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Capturing Some Sunshine with the Lovely Solana, Senior Photos

She walked into my office during lunch hour on a Wednesday and I confided that I was having a hard time not doing the Beatles-hands-on-your-face scream! I told her, “You probably don’t remember me but I have such fond memories of being with you when you’re little. This is amazing!”

Her response? She pulled me into a big, bone-squeezing hug.

That’s sums her up. Her name means sunshine and boy, does it suit her! She likes to sing and dance, loves water, has a job serving some yummy fast food, and does a sports medicine internship with the Flag High sports teams. She’s exactly the person you want taping up your ankle so you can be your best on the field or court. We could talk for forever because she’s so engaging.

In short? She’s amazing!

It was delightful to reunite with Solana and her wonderful mom, Susan. We just laughed our way through her senior photo session in the summer sunflowers. They are an unbeatable team so it was a joy to witness their relationship at this stage. It remains strong and touchingly sweet.

Congrats on graduating, Solana. Wherever you land, please come back for hugs!


Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Celebrating Katelin, A Modern Renaissance Woman, With College Senior Photos

With the sun warming my studio on a chilly Wednesday morning in March, she opened her violin case. The gleaming instrument was breathtaking but it was nothing compared to the sound of her playing it. She is absolutely masterful! Experiencing the the resonance of the notes, reverberating throughout my portrait studio was a privilege. You can definitely add me to the Katelin fan list!

And yet, her talents don’t stop there. I never know what I’ll ask my subjects during a senior session but I asked Katelin to dance. She is a GREAT dancer! Plus, she decorated her graduation cap like a professional artist. She might just be a Renaissance woman.

She graduates from Northern Arizona University, with TWO degrees: a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance and a Bachelor of Instrumental Music Education. After that, she’ll travel to performances to share her talents with more lucky listeners and pursue a masters and a career as a teacher. Congratulations, Katelin!

Portrait of Young Woman Nearing Graduation in College Senior Photos in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography
Young Woman Holding Violin, Wearing her Graduation Gown in College Senior Photos in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography
Young Woman Holding Decorated Cap in College Senior Photos in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography
Wall Design for College Senior Photos in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography

Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Cora, Her Beautiful Contradictions in Harmony – Senior Photos Flagstaff

You can see her intelligence. Like she could figure out any puzzle. And yet, she’s super playful and fun when asked to.

For example: During her senior session, I asked her to get into the frame. I gave her the choice to climb, lean, or stand next to a wall. Her response? She jumped up INTO the tree, looking effortlessly at home there. The planet sculpture behind her, the dress, and boots all completed the look.

Fall Portrait of A High School Senior in a Blue Dress, at the Lowell Observatory Flagstaff, AZ, by Senior Photographers KDI Photography
Fall Portrait of A High School Senior in a Blue Dress, at the Lowell Observatory Flagstaff, AZ, by Senior Photographers KDI Photography

See? All the apparent contradictions working in perfect harmony. She consistently remains a kind, levelheaded soul, somehow always that mix of responsible and joyful. She is uniquely herself, and I adore her.

I cannot believe that she was in utero the first time I photographed her because she always seems like such a grown-up. And besides, that maternity session feels like it was 10 minutes ago! So, how does THAT work??

I’m excited for her as she heads to the University of Arizona in the fall to study Computer Science in the aerospace field. They will be so lucky to have her.

Fall Portrait of A High School Senior in a Blue Dress, at the Lowell Observatory Flagstaff, AZ, by Senior Photographers KDI Photography

Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Good Vibes with the Wonderful Hobbs Cruickshank Family

Sometimes the ambient culture of a group is super fun, but also harsh. You know what I mean; the humor revolves around throwing shade at others.

Well, not these guys! They always manage to be fun AND kind.

Family of Four Laughing in Studio Family Photos, by KDI Photography, Flagstaff Family Photographer

During our family session, I asked them to play some games with me, and had them write notes to each other. No one squirmed, no one even struggled to come up with something to say. In this family, affirming each other seems to be second nature.

Family of Four Laughing in Studio Family Photos, by KDI Photography, Flagstaff Family Photographer

We laughed our way through the various portraits, with Pearl Jam rocking out over the speaker. We even added some modern recreations of previous portraits which made everyone crack up all the more.

Over the last two decades, I say it each time I’m with them – it’s always a good day when I see the Hobbs Cruickshanks. Here’s to another 20 years of laughter and friendship with these folks!

Brothers Laughing in Studio Family Photos, by KDI Photography, Flagstaff Family Photographer

Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Gustavo and His Big Sisters – First Communion in Flagstaff

They walked through my door at 8 am on a frigid Monday morning, and I couldn’t believe my eyes. Each of them had changed so much!

