Colorado Springs Family Photographer Highlights
- This feature showcases family photography and local community values in Colorado Springs, captured by Lauren Bounds Photography, a Colorado Springs family photographer.
- The article includes an interview with Shining Star Doodles, a locally owned business that raises Goldendoodles for families, therapy, & service work.
- A perfect resource for families who value supporting local businesses while creating lasting memories through family photography.
Why Family Photography and Local Businesses Go Hand-in-Hand
As a Colorado Springs family photographer, I know my clients value more than just beautiful images. They care about connection, supporting local businesses, and creating a meaningful home environment. That’s why I love spotlighting small businesses in our community — because the same families who treasure heirloom photography also love investing in the people and places that make Colorado Springs special.
One business that perfectly reflects these values is Shining Star Doodles, a locally owned Goldendoodle breeder founded by Shari Hall. Families who work with Shari not only welcome a loving, well-prepared dog into their homes, but also experience firsthand the power of connection between people and pets.
Meet Shari Hall of Shining Star Doodles
I had the joy of talking with Shari to learn more about her story, her business, and her advice for families in Colorado Springs.
Q: Can you share a little about Shining Star Doodles and why you started your business?
A: My first child was born 3 months premature. He had multiple surgeries as an infant and was in constant therapy. Through our experiences with him we first got involved in the animal assisted therapy world and saw the therapeutic power of the human-animal connection. A few years later another one of my children was struggling with an anxiety and communication disorder called selective mutism. We got our first Goldendoodle during this time and experienced a miraculous change with our daughter through her connection with our dog. It was at that time that I started looking at how to share well-bred dogs with other families.
Q: What do families love most about welcoming a Goldendoodle from Shining Star Doodles into their home?
A: I prepare both the puppies and the families for success. Raising a well-trained dog requires consistency, and I work to make sure families feel supported and confident from the start.
Q: What advice would you give to families considering adding a Goldendoodle to their family?
A: Do your research and be prepared for the responsibility. Goldendoodles require regular grooming, which is an added expense or a skill to learn. The joy and love they bring is immeasurable, but it’s important to understand the commitment before bringing a puppