How I have made Mini Sessions something I love
Kim Graves Kim Graves

How I have made Mini Sessions something I love

How Kim Graves Photography has made Mini Sessions for families who want photography accessible AND a luxury experience. Discover why this Boulder, Colorado family photographer has learned to love minis and create minis you will love too.

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Why Senior Albums Matter (And Why I’m Launching Them This Year)
Kim Graves Kim Graves

Why Senior Albums Matter (And Why I’m Launching Them This Year)

We live in a digital world. I get it. Digitals are important. And, let’s face it so convenient.

But here’s what I know after raising four kids, two already in college.

You do not pull out a hard drive to remember. You do not look through folders on your computer to reminisce. Sometimes if we are lucky facebook memories pops up with photos and memories from ten years ago! But, have you noticed how wonderful it is to see these photos when they do pop up!? How fantastic it is to relive this moment that social media reminds us exists?

WHY are we leaving reliving the best memories up to an algorithm.

Two of my kiddos are in college and as a mama who is also a photographer I have always, always believed in the importance of the tangible prints and albums.

An album on the coffee table.
A book on the shelf.
A prints all over my walls and, much to my husbands chagrin, all over the fridge.

Senior year is not a “post and forget” season. It is a milestone.

And milestone moments deserve permanence.

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What Makes Senior Photos a Milestone Session
Kim Graves Kim Graves

What Makes Senior Photos a Milestone Session

Not all photo sessions are the same.

Senior photos, represent a true milestone, the bookend to childhood, standing on the precipice of adulthood.

Senior photos aren’t just about a date on the calendar or a requirement for the yearbook. They’re about honoring a moment in life that never repeats, celebrating a moment right before everything changes.

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When Is the Best Time to Book Senior Photos in Colorado?
Kim Graves Kim Graves

When Is the Best Time to Book Senior Photos in Colorado?

One of the most common questions I hear from parents is:

“When should we book senior photos?”

And here’s the honest answer much earlier than most people think, especially in Colorado where seasons, light, and location all play a big role.

Let’s walk through the best timing so you can plan with confidence (and without stress).

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Why Mini Sessions Are Perfect for Busy Families
Kim Graves Kim Graves

Why Mini Sessions Are Perfect for Busy Families

Think you don’t have time for family photos this year? Think again. Mini sessions are designed just for busy families like yours — quick, fun, and full of the moments you’ll treasure forever. Here’s why they might be exactly what your calendar (and photo album) needs…

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Why Chautauqua Park Is a Top Location for Senior Pictures in Colorado.
Kim Graves Kim Graves

Why Chautauqua Park Is a Top Location for Senior Pictures in Colorado.

Planning a senior photo session in Boulder, Colorado? Get to know Chautauqua Park! A very popular senior photography destination. Make the most of your day by exploring the amazing local attractions near Chautauqua Park. From hiking trails and historic venues to Pearl Street’s shops and the iconic Boulder Farmers Market, this guide shares the best things to do, eat, and see just minutes from your session location.

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How to Pick the Right Senior Photographer
Kim Graves Kim Graves

How to Pick the Right Senior Photographer

It’s that time of year when high school juniors (and their parents!) start looking for their senior photographer.
I’ve been there — both as a mom and as a photographer — and I know just how big this moment really is.

Senior photos aren't just a "to-do" item — they’re a celebration of one of life’s biggest milestones.
Senior year is the ultimate coming-of-age story: it’s that sweet, fleeting moment right before your kid steps into adulthood. Choosing who helps you document that moment matters.

I want to help you find the right photographer — someone who feels like the perfect fit and gives you an experience you'll look back on with fondness.

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Kim Graves Kim Graves

What Is Golden Hour, and Why Does It Matter for Your Photo Session?

If you’ve ever booked a session with me — or even thought about it — you’ve probably heard me talk (a lot) about golden hour. It’s not just a trendy term photographers throw around; it’s actually one of the biggest secrets behind those dreamy, glowing, share-worthy images. So what is golden hour, and why should you care?

Let’s break it down.

