Dana Smith 7/30/25 Dana Smith 7/30/25

Alivia’s Senior Portaits - Bonneville High School - Class of 2026

Alivia - my adorable niece! Aliva is from Idaho Falls, Idaho, so I was very pleased when Aleesha asked if I could do Aliva’s senior portraits when they came through for a visit. Aleesha is my husband’s sister. Most of our extended family is in Idaho.

I asked Aleesa to go through my galleries to see where Alivia would like to have her photos taken. Alivia is allergic to grasses and pretty much anything green, so I found it ironic they pick a place that had nothing but floral and grasses. Alivia popped her pills for this one!

This session was a family outing and catching up time, so what better way to catch up and take photos at the same time. I can’t have a session these days without a little weather hiccup. We had to take cover briefly for weather, but with the delay, the weather was almost perfect according to me.

This location is always my favorite and looks different every time I go. I am absolutely thrilled with Alivia’s portraits! And grateful for family time.

Dana Smith 7/18/25 Dana Smith 7/18/25

Mikey - Grandview High School - Class of 2024

“Humans recognize effort, and that’s what I do. I give max effort.” - Justin Gaethje.

A quote to start the blog off with. Amy booked Max’s senior portraits with me as a repeat client. I did his big sister, Madeleine’s senior portraits. I hope I remember right, Class of 2022 for Madeleine?! I always appreciate my repeat clients!!! Thank You! Max decided he wanted the urban scene for his portraits. Denver was his top spot. I absolutely love the urban setting for the guys!

I had clients a few weeks before Max’s session, where we were so close to a shooting, yes just around the corner from us at Union Station. I felt like we were in lion or hyena territory, and the gazelles (people) fleeing for safety. I felt I needed to let Amy know the circumstance for Denver. I gave Amy the option to continue on there or elsewhere, but Max really wanted Denver. I mean really, what are the chances? I suggested that we bring a man along to our session for an extra lookout. Her husband was out of town, so my husband (kind of the jungle), with no complaints, tagged along.

I recall a conversation we had at the consultation for Max, about Amy’s upcoming trip to South Africa for a safari, and Max asked if she was scared about the lions, hyenas and zebras, oh my! Sorry no tigers or bears in Africa. Anyway, in our opinion, humans are more scary and dangerous than a lion. I don’t know about a hyena though, humans would be more like a hyena, opportunistic, rip you to sheds if they had the chance, steal from your neighbor kind. Hyenas are Africa’s bullies. Mean people suck! Man, I went on a rant! (sigh emoji) But it is really unfortunate that we have to watch our backs fearing for the proverbial ambush everywhere we go these days.

PSA: Denver is becoming a higher risk location. I will not say “NO” to this location, but extra precautions are needed. Safety is important to all of us involved. Both parents must be there! I love shooting in Denver (with a camera, y’all), but Denver is truly turning into a: Sierra, Hotel, India, Tango HOLE!

I absolutely enjoyed my session with Max and catching up with Amy. Max had an infectious smile and like his sister before him, worked the camera! I loved how Max looked so cool, casual in his layered outfits.

Dana Smith 7/13/25 Dana Smith 7/13/25

Leighton - Cherokee Trail High School - Class of 2026

Leighton - what a doll! Seriously, this young lady with her perfect skin, blue eyes and perfectly styled hair. YES! Stephanie booked Leighton’s senior portrait session with me in late June for the Hudson Garden’s location. Their consultation was straight forward and easy, they new their location and they already had outfits in mind.

The session went flawlessly except for a little camera malfunction right at the beginning of our photo session. I am no good at trouble shutting under pressure. They were patient with me and we did have extra time since both of us showed up early. All was good in the end!

Leighton and Stephanie were both such a pleasure to work with. We did time the weather perfectly. We started an hour early, working around thunderstorms that day.

The whole process was easy and straight forward. I am so happy with Leighton’s photos!

Dana Smith 5/26/25 Dana Smith 5/26/25

Location. Location. Location. Choosing the prime spot.

