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A Remarkable Lakeside Senior Photo Session with Dogs & Flowers

I have this very clear picture of Kyra in my mind, aged four and already moving fast. Maybe she was predisposed to be a soccer player when she grew up because she’s required to be fast now! I can see how she must be a great leader as a captain of her team.

High School Senior Photos of a Gril In White Patterned Top Near a Northern Arizona Lake, with Dogs and Beautiful Flowers, By KDI Photography in Flagstaff, AZ

Kyra is drawn to water and marine biology, so Kyra, her mom, Kym, and I headed for the Arizona version of “marine.” her senior portrait session, we got beyond the rain and were rewarded with the gorgeous light.

Sometimes, my clients have difficulty relaxing and trusting me about the weather, but fortunately, Kym and Kyra had faith. The day was unique and unforgettable. The lake had more water and the most stunning flowers I’ve ever seen!

High School Senior Photos of a Girl in Overalls Near a Northern Arizona Lake, with Dogs and Beautiful Flower, By KDI Photography in Flagstaff, AZ

We spent some time wrangling one very chill and one very not chill puppy, documenting both the sweetness and the personality. Kyra made it all enjoyable by being a really fun subject.

I’ve relished my time with her in this chapter. She is kind, present, engaging, and has an awesome giggle. Just like when she was little, you can see that she is a thinker. Whenever she lands for her next chapter, they will be lucky to have her.

High School Senior Photos of a Soccer Player Near a Northern Arizona Lake, with Beautiful Flowers, By KDI Photography in Flagstaff, AZ

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 a Family Miracle: Pregnancy Portraits in Stunning Flagstaff

They told her it would never happen so she resigned herself.

But after four pregnancy tests, she finally started to believe her good fortune. Many months of violent nausea later, we met to plan portraits and we just clicked. I was so excited to get to celebrate this miracle with Sarah, husband Josh, cheerleader/ mom Brenda and sweet dog Rue.

Summer Maternity Photos in Flagstaff with an Expecting Mother in Orange Dress with the San Francisco Peaks in the Background, by Flagstaff Pregnancy Photographer, KDI Photography

On the day of our summer maternity session, they drove up from the valley. The day and the light were stunningly cooperative. Nothing could dampen our spirits, not even the mosquitos that found them addictive. They were happy to be out of the scorching temperatures at home, celebrating this incredible moment.

Summer Maternity Photos in Flagstaff with an Expecting Mother, by Flagstaff Pregnancy Photographer, KDI Photography

Recently, I heard the great news, that baby Becket James was here! Sarah sent pictures and he is so PERFECT!!! I haven’t been able to meet him yet but hope to in the future. He’s landed in such a sweet family, welcomed with the most open arms.

Summer Maternity Photos in Flagstaff with an Expecting Couple and their Dog, by Flagstaff Pregnancy Photographer, KDI Photography
Wall Art Featuring Summer Maternity Photos in Flagstaff with an Expecting Couple and their Dog, with the San Francsico Peaks in the Background by Flagstaff Pregnancy Photographer, 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


Myths VS. Facts – What You Need to Know About Paying For College

Feeling stressed about paying for college? You’re not alone. 

At KDI Photography, we’re excited to support families through this chapter. 

Join us at our studio for an informative college counseling night. We’ve invited a fantastic college counselor to guide you through this complex issue!

KDI Photography SponsorsCollege Counseling Night, a Free Event to Hel Parents and High School Students Navigate College Admissions and Paying for College, Flagstaff, AZ

Where: KDI Photography Studio, Flagstaff, AZ

When: Thursday, July 31st, 2024 at 6:30 pm (doors open at 6 pm)

Parents, high school juniors & seniors are welcome.

There is NO CHARGE for this class, but seating is limited,

so either sign up below or email us if you plan to attend!

KDI Photography SponsorsCollege Counseling Night, a Free Event to Hel Parents and High School Students Navigate College Admissions in Flagstaff, AZ

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


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


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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