Premier Okotoks Newborn, Maternity, & Milestone Photographer
Time flies, and those precious moments are slipping away! Capture the incredible smallness of your little one with a newborn photo session – it's the perfect way to freeze these fleeting times.
When it comes to entrusting your baby's memories, don't settle for just anyone! With over a decade of experience photographing newborns and babies, I bring expertise and a deep understanding of newborn safety and proper handling. Your precious bundle is in safe hands!
And here's some extra excitement – all digitals are included with every session! Secure your spot now, and let's create timeless memories together. Don't wait. Book today and cherish these magical moments forever!
As a newborn photographer in Okotoks and Calgary, Alberta, the enchanting landscapes and vibrant community add a unique charm to my work. From the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains to the warm embraces of the local families, being part of the Calgary newborn photography scene is truly a remarkable and rewarding experience.
About Dana,
Hi there! I'm Dana, your Okotoks Newborn Photographer specializing in all things baby! Can you believe I've been capturing precious moments for over a decade now? It's true—my job involves lots of baby cuddles (and, of course, snapping adorable pictures).
I'm thrilled to serve the Calgary Area with my cozy studio located just 15 minutes south in Okotoks, Alberta!
Let's talk about newborn sessions. I love booking them when your little one is between 8 and 20 days old. That's the sweet spot for capturing those sleepy, curly poses that melt your heart.
Rest assured, my studio is fully stocked with all the essentials for your session, right down to diapers and pacifiers!
I can't wait to meet you and take beautiful photos of your growing family and become your new go-to family photographer. Let's create some beautiful memories together!
What clients are saying...
We were so excited to have Dana take pictures of our beautiful daughter. We could not be more pleased with how all of our pictures have turned out.
Dana treats us like friends and is very responsive. She made our family feel comfortable and took the time needed to get beautiful pictures. Children, especially newborn infants, don't always cooperate ... but Dana has a magic touch.
We would recommend Dana without reservation whenever you have a newborn baby. We will forever cherish the pictures Dana took of our precious daughter.
-The Wilde Family
The Process
Goals
As a newborn photographer, my primary goal is to create timeless newborn photos and a collection of images that beautifully encapsulate the essence of your new family. I aim to craft a warm and comfortable environment in my studio, ensuring both you and your precious newborn feel at ease throughout the session. By blending my artistic vision with your unique story, my goal is to produce photographs that evoke emotion and become cherished mementos. Whether it's capturing the delicate features of your baby or freezing those fleeting moments of tenderness, my ultimate objective is to provide you with a collection of images that will be treasured for generations to come. Your satisfaction and the creation of lasting memories are at the heart of my mission as a professional newborn photographer.
Safety
At my studio, I prioritize a relaxed approach during newborn sessions, ensuring there's ample time for soothing and feeding breaks. Your baby's comfort and safety is my utmost concern, and that's why you'll always my focus is 100% on your baby. I'm fully vaccinated, including Covid-19 and Whooping Cough/Tdap immunizations, I understand the sensitivity of those first few weeks as a parent myself. My goal is to create a warm, calming environment the moment you walk in, offering the highest quality service for you and your precious new arrival. With over 500+ newborns photographed, rest assured that your baby will be in loving, capable, and safe hands.
(Trust) The Process
Upon entering my studio, you'll immediately feel the warmth and tranquility, setting the stage for a comfortable experience. Whether you choose to unwind in the adjacent parents' area or prefer to be present in the studio, watching each moment unfold, the choice is yours. Take advantage of the opportunity to catch up on emails, enjoy some relaxation, or even sneak in a quick nap – it's a common indulgence (no need to be shy about it!).
Throughout the portrait session, I'll skillfully pose your baby, employing a gentle touch with an array of baskets, blankets, and classic poses, tailored to your chosen package. There's ample time for breaks or feeding as needed; I prioritize a relaxed pace, always attuned to your baby's cues. For those who've opted for parent and sibling pictures, we'll start with those, allowing you to sit back and savor the remainder of the session in a stress-free manner. With years of experience, I ensure each session is a harmonious blend of expertise and warmth, capturing timeless moments in a way that reflects both skill and friendliness.