Choosing a portrait can be a little thought provoking. Here are my thoughts to get you in the right spot. I provide a plethora of different location to fit you personality and interests in the Denver area and beyond. You don’t have to take my suggestion. It’s your shoot and I shoot any spot. One location does not fit all. So think about this:

YOUR PERSONALITY - are you artistic, athletic, casual, nature lover, urban skateboarder, goth chic, outdoors man, studious, whatever it is, location can reveal you. Here are some examples:

. City Slickers: rooftop garages with a sweet view, mural walls, urban streets

. Artistic: Graffiti walls, galleries, art museums, architectural buildings, record stores, streets with signs

. Studious: Library, bookstores

. Nature Lover: Mountain scenery, parks, botanical gardens

. Athletic: school stadium, track fields.

MATCHING THE MOODS TO THE OUFIT(S) - what do I mean? I mean, make sure the background complements your outfits and does not clash. For example: you’re dressed in a suit and tie or you’re into fashion, but want a natural backdrop. Suit and tie (dress clothing, fashion) exudes, a business profession. This may not fit the natural scene appropriately and maybe urban is just the scene.

Okay, have you heard of juxtaposition? We can apply that to photographs and portraits if done with thought and intent. If not, then it can clash.

A juxtaposition for example: you love to 4x4 but you live in the city. Maybe a Jeep on a rooftop with a view? Or, you’re a cowboy with that awesome hat, jeans and boots, but you live in the city. BOOM! Juxtapose that!

. If you’re more bold, edgy, gritty, maybe urban, industrial, graffiti walls backdrop would fit the mood more appropriately

. If your mood is more soft pastels, flow- y, maybe floral (botanical) gardens, golden hour, natural backdrops would set the scene better.

SENTIMENTAL SPOTS: These are spots that mean something to you - your backyard, favorite hangout, your high school, or even a childhood playground. This can add authenticity and real emotion to your portraits.

My son for example: he loves old cars, vintage and antiques, so I found it fitting to take him to Tulsa, for a Route 66 theme. Now, I know most people do not have the luxury or time for a destination shoot, but it worked for us and he engaged more than if I had popped him in environment that didn’t mean anything to him. You can read his blog here : Carston Smith

And of course, TIMING IS EVERYTHING in portraits and all genres of photography - LIGHTING! Mid day reveals harsher light, but can be more dramatic and edgier. Golden Hour ( an hour or so before sunrise and sunset) reveals a warmer, more flattering glow. Again. what is your style and personality?

In conclusion, location is mostly everything to your senior portraits. If you’re not a nature person, but pick a natural backdrop, it may not translate to your personality, interest and vibe. DON’T forget about juxtaposition. This is where brainstorming and creativity come in to play. After all, you’re hiring a professional, so utilize that and come up with something non-traditional and really let your personality shine through.

Dana Smith 5/18/25 Dana Smith 5/18/25

Isabella - EHS - 2025

Double the pleasure with these two lovelies! Look at them, they’re gorgeous and adorable inside and out. Marina booked their session in January for their senior portraits and again for their graduation portraits in April. So, not only did I get twins , I got two sessions with them! Marina wanted their senior portrait location at the Botanical Gardens. We did’t even have to discuss this at their consultation. I have never been to the gardens during the winter months, but I knew we didn’t need all the botanicals to get awesome shots there. The Gardens is dream location. Boy, were we lucky with our scheduled date - 65 degrees with a chance of clouds. The girls got to don their sun dressing in January.

It’s hard to write words to describe this session - everything went to smoothly from booking to final gallery presentation. I did get to use my new Nikkor 85mm lens on the girls session, too. Man, that is a sweet piece of glass. Just look at those photos. Shape as a tack.

I loved the girls style - loved the coordination of their outfits, even though they’re not identical twins, they went so well together in style, smiles and personalities. And their hair - just loved it! I was absolutely thrilled they got to wear their dresses - they went so well with the surroundings. A splash of color goes a long way. They nailed it. They even got to wear the ballerina tutus without freezing their thules off.

The whole family came along, and what a perfect day to bring dad, too. Its great to see when families can make family time even during a session. After their session, I couldn’t wait for their graduation session. That’s a whole other blog.

Dana Smith 4/30/25 Dana Smith 4/30/25

Eeny, meeny, miny, moe. Choosing the right photographer for you

Picking a photographer ain’t no nursery rhyme. Every photographer will think they are worthy of your business. This is our business and how we make money. To my dismay, I am not the fairest of them all (wink and sigh emoji here). We are worthy to some and not others. We all don’t like Ford’s, we want a Chevy. Choosing the right photographer for you comes down to 3 things: Style, Vibe and Budget.

