About Dana Nicole Smith Photography

Hi, I’m Dana—Colorado born and raised, a Colorado State University graduate, and the photographer behind Dana Nicole Smith Photography. I’m a former United Airlines flight attendant, a full-time stay-at-home mom, and the proud mother of four boys, including my husband. Travel has always shaped my life, from time spent in the skies to exploring back roads through overlanding and off-roading, and that sense of curiosity and movement carries into everything I create.

I’m fueled by coffee, chocolate, and a deep love for family, meaningful connection, and quiet moments in a loud world. I’m an animal lover at heart, endlessly inspired by nature, and best described as a talkative introvert with a chaotically organized creative mind. There’s a method to the madness, and it shows in a photography experience that is calm, intentional, and thoughtfully guided—so you can simply be yourself while I capture what matters most.

Driven by passion

Giving back is part of my work, and koalas are my cause.

For seven years, I’ve donated 3% of my portrait session profits to Koala Conservation Australia, supporting the protection and preservation of one of the world’s most beloved and vulnerable animals.

Koalas have been deeply impacted by habitat loss, bushfires, and climate change. While they are often seen as a symbol of Australia’s natural beauty, their future depends on real conservation efforts happening right now.

When you book a portrait session with me, you’re doing more than investing in meaningful imagery. You are directly contributing to wildlife protection, habitat restoration, and rescue and rehabilitation efforts that help koalas survive and thrive.

Make it stand out.

  • Personalized Portrait Experience

    Every portrait session with Dana Nicole Smith Photography is built around the client. I take time to understand what you want from your images and how you want to feel during your session.

    When you work with me, you can expect:

    • Guidance on choosing the best session location

    • Help with styling and outfit selection

    • Direction for natural posing and expression

    • A relaxed and personalized photography experience

    • Carefully edited images with a timeless look

    • Portraits designed to be shared, printed, and enjoyed for years

    I want the experience to feel just as valuable as the final images. From your first inquiry to your final gallery, my goal is to make the process clear, supportive, and enjoyable.

  • Why Clients Choose Dana Nicole Smith Photography

    Clients choose Dana Nicole Smith Photography because they want more than quick photos. They want a portrait photographer in Aurora and Denver who takes time to understand their vision, guide them through the session, and create images with lasting value.

    My clients appreciate:

    • A natural and timeless editing style

    • A calm and encouraging approach

    • Custom portrait sessions tailored to each client

    • Beautiful Colorado portrait locations

    • High quality images for print and digital use

    • A professional experience from start to finish

  • Serving Aurora, Denver, and Nearby Colorado Communities

    I proudly serve clients in Aurora, Denver, and nearby areas with senior portraits, family photography, and professional headshots. Colorado offers an incredible variety of portrait locations, and I love helping clients choose settings that match their personality and style.

    Whether you are looking for senior pictures in Aurora, family photos in Denver, or professional headshots in the surrounding area, I am here to create portraits that feel genuine, polished, and lasting.

Art Shows, Juried Shows & Exhibitions

2023 21st Exploring the Light Best of Show June 6th - July 9th

2023 21st Exploring the Light - April 5th-June 6th

2022 Published In SeniorMUSE Magazine

2022 Columbine Library Exhibition May 2022

2021 Published in SeniorMUSE Magazine

2020 Louisville Art Association 26th National Photography Show- September 8 - 13th

2020 18th Annual Exploring the Light Photo Show - August 8th - November 1st

2019 R Gallery Fine Art

2019 25th Annual Gateway to the Rockies Art Show and Sale

2019 Colorado Aperture 2019

2019 Edge of the Cedars 47th Annual Art Exhibit

2018 Edge of the Cedars 46th Annual Art Exhibit

2017 Edge of the Cedars 45th Annual Art Exhibit

2017 Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Amateur Photo Contest