Family Dawn Altier Family Dawn Altier

Montage Family Session

Despite the roller coaster that 2020 has been, there have been many beautiful moments. Reconnecting with returning clients who have become friends, is always a highlight! I’m so thankful for the Case family! Please enjoy my favorites from their Laguna Beach family session. Please stay safe and well! And let’s plan to shoot together in 2021! xoxo

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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

Newport Beach Family Session

It’s a pretty great feeling to have clients hire you again to make pretty pictures with them! This Newport Beach family session was my second time working with Rob and Emily, as I had the privilege of photographing their wedding in 2016. We had a ton of fun! I send my gratitude to them and all the families and individuals I have the honor of working with (including those who work as my assistants)! Thank you so much for supporting and appreciating my art! Much LOVE! 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: MOCALemonade, 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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Family Dawn Altier Family Dawn Altier

Family Portraits Seal Beach

Another fabulous family portrait session in Seal Beach! I absolutely love working with this family! My first photoshoot with Angel was back in 2012 when I was honored to do her graduation photos. Now she is a beautiful mama to two gorgeous boys and she and her hubby make such a wonderful couple! I love documenting their family as they grow! Please enjoy some of my faves from this session! Much love! xoxo

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Family Dawn Altier Family Dawn Altier

Swami Beach Family Session

It was 62 degrees and raining when I arrived, but this Swami’s Beach family session turned out beautifully. Baby Ronin touched sand and the Pacific for the very first time. The low tide gently lapped at our feet. Mom and Dad grinned as they watched Ronin’s reactions to the ocean water washing over his toes. The sky was overcast and the sun finally popped out 5 minutes after we were packed up and piled into our cars. No matter. It was a morning spent in the best possible way: documenting a family’s love for each other.

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Portraits Dawn Altier Portraits Dawn Altier

Summer 2015 Portraits

It’s hard to believe that summer is coming to a close. I look back over the past few months and feel most grateful for two things: 1.The intense temperatures will soon be on hiatus, and 2. for the fun I’ve been able to have behind the camera with Andrew and Becca, The Walkowskis, Ana Sophia and family, and the Gleasons. Here are a few highlights. Enjoy!

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Family Dawn Altier Family Dawn Altier

Laguna Beach Family Session

This session showcases the gorgeous California coastline and the beautiful Suarez family! It was a privilege to meet up with them for a sunset family/anniversary shoot! Alex and Norma just celebrated 15 years of marriage (2011). Congrats you two! Here’s to another 15 years together and beyond!

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Family Dawn Altier Family Dawn Altier

Orange County Family Session

I worked with children at a Child Development Center for 6 years. Being surrounded by little ones has taught me so much about myself, relating to others, and life in general. I am endlessly amazed at children’s ability to love and forgive freely. Their creativity and spontaneity is absolutely refreshing! It was great getting together with Becky and her boys to photographically welcome Baby Sami (2011) into the beautiful bright world! It was especially fun getting silly with big brother Zain. Much love to your family!

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Family Dawn Altier Family Dawn Altier

Lakewood, CA Family Session

There is a gem of a park in Lakewood, CA called Monte Verde Park. It is available to rent for special occasions and portrait sessions and has a wonderful green space beside it. It was here that I gathered with the Araiza family for the first of several family photo sessions. Theirs is the only family that I currently accept extended family session booking for. Here is a little piece of history.

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