These days, Google puts a photographer on every street corner practically, so go to Starbucks on the opposite corner and sit down for a search.

STYLE CHECK! Every photographer has his or her own style or vibe. Look through portfolios and ask:

. How is the overall images? What you see is what you will get. If you like tradition, but the photographers style is Bright and Airy, not the photographer for you even if the price is right.

. Do you like their editing style: dark and moody, light and airy, tradition and vibrant or all natural. This goes with overall image. Don’t ask a photographer to photography or edit based on your style. Photographers build up their clientele with that particular style. Again, if the photographer is in your price range, but not you style, move on.

. Are the photos too posed, too candid? This is definitely a photographers comfort zone. Posing is difficult to master. And if not posed correctly can make the subject look award and uncomfortable. Keeping your subject engaged and flowing in a session can prove to be challenging and uncomfortable also. Many clients do not feel comfortable being asked to walk around, skip and twirl for those candid shots. Every client is different, so get a feel for each one.

. Can you see yourself in their photos? If their work isn’t exciting to you, look on…

VIBE CHECK - even though you may not know the photographer before had, get to know them through: reviews, social media or a phone call to see if there’s a connection.

. Review the reviews. FYI: just because one photographer has 100 reviews vs one with 10 doesn’t mean Jack! And doesn’t automatically make them better than the next. Review are acquired differently from photographer to photographer. Incentives are a way for some photographers to gain their multitude of reviews.

. Follow us on social media - we don’t bite. We would like to follow back. Personally, this is great way to pick up on your vibe.

. Old school phone call - a quick call for questions and concerns can set the tone. Tone being, is there pressure?

Google

MONEY, MONEY . . . MONEY! Know your budget and what’s included.

In this day and age the word “transparent” is a fine word! WE ALL LIKE TRANSPARENCY.

Ask what’s included in the pricing:

. Clothing or (outfit changes). In my opinion, clients should bring and wear what they choose, but keep in mind clothing changes take time, so if you have an hour session with multiple changes, you’ve cut your session time in half.

. How many locations? How long is the Session? You really need search this one out. When a photographer says: ‘three location’ for 2 hours. Is that three driving location and is that possible with the time allotted, or is it three separate spot in a “location” where you walk to. There’s a difference. So ask that question if you’re unsure.

. Do you get digital images, prints or both? Most everyone is social these day, so digital is the way to go. And all photographers (I think) go digital. Prints are always available through the photographer or on your own.

. Is editing and special edits included? Editing is where the jam meets the peanut butter. Editing is a whole other skill and takes years to master. This can make or break a photographer. Editing is a whole other blog post. Editing can be the most time consuming for a photographer - it take time and effort to create the finished product. There are always distraction and skin issues when it come to portraits. To make a photo a true portrait we have to tackle these issues. Does the photographer charge extra for removals that matter most in the portrait?

. Some of use like a la cart, others like to be more inclusive. Today, especially for me, I like transparency. I want to know what it will cost me upfront. I don’t like surprises. A la Carte is pay as you go, get what you want, Not what the photographers wants you to believe you want (packages).

Don’t just look at price - look at the value

portrait pricing

Dana Smith 3/13/25 Dana Smith 3/13/25

Samuel - Elevation high school - 2025

Samuel - right on task. Sam’s mom, Teresa booked a senior session in January. When I spoke to Teresa on the phone for Sam’s consultation, location was top priority, especially in January. I admit, I steer clear of nature location this time of year - It’s just not pretty. So, I always suggest the urban setting, but Sam didn’t want my tradition locations for his shoot. I suggested a library. Sam and Teresa really liked that idea. Teresa suggested the Denver Library. I am born and raised in Colorado and have never stepped foot in the Denver Library. They decided to do the last half of the session outside around the capital building and city Park.

I was absolutely crushing over Samuel’s outfits. Way to go MOM! Yes, I like my kiddos dressing the part. He looked so sharp, classy and timeless. No trends here. I always appreciate the thoughtfulness and planning when it comes to clothing. Sam asked me if I felt inspired by clothing. I said, “Yes and no.” I can be uninspired by clothing choices. Clothing can make or break the image.

