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After some time away from posting, I wanted to return with gratitude for the stories I’ve continued capturing through AY+ Photo. I’ve been spending more time out in the community, because while photography is what I do, connection is what it’s all about. Lately, my lens has been everywhere. From, + photographing Market in the Park vendors and artists + documenting mural projects and local creative spaces + capturing senior portraits and family milestones + supporting small business pop-ups and local collaborations + seasonal celebrations + highlighting Aurora organizations and neighborhood initiatives + participating in resilience-centered events and local storytelling projects …every season brought new relationships and meaningful experiences. MAJOR HIGHLIGHT... Capturing HS Seniors at that in-between season of who you’ve been and who you’re becoming was especially meaningful this year with a HS graduate of our very own. Congratulations, Class of 2026.
Upcoming Community Events: • May 16, 2026 - Public Safety Field Day 10:00a.m. - 1:00p.m. City of Aurora Public Safety Training Center • June 6, 2026 - WaterWise Day Including garden tours through the 10-acre water-wise garden featuring smart landscape designs. 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Aurora Water-wise Garden • June 13, 2026 - Aurora Fest Featuring a Drone Show & Selena Tribute 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn • July 18, 2026 -Operation Village East Vitality Featuring Aurora Fire Department 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Country Lane Park, Aurora • July 25, 2026 - 7/20 Day of Resilience An annual community gathering honoring victims, survivors, and first responders through wellness, healing, and arts experiences. 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Water-Wise Garden 15151 E. Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012 This summer, I’ll continue spending time throughout Aurora and along the Sand Creek Regional Greenway, including activation of an upcoming brand-new park, Wetland Park. You’ll also find me around local markets, neighborhood pop-ups, back-to-school events, and community gatherings throughout the season. Interested in getting involved in the community too? Join me at: • Operation Village East Vitality - https://www.jotform.com/form/261246935249060#preview • Paper Crane Peace Project - Volunteer ! Paper Crane Peace Makers • Ponderosa School Garden Weekly Volunteer Days No gardening experience needed. 1885 S Lima St, Aurora, CO 80012 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0445ACAE29A6F5CF8-64137262-ponderosa#/
Thank you for continuing to support AY+ Photo and the community-centered stories behind it.
Summer and fall reservations for portraits, events, and local collaborations fill up fast.
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Choosing a general mountain location near you!
Depends... Because each range has its own unique geological features and recreational opportunities! For family group photos I like to start with mixing both candid moments and lightly posed shots while I guide for a variety. I’ll also take individual portraits, plus some playful moments to help the kids get their wiggles out and keep things fun. Mountain or foothills backdrop means there are more than a few locations to choose from. Just outside of Aurora, but close enough that allows for the look with minimum travel time. 1. South Valley Park – South Trailhead (Littleton) ~30 minutes This is one of my top recommendations. It has amazing red rock formations, along with a view of the foothills, and mountain views and it's not usually too crowded. 2. Hildebrand Ranch Park (Littleton) ~30–35 minutes This location has more open space, with mountain views, and a more natural setting, however a bit more relaxed and low-key. 3. Flatirons Vista Trailhead (Boulder area) ~40 minutes This spot provides a view of the Flatirons and a wide open landscape. This is a bit more classic Colorado mountain backdrop. Additional (more distant) options would include Lakewood, Golden, Boulder, Estes. Lookout Mountain (Golden) Bear Creek Lake Park (Lakewood) Belmar Park (Lakewood) Red Rocks Amphitheatre (Morrison) Chautauqua Park (Boulder) RMNP (Estes Park) Are you willing to Hike for the View? Some you can also drive! Most of the time I make it an easy short trip from a trailhead, to a Creek or Lake even a park area to photo location of your choice!
 I'm honored to have AY+ Photo featured in a Redfin article highlighting one of my favorite places in the city! Check it out The Ultimate Aurora, CO Bucket List: 9 Can’t-Miss Activities |
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| With my 'Keys to New Beginnings' photo project in full swing, there are also other upcoming photo opportunities in February/ March. Galentine’s Day & Cozy Candle Making with... @marzimperfectionz |   |
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With that said...
In addition, I’m inspired to launch a photography project called “Keys to New Beginnings” where I’ll be capturing the joyful moment clients walk into their new homes for the first time. These professional photoshoots will celebrate the milestone and create lasting memories. If you're thinking about your own new beginning, I'd love to hear from you and help capture those special moments.
In 2025, I hope you all find more joy just in everyday life and make real progress toward your personal goals. I love to be part of the experience that helps people feel supported, and excited about the future! If you or anyone you know could use some guidance, let’s connect!
Big Things Are Happening—And You Don’t Want to Miss Out!
If you haven’t already, **sign up for email updates** to stay connected in the New Year! I’ll continue sharing updates along with fun photo possibilities and introducing a special photography initiative that will highlight some incredible people in our community.
If you’ve been following along with my photography journey, you know this year has been packed with growth, new projects, and exciting opportunities. I’ve also had the chance to work with a small group of amazing artists, learning the ropes of building my photography business and supporting each other in our creative journeys. It's been an incredible experience, and I’m thankful for the chance to grow alongside such talented individuals.
This is a monumental moment in my journey, as this is the first time I have personally been given a grant of this kind, and I wanted to take a moment to share the wonderful news with you all! Receiving this support allows me the freedom to create and expand my artistic horizons as a photographer as well as secure the necessary gear needed for my future projects. I will continue doing the work I love, capturing memories and preserving stories for others to look back on.
To those who supported me in the early stages and continue to stand by my side—THANK YOU! It has truly made all the difference.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming up in December:
-12/03/24: Holiday Tree Lighting 2024: 5-7pm @ Aurora Municipal Center.
Giggles and family fun!? A photo can help you hold onto those memories for years to come.
- 12/07/2024: Holiday Market: 5-10pm in RiNo District
Hosted by local entrepreneur and creative marzimperfectionz at Improper City in downtown Denver!
- TO 12/09/24: Festival of Wreaths: 15051 East Alameda Parkway Aurora, CO
Still going on until Dec. 6! Don’t miss the chance to bid on a stunning wreath. This annual fundraiser showcases creative wreaths donated by local businesses, organizations, and individuals. All proceeds benefit the Aurora Museum Foundation and support the Aurora History Museum.
click here for all the details!
-12/14/24: Bluey Skate Photo Ops: 10-12 @ Skate City!
- 12/21/24: Annual Vision Board Party: I’m hosting my 7th annual vision board party for those ready to plan, set goals, and manifest their dreams for 2025. It’s a great way to start the year with intention and purpose! Let's prepare for all the amazing things ahead!
ALL MONTH LONG: Whether it's a cozy gathering or a festive celebration, let's capture the warmth and joy of your seasonal celebrations with a custom photoshoot.
Book a session to capture stunning images for your greeting cards!
I'd love to be part of your celebrations and create beautiful memories through photography. Reach out to book your session and make sure this year’s memories last!
AYO Photo
Photography journal in and around Aurora, Colorado.
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