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 7/15/25 Dana Smith 7/15/25

Dylan - Cherokee Trail High School - Class of 2026

Dylan - OMG! I am totally crushing on Dylan’s photos! When everything comes together, it’s like a Chef’s Kiss!

I was very excited to hear from Pamela again for Dylan’s Cherokee Trail High School senior Portraits! I had photographed her older daughter Olivia’s senior portraits back in 2022. I was so pleased they kept me in mind for Dylan.

Dylan’s consultation was a bit more thought proving especially to location. Dylan absolutely wanted the nature scene which knocked out the the Urban/ city location. Pamela inquired about the same location that Olivia had, but had to inform her that, that location wasn’t the same as it was 4 years ago. Location do change year to year and not for the better. They went through my location page and had asked about another location, and unfortunately that location has become a Challenge to get to. I had suggested two other spots that are a bit out of our territory, but are worth the drive. They settled on a spot outside of Morrison.

We had perfect weather and perfect lighting. Timing is everything in photography and we timed it just right.

Dylan was such a pleasure to photograph. He was so easy going and all smiles. Dylan’s outfits fit the scene perfectly and were well thought out. GO MOM!

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 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 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 1/14/25 Dana Smith 1/14/25

Chloe - Eaglecrest High School - class of 2025

Oooo - Chloe - petals to the metal. When I received Chloe’s booking for senior portraits with the Denver Botanical Gardens - Yes! Yes! Yes! I absolutely love the Gardens for the Girls! Note: I do not make extra off this location. The BG requires a permit to photograph there, and the permit is at the cost of the client. But well worth the extra cost IMO. There are a plethora of spots to shoot. If you want flowers, this is the location!

I loved Chloe’s outfits. Simple, easy, black and white with a splash of her letter Jacket. She looked very feminine and sweet with her bare feet as a NO shoe choice. Birkenstock to walk around in only.

We started our session in sunshine with a down pour in the middle, and clearing skies for the end. The rain made for an ethereal fee. The rain made the ground and vegetation pop.

During our rain break, we talked about our travels. Both of our husbands work for United Airlines.

OMG! I absolutely Love Chloe’s photos!

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 11/17/24 Dana Smith 11/17/24

Carston - Cherokee Trail High School - Class of 2025

Carston - cruisin’ his session, ROUTE 66 style. Carton’s my first born and it’s hard to believe he’s graduating HS. Wow, class of 2025. Since Carston was born, I have been snapping photos of him and it progressively got worse as he got older and even worse than that after I got my first DSLR camera in 2015. He has been my test subject for studio projects and location scouting. Carston’s very photogenic, so its not unwanted to have him as a subject. He is a guy and I would safely say, 8 out of 10 of my guys don’t care to have their photos taken and it’s mostly for the moms, me being one of those moms..

Carston has been photographed in many Colorado location, so I wasn’t too inspired to pick a spot for his senior portraits in the Denver area or anywhere in Colorado. And Carston was definitely unmotivated.

Carston is into vintage, old things and has quite the camera collection. I came up with the plan for Tulsa, OK (long story as to why I picked Tulsa) for his senior portraits. Carston perked up to that idea.

I compiled my list of must stops a month before our June trip. When we arrived, I was a bit overwhelmed with my list, but in the end we did a majority of our spots. We started out early the first morning to out first spot in downtown Tulsa and oh, my, it was amazing. NO PEEPS. The spot was better in person and it got me going for our next spots. Tulsa has a plethora of these hidden gems for portraits. I found it more appealing than Denver. I wish I could take all my urban/city kids here.

While I don’t disclose my exact spots, I did major research and a lot of Google - earthing to find these locations. I found a 50’s decor wall in the heart of Tulsa. The vintage sign of the Dancing Ballroom, an antique store, gas station and mural wall in Sapulpa. And one of my favorite spots, an old door in downtown Tulsa. This location was perfect for Carston.

In the end, I was so glad we made this trip for Carston. I enjoyed my time with all three of my boys. It was a sightseeing trip, too. Carston is still the worst client ever (put rolling eye and cheesy grin emoji here). Proud Mamma!

This will always be one of my favorites of Carston - on our way to the summit of Humboldt Peak. 09/2020

Mt biggest adventure with Carston - hike to the Summit of Mt St Helens 07/2018

My most epic trip with Carston - Lofoten, Norway - 06/2022

My farthest trip with Carston - Australia 05/2015

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 9/20/24 Dana Smith 9/20/24

Dax’s senior portraits Whitesboro High School, Texas - Class of 2025

Dax - make it all high altitude for this kid! A kid coming up from Texas - not just any kid, this kid is my nephew. While I headed south to photograph my son in Tulsa, OK in June, my nephew heads north to have photos done with me in Colorado.

I wanted Dax’s photos to be epic. I had some spots I though might be great to try out on him. While I don’t disclose specific locations, I had a couple of mountain locations that featured a 14er or a lake with some gorgeous mountain views in the background. Ultimately, it came down to what they wanted and they wanted Rocky Mountain National Park and Red Rocks. I get it, coming from Texas, these are iconic and photogenic spots. So let’s kill two birds with one stone. Dax’s stepmom and girlfriend have never seen RMNP and his girlfriend had never been to Colorado, so this makes all the sense to see these two locations and do portraits at the same time.

Well, lucky for them, I have spent a lot of time at RMNP and knew of a few good spots. For our first spot, we headed to Morraine Park and found a great spot with absolutely no peeps, just a lot of flies. Our second spot, we headed to Bear lake, mostly because my sister-in-law and Kendall have not seen RMNP , and I had the reservation to get us there. Our last spot was up to Trail Ridge Road, for the epic 14er (Longs Peak) in the background along with weather and wildfire smoke.

For Dax’s second location, they wanted RR. Since it’s concert season, Red Rocks proper wasn’t an option for portraits, but I know of great spot where you can get the whole venue in the background and that’s where we headed for Dax’s second location.

I am super happy with Dax’s photos, even though it’s not what I envisioned, but its not about my vision, it’s about theirs and I am grateful I was able to photograph my nephew in his dad’s home state and have some family time.

Dana Smith 2/23/24 Dana Smith 2/23/24

Mikey’s senior portraits Grandview High School - Class of 2024

Street smarts for Mikey! My only guy session this season to do the Denver walkabout. I love urban sessions; especially with my guys, there’s more photo ops when there are walls, stairs, benches and a place to park your car if you want to have your car in your session. When I held their consultation, Tila (mom) opted for Castle Rock for Mikey’s urban session, that was all fine with me, but I do my due diligence and double check to see if events are happening that might encroach on our session. Castle Rock always have events going on. It turned out that their day had an event happening, so I suggested downtown Denver and OMG, the Denver vibe fit Mikey to a T.

Mikey and Tila were both such a pleasure to spend a few hours with. We chatted about all kinds of stuff and Mikey could hold the conversation too. I love when my senior clients want to talk with me. Mikey was all smiles and made me laugh.

We definitely had a surprise at the end of the session on top of the parking garage for Mikey’s car shoot. We were greeted with BOOBS - a lot of pairs. I had my 16 yr old son with me as my helper too. Poor guys were absolutely uncomfortable. Rightfully so. The boob shoot was for breast cancer awareness coming up for October. We grinned and beAred it! Pun definitely intended.

Picking your perfect LOCATION

How to pick your outfits for your Senior Session GUYS and GIRLS

You can book your senior portrait session with me Schedule/ Booking