Family Dawn Altier Family Dawn Altier

dtla Family Session

Even though this Los Angeles family session was done towards the end of last year, it seems so relevant (on several levels) to today! Firstly, wishing all the Mommas a joy-filled Mother’s Day! I know motherhood/parenthood does not come easily. This Momma and Papa waited/tried for 15 years to have their sweet Emma. The little ladybug over-alls you’ll see her wearing in some of these images was the first outfit they bought when they were hoping an dreaming of having a little girl. 

The first two photos are in honor of the struggle most of us have been experiencing as we feel our way through the Covid-19 pandemic, and all the consequences that continue to ripple outward because of it.

Thinking of all who are involved in keeping us safe and connected during these uncertain times; of the healthcare workers especially, giving their energy, talents and skill, and sacrificing their own well-being to help people fight for their lives! Mindful of all the women who long to be mothers or have lost babies due to tragedy. My heart goes out to you all! Here is to life, health, love, connection, healing, and rising above adversity!!! xoxo

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Family Dawn Altier Family Dawn Altier

Walt Disney Concert Hall Family Portraits

Having the opportunity to meet up with Kelly in Downtown L.A. this month, (October 2019), was a beautiful reunion of two worlds separated by distance. We got to take in some of my favorite spots in dtla: MOCA, Lemonade, and The Broad, and snapped a few photos at the Walt Disney Concert Hall ; I was pleased that she fell in love with The Broad! The best part however was seeing her again, going deep in conversation about life and our journeys, and having the privilege of meeting the two loves of her life, her husband and son.

I first met Kelly while serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Adelaide, South Australia. She is a native Australian and her family welcomed me, loved me, and fed me amazing dinners every week for 4 months. I will be forever grateful for Wednesday nights at the Rochows!

Kelly has been through so much since we last saw each other in 2006. She got married, has become a wonderful mother, and is wading through the challenges and results of having been diagnosed with M.S. a couple of years ago. I am so thankful that Kelly was feeling well enough to enjoy her family’s holiday, including their time with me.

Of her husband, Kelly says: “My husband is someone special; a complete constant. He carries me both literally and figuratively. On the days I can’t walk he gets me where I want to be. He meets me daily with love and understanding. He is my fierce protector and my strength when I can’t find my own. On the days that I feel like I’ve lost who I am, he holds me until I remember again.”

“Thank you for holding my body when it feels weak, my heart when it feels broken, and my dreams when I feel like they are lost. You always help me return to love, and for that I am forever grateful.” xoxo

Kelly said to me, “We never have photos taken of just the two of us!” At your family session I will always make time for photos of just you and your partner. I believe that documenting the love where your family got its start, is so important! (And fun!) xo

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Lighting Workshop, Couples Dawn Altier Lighting Workshop, Couples Dawn Altier

Lighting Workshop Arts District dtla

I hosted my first off-camera flash Lighting Workshop (1.0) this summer. The following are images created during the practical application (2nd half) of the workshop. According to the attendees, the only thing they would have changed about the overall experience would be to include ice cream. (Loved that! :D)

If you are a photographer who has been wanting to learn off-camera flash, or is struggling to figure out how to evolve your approach to low-light situations, I am now offering 1 on 1 mentoring sessions and a bi-annual workshop. If you are interested in attending or scheduling a mentoring session, please email me at: daltiercreates@gmail.com

The next workshop is slated for January 2018! Stay tuned for announcements and more info! Thank you to all who helped bring this wonderful event together! xoxo

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Graduation Portraits Dawn Altier Graduation Portraits Dawn Altier

DTLA Graduation Session with Courtney

There are sooo many things I could say about this shoot! First off Courtney, THANK YOU! This shoot brings me so much JOY! It was such fun running around DTLA with you! This first image puts a big smile on my face! What a wacky random portrait! LOVE IT! The theme for this shoot was art, music, and literature– I think we nailed it! 😀 Courtney is about to graduate with a Bachelors in English from CSULB! Congratulations Courtney! All your hard work is about to pay off! I’m so excited to see what direction you take in life. I know you will bring creativity and ~vision~ with you wherever you go! xoxo!

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