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People Might Not Like Sequels—But Everyone Loves a Comeback Story
Kim Graves Kim Graves

People Might Not Like Sequels—But Everyone Loves a Comeback Story

Y’all if there is one thing I can write about again and again and again it would be on being the come back kid after a divorce. This post is NOT about photography. It is about how to take back your narrative and own it after a large failure in life. Feel free to read and leave a comment!

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The Biggest Senior Portrait Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them!)
Kim Graves Kim Graves

The Biggest Senior Portrait Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them!)

Senior year is a whirlwind. Between college applications, sports, and all the lasts—last first day, last homecoming, last game—it’s easy for things like senior portraits to get pushed to the bottom of the to-do list. But every year, I hear the same three concerns from parents:

  1. “We waited too long, and now we’re scrambling to book photos before yearbook deadlines!”

  2. “My teen hates being in front of the camera, and I’m worried their photos will be awkward.”

  3. “What should my teen wear?!”

Do any of these sound familiar, don’t worry—you’re not alone! As a photographer who has worked with countless high school seniors in Colorado, I know how to make the process stress-free while capturing stunning, personality-filled images. Let’s dive into these two common struggles and how to avoid them.

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How I became a Photographer
Kim Graves Kim Graves

How I became a Photographer

I thought about writing a long blog post about how I became a photographer—but honestly, the life of a creative isn’t about one defining moment. Creatives create—it’s just who we are. For me, what I choose to create has always been driven by what’s in my heart.

Looking back at my work over the last twenty years, the story tells itself. No long explanation needed—just images that show exactly why I fell in love with photography in the first place.

So, here it is—some of my favorite images from the past two decades. Enjoy. 💛

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10 Things You Do Not Know About Me
Kim Graves Kim Graves

10 Things You Do Not Know About Me

For those of you who are new here, I wanted to introduce myself! And for those of you I already know, here’s a little more about me—10 things you may not know:

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Check list to prepare for your family photography session
Kim Graves Kim Graves

Check list to prepare for your family photography session

I’ve been a mom getting my own family ready for photos for decades now, so trust me—I get it. As a photographer, I keep my sessions stress-free, fun, and relaxed. Once you're on location with me, we always have a great time. But as a mom, I know the real stress happens before you even arrive—the planning, the outfits, the coordination. That’s why I’m sharing the timeline I’ve used for years to keep things as stress-free (and dare I say, even fun?) as possible!

The secret? Start early. I know it might sound a little wild, but planning at least a month ahead makes all the difference. My checklist kicks off four weeks before your session (or even earlier if you’re an overachiever like me and booked two months in advance!). Read my blog and learn my checklist!

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Studio Sessions in Lakewood Colorado for Babies First Year
Kim Graves Kim Graves

Studio Sessions in Lakewood Colorado for Babies First Year

I’m thrilled to announce that I am now offering studio sessions at Belmar Studios in Lakewood for my First Year Package! The studio is the perfect setting to capture your baby’s milestones without worrying about unpredictable Colorado weather. It provides a safe and cozy space for little ones who aren’t yet standing, along with all the comforts parents need—a private changing area, a relaxing spot to sit, and refreshments to keep you comfortable throughout the session - and my personal favorite a little music in the background to set the mood. Hey, Yall - babies like mood music too. Keep reading to learn more about how we can beautifully document your baby’s first year!

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Tips for bringing pets to your photography session
Kim Graves Kim Graves

Tips for bringing pets to your photography session

As an animal lover myself, I completely understand how important our pets are to our families. (Though I have to admit, all of your well-behaved pups have put my little Miss Lucy to shame—she loves to misbehave!) After many sessions with furry friends, I’ve put together a few helpful tips to make sure your session goes smoothly and everyone, including your pets, has a great time.

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Most commonly asked questions for senior sessions
Kim Graves Kim Graves

Most commonly asked questions for senior sessions

Senior portraits are such a special milestone, and my goal is to make the entire experience fun, stress-free, and truly reflective of who you are. Whether you're planning a simple yearbook session, a full luxury experience, or even bringing along your furry best friend, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. The key is to plan ahead, choose outfits that feel authentic to you, and pick a season that fits your vision. No matter where we shoot—whether in Boulder, Colorado Springs, or a dreamy mountain backdrop—your senior session should be an unforgettable experience that captures this exciting time in your life. Ready to start planning? Let’s create something amazing together!

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