🌿 Frequently Asked Questions

Family & Newborn Photography in Boulder, CO and the Front Range

What types of photography sessions do you offer?

I specialize in maternity, newborn, family, and branding photography throughout Boulder and the Colorado Front Range — including Longmont, Louisville, and Lafayette. My sessions are relaxed, natural, and focused on genuine connection.

Whether we’re documenting the tenderness of early parenthood, the playful chaos of family life, or the creativity behind your brand, I aim to create timeless, heartfelt images that tell your story with honesty and warmth.

In addition to family and brand photography, I also photograph senior portraits, events, dancers, elopements, engagements, and intimate weddings — always with an emphasis on presence, emotion, and artistry.

Where do your photo sessions take place?


Most sessions happen in your home or outdoors in one of the Front Range’s beautiful natural settings. I love photographing families among Boulder’s foothills, local parks, or right in your cozy living room. I’m happy to help you choose a spot with the best light and atmosphere for your family.

How long does a family or newborn photo session last?


Sessions typically last about 60–90 minutes. This gives plenty of time to relax, follow your child’s lead, and capture those in-between moments that feel most real.

What should we wear for our Boulder family photos?


Neutral tones and natural fabrics photograph beautifully against Colorado’s light and landscapes. I’ll send a simple styling guide after you book, with tips and palettes that help everyone feel comfortable and cohesive.

When will we receive our photos?


You’ll receive your online photo gallery within 2–3 weeks of your session. All images are high-resolution and ready for download, and you can order professional prints or albums directly through the gallery.

Can we include grandparents, pets, or extended family?


Absolutely! Including loved ones — human or furry — adds so much warmth and story to your session. Just let me know who will be joining so we can plan accordingly.

Is your work inclusive?

Absolutely. My family photography and postpartum work are fully inclusive and welcoming to all kinds of families — including LGBTQIA+ families, trans adults and kids, neurodiverse individuals, and people of every body type, ethnicity, and background. Everyone deserves to feel safe, seen, and celebrated in front of the camera.

That said, I hold a zero-tolerance policy for harmful behavior. If I witness physical discipline, verbal abuse, or demeaning treatment toward anyone present, I will end the session immediately. My work is rooted in care and respect — always.

How does pricing work, and how many images will we receive?

To reserve your session, a $100 booking fee is required, which goes toward your total cost. (For example, if your session is $900, you’ll pay $100 to book and $800 after the shoot.)

You’ll receive a minimum of 20 fully edited images, in both color and black & white, delivered through a private online gallery. I carefully edit and curate each image so your final collection feels cohesive and full of heart.

Who is your ideal client?

I love working with families who value connection over perfection — people who are willing to play, snuggle, and let their kids just be themselves. If you’re open to a little chaos and a lot of real emotion, we’ll be a perfect fit.

I’ll still get a few classic shots of everyone looking at the camera, but my goal is that you walk away with more than photographs — a memory of laughter, love, and presence.

If you prefer perfectly posed studio-style portraits, I can gladly refer you to another Boulder photographer whose style better suits that look.

What if my child isn’t on their best behavior?

No worries at all — I totally get it! My sessions are play-based and child-led, designed to flow with your kids’ natural energy. Whether they’re shy, silly, or full of beans, we’ll roll with it. Tell them we’re going on an adventure with a camera friend, not that they have to “sit and smile.”

How long does a photo session last?

Sessions with young kids usually last under an hour — long enough to capture the magic, but not so long that anyone gets cranky.

  • Newborn sessions in your Boulder-area home typically last 1–3 hours, depending on feeding and sleep cycles. These sessions are fully baby-led, with time for snuggles and breaks.

  • Adult or couple sessions sometimes run 1-2 hours, depending on location and light.

Do we need to bring anything to the session?

Nope! I’ll bring a cozy blanket, and that’s usually plenty. Props are completely optional — bring them only if they hold personal meaning. The most important thing to bring is your presence and willingness to connect.

My partner isn’t excited about photos. What should I do?

That’s okay! If your partner isn’t feeling it, you can absolutely come solo with your kids. Being in photos with your children — even without another adult — is something both you and they will treasure forever.

Please don’t bring anyone who isn’t open to being part of the experience. The energy in the session really matters, and your joy and comfort make all the difference.

Can we recreate a Pinterest photo I love?

I love seeing what inspires you! You’re welcome to share a few images you’re drawn to, but I shoot intuitively — responding to light, connection, and the moment rather than following a strict shot list.

Each family, each evening, and each patch of Boulder light is unique — that’s what makes your session truly yours.

