Mother-Daughter Adventure at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

What a fun session with Chelsea and her almost 2-year-old daughter at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, especially in January. After the arctic air forced us to postpone once, we lucked out with a balmy and sunny afternoon. Chasing the little one as she ran through the sand was a blast!

It’s a bit of a walk to the first dunes, but once we arrived, we didn’t have to go far to play in the dramatic shadows and light. The beautiful environment made for some special photos and memories. As expected at the dunes, the wind picked up during our session—because what’s a visit without a little wind? As the sun dipped low on the horizon, we stopped on the way out of the park for a few final photos. The view of snow-capped peaks beyond the dunes is unbeatable, and this side of the San Luis Valley gets the most delicious golden light at sunset.

While the little one stole the show, we also captured a few portraits of Chelsea in her element as she prepares to launch her astrology business. She also dances with the Grounded Dance Company in Salida, and I loved photographing her graceful movements. It was her dream to have a session at the Great Sand Dunes, and I’m so grateful she trusted me to bring that vision to life.