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Welcome to the
Little Joys Journal
Stories, guides, and reflections for families, clients, and creatives — always with the Little Joys touch.
Here, I share more than just photographs — I share the stories, the moments, and the heart behind them. From seasonal session highlights to prep guides for parents, from wedding inspiration to reflections on family and home learning, this space is designed to inspire, inform, and celebrate.
Whether you’re here to plan your next portrait session, pick up tips for stress-free photos, or simply enjoy a glimpse into the beauty of everyday life, you’ll find it all here — warm, intentional, and always with the Little Joys touch. 💛
All Posts
Designing the Magic: Little Joys Winter 2025
Step inside Winter Joy 2025 — a collection five years in the making, where every cushion, light, and sprig of pine was chosen to feel like a memory you could step into. Designed by Deanna Dunham, this year’s Little Joys experience blends fresh greenery by Bella Vita Flowers, warm textures, and soft light to create a space that feels alive with nostalgia and calm. A story of artistry, connection, and the beauty of quiet winter moments.
Deanna Dunham
Oct 266 min read
🌿 About Me: Photographer, Storyteller, Brand Strategist, Mother
Okanagan-based photographer Deanna Dunham blends emotional storytelling with editorial polish. With a background in wine marketing and a passion for nature, she captures honest, unposed moments for families, creatives, and brands. Known for her calm presence and eye for detail, Deanna creates visual experiences that feel both grounded and artful.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 142 min read
Frequently Asked Questions
At Deanna Dunham Designs, sessions are carefully planned to reflect your vision. From candid moments to fine art finishes, you'll choose your editing style and preferences during booking. Sessions are phone-free to keep the focus on connection. Afterward, you'll enjoy a curated gallery with upgrade options like retouching or painterly edits—all designed to bring your story to life beautifully.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 52 min read
Family Portrait Session Prep Checklist
Preparing for your family photo session doesn’t have to be stressful. Focus on coordinating soft, natural colors, bring a few kid-friendly essentials like wipes and snacks, and most importantly—let go of perfection. Candid moments and real connection always shine through. Want some inspiration before your session? Check out my Pinterest board here: Family Session Poses and bring any ideas you’d love to try!
Deanna Dunham
May 312 min read
The Part of Photography No One Sees (But Every Photographer Feels)
Something I think a lot of creatives feel — but rarely say out loud — is how much energy it takes to protect the work we create. On the surface, photography looks like magic, connection, and beautiful images. And it is. But there’s another layer that lives behind the scenes: setting and holding boundaries managing expectations with care navigating misunderstandings with grace advocating for your time and energy protecting licensed work from being altered or reused without pe
Deanna Dunham
2 days ago2 min read
A Heartwood Adventure: Hillside Orchards & Demelo Family Farm
This fall, our Heartwood primary classes ventured to Hillside Orchards and Demelo Family Farm for a day of sunshine, discovery, and joy. The children wandered orchards, marveled at animals, and shared a picnic lunch from Oliver Eats on the lawn. A heartfelt thank you to Shari for organizing such a meaningful outing. After the trip, our family carried on with bikes at the skate park and dinner at Bartier Bros., closing the day in golden light.
Deanna Dunham
Oct 22 min read
Lillooet — Stitched Together by Stories, Sunshine, and Scenery You Don’t Forget
Lillooet feels like your grandpa’s old leather chair—rugged, raw, too good to toss, and stitched together with stories. We spent the day wandering historic streets, laughing at quirky landmarks, watching the kids play beneath mountain peaks, and soaking in vineyard views at Fort Berens Estate Winery. A town full of sunshine, surprises, and soul—I already can’t wait to return.
Deanna Dunham
Sep 112 min read
Exploring Hardy Falls: Kokanee Salmon, Family Adventure & Homeschooling in Nature
Hardy Falls is more than a family walk—it’s a living classroom where history, ecology, and adventure meet. From watching Kokanee salmon fight the current to sketching and photographing the journey, our visit blended homeschooling with meaningful connection to the land. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this Peachland gem offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most powerful seasonal stories.
