ALEXA
INTIMATE MATERNITY | CENTENNIAL STUDIO
MOTHER’S DAY SESSIONS 2024
STUDIO PETITE SESSIONS FOR GRANDMAS, MAMAS, AND MOTHERS TO BE
$500 Mother’s Day Sessions include:
20 minute studio portrait session
use of curated studio wardrobe for moms and babies
portrait planning & style guide
plus
10 digital images of your choice
Sessions take place at my private studio in Centennial. Guaranteed gallery delivery before Mother's Day.
Session fee due at booking to reserve your spot. Available on select weekdays and Saturdays through April.
Please contact me here to book!
ROBERT
Traditional Newborn | Centennial Studio
AND OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK
Having a baby is one of the most exciting times in a person’s life but it can also be one of the most overwhelming. So today I’m going to answer the most often asked questions that I get. Hopefully this will help you feel like you can relax and check one of your most exciting to-do’s off of your list by booking your newborn session!
1. WHAT IS THE BEST AGE FOR A NEWBORN SESSION?
The most often asked question I get is “how old should my baby be for our session?”. Because I specialize in timeless, baby-led, lifestyle based images, I’ll tell you that it doesn’t matter to me how old your newborn is! I can create a beautiful gallery for you as soon as you are able to come into the studio! I love when babies are as young as possible because they are still tiny, sleepy and curled up. Sessions tend to be a bit easier because this. But that timeframe isn’t always possible for every family and that is never a problem. Slightly older newborns are growing adorable bellies and chunky legs and might even be able to make a bit of eye contact. The truth is that the perfect age for a newborn session is however old your baby is when you are able to make it in for your session!
2. HOW DO WE SCHEDULE THE ACTUAL SESSION WHEN BABIES AREN’T ALWAYS BORN ON TIME?
I love how easy I am able to make it for my clients to schedule sessions! I only book around 8 clients a month and I reserve time for you on my calendar as soon as you complete your booking with me. After that, all you need to do is put me on your VIP list and let me know as soon as your baby is born so you can pick the exact day and time for your session based on how you are feeling at that time. If your baby is born early or late - that’s okay! If things change and you need to reschedule, that is okay too. While many other photographers are renting busy, publicly shared studios to meet you at for your session, I have my own private studio so I am able to offer as much flexibility for my clients as possible. No reason to stress - I got you!
3. WHO SHOULD BE A PART OF OUR SESSION?
Your entire family is not only welcome, but encouraged to be a part of every session with me. That includes grandparents, special family members in town for the new baby and even well-behaved fur-babies! Think of how much it will mean for your baby to grow up with these gorgeous images of themselves with all of the special people who love them so much while they were so little! We are documenting some amazing moments in your life and having the whole family be a part of your session not only gives you a gallery with more variety, but those images will be a true gift for your family for generations to come.
4. ARE SESSIONS STRESSFUL?
SO stressful. Just kidding - they certainly don’t need to be! I’m in my 15th year in business and I pride myself on making my clients feel relaxed, calm and comfortable. Sessions are usually even fun! Even if you have a stubborn toddler who wants nothing to do with their sibling (or maybe a spouse who would prefer to have nothing to do with having photos of themselves taken) you can relax knowing that you are in good hands. I have tons of tricks for getting all of the special images you are dreaming of and endless patience!
5. ARE YOUR NEWBORN SESSIONS CONSIDERED LIFESTYLE OR POSED?
My newborn sessions are lifestyle based with very light posing. I love creating emotive images of babies being snuggled and loved on by their family. When it comes time for portraits of just your baby, I practice what is considered “baby-led” posing. “Baby-led” posing is a way to position your little one that is both comfortable and natural to them. It results in beautiful images that are timeless, classic and organic. I don’t spend hours getting your baby to sleep or posing them in any way that is forced and I avoid using props that might make your images feel dated or cluttered. This means that your session will be relaxed and laid-back. My goal is to create beautiful, clean images that keep the focus on your precious newborn and will stand the test of time.
6. HOW LONG DOES A NEWBORN SESSION LAST?
Newborn sessions are scheduled for 2-3 hours in the studio to ensure that we are not rushed if baby needs extra time to feed or settle. It also gives us time for outfit changes while making sure I get images of your baby alone, with siblings, parents and also the family all together. I recommend scheduling your session for a day where you do not have other commitments or appointments so that you can relax and enjoy this special experience. And although it sounds like a long time, clients always tell me how much fun they had and how quickly the session went by!
7. WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR?
You’ll have access to my Client Wardrobe filled with designer pieces for moms and babies through their 1st birthday session. For newborns I have perfect neutral colored organic onesies, chunky knit sweaters, wraps and more. You are also welcome to bring outfits and items from your own wardrobe. Together, we’ll make sure that your final images are a unique representation of your entire family. Those looking for an even more luxurious experience can add-on the services of my preferred wardrobe stylists and personal shoppers.
8. DO YOU RECOMMEND PROFESSIONAL HAIR & MAKE UP?
Having professional hair and make-up done before your session is a fabulous way to make sure you look and feel your best before your session. A fresh blow out, a relaxed, natural style and professional make up will photograph beautifully and can give your images an even more polished, high-end feel. I work with an amazing team of preferred stylists for clients who’d like to be pampered before their session.
9. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR US TO RECEIVE OUR IMAGES AFTER OUR SESSION?
About 3 weeks after your session takes place, your art will be ready for viewing & ordering through your private online gallery. Instant digital downloads will be available for purchase at this time. You will be able to view all of your finished images along with custom curated artwork. Once you purchase the digital collection of your choice, your gallery will remain open so that you can download your images, spend your gift credit that comes with every digital collection and order any additional products and gifts that you’d like.
10. DO YOU OFFER A BABY PLAN?
Absolutely! I have a Milestones Membership program designed to make sure you are able to document all the important stages that you would like from maternity through baby’s first year - it’s truly one of my favorite things ever! Spots are limited based on my availability so please contact me for full information.
DATE IDEAS WHEN YOU’RE PREGNANT IN DENVER
Being pregnant means we might have to give up some of our favorite things for a while like wine, sushi and big roller coasters. Fortunately for those of us in the Denver area, an amazing date night with our partner or friends isn’t on the chopping block! Denver offers some amazing opportunities for pregnant mamas to get out and have some fun before the only thing on our wish list is cozy clothes and Netflix while we gaze at our perfect newborns all day long! Here’s some of my favorite ideas for a fun day or night out when your expecting!
A Concert At Red Rocks Amphitheater
This might not be everyone’s idea of a traditional date while expecting but being pregnant doesn’t instantly take away your love for music! Red Rocks Amphitheater is, in my opinion, one of the best concert venues in the world. And it’s located right here in Morrison, Colorado in the beautiful foothills just west of Denver. If you’ve never been - this is a must do. If you aren’t into the concert scene, you can always go during the day just to walk around and take in the view. Admission is free when there isn’t a special event taking place!
*Red Rocks Pro-Tip When You’re Pregnant!!! If you let the parking attendants know that you are pregnant, it’s very likely they’ll give you the VIP treatment and direct you to the top lot so you don’t have to hike or climb any stairs! Go a little early and grab a seat in the very top row and you’ll have a backrest!
2. Go Catch a Game!
If you and your partner are sports fans like me, you are in the right place! Here in Denver there is no shortage of professional sports teams to root for. Depending on the time of the year, there is almost always a fun game to attend.
Colorado Rockies – MLB baseball at Coors Field from April to September
Denver Broncos – NFL football at Empower Field at Mile High from September to January
Denver Nuggets – NBA basketball in Ball Arena from October to June
Colorado Avalanche – NHL hockey in Ball Arena from September to June
Colorado Rapids – MLS soccer at Dick’s Arena from March to October
Colorado Mammoth – NLL lacrosse in Ball Arena from December to April
3. Head to a fun bar - The Root Beer Bar! at Old Crows Antiques
Your favorite adult beverage might not be on the menu but who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned root beer float?! This secret little gem in Littleton is tucked away inside of Old Crows Antiques. Per their website, “It’s your one-stop shop for antiques, vintage finds, recycled and upcycled items, and the world’s largest root beer bar! The vision of Old Crows was to be a place where you could enjoy a diverse collection of antiques while having the option to take a break and enjoy some root beer and snacks. You can even get a frosty root beer float! Our root beer bar features a large selection of premium bottled root beers, beverages, pre-packaged snacks, hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, and candies. They also have soft-serve ice cream in vanilla and root beer flavors. Come enjoy a root beer float! One of the things that makes the Old Crows Antique Mall so special is The Root Beer Bar located in the center of our building. It's the perfect place to take a break from browsing our selection of antiques and take a step back in time while you sip on an ice-cold root beer. When you're searching our 45,000-square-foot mall to find a new vintage or antique item to add to your collection, make sure you stop by The Root Beer Bar for a refreshing beverage and snack to make the most of your shopping experience.”
How fun is that?!
4. Take an easy hike!
We are lucky to live close to tons of easy and beautiful places to go for a little hike. This photo is of me and my husband at one of my favorite spots for an easy walk through nature - Mount Falcon West. If it’s easy enough to walk in a dress and heals, it’s easy enough for a pregnant mama! This spot is truly just a few minutes from the main parking lot. For more awesome options, Fox In The Forest wrote this ah-mazing blog post filled with easy hikes and tons of more resources too!
5. A Night at the Theatre
If you are into the performing arts, look no further than the Denver Center for Performing Arts. The website boasts that “We are one of the nation’s largest non-profit theatre organizations. We’re inspired every day to create, share, teach, excite and perform for our community. And as a not-for-profit organization, we owe our existence to the generous support and participation of every theatre enthusiast. We couldn’t do it without you.”
6. Go On A Picnic With A View
Time some time to take your meal somewhere beautiful for a little quality time together! In Denver, there is no shortage of beautiful spots for a picnic. Some of my favorites are Chatfield Reservior, City Park, Lair O’ The Bear and Clear Creek in Golden (I love being near the water!). For more ideas, check out this great little article that 5280 wrote on some of the best picnic spots in the Denver area.
7. Treat Yourself At Union Station
There is just something so special about Union Station. You can spend hours browsing the fun shops, enjoying a meal at the ever popular Snooze or grabbing a super yummy treat like ice cream or fresh waffles. Then grab a comfy seat and relax while people watching in this gorgeous historical landmark.
8. Binge Pregnancy Movies!
Sometimes the best dates don’t even require you leaving home! There are so many classic and funny pregnancy movies out there to choose from. If you’re wondering what to watch when you’re expecting, here’s a great list from IMDb to give you some inspiration: The Best Pregnancy Movies Of All Time.
9. Recharge With A Couples Massage
Preparing to become parents is no small task. Take care of yourself and your partner with a glorious couples/maternity massage at The Four Seasons Hotel Denver. Self-care is essential and spending time soaking, relaxing and working away the soreness that growing and carrying a new life brings with your partner will emphasize how much both of you matter and bring you closer to each other!
10. You Scream, I Scream - Go Get Some Ice Cream!
Denver has some incredible options for ice cream lovers. I’ve lived here for over 20 years and I’m actually embarrassed at how few I’ve actually visited after doing my research for this post. My very favorites are Little Man, Sweet Cooie’s (make sure to check out their brioche donut ice cream sandwich!) and Bonnie Brae’s. And although it’s not ice cream - I have to give a very special shout out to Slife’s Sweet Freeze Shave Ice/Slife’s Devil Dogs. This is the real deal - Hawaiian Shave Ice (none of the silly snow cone nonsense here). It’s the closest you can get to the real thing without being in Hawaii and it is really wonderful!!! If you want some more ice cream options or are even feeling up to a day long ice cream shop tour check out this fun article in Westword: The Ultimate Ice Cream Lovers Tour.
11. Have Your Maternity Portrait Session!
Taking the time to document your little family before the baby arrives is a really fun, meaningful way to spend some pre-baby time together. You’ll be all dolled up too so it’s the perfect excuse to head out afterwards for a romantic meal or special treat together!
DESIGN IDEAS & GALLERY WALL INSPIRATION FOR 2024
I’m such a huge fan of displaying your family portraits around your home and there is nothing I love more than sharing some inspiration. Today I’m sharing some of my favorite design ideas for using the images from your maternity, newborn and family sessions with me. The living room is still the most popular choice for where families choose to hang images, but as you’ll see, there are so many rooms and spaces in your home where you can be enjoying your pictures every day. I hope this gives you some inspiration on how you can refresh the spaces in your home and find new ways to get the most out of your beautiful images by turning your portraits into true works of art!
If you’ve had a session with me in the past, only purchased digital files and still haven’t found the time to do anything with your images, it’s never too late to reach out! I’m always happy to design wall art and albums so that you can enjoy your images daily and have artwork to pass on to your children.
FRAMED PICTURES MAKE YOUR ENTRYWAY INVITING
Displaying special images in the entryway of your home is such a wonderful and unique way to welcome your guests and to put a smile on your face when you get home. I have special software to show you exactly what your own images will look like to scale on the walls in your home, right down to the frame color if you’d like to create a gorgeous wall display of your own. You can feel confident that you are choosing the sizes, colors and images that will look the best in your space before your order ever goes to production.
DISPLAYING FAMILY PICTURES IN YOUR BATHROOM
The bathroom might feel like an unexpected choice for hanging your family pictures but I can’t think of a more beautiful view to enjoy while relaxing in this lovely porcelain bathtub. This large single framed image is a show stopper in this modern farmhouse bathroom.
FRAMED PICTURES CAN BE THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR LIVING ROOM
A group of 3 framed fine art prints works so perfectly over a large sofa in your living room to bring beauty and balance to the space. I’m a huge fan of gold and have multiple gold framing options to lend a pop of luxury to your home.
DISPLAYING FRAMED PORTRAITS IN THE HALLWAY
This peaceful newborn image is the perfect choice for the entryway into this lovely nursery suite and will be a timeless work of art long after baby’s crib is replaced by a big girl bed.
DISPLAYING ARTWORK IN THE NURSERY OR BEDROOM
I love the look of a single large piece of custom artwork hanging over the changing table. This precious portrait of a newborn with his family is from my studio in Centennial, Colorado.
FRAMED ARTWORK IN THE KIDS PLAYROOM
How sweet are these portraits hanging over the bench in this dream of a playroom?! The beautiful images pair perfectly with the light hardwood frame and matches the modern Scandinavian design of the room flawlessly. I use the highest quality acrylic in all of my frames so you don’t have to worry about broken glass or your family’s safety when a ball or toy is inevitably thrown inside the house.
MAKING THE MOST OUT OF UNEXPECTED AND UNUSED SPACES IN YOUR HOME
This once empty wall space has new meaning with a simple portrait. Adding beautiful artwork to simple unused spaces can bring new life to your home. You don’t need large walls or huge spaces to find a lovely spot to hang a family treausure.
If you have spaces in your home that you’d like to hang family photos, I’d love to help show you what your redesigned space could look like. I use images of the actual walls in your home and take all of the guesswork out of designing your very own gallery wall. I’ll create custom layouts using your images so you can see just how beautiful your finished artwork will be! If you’d like to learn more, let’s chat!
Thank you so much for being here! I’m Kami Vanous, founder of Lucky Friday Studios and a leading Colorado maternity, newborn and baby photographer. My beautiful natural light photography studio is located in Centennial, Colorado and I serve clients from all around Denver, Littleton, Ken Caryl Ranch, Centennial, Highlands Ranch, Cherry Hills, Greenwood Village, Lone Tree, Englewood, Castle Rock, Parker and surrounding areas. I have more than 12 years of experience photographing motherhood, babies and young families, and I would love the opportunity to work with you to create something beautiful.
To see more of my work, please spend some time looking through my portfolio. If you are drawn to my art and are looking for a maternity, newborn and baby photographer, I would love to chat about how we can to begin planning your session together to create the images you’ve been dreaming of.
xo - kami
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