Calgary Newborn Photographer – Jaxson

The other day I had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful newborn session recently in my studio, located just south of Calgary. The session included both baby poses and parent pictures, which made for some truly special moments!

Before the session I emailed the parents a guide to review and to let me know what colors they would like to use. They wanted to go with something simple and classic and decided on blues and creams. I couldn’t be more pleased with how the colors and poses came together!

First, I began with some classic baby poses, where I carefully positioned the newborn in different poses, using blankets and props to create a variety of unique and charming photos. We made sure to take our time, being gentle and patient to ensure the baby was comfortable and safe throughout the process.

Next, we moved on to some parent and baby photos, which are always a favorite of mine! It’s so beautiful to see the love and connection between new parents. We captured some tender moments of the parents cradling their newborn, and also pictures where they were cuddling and kissing their baby.

Throughout the session, I made sure to keep the environment warm and cozy, using soft lighting and comfortable props to create a welcoming atmosphere. I wanted the parents to feel relaxed and at ease, so they could truly enjoy the experience of having their newborn photographed!

Levi’s Newborn Session – Calgary AB

Welcoming a new member to the family is always an exciting event, and capturing those early moments is something that parents will cherish for years to come. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a newborn session for a baby boy named Levi. The session took place at my home studio in Okotoks, Alberta, just 15 minutes south of Calgary.

As soon as Levi arrived, I could tell that he was going to be a joy to work with. He was calm and content, which made it easy to get some beautiful shots of him by himself. We started the session with some simple, classic poses, and then moved on to some more creative setups, including some with props and cute outfits.

Of course, no newborn session would be complete without some photos with the proud parents. Levi’s mom and dad were both thrilled to be a part of the shoot, and it was clear that they were head over heels in love with their new son. We took some beautiful family shots, both with Levi in their arms and with him snuggled up in a basket nearby.

One thing that made this session particularly special was that Levi’s dad was a pilot. We incorporated this into the session by using some aviation-themed props, such as a miniature airplane and a set of wings. It was a fun touch that added a personal element to the photos.

Throughout the session, Levi remained calm and content, which made it easy to get some beautiful shots. We took our time, ensuring that he was comfortable and happy at all times. The end result was a collection of photos that captured the essence of this precious newborn and the love that surrounded him.

As a photographer, it’s always an honour to be a part of a family’s journey, and to capture these early moments that they will treasure forever. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Levi and his family, and I look forward to seeing how he grows and changes over the years.

Okotoks Newborn Session – Iris

A newborn session is a special moment in every parent’s life. It’s a time when you want to capture every little detail of your baby’s first few weeks of life!

Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing little Iris at my home studio located just south of Calgary in Okotoks. It was a beautiful session, and we were even able to recreate some of the most memorable moments from her big sister’s newborn session!

We started the session by wrapping her up in a cozy, knitted blanket and taking some close-up shots of her little feet, hands, and face. The purple and greens that we used throughout the session looked stunning against her soft skin, making her look even more adorable!

One of the things that I love about newborn sessions is the opportunity to create unique and memorable shots. We were able to recreate some of the setups that we took during her big sister’s newborn session, which added a sentimental touch to the photoshoot. It was incredible to see the similarities between the two sisters, even at such a young age!

As the session progressed, we took some more candid shots of Iris sleeping and even managed to capture a few smiles. We also took some family shots with Iris and her big sister, which were absolutely heartwarming. There’s something special about capturing the love and bond between siblings, especially at such a young age.

Iris was a perfect little model, and we were able to capture some beautiful pictures that the family will treasure forever. It’s always a privilege to be able to capture such precious moments, and I’m grateful to have been a part of Iris’s first few weeks of life.

Calgary Newborn Photography – Irine

Newborn photography sessions are always a joy to photograph, especially when you get to work with adorable babies like Irine. As a photographer in Calgary AB, I was excited to capture Irine’s first few moments of life and create memories that her family can cherish forever.

Irine was a beautiful baby girl with the most charming smile. As soon as they arrived at my home studio in Okotoks, I greeted her parents parents with warmth and welcomed them into my cozy studio space where I had all the set ups ready to go. Her parents opted for a petite session, which meant that we had approximately one hour to capture some great photos.

To start the session, we wrapped Irine in a soft, cozy blanket and placed her in a wicker basket that I had picked out from my selection of props. I couldn’t help but admire how peaceful she looked as she slept through the session. Her little fingers and toes were just too adorable not to capture. We took our time and carefully positioned her in different poses, ensuring that she was comfortable at all times.

As the session went on, Irine started to wake up, and we captured some shots of her awake and alert. Her big bright eyes sparkled with wonder as she took in her surroundings, and her little hands explored the textures of the blankets and props.

Despite the limited time, we were able to capture some truly breathtaking images of Irine. Her smile and sweet expressions melted our hearts, and we knew that these photos would be treasured by her family for years to come. As the session came to an end, we wrapped Irine up once again and took a few more photos before saying our goodbyes.

Photographing newborns is a special experience that I always cherish. Every baby is unique, and it’s amazing to see their personalities start to emerge even at such a young age. Irine was no exception, and I feel so lucky to have been able to capture these beautiful moments for her family. Petite sessions may be short, but they can still result in some fantastic images that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Dana Menendez Photography – Book Your Session Today!

Newborn Studio in Okotoks Alberta

Wow – I can’t believe the day has finally arrived! After relocating from Dallas to a small town in Okotoks Alberta over the summer I’m proud to announce that my newborn studio is up and running again!

My studio is now based out of my home just 15 minutes south of Calgary! I have an entire studio dedicated to photographing newborns and I can’t wait to get back to business.

Just a quick drive from Calgary you’ll find my relaxing and inviting home studio, located in the basement of my home!

Soon I’ll update my website with more pictures but for now, enjoy these sweet little pictures!

Calgary AB Newborn Photographer – Nora Faith

One of my favorite types of sessions are when a family comes to me because someone close to them purchased a Gift Card! I feel so honored that my art work is more than just pictures, but is given as a gift to the most amazing families!

Nora Faith came in and Mom said I could use whatever colors I wanted! I knew she was going to look beautiful in any and all colors, but I really wanted to break out something a little more bold and decided on this mustard, yellow, gold toned backdrop and matching wrap and bonnet. Mom wasn’t so sure about it at first, but once she saw the final pictures she was over the moon happy!

Nora was the perfect baby during her session and I’m so glad her family chose me to capture these precious memories!

Calgary Alberta Newborn Photography – Evelyn’s family session

As a photographer, every newborn session is unique and special in its own way. But when I had the opportunity to work with this amazing family, I knew it was going to be a fun and memorable experience. This newborn session included two older sisters, their parents, and of course, the adorable newborn.

The family came to my studio, located in Okotoks, Alberta, and we started the session by taking a few photos of the older sisters with their new baby brother. The older sisters were so excited to hold their little sister and were giggling and laughing throughout the session. They were natural little models and made my job so much easier!

The parents were equally amazing and funny. They were so relaxed and easy-going, and we had a lot of laughs throughout the session. They made the session so much fun, and I could feel the love and connection they had as a family. The love between the parents and their children was palpable, and it was a joy to capture it in my photos.

One of the funniest moments of the session was when the baby boy started to cry. The older sisters immediately came to her aid, and their expressions were priceless. They were so concerned about their little sister and wanted to make sure he was okay. The parents, on the other hand, were so calm and collected, and it was evident that they were experienced parents!

The newborn was a little angel throughout the session. She slept most of the time, and when she was awake, she was calm and content. She was such a photogenic little baby!

Overall, this was an amazing newborn family session, and I feel honored to have been a part of it. The family was so funny, loving, and full of joy, and I had a blast capturing their special moments. It is sessions like these that remind me why I love my job so much.

Calgary AB Newborn Photographer – Theodore

When Mom reached out to book her newborn session she let me know she wanted to include one special item. Most of the time when parents find ‘props’ themselves, they turn out to be too big and not really made for newborn photos.

But I will say, Mom did a-ok! She brought in a cute little newsboy cap and suspender pants! They fit her little baby perfectly! I think the session turned out super cute and we did a few different colors and poses during her time at the studio!

Bonus to the session – Dad also walked in wearing a newsboy cap!

Are you pregnant? Now is the time to book your newborn session. Please reach out to me today so we can discuss collections and digital options for you and your family. My studio services the Calgary, Okotoks, High River, Black Diamond, Aldersyde, Turner Valley, Alberta Area

Trey + Lawrence are back! Calgary Newborn Photographer

One of the things I love about being a newborn photographer (ok – it might be my most favorite thing) is when family’s return to my studio a couple years later to photograph their newest addition.

I first photographed this family when I was still running my studio out of a 400 sq ft space. It was cramped, small and HOT in there, but it was and will always be one of my favorite sessions.

Then COVID hit and I didn’t get to see them again until late 2020 when they came in for Trey’s first birthday pictures and then again mid 2021 for his 2nd birthday pictures!

But that’s not why I’m posting today. I’m posting today because I love going back and looking up their first baby’s pictures so I can compare them to their newest baby!

Do you see any resemblance?

A huge thank you to all my clients who have come back to me, year after year! I appreciate you and I look forward to all the memories we’re making together!

Joshua’s Newborn + Family Session – Okotoks AB Photographer

I’m completely smitten with this family! Big sister came in ready to hold and love on her baby brother and she had the best smile! She happily snuggled her little brother and loved being included in the family pictures. She’s going to be such a good big sister.

Do you love what you’ve seen? I would love to create memories for you and your family. I’m now booking Spring 2022 due dates!

What to pack in your hospital bag? – Okotoks Newborn Photographer

It’s your first baby and everything is so overwhelming and now you have to pack for the hospital. Not only are you packing for yourself, but you’re also packing for a new little baby that you’re going to meet pretty soon! Here are my top 10 items to pack in your hospital bag:

Your birth plan, insurance, & ids – If you have a birth plan, make sure you have extra copies so you can share your plan with everyone on your medical team. (I like to put my partner in charge of the ‘official documents’ so I can worry about the comfort items)
Phone/iPad charger with a LONG cord – One of the first things you’re going to do is start taking adorable selfies with your new baby and sending them to friends and family! You can’t do that if your phone is almost at 0%. So make sure you have a phone charger with a LONG cord!
Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash – This might seem like a weird one, but after laboring for hours (days!) and sitting in a bed, I couldn’t wait to get up and take a shower with my own supplies from home. Close your eyes and let that hot water relax your body. You deserve a mini spa in the hospital bathroom!
Comfortable PJs and nurse top – Hospitals gowns are scratchy. They’re also not very functional once you’ve had the baby. Who wants to basically be naked when feeding their baby? Splurge and get your self some comfortable PJs/Lounge wear with a built in nursing top. You’ll look, and feel more comfortable when visitors come to meet your new baby!
Postpartum Underwear – The hospital will give you some lovely mesh underwear to wear after you’ve given birth. Some women have no problem wearing them, but others (like myself) prefer the dignity of real underwear!
Snacks – you’re nursing a new baby and you’re going to be hungry! Bring some comfort food from home to make your hospital stay a little more enjoyable. Treat yourself with something sweet and salty!
Baby’s going home outfit! Don’t bother making a whole weeks worth of clothes for your baby. One outfit will do! I found that I really just kept my baby swaddled in a blanket while we were in the hospital and didn’t dress my baby until we were headed home. Save yourself the stress, and pack light!
Swaddle Blankets – the hospital will wrap your baby in the ‘standard’ hospital blanket that is stiff and has probably been washed and used on 100 babies already. Bring your own swaddle blanket but keep track of it! It’s easy to loose a swaddle blanket in those hospital sheets!
Poppy newborn feeding pillow – Boppy’s are a great aid when it comes to breastfeeding, but they’re also a great item to have when you’re cuddling with your baby and your arm gets sore! Trust me… babies are adorable, but they do get heavy. Use your boppy to prop your arm up while snuggling your new baby.
Car Seat – You won’t be allowed to leave the hospital without a car seat! Take the time to get your car seat properly installed and learn how tight the straps should be when you buckle your baby in. I don’t know why, but the car seat was the scariest part for me. I made my partner strap both our kids in. I just felt like I was squishing them!

THE NUMBER ONE THING YOU DO NOT NEED TO PACK IN YOUR HOSPITAL BAG:

DIAPERS & WIPES – the hospital will provide you with plenty of diapers and wipes while you’re in the hospital. Check the baby cart before you leave and pack those diapers in your bag before you leave!

The hospital will also provide you with sanitary pads for after the birth. Take advantage and use what they provide!

Now that we’ve covered what to pack in your hospital bag, how about checking one more item off your to-do list! Let’s book your newborn session – I can’t wait to meet you and your little one!

Brayden’s 1st Birthday Pictures – Okotoks Newborn Photographer

I’m not going to lie. Everytime I get an inquiry for a milestone session my head goes into a bit of a panic. Not because I don’t love milestone sessions, or that I only want to take newborn pictures, but because …. COVID BABIES!

This is a real thing y’all! These poor babies have spent the first year to year and a half of their lives cooped up in a house with limited exposure to other people – and I don’t blame their parents one bit! I basically did the same thing for my own kids who are 10 and 8!

Stranger Danger is strong with a lot of these babies this year so yes, when I see an inquiry come in for a milestone session I get nervous. I’m not sure if I’m going to get a happy baby who’s all smiles or a scared baby who won’t let go of Mom or Dad!

Thankfully – this little guy was ALL SMILES! He had the biggest and bluest eyes and was happy to have his pictures taken to celebrate his first birthday!

What to bring to your session! Okotoks AB

Congratulations on your new addition! When it comes to a newborn photography session, there are a few things you may want to bring to ensure a successful and comfortable session. Here are some suggestions:

Extra diapers and wipes: Babies can go through several diapers during a photo shoot, so make sure to bring plenty of extras.

Pacifier: A pacifier can be helpful to soothe your baby and keep them calm during the session.

Snacks and drinks: If you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, make sure to bring snacks and drinks for yourself. It’s important to stay hydrated and nourished during the session.

A change of clothes: Accidents can happen during a photo shoot, so it’s always a good idea to bring a change of clothes for yourself and your baby.

If siblings are going to be included, I suggest bringing something to entertain them quietly, such as an ipad or books.

My studio has everything we’ll need for the pictures, such as wraps, hats, props and baskets, but if there’s something special you would like to include, please let me know before your session so I can prepare something in advance.

Lennon’s Baby Pictures – Okotoks AB

He might have the most unique name of 2021! Lennon! And he really looks like a Lennon with all that hair. Do you think his parents are Beatles fans? Hmmm…

Lennon came in for a Petite Mini Swaddle Session. We kept him fully wrapped during his 1 hour newborn picture session and he slept the entire time. We moved through 2 different set ups. The first a little baby bed that is always a parent favorite, and then we did a solid blue fur/flokati with bear ears! How cute, right? We ended his newborn session with my favorite pictures – mugshots!

Dana Menendez Photography is a Newborn Photographer located in Okotoks, Alberta. She services the Calgary area and has a dedicated studio to newborn portraits and photography. At her studio you will find everything you need for your session so you can just come in, relax and let Dana create those beautiful pictures of your newborn baby!

Crawford’s Newborn Pictures – Okotoks Photographer

Can we take a minute and appreciate this little guys name? I just love the name Crawford! It’s so… southern sounding to me.

When Crawfords Mom booked his session she requested all neutral colors. She wanted it nice and simple, clean and neutral and I just love how his pictures turned out! He was such a good sleeper during his newborn session!

If you’d like more information on how to book your newborn session, contact me and let’s talk about details!

Dana Menendez Photography has a dedicated studio located in Okotoks, Alberta, Canada. At her studio she provides all the wraps, props, little beds and outfits you’ll need during your newborn session. Dana Menendez Photography services all of the Calgary Metroplex.

Gabreil’s Newborn Session – Okotoks Photographer

As a newborn photographer based in Okotoks, Alberta, I always strive to provide the best experience for my clients. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with a new mom who had a specific request for her newborn session: she really wanted those sleepy baby pictures!

My home-based studio was the perfect location for this session. It provided a comfortable and cozy environment for the baby and parents alike. I supplied everything needed during the session, including blankets, props, and accessories. This allowed the parents to relax and enjoy the session while I captured beautiful images of their new bundle of joy.

From the moment I met baby Gabriel, I could tell that he was a little angel. He slept peacefully throughout the session, which allowed me to position him in different poses and capture the most adorable images.

The mom was thrilled with the pictures. She had specific poses and ideas in mind, and I was able to deliver exactly what she wanted. As a photographer, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing a satisfied client who loves the photos I have taken of their precious newborn.

Newborn sessions can be unpredictable, but with my experience and expertise, I am able to create beautiful images that parents will cherish for a lifetime. I am so grateful to be able to capture these special moments for families and to be able to do what I love every day.

If you’re looking for a newborn photographer in Okotoks, Alberta, look no further. Contact me today to book your session and let me help you capture memories that will last a lifetime.

Scarlett’s Baby Session – Okotoks AB

I don’t think I’ll ever forget little Scarletts session! She came to me when she was almost 3 weeks old, and she was ready to party! She was awake for most of her session and we got some great little mugshots, but she would not sleep. We decided to schedule a second session for Mom to bring her back in so we could try and get those sleepy baby pictures and it was a success!

Rafael’s Mini Newborn Session – Okotoks AB

Are you interested in a shorter, mini option for your newborn session? In addition to offering full newborn sessions which usually take anywhere from 2-3 hours I also off shorter, mini sessions that can take up to 1 hour! They focus on your baby only and I put together 2 different setups for your session. Your baby is fully wrapped during that hour which keeps your baby asleep and happy the whole time!

Lucia’s Newborn Portraits – Okotoks AB

What a goofy little girl! Lucia had some of the biggest eyes I’ve seen on a newborn and she made the funniest little faces during her mugshots! Her Mom and I were just cracking up during this newborn set up. If you’d like to schedule a newborn session – please contact me today and let’s talk about dates that I have available.

Xan’s Newborn Session – Okotoks Alberta Photographer

I loved being able to take Xan’s pictures! Mom and Dad were so gracious and easy to work with. I love how their pictures turned out. My favorite might be the one of the 3 of them. It really shows how happy they are as a new family of 3! Did you catch that little grin?