Well, once outside, we felt the chill in the air. Samuel was a trooper walking around in just a light jacket. Me, I dress like a burnt marshmallow ( black snow gear).

I love Samuel’s Images! Teresa and Sam were so pleasant to work with. everything flowed nicely from beginning to end.

Dana Smith 3/6/25 Dana Smith 3/6/25

TJ - Rangeview High School - 2025

TJ - the sound of music. Jenny booked TJ’s senior portraits with me in November. When I spoke with Jenny on the phone for TJ’s Consultation, there was a clash of opinions amongst the Tinsly Clan. TJ wanted the nature scene, while Jenny wanted the Urban. I really did task Jenny’s side; especially this time of year, and I just love urban for guys. But everyone needs to be happy. I suggested Red Rocks which never come up on there end. Red Rocks has a very short window, but being in November, It was perfect timing with concert season closing for the year. TJ plays the acoustic guitar, so even more fitting to do Red Rocks.

My mom was my helper on this session and boy did we all have fun! My mom talks and teases in good fun which loosened up my subject, while my usual helper is less engaging. The pistachio ice-cream (weather) turned quickly on us from full sun to clouds. In the end, the clouds were a great cover and made for fantastic photos.

I absolutely enjoyed my session with TJ. He made a great subject and he has made it on my home page!

Keep rockin’, TJ

Dana Smith 2/17/25 Dana Smith 2/17/25

Janessa - Cherokee Trial High School - 2025

Janessa - what a doll! Sweet as pie! Jayne and Janessa come to see me for their consultation. I did Janessa’s older sister’s senior portraits for the class of 2021? Janessa wanted the natural look, but wanted to be different than the others. Just adding a real pop of color would definitely be different from the usaul white. I went over all my nature location and they chose my favorite nature spot. I usually have this location to myself with the exception of a local walking his goat. Yes, a goat. I absolutely love this spot. The lighting is usually perfect unless you have a cloudy day. I took Janessa to a new spot I found, and oh, man!

Janessa said that she was uncomfortable and didn’t know what to do. Most peeps are and that’s my job to make my peeps feel comfortable. But right out of the gates, Janessa seemed natural and comfortable. As you can see from here photos, she didn’t look uncomfortable one bit! She was a natural!

I loved that Janessa went different with the red and purple long dresses. This was different in my eyes and was very refreshing! I LOVED Janessa’s session! It was perfect!

Dana Smith 1/16/25 Dana Smith 1/16/25

Max - GHS - 2025

“Humans recognize effort, and that’s what I do. I give max effort.” - Justin Gaethje.

Dana Smith 12/20/24 Dana Smith 12/20/24

Ashley - Grandview High School - Class of 2025

Porter and Ashley - double shooting in the city. Porter’s mom, Lisa, booked Porter and Ashley’s session with downtown Denver for their location. Denver has a lot of goodies as far as spots to shoot, so I give clients plenty of time to do our “walkabout” and with two of them, we definitely needed the time.

So who’s shooting who in Denver. Literally, I’m shooting my client’s with a (camera), while someone else is shooting others with a gun. Seriously, just around the the corner from us, 8 or more rounds go off. We all stopped and paused thinking it was fireworks until we saw a bunch of people flee from around the corner, then you realize.

With that, our session was shot short. I never cut my client’s short on time and Porter really wanted his car with Denver in the Background. So, not only did we get nervous with the shooting situation, the pistachio Ice-cream had turned (weather) on us. RAIN!

I rescheduled another session with Portrer and Ashley to get their time in and shots with Porter’s car. Denver wasn’t an option at this point, so I suggested Castle Rock with one of their cool parking garages, yeah, it’s not Denver, but pretty sweet for second best.

I loved how Porter and Ashley coordinated their clothing! They are such a sweet couple and loved hearing how the meet.Porter is at EHS, and Ashley at GHS. I had great conversation with them and Porter’s parents. They were such a dream to work with.

PSA: Go with your gut. Be aware of your surrounding at all times. Hard to do when you have a camera in your face.For Denver shoots, I will bring a second person to be my look out. I was very grateful Porter’s dad was there with us, HE MADE THE CALL. Always look at people, make eye contact. Don’t have your face in your phone every moment, that makes you an easy target. Know your exit plan.

Dana Smith 12/17/24 Dana Smith 12/17/24

Porter - Eaglecrest High School - Class of 2025

Dana Smith 11/16/24 Dana Smith 11/16/24

Rylee’s senior portraits Rangeview High School - Class of 2024

Rylee - 21st century Mona Lisa, Goddess . . . with a smile! Rylee’s grandma, Bobby contacted me for senior and graduation photos for Rylee. Rylee never got her photos done, so this was a gift for Rylee from grandma.

I spoke with Bobby on the phone for Rylee’s consultation and she said she had no idea where they would like to have her grad/senior portraits done. Being that it was the beginning of May, and the trees are not fully out, I suggested the DU campus. I had done a graduation shoot there before so I was familiar with the grounds. Bobby was so excited for that idea and Rylee, too! And it was fitting, it’s a studious look. If you have never been to the DU campus, It’s gorgeous! I was so excited they were excited for this location.

Bobby asked if I could get a photo of her with Rylee in her cap & gown. And that was an absolute YES! Bobby is like a mother to Rylee even though she is her grandmother. Bobby’s husband, Rylee’s grandfather had passed away a couple of years ago and obviously couldn’t be there for Rylees’ big milestone. Bobby had another ask of me and that was to see if I could put a photo of her husband in with her and Rylee. I was happy to work on this project. But this project need to be done before Rylee’s graduation. Bobby wanted to have this printed for her graduation. This was not too much to ask! It worked out so smoothly and I was told Rylee was in tears when presented with the photo! When my peeps are happy, I am happy! And I am very proud of how that image turned out. Their words, “It’s Like he’s right there.”

Rylee’s pink dress was a welcoming contrast to her black hair. The black dress complimented her hair and made those Nike’s pop. I LOVE black, but I’ll take the color, too!!! Rylee had a tattoo of her dad’s birthday, so I always make sure to get those meaningful aspects into the photo.

Rylee and Bobby were so easy to work with from beginning to end. I had nice chats with Rylee as we went along. I love when clients talk to me and ask me questions too.

Their words, “It’s Like he’s right there.”

Dana Smith 11/8/24 Dana Smith 11/8/24

Jack senior portraits Eaglecrest High School - class of 2025

Jack - all smiles! At Jack’s consultation, Jack wanted the natural scenery, so we went through my list of locations and Jack and family settled on a location near Castle Rock. This was a new location for me and new locations can be intimidating. This location was more exposed to direct sunlight to the subject, so by scouting it out, I had ideas and my plan on where to place jack. I couldn’t be happier with how Jack’s photos turned out for this new spot. I actually love this spot! It’s perfect if you’re looking for a more rugged look without going far to get it.

The whole family came to Jacks session, even little brother, who was so freaking adorable - talking to me after the session about science stuff. Loved it! I always welcome families. Mom and dad can sometimes get their child to relax a bit by engaging with them, thus capturing those candid smiles.

I absolutely enjoyed my session with Jack! Jack was sweet as pie and engaging! I chatted with mom and dad about recent and upcoming vacations.

Dana Smith 10/31/24 Dana Smith 10/31/24

Sage - Cherokee Trail High School - class of 2025

Sage - girly time with this young lady! Sage knew exactly what she wanted for her portraits. She wanted the natural, tall grass look. At her consultation, I gave them some suggestion for spots with grass. In the end, she chose her spot in the Castle Rock area.

After a run of guy session (hey, I Love my guys), I got my first girl of the season. Yes, I live vicariously through the moms. I am a boy mom, so I love the hair, shoes and all things girly once in a while. Sage brought a few outfit changes which we captured beautifully. The light was perfect, and not always at this location. We lucked out on this day, so our session went a bit longer than expected.

We had to work around a couple of other session going on, but really, it flowed pretty nicely. Locations look different year to year depending on rain and the lack thereof, so the grass was not what I was hoping for - a little dry, like most places this year. You get what you get.

I absolutely enjoyed my time with Sage and Meredith! Sage was so easy and enjoyable to photograph. They were both so easy to work with from beginning to end.