned Colorado family photographer, I've had the privilege of photographing all over the Front Range and into our beautiful mountains.
Garden of the Gods: Majestic red rock formations that provide a dramatic setting.
Palmer Park: Capture your family's essence against the backdrop of towering peaks.
Downtown Colorado Springs: Blend urban charm with family warmth.
βUp the Mountainβ: Epic views and all the adventure you can handle.
Embrace Movement and Play
Adventure sessions work best when we lean into the real momentsβthe ones where your kids are twirling, running into your arms, or laughing at something silly. Instead of standing stiffly, weβll play games, have tickle fights, or even play games.
β¨ Ideas to try during your session:
Running hand-in-hand through a field
Swinging your little one in the air
Exploring a creek or climbing over rocks
A piggyback ride that ends in a fit of giggles
Engage in Activities That Bring Out Genuine Emotions
Adventure sessions thrive on movement and authenticity. Whether it's:
Hiking the Foothills: Experience nature trails hand-in-hand.
Picnicking in Memorial Park: Relish simple joys amidst greenery.
Exploring Old Colorado City: Discover local art and history together (and maybe get an ice cream at OCC Creamery).
These activities foster natural interactions, leading to heartfelt photographs.
Dress Comfortably & Authentically
Forget the perfectly matched outfits and stiff collarsβthis is about feeling good. Flowy dresses, barefoot toes, cozy sweaters in the fallβyour wardrobe should move with you and fit the adventure weβre creating. Earthy tones, soft fabrics, and layers always photograph beautifully.
π‘ Pro tip: Think about what youβd wear for a fun day outdoors, then elevate it just a little.
Your attire should complement the adventure and setting. Opt for:
Layered Clothing: Adapt to Colorado's varying climates.
Comfortable Footwear: Essential for exploring diverse terrains.
Neutral Tones with Pops of Color: Harmonize with natural surroundings.
Let Go of Perfection (The Best Moments Are Unscripted)
Your toddler may refuse to sit still. Your kid might have wild, messy hair from running through the wind. And guess what? Thatβs perfect. The best family photos arenβt about looking flawlessβtheyβre about looking real. Some of the most breathtaking images come from the unexpected moments:
Your child wrapping their arms around you mid-run
Laughing so hard you forget the camera is there
A quiet moment between you and your partner, completely unposed
When you let go of the idea of the βperfectβ photo, thatβs when we capture the ones that make you feel.
The most memorable moments often arise spontaneously. As your dedicated Colorado Springs photographer, I've witnessed:
Children's Unfiltered Joy: Genuine laughter during unexpected antics.
Candid Family Interactions: Unposed embraces and shared glances.
Natural Environmental Portraits: Families immersed in the beauty of Colorado's landscapes.
These unplanned instances encapsulate your family's true essence.
Soak in the MomentβItβs More Than Just Photos
At the end of the day, this is about more than getting picturesβitβs about creating memories. Your session is a time to slow down, connect, and see your family through a new lens (literally!). I want you to leave feeling closer, more in love, and grateful for the people who mean the most to you.
π‘ Pro tip: Think of this as a family date, not a photoshoot. Bring a blanket for cuddles, pack some snacks, and enjoy the experience.
The essence of adventure photography lies in the journey, not just the images. Engage in:
Storytelling Sessions: Share tales during a family hike.
Interactive Games: Foster bonding and genuine expressions.
Mindful Moments: Pause to appreciate Colorado's serene vistas together.
This approach transforms the session into a cherished family memory.
Ready for an Adventure?
As a Colorado Springs photographer, I'm committed to crafting sessions the result in family photos that feel like youβfull of warmth, love, and movement. Whether weβre chasing golden light in the mountains or cozying up at home, Iβll make sure you walk away with images that feel as magical as the moments themselves.
Letβs make it happenβreach out to book your family adventure session today!
Golden Hour Family Session at Brainard Lake
Brainard Lake at golden hour is nothing short of breathtaking, and this family session captured all the magicβglowing light, mountain views, and the sweetest, most connected moments. With its easy access and stunning scenery, this spot is perfect for families who want a relaxed yet epic Colorado photo experience. Whether the kids were twirling by the water or snuggled up in their parents' arms, every moment felt natural, love-filled, and effortlessly beautiful.