Deanna Dunham
Sep 83 min read
Celebrating Niko’s 3rd Birthday in Revelstoke
This August long weekend, we packed up for a little adventure to celebrate Niko turning three. Revelstoke was the perfect mix of...
Deanna Dunham
Sep 82 min read
Why Back-to-School Portraits Don’t Have to Be the Worst
Back-to-school portraits don’t have to be rushed, harsh, or unflattering. At Little Joys, I create quick, fun sessions that give kids time to relax, parents the chance to help with details, and families portraits they’ll actually love. With soft, flattering light, classic or custom backdrops, and luxury print packages, these sessions are designed to be timeless, stress-free, and worth framing.
Deanna Dunham
Sep 75 min read
The Language of Colour in My Photography
(How My Editing and Branding Create a Signature Style) When you look at a photograph, you don’t just see an image — you feel it. The...
Deanna Dunham
Sep 62 min read
Budgeting for Holiday Photos Without the Stress ✨
The idea for our 5th annual Winter Joy! The holidays are just around the corner, and for many families, booking professional photos is at...
Deanna Dunham
Sep 42 min read
Whimsy, Cake, and a Splash of Joy: August’s First Birthday Session
Whimsy, cake, and a splash of joy — August’s first birthday was pure magic in the studio. With Wella’s Whimsy balloons setting the scene, a sweet cake from Hugs & Kisses Bakeshop, and the added delight of a milk bath, every detail felt playful yet timeless. Ninety-three images later, we captured a milestone filled with laughter, frosting, and wonder — the kind of little joy worth remembering forever.
Deanna Dunham
Aug 292 min read
Golden Hour at The Cove: A Venue Walk Before the Wedding
In the days before a wedding, I walk the venue slowly, camera in hand, letting light and story guide me. At The Cove, sunset spills across the lake, while next door the century-old orchards of Gellatly Nut Farm whisper history. These quiet walks are where my work begins—mapping where love and light will meet. A tender preview now, soon to be the stage where vows are spoken and forever begins.
Deanna Dunham
Aug 202 min read
🍂 Fall Family Photography in Summerland: The Fall Collection
🍂 Capture the magic of fall in the Okanagan with relaxed, story-driven family photography in Summerland. Unlike rushed mini sessions, my Fall Collection offers flexible October dates, complimentary rescheduling, and time for kids to warm up and explore. Choose Fall Florals, the golden Bridge, or a full Garden session—plus add-on options for more variety. Cozy, timeless, and true to your family.
Deanna Dunham
Aug 183 min read
When the Light Breaks Just Right
🌿 Field Notes from a Dreamer · Entry 02 There’s a moment, just before the sun slips behind the hills, when the world holds its breath....
Deanna Dunham
Jul 292 min read
A Sweet Mess of Memories: How to Prepare for Your Cake Smash Session
There’s something wildly beautiful about letting your baby get a little messy in the name of memory. Our cake smash sessions are more than just frosting and photos—they’re about celebrating the wonder of one whole year, the giggles, the squish, the sweetness of now. From playful food exploration to a calming milk bath finale, here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your Little Joys cake smash session.
Deanna Dunham
Jul 253 min read
Honouring Time, Honouring Connection
I used to call them mini sessions—but they were never really mini. Each was a handcrafted experience, built with care, patience, and play. From designing dreamy sets to giving kids space to unfold, I’ve always offered more than a time slot. This fall and winter, I’m embracing that truth fully—with sessions that are slow, intentional, and joy-filled. And yes—the beloved Lemonade Stand is being reimagined in the Little Joys style. Coming soon.
Deanna Dunham
Jul 112 min read
Golden Oars Prep Guide: A Rowboat Session Experience Like No Other
Imagine a warm breeze, glowing skies, and a vintage rowboat drifting in calm water—styled with real-touch florals and lantern light....
Deanna Dunham
Jun 302 min read
In the Silence and Dreams In Between
Field Notes from a Dreamer · Entry 01 People often ask where my ideas come from—how I design a wine label that feels like a story, or...
Deanna Dunham
Jun 282 min read
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