top of page

The Art of Connection & Capturing the Little Joys
Stories from the heart of Deanna
All Posts


Revisiting the Past with New Eyes: How My Family Photography Has Grown
Revisiting an old session with fresh eyes reminded me how far I’ve come. By saving the RAWs, I was able to re-edit with more intention—refining colour, tone, and storytelling. My style has evolved to feel richer, more editorial, and emotionally grounded. These re-edits reflect not just better technique, but deeper connection. Growth isn’t about changing the story—it’s about learning how to tell it more beautifully.
Deanna Dunham
1 day ago2 min read
19
0


Golden Oars | A Love Letter in Light and Water
Golden Oars is more than a photography session—it’s a slow, soulful escape into beauty. Styled with sunset-toned florals by Bella Vita Flowers and set adrift in golden light, these sessions capture connection, softness, and story. Born from a year-long vision and brought to life with heart, this is a love letter in light and water. A gentle beginning to something new.
Deanna Dunham
2 days ago2 min read
50
0


A New Chapter: Little Joys by Deanna Dunham Designs
Little Joys by Deanna Dunham Designs is a slow, intentional photography brand rooted in presence, emotion, and memory. Born from a desire to capture life’s quiet in-between moments, Little Joys offers heartfelt family, motherhood, and love-filled sessions with an artful, grounded touch. This gentle rebrand reflects a deeper return to self and a calm space where you can feel seen, safe, and beautifully remembered.
Deanna Dunham
5 days ago2 min read
3
0


Oasis Lavender: Memories from Garnet Valley Ranch
Last summer, I photographed quiet, tender moments among the lavender fields of Garnet Valley Ranch — a rare, untamed estate in Summerland, BC. The land’s beauty remains. From family legacies to golden sunsets, every frame here carries the story of connection, elevation, and wild-hearted peace. It’s a joy to return to a place that holds so much meaning for my clients — and for me.
Deanna Dunham
6 days ago2 min read
36
0


🌿 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
6
0


Finding the Balance: Fine Art vs. Natural Edits in My Photography Style
I specialize in bright, true-to-color imagery with a soft fine art touch. My default edits reflect a clean, natural style that honors real light and skin texture. For clients seeking a more polished, painterly finish, I offer Fine Art Edit upgrades. In every gallery, you can request custom retouching like blemish removal, face swaps, or artistic enhancements—ensuring your images reflect your vision and comfort.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 124 min read
10
0


🤍 Little Joys Studio Session Prep Checklist
Little Joys Studio sessions are all about simplicity, softness, and connection. With a clean white backdrop, the focus stays on your love and emotion—not on props or distractions. Stick to light, neutral tones for clothing and let your kids be themselves. For inspiration, visit my Pinterest board: Little Joys Poses. These sessions are meant to feel calm and honest—just like the moments you’ll want to remember forever.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 112 min read
2
0


The Maternity Session I Always Dreamed Of – Featuring Hayden
Hayden’s maternity session was everything I dreamed of capturing — soft, simple, and full of quiet strength. It felt especially meaningful, as I missed my own chance to do a session like this when Niko arrived early. With both color and black-and-white edits, this gallery tells a timeless story of motherhood. View the full experience with music here: https://deannadunham.shootproof.com/gallery/Hayden/home
Deanna Dunham
Jun 62 min read
11
0


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
1
0


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
Jun 12 min read
2
0


From Broken Ankle to Barefoot Runner: I Didn’t See That Coming
After breaking and dislocating my ankle in October 2023, I began rebuilding strength from the ground up—literally. I now run 2–3km every other day in barefoot sandals, often at sunset and sometimes in jean shorts. What started as recovery became a journey of connection, comfort, and doing things my own way. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t fit the mold—this is your reminder that your way is enough.
Deanna Dunham
May 272 min read
19
1