Session Lengths
In my sessions, I believe in striking the perfect balance - I never rush, and I certainly never make a baby spend unnecessary time in the studio. Instead, I let your baby's cues guide the flow and timing of the session. When they're calm and content, we can typically wrap up in around 2.5 hours, making room for essential feedings and cuddle breaks. Now, if you've booked a Petite Session, it's designed to be a bit shorter, lasting about 1 hour, focusing on creating beautiful moments in a fully wrapped setting. Your baby's comfort and your peace of mind are always at the forefront of my approach, ensuring a friendly and experienced session tailored just for you.
Scheduling
Many clients typically secure their newborn session during the 2nd or 3rd trimesters. To provide dedicated attention to detail, I reserve your due date on my calendar, as I limit the number of newborn sessions each month. Upon your little one's arrival, kindly inform me within 3 days, and assuming there are no complications, we'll coordinate the actual session date for 8-20 days post-birth. Sessions are scheduled Monday through Thursday, starting at 10 am. I look forward to capturing beautiful moments with your newest addition!
Props, Buckets, Blankets and Wraps (oh my!)
Have no fear, my prop closet is here! I provide all the props needed for your newborn session, including baskets, crates, bowls, wraps, adorable hats, bonnets, headbands, blankets, and more. My prop collection has been carefully curated over the years, featuring many custom pieces crafted for my studio, by my favorite vendors. My wraps and layering fabrics are sourced from high-end newborn prop vendors, ensuring quality and comfort. Everything in my studio receives a thorough cleaning after every session, either by hand wash or through a gentle wash cycle, using gentle detergents and cleaners.
License and Insurance
My studio is fully licenses and insured. I do not do this as a side-job or as a hobby - This is my full time job (and it's the best job, ever!)
The Studio
Step into my cozy newborn studio, a haven designed to make your little one's first photoshoot a truly delightful experience!
I understand the importance of capturing those precious moments, and my studio is equipped with everything needed for a seamless session. From adorable baskets and wraps to charming headbands, I have carefully created a collection of props to complement the unique personality of your newborn. My aim is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, ensuring your family feels right at home from the moment you walk through the doors.
As you wait to witness the magic unfold, relax in my parents waiting area. Sip on a cup of freshly brewed coffee and indulge in snacks while taking in the heartwarming moments of your newborn's photoshoot. I've thoughtfully created a space where you can watch the entire session, giving you a front-row seat to the artistry of capturing those tiny toes and tender smiles. For big brothers or sisters eager to join in the fun, a separate area with a TV awaits, providing entertainment to keep them engaged. Meanwhile, a plush couch beckons for a quick nap!
At my newborn studio, I pride myself on creating an environment that radiates with warmth, friendliness, and the joy of preserving your family's most cherished moments.
FEATURED & AWARDS
Kind Words
We had such a great experience with Dana! Her professionalism was evident and her communication always clear and prompt so we felt confident in her before even showing up for our session.
The shoot itself was so much fun for all of us; she was great with our daughter and had a diverse selection of props and colours to choose from for our photos.
We are in love with the photos themselves and the way she edited them. We would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for photos for their newborn or family and we will be using her services again when the time comes!
-️The Zanettin Family
My wife and I had chosen Dana as our newborn photographer after researching for a month or so. We are extremely happy that we have chosen her for our first baby boy.
She is incredibly organized and is very good at what she does. She is very detailed and thoughtful of her client needs. I would highly recommend her and her great work.
Dana - Thanks again for helping us to make memories!!
- The Ghanta Family
We had such a great experience with Dana! Her professionalism was evident and her communication always clear and prompt so we felt confident in her before even showing up for our session. The shoot itself was so much fun for all of us; she was great with our daughter and had a diverse selection of props and colours to choose from for our photos. We are in love with the photos themselves and the way she edited them. We would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for photos for their newborn or family and we will be using her services again when the time comes!
-The Goodwin Family
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Dana Menendez Photography
(403) 370-4250