I don’t love how I look in photos. Can you retouch me?

I totally understand — most of us are our own worst critics. My approach is gentle and natural: I don’t do heavy retouching or body alteration. Instead, I focus on capturing you beautifully and truthfully.

These images are about love, presence, and belonging, not perfection. Your children won’t remember what your arms looked like — they’ll remember how loved they felt in them.

Why don’t we receive every photo you take?

Not every frame makes the final gallery — and that’s a good thing! I thoughtfully curate your collection to include the most expressive, beautiful, and technically strong images. Every photo you receive is one I’m proud to share.

I never hold back good images — you’ll get all the best ones, edited with care.

🌙 Postpartum & Overnight Doula Care in Boulder, CO

What does an overnight postpartum doula do?


As a Boulder postpartum doula, I offer overnight newborn care and gentle support so you can rest and recover. During the night, I tend to your baby’s needs, assist with feeding, soothing, and light household tasks — helping you wake up more rested and confident.

When is the best time to hire an overnight doula?


Many families in Boulder and the Front Range reach out during pregnancy or soon after birth to secure care during the first few months postpartum. However, it’s never too late to ask for support — I also work with families of older babies who need better sleep or extra help.

Do you help with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding?


Yes! I provide nonjudgmental, evidence-based feeding support for all approaches — breastfeeding, pumping, or formula-feeding — so you can find what works best for your family.

How many nights of overnight postpartum care do families usually book?


Some families schedule a few nights for extra rest, while others book several weeks or months of consistent support. We’ll create a plan that fits your needs, schedule, and budget.

Do you offer daytime postpartum doula visits?


Yes. In addition to overnight care, I offer occasional daytime postpartum doula visits focused on rest, nourishment, and emotional well-being. Together we can prepare herbal supports, process your birth story, or simply make space for rest.

🌸 General Questions

Do you offer gift certificates for photography or postpartum support?


Yes! You can purchase a gift certificate for a family photo session or postpartum doula care — a meaningful gift for expecting or new parents in the Boulder area.

How do I book a photography session or doula care?


You can reach out through my contact form or email me at sara@aidazea.com. I respond within 1–2 days to answer questions and help schedule your session or support package.

What’s your cancellation or rescheduling policy?


Life with little ones can be unpredictable! I ask for 48 hours’ notice to reschedule a session or visit. We’ll always find a new time that works for your family.

You make pottery too?! Do you accept commissions or sell online?

Yes! Alongside my photography and postpartum work, I create handmade pottery in Boulder, Colorado, inspired by mindfulness, nature, and everyday rituals. Each piece is one-of-a-kind and crafted with intention — simple forms meant to bring calm and connection into daily life.

I typically sell my work at a few local Colorado art shows and markets each year rather than online, as I prefer keeping the process personal (and I’m not much of a fan of shipping pottery!). I don’t take commissions, but if you share what you’re drawn to, there’s always a chance something similar will emerge in a future batch.

If you’re looking for a custom or made-to-order piece, I’m happy to recommend other talented Front Range ceramic artists who specialize in commissioned work.

🌄 Local Service Areas

I’m based in Boulder, Colorado and offer family photography, newborn photography, and postpartum doula care throughout the Front Range, including:

  • Boulder

  • Longmont

  • Louisville

  • Lafayette

  • Erie

  • Nederland

  • Superior

    What does Aida Zea mean?

    When I began thinking about what to call my work, the word “Aida” kept coming to mind. Across languages, it carries beautiful meanings: in Arabic, “a devoted or loyal helper or friend”; in Italian, “happy”; in Japanese, “to run across a field”; and in Azari, “inside of the moon.” For me personally, it also connects to my grandparents, as it was the name of a place where they lived. and I loved saying the word Aida as a child.

    And then there’s Zea — the Latin word for corn. I grew up surrounded by corn and wheat fields, and Zea reminds me of nourishment, grounding, and the deep wisdom that nature offers. This sense of connection — to spirit, to the earth, and to community — is central to everything I do. I am fascinated by so many things and interested in learning everything from A to Z.

    Through photography, I aim to capture the beauty and stories of your life. Through postpartum support, I offer care, guidance, and presence during one of life’s most transformative times. And through ceramics, I create objects meant to slow you down, honor everyday rituals, and connect you to the tactile, nourishing rhythms of life.

    In all of these practices, my goal remains the same: to be a loyal helper — to the planet, to you, and to my community — sharing creativity, care, and presence in meaningful ways

Still have questions?

I’d love to hear from you!
📩 Email me at sara@aidazea.com or use my contact form to reach out.