It was a pure delight to see who they are now. Each has new, unique interests: volleyball, basketball, and skiing, respectively. But some things haven’t changed. They are all still a blast to hang out with, making me (and each other) laugh throughout the session.

Studio Portrait of Boy in First Communion Attire, With Suit Jacket and Bow-tie, Kids and Family Photos in Flagstaff, AZ © KDI Photography

The reason for this portrait installment was that, just like his sisters before him, Gustavo needed First Communion portraits. I loved getting the chance to finally focus on him, solo. I learned a lot about him at this stage.

Among other things, he loves bow ties, mac n cheese, playing and watching basketball. AND, a new revelation; he’s a fantastic singer! I asked where he typically sings and was told that recently, he decided to belt out a tune in the bathroom at his pediatrician’s office. The entire staff was treated to the performance, as his voice projected flawlessly. I wish I had been there! I’ll bet the acoustics were a perfect complement to his beautiful voice.

I always end the time spent with this talented and terrific crew with a huge smile on my face.

Studio Portrait of Three Siblings, Two Older Sisters Tickling their Younger Brother in Family Portrait in Flagstaff, AZ © KDI Photography
First Communion Portraits Framed Wall Display, Flagstaff family Photography, KDI Photography

Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Avery, Class of 2024 – Senior Photos in Flagstaff’s Colorful Autumn

High School Senior Boy, Sitting on Old Wooden Corral With Colorful Fall Aspen Trees, Senior Photos in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography, Senior Photographer

Among the potential snafus: travel from another state after lots of airline delays, a forest fire clouding the nearby skies with smoke, and, as always, the question of weather. Would it be okay on the date they would fly in?

Happily, everything came together beautifully for Avery’s senior photo session, despite all the possible hiccups. The smoke made for beautiful light, and we were blessed with gorgeous fall foliage, great weather, and clear air in the area where we were photographing.


Their family is originally from Flagstaff but had recently relocated to Louisiana. Unbeknownst to me, the location I selected was a meaningful place for their history. The memories of times with beloved departed family members came flooding back for Jody, Avery’s lovely mom.


We laughed, chatted, and dodged the camera-toting leaf peepers. Avery, for his part, was an excellent dancer and maker of faces. He graduates in May. I’m wishing him a fantastic next chapter.

High School Senior Boy, Sitting on Rock in Fall Aspen Trees, Senior Photos in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography, Senior Photographer
High School Senior Boy, walking, Senior Photos, in, Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography, Senior Photographer

Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Hanging Out With the O’Connors – Positively Delightful Chaos

It started with a phone call about headshots. Rachel is a respected foot and ankle doctor in town. As she readied for a move to a new, wonderful office location, it came to her attention that her last professional portrait was quite outdated. As it turns out, it wasn’t the only portrait that needed updating. By the time we were done, there were new portraits for Rachel and her attorney husband Gavin and a really hilarious and delightful family session with their two awesome kids.

We met to plan the project, I asked them what this chapter in their family would be called. They paused thoughtfully for a moment and then Gavin said, “Chaos!” Rachel immediately agreed. Between two young kids, two active dogs, and two demanding jobs serving our community, I totally understood.

On the day of the session, things initially started off looking like they would live up to the chapter title. A rainstorm was moving in and we needed to race to our location early to beat it. Once arrived, two crazy dogs were released from the car and threatened to cause a tornado with their frenetic energy. Some how, we managed to coral them for 125th of a second and document the fluffy adorableness.

After that, I could have hung out with them for hours, chatting about the best restaurants in Tucson, Gavin’s military service, or Rachel’s great new medical office. We laughed hard, doing riddles and playing patty cakes with the kids. When it was time to go, both kids were reluctant to end the games and we had to tear ourselves away. I’m grateful that a need for one updated portrait lead to such a lovely experience.

Family in the Sunflowers at Sunset, with kids looking back at camera, Flagstaff, AZ, by KDI Photography


Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Reconnecting with the Cosners – Family Photos in Flagstaff


Getting them all into the same room has become more of a challenge. With two busy business owner parents, a teenager, and a recent college grad who gallivants around the globe, it’s not surprising. That’s why I was especially impressed that it happened at all! It took some finagling. Some back and forth. Some wrangling of cats (AKA family members). 


But there we were again, with great music on the speakers, lots of laughter, and another “exchange student.” Although this time, it was Aspen’s wonderful English boyfriend, James. 🙂 Family portrait success!

Two Sisters Hugging in Studio Portrait in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography, Flagstaff Family Photographer

I made a point to review previous sessions so we could pay homage to the sister relationship and growth. It seems like just a minute ago Rowan was in a baby carrier and now, she is almost as tall as her big sister!

Two Sisters Look at each other in Studio Portrait in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography, Flagstaff Family Photographer, Before and After Diptych Showing the Sisters Growth Over Time

We talked about music, art, and travel, which they have a passion for. In fact, they head out on another adventure soon. It was an absolute pleasure to catch up with them for this pause in the family action.

Family of Four Snuggles in a Studio Portrait in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography, Flagstaff Family Photographer
A Young Couple Hugs in Studio Portrait in Flagstaff, AZ by KDI Photography, Flagstaff Family Photographer

Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Senior Photos in Beautiful, Treacherous Sedona with Liam, Verde Valley School

This session was dangerous. 

Don’t believe me?  

Senior Photos at the Verde Valley School, in Beautiful Sedona, AZ, by KDI Photography

Here’s an abbreviated list of things we had to defend ourselves against:

• tarantula hawks and actual tarantulas
• red ants
• killer tomatoes
• feral cats in an abandoned bus
• spicy hot chilis
• stinging bees

The name Liam means “protector,” and he certainly lived up to his name. No hospital visits for us. Thank you, Liam!

Senior Photos in the Verde Valley School Vintage Bus, in Beautiful Sedona, AZ, by KDI Photography

Okay, maybe they weren’t actually coming for us, but they COULD have! Liam, his mom Michele, and I laughed it all off, but all of these living things can actually be found in the immediate environment of Liam’s Sedona school.

His senior photo session could have gone horribly wrong, but instead, it was an absolute blast.

I loved seeing who he is now at this stage. He is delightful, kind, and interesting. He played his violin, made awesome, hilarious faces, and genially greeted passersby as we wandered around campus.

At 75 years old, Verde Valley School has such a happy vibe and is amazingly innovative. Just a few of the programs I witnessed or heard about were horseback riding, a biking club, camping trips, and gardening. 

Senior Photos in the Verde Valley School Vintage Bus, in Beautiful Sedona, AZ, by KDI Photography

I wish I could go there! I’m sure Liam will miss it when he graduates in May. Congratulations, Liam!

Senior Photos at Verde Valley School in Beautiful Sedona, AZ, by KDI Photography

Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Springtime Photos In Flagstaff • Living To Fight Another Day

I never do this.

It tends to overwhelm my subjects and, if I’m honest, myself!

Family portrait of family of six, smiling, snuggled together, under flowering trees, Downtown Flagstaff, AZ Portraits by KDI Photography

But I had a lot of ideas after getting to know the Pozars. I wanted to tell their story an authentic way, and they had several places that were meaningful to their family history.

So I asked them to treat this family portrait session like a scavenger hunt, where we’d bounce from place to place. They were game because, well, they’re Pozars. A defining characteristic of their family is being game for anything!

It turns out that it was VERY important that we ran from place to place.

As I waited to meet the family, I spotted the two sisters running towards me, full throttle. I hoped it was because they were super excited for portraits but as it turns out, nope. They were running for their “lives”.

“Senior Assassin” is serious business and Izzy was being aggressively hunted. Because this was ”Purge Day”, she couldn’t protect herself with pool items (you know, floaties, goggles, etc.). In other words, she was an open target while I was photographing her.

She was cool as ever, but the whole family spent the session looking over their shoulders. Our adventure included fake-outs, car swapping, narrow escapes, and fortunately, the aforementioned multiple photo locations. I’m proud to say that they were unable to get her on my watch and she lived to fight another day!

Portrait of family of six, posing very seriously in their Pittsburgh Steelers shirts, Downtown Flagstaff, AZ Portraits by KDI Photography
2 responses to “Springtime Photos In Flagstaff • Living To Fight Another Day”
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    Burt Gershater
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Flagstaff Family Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Maternity Pregnancy Photographer • Flagstaff Newborn Photographer • Flagstaff Child Photographer • Flagstaff Senior Portrait Photographer • Flagstaff Couples Photography

Kristen Dacey Iwai of KDI Photography is a full-time professional portrait photographer based in Flagstaff, Arizona with decades of experience. Making portraits of families, pregnancy, newborns, babies, children, and high school seniors in her downtown studio and on location, she serves clients from Flagstaff, Sedona, Tuba City, Winslow, Payson, Page, Williams, Prescott, Mesa, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Arizona


Keiji Iwai & Kristen Dacey Iwai

KDI PHOTOGRAPHY

 

724 N. Humphreys St

Flagstaff, AZ 86001

 

Phone

(928) 779-4151

 

Hours:

M - F 9 - 5 by appointment

KDI Photography Portrait Studio in Flagstaff, Az
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