🐝 Meadowlark Nature Festival: Tour #53 – Bees, Bugs, and Butterflies… Oh My!
Join us on Tour #53 of the Meadowlark Nature Festival for a family-friendly walk through Summerland’s Cartwright Mountain! Led by insect experts Mandy Brown and Tyler Nelson, we explored native pollinators, wildflowers, and even played Bug Bingo. With my camera in hand and my little ones by my side, I captured the magic of the day — from bumblebee hives to the vanilla-scented “puzzle tree.” Full gallery included in the blog!
Deanna Dunham
May 192 min read
31
1


From Orchard Park to Little Joys Studio: The Story Behind the Vintage Blocks
Remember the giant alphabet blocks from The Bay in Kelowna? After 30 years on display, they’ve found a new home at Little Joys Studio! Now available as part of our Micro Portrait Sessions — perfect for birthdays, headshots, and milestones. Quick, fun, and full of nostalgia. $150 includes a 15-minute session and 3 digital images. Let’s create new memories with a piece of Okanagan history.
Deanna Dunham
May 172 min read
22
0


How I Use AI Tools in My Photography Business
Ever wonder if I use AI in my photography business? (Spoiler: I do — but not in the way you might think.) From faster image culling to marketing help and brand consistency checks, AI tools have become a behind-the-scenes assistant at Deanna Dunham Designs. They help me work smarter, not replace the heart of what I do. I wrote this blog to answer a question I get asked often — especially by techy husbands during sessions!
Deanna Dunham
May 43 min read
13
0


Why Choose Deanna Dunham Designs for Your Family Photos?
At Deanna Dunham Designs, I create more than just portraits — I capture heartfelt connection with thoughtful light, natural posing, and timeless editing. Whether it’s midday sun or soft evening glow, every session is tailored to tell your family’s story with warmth, emotion, and ease. If you're looking for a session that feels as good as it looks, you’re in the right place.
Deanna Dunham
May 42 min read
1
0


Spring for Xena: A Community's Heartfelt Journey
This spring, we created Spring for Xena sessions to support a brave four-year-old battling leukemia. Together with Bella Vita Flowers, we built a space filled with beauty, hope, and community love. Families came to capture joyful moments, with proceeds helping Xena’s family during her treatment. You can read more about her story in the Castanet article.
Deanna Dunham
Apr 173 min read
7
0


Family Photography: Capturing Little Joys
At Deanna Dunham Designs | Little Joys Studio, every session is rooted in heart. Inspired by my Nana, who found joy in the portraits I created during her final days, I named my studio sessions “Little Joys” in her honour. I specialize in capturing genuine moments and giving back to my community through heartfelt photography that celebrates love, connection, and the beauty in everyday life.
Deanna Dunham
Apr 153 min read
27
0


🐴 Portrait Session Prep Checklist For You & Your Horse
Preparing for a portrait session with your horse is about more than just looking good—it’s about creating a calm, connected experience. Clean tack, neutral tones, and simple grooming go a long way in creating timeless images. Bring treats, stay relaxed, and don’t stress perfection—your bond is what makes the photo. For pose ideas, check out my Pinterest board and feel free to bring any inspiration to make your session uniquely yours.
Deanna Dunham
Apr 152 min read
5
0


Why Being Licensed & Insured Matters: Peace of Mind for Your Session
At Deanna Dunham Designs | Little Joys Studio, your peace of mind matters. I'm fully licensed and insured — including an Intercommunity Business License that allows me to legally operate across the Okanagan and Similkameen. Whether we're shooting in Kelowna, Penticton, or Oliver, you can trust that your session is in safe, professional hands. Let’s create joyful memories, worry-free.
Deanna Dunham
Apr 62 min read
11
0


A Dreamy Maternity Session at Little Joys Studio – Featuring the Evie Gown from J&L Designs Boutique
A dreamy maternity session brought to life with the Evie Gown & ethereal florals. See the magic & exciting J&L Designs collab! 🌸✨
Deanna Dunham
Apr 12 min read
22
1
bottom of page