If youβre dreaming of a mountain family session with golden light and heartwarming moments, Brainard Lake is an incredible choice. This session was a perfect mix of adventure and ease, and I canβt wait to share more from this unforgettable evening in the Rockies!
There are some locations that just steal your heart every single time, and Brainard Lake is one of them. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains near Estes Park, this spot is pure magicβespecially at golden hour when the light spills over the peaks, the lake turns to glass, and the whole landscape glows. Itβs the kind of place that feels straight out of a dream, and honestly? Itβs one of my absolute favorite locations for family sessions in Colorado.
This sweet family has been in front of my camera more times than I can count, and every time, itβs a little different. From cozy newborn sessions at home to crisp fall mini sessions, they always bring so much love and adventure to our time together. And this time? This time we went all in with a stunning mountain session at Brainard Lake during golden hour.
Why Brainard Lake is the Perfect Family Photo Location
If youβre looking for a Colorado family session location thatβs both accessible and breathtaking, let me introduce you to Brainard Lake:
Easily walkable β No strenuous hiking required! Perfect for little kids, grandparents, and families who want effortless beauty. Stunning mountain views β The Indian Peaks Wilderness creates a jaw-dropping backdrop in every direction. Golden hour magic β The light here? Itβs next level. Warm, dreamy, cinematic. Wildlife sightings β Moose are known to wander through (from a safe distance, of course!). Adventure optional β If you want to level up, there are nearby trails for families who want to add a little hike into their session.
And the best part? This location is great for my clients visiting from out of state because you get those epic Rocky Mountain views without a long trek. Brainard Lake is truly a versatile locationβwhether you want a relaxed, easy-going session by the water or a more adventurous feel, this spot delivers.
A Family Full of Love, Connection & Adventure
Every time I photograph this family, it feels like catching up with old friends. They are so deeply connected, full of warmth, and always up for an adventure. It seems like every time we meet, thereβs a new sweet addition to their crew, and watching their family grow has been such an honor.
For this session, we took our time exploring different areas of Brainard Lake. The kids ran through the trails and trees, twirled by the water, and snuggled into their parents as the sun set behind the mountains. There were so many sweet little in-between momentsβtiny hands gripping momβs dress, a soft hug by all, the boys making each other laugh as they tossed pebbles into the water. These are the moments that make family photography so special. Real moments. Real connection.
Making Your Family Session Effortless & Fun
I get itβfamily photos can feel overwhelming. What do we wear? What if the kids wonβt cooperate? How do we make it feel natural? But hereβs the thing: you donβt have to worry about a thing.
Iβll send you a prep guide to help with outfits, timing, and making sure you feel totally ready.
Iβll guide you through natural, fun prompts that bring out genuine moments.
I create a relaxed, easygoing space where your family can just be yourselves.
If little ones need breaks? Totally fine. Weβll go at their pace.
The result? A gallery full of images that truly feel like YOU.
My goal is to create a space where you can show up, be present, love on your people, and let me take care of the rest.
Ready for Your Own Mountain Family Session?
Golden hour isnβt just a photographerβs buzzwordβitβs the best time of day for light that is soft, warm, and completely flattering. At Brainard Lake, the sun dips behind the mountains in the most breathtaking way, giving everything a dreamy glow. This is when the magic happens.
Imagine your family wrapped in the golden light, the sky painted in soft pinks and oranges, and the mountains standing tall in the background. Itβs pure Colorado magic at its finest.
If youβve been dreaming of a golden hour family session in the mountains, Brainard Lake might just be the perfect spot for you. Whether youβre local to Colorado or visiting from out of state, letβs create something magical together.
Generational Family Session at Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Iβve had the privilege of photographing Allison and Maxβs family through some major milestonesβfrom their wedding to welcoming their daughter, Rylee. This session, though, was extra special as we celebrated Ryleeβs second birthday with her grandparents visiting from out of town. Red Rock Canyon Open Space set the perfect backdrop for capturing these sweet family moments, as Rylee explored and shared love with her parents and grandparents.
Thereβs something magical about multi-generational sessions, and this one was full of beautiful memories. From seeing the family grow over the years to witnessing Ryleeβs sweet connection with her family, every moment was filled with love and joy. Keep reading to see how we created a space for Rylee to shine, even when she was feeling a little overwhelmed by so many loved ones around.
There are just some families that feel like old friends. You know what I mean? The kind where you show up with your camera, and it feels less like work and more like catching upβwith a little lens in between. Thatβs exactly how it is with Allison, Max, and now their sweet girl, Rylee.
From Just the Two of Them to a Family of Three
I met Allison and Max right after they tied the knot, and we did this dreamy little session tucked away in Cheyenne Canonβsurrounded by the wild Colorado beauty that just fits them. Itβs been such a gift watching their story unfold, especially when I got to document their journey into parenthood.
From their maternity session to those sweet, sleepy newborn days with RyleeβIβve been lucky enough to freeze time for them. And now? Somehow, weβre already here. Celebrating Ryleeβs second birthday. (I know. Donβt even get me startedβtime is a thief.)
Celebrating Ryleeβs 2nd Birthday with Family at Red Rock Canyon Open Space
This session was extra special because it wasnβt just the three of them. Maxβs parentsβhis dad and stepmom and his momβall came into town to celebrate Rylee turning two. And yβall, what better way to mark the occasion than gathering everyone at Red Rock Canyon Open Space for a family session?
If you havenβt been, Red Rock Canyon is one of those spots that screams Colorado Springsβred rocks towering over winding trails, open skies, and mountain views that honestly never get old. Itβs perfect for extended family photos because thereβs room to roam (and letβs be realβtoddlers need to roam).
Real Life MomentsβBecause Toddlers Are Gonna Toddler
Rylee showed up exactly how two-year-olds doβwith all the big feelings. Being the center of attention with so many people around felt a little overwhelming at first. But honestly? Thatβs where the magic happens.
Instead of forcing anything, we let Rylee set the pace. We created space for her to explore, snuggle her mom and dad when she needed that safe spot, and slowly warm up to having everyone around. What we captured wasnβt just posed smilesβbut the real moments. The way she clung to her mama. The way Max kept cracking jokes to pull a giggle out of her. The way everyone lit up just watching her be her wild, beautiful little self.
A Target Run, a Birthday Surprise, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Funny enough, I actually ran into Allison, Max, Rylee, and Maxβs mom at Target just a few days before our session. (Because where else does all of Colorado Springs bump into each other, right?) It happened to be Ryleeβs actual birthday, and they were headed to the Cheyenne Mountain Zooβone of the absolute best spots in town for a birthday adventure.
If youβve never been, that zoo is such a gem. Set right up against the mountains, itβs got views for daysβand honestly, the giraffe feeding deck is reason enough to go. I ended up slipping Rylee five bucks to buy lettuce for those giraffes (because obviously feeding giraffes on your birthday is a rite of passage, right?).
Word on the street is theyβre opening a new exhibit next yearβso if youβre visiting or local, itβs definitely worth checking out.
Why Extended Family Sessions Matter
This session was such a good reminder of why I love extended family shoots. These moments donβt happen all the timeβfamily flying in, grandparents seeing their grandbaby turn two, the whole crew gathered in one of the prettiest spots Colorado Springs has to offer.
Photographs like these? Theyβre heirlooms. Theyβre the kind of images that get pulled out years down the road, the kind Rylee will show her babies one day. And itβs such an honor to be the one to tell that story.
Ready to Book Your Own Family Session?
If youβre dreaming of capturing your own familyβs storyβwhether itβs just your little crew or the whole extended familyβIβd love to be the one behind the camera.
Whether weβre wandering through Red Rock Canyon Open Space, exploring the trails at Cheyenne Canyon, or chasing giraffes at the Cheyenne Mountain Zooβletβs make some magic together.
A Sun-Soaked Maternity Session in the Colorado Mountains
Some families become more than just clientsβthey become part of my journey, just as I become part of theirs. Iβve had the absolute honor of photographing Laura and David through so many of lifeβs sweetest seasons, from their first maternity session with Liv to her newborn days, and now, as they prepare to welcome their baby boy. This golden, sun-soaked session in the Colorado mountains was a celebration of love, growth, and the beautiful transitions of family life.
Documenting families as they evolve is one of the greatest joys of my work. Thereβs something magical about capturing not just the milestones, but the quiet, in-between momentsβthe way a big sister waits with excitement, the way two parents hold each other with the deep knowing of whatβs to come. I canβt wait to step into their home again soon for their newborn session, capturing the next chapter in their story.
A Growing Love Story: Laura, David & Liv
Some families just feel like home. Thatβs exactly how it feels every time I step into a session with Laura and David. Weβve been on this journey together since they were expecting their daughter, Liv, and now, years later, weβre celebrating the arrival of their newest little loveβa baby boy, due any day now.
From their first maternity session at Garden of the Gods to their sun-drenched family session last year in the mountains, each moment has been filled with so much warmth and connection. This most recent maternity session, once again up in the mountains near their home, was no exception. It was golden, peaceful, and filled with the kind of love that makes you slow down and soak it all in.
Following Families As They Grow
Thereβs something incredibly special about documenting a familyβs story over the years. Iβve watched Laura and David step into parenthood with such grace, capturing Livβs newborn session in the comfort of their home and later seeing her grow into the most joyful, adventurous little girl. Now, as they prepare to welcome their son, I canβt help but feel honored to be part of this next chapter.
Maternity sessions like this remind me why I love what I do. Theyβre not just about the baby bump; theyβre about the journeyβthe deep love between partners, the excitement of a sibling waiting to meet their baby brother, and the quiet, tender moments before life changes in the most beautiful way.
An Invitation Into a Familyβs Most Sacred Space
One of the greatest honors in my work is being invited into a familyβs home during those early newborn days. Iβll be photographing Laura and Davidβs in-home newborn session soon, and I already know itβs going to be filled with all the sweetness that comes with welcoming a new baby.
Laura and I had an instant connection from the beginning, but I knew we were kindred spirits when I noticed a beautiful piece of art in their home during Livβs newborn session. When I commented on it, she told me she had found it on the side of the road in New Yorkβmy kind of gal! Those little moments, the things that make each family uniquely them, are what make these sessions so incredibly meaningful.
Ready to Document Your Familyβs Journey?
If youβre expecting a little one and want more than just a maternity sessionβif you want to document your growing family in a way that feels natural, connected, and deeply personalβI would love to be the one to tell your story. Whether itβs a sun-soaked maternity session, a cozy in-home newborn session, or capturing your familyβs milestones as the years pass, Iβm here for all of it.
Letβs create something beautiful together. Reach out to book your Colorado maternity or newborn session today!
Adventure Family Photography Session at Eleven Mile State Park
Danica is a local birth photographer and it was such an honor to document the love her family shares during their session with me. I have gotten to work with Danica and her crew before when I was making a branding film ages ago. They were so sweet and perfect then, just as they are now. These two are parents who are connected to their babes and truly lead by example (well, most days, haha).
We traveled into the mountains to one of my favorites spots at Eleven Mile State Park and explored this glorious, nature-filled space together. My little friends brought along their binoculars, and their free spirits and we chased the sun and each other all evening. It was the best and I was totally there for it.
This year, I want to travel and meet clients in all the beautiful places in Colorado and beyond. Each year I get close and close to the ultimate goal of traveling in my camper and photographing families and couples along during my own adventures with my family. There is a lot that goes into that type of business/lifestyle change so it will be a couple of years, in the meantime, Iβll be taking airplanes and traveling in my trusty car to get to all those hidden gems that I stumble upon.
Danica is a local birth photographer and it was such an honor to document the love her family shares during their session with me. I have gotten to work with Danica and her crew before when I was making a branding film ages ago. They were so sweet and perfect then, just as they are now. These two are parents who are connected to their babes and truly lead by example (well, most days, haha).
We traveled into the mountains to one of my favorites spots at Eleven Mile State Park and explored this glorious, nature-filled space together. My little friends brought along their binoculars, and their free spirits and we chased the sun and each other all evening. It was the best and I was totally there for it.
This year, I want to travel and meet clients in all the beautiful places in Colorado and beyond. Each year I get close and close to the ultimate goal of traveling in my camper and photographing families and couples along during my own adventures with my family. There is a lot that goes into that type of business/lifestyle change so it will be a couple of years, in the meantime, Iβll be taking airplanes and traveling in my trusty car to get to all those hidden gems that I stumble upon.
Want to come long on an adventure with me? Soon, I will be adding some βbucket listβ locations to my location catalog. These are locations that I have scouted but not yet photographed in. I get so excited for new spaces and I can promise you that it will be a wild and worthwhile ride. Letβs connect?