WELCOME,
Meet Dena – Owner & Photographer of New Leaf Portraits
Dena is the heart and soul behind New Leaf Portraits (formerly New Leaf Photography), a licensed portrait studio in Stavely, Alberta, specializing in Newborn, Maternity, Milestone, and Motherhood photography.
Wife to Scott, the talented craftsman behind many of the studio’s signature wooden props, and mom to four beautiful children—three boys and a girl—Dena’s passion for capturing families began in October 2018 after photographing her own. By January 2019, she had officially founded New Leaf, following her first hands-on newborn photography course.
Since then, Dena has dedicated countless hours to mastering her craft, including studio lighting, fine art editing, posing and wrapping techniques, and—most importantly—safe and gently posing your newborn . She continues her professional growth through online courses and photography retreats, ensuring her clients receive up-to-date, professional-quality portraits and an exceptional studio experience.
If you’re searching for more than just a photo session—someone who goes the extra mile to create a stress-free, luxurious, and unforgettable experience—Dena at New Leaf Portraits is the photographer for you. Her work is focused on freezing every detail of life’s most timeless moments, creating heirloom-quality images your family will treasure for generations.
Every photograph below represents a season I'll never get back—and a reminder of why preserving these moments matters so deeply to me.
Motherhood is what first inspired me to pick up a camera, and it continues to shape the way I photograph every family who walks through my studio doors. I know how quickly the seasons of life pass, and how often we're so busy living them that we forget to slow down and truly take them in.
My goal has never been to simply create beautiful photographs. I want you to feel cared for from the moment you arrive. Whether I'm gently settling your newborn, encouraging genuine laughter between siblings, or guiding you through your first family portraits, my focus is always on creating a calm, relaxed experience where connection comes naturally.
Families often tell me they leave feeling like they've spent time with a friend rather than stood in front of a camera—and that's exactly what I hope for. Because the most meaningful photographs aren't forced. They're created when you feel comfortable enough to simply be yourselves.
Years from now, I don't want you to remember just how these moments looked. I want your photographs to remind you how they felt.
FAQ
When is the best time to do newborn portraits?
Why are newborn sessions so long?
How does the retainer work?
How do I prepare for our session ?
FAQ
When is the best time to do newborn portraits?
I have found the best time to do newborn portraits is within the first two weeks, 5-14 days after baby is born. For those curled up poses and sleepy expressions. However - this isn't always ideal for families because venturing out can feel a little daunting in those first few weeks. So rest assured, I have the knowledge and experience to confidently conduct a newborn session within the first 4 weeks after birth, with beautiful results.
Why are newborn sessions so long?
Great question !
It takes time to wrap/ pose/ change sets. Taking breaks to feed / change and sooth baby as needed. Here at New Leaf sessions are baby-led, unhurried, focusing on your baby's comfort. We move at their pace, allowing families to relax, slow down and soak in this once-in-a-lifetime first photo session with their precious baby.
How does the retainer work?
When securing your session, I require a specific amount of the sessions fee, depending on the type of session you're securing. This retainer holds your session spot/s & goes towards the balance owing. The remaining balance is due before our session begins.
How do I prepare for our session ?
I am a true communicator, all my sessions are followed with a prep guide, from what to wear, what to expect, what to bring (if that's required). You'll never feel left in the dark with questions unanswered. Simply just message me at anytime & I'll get back to you in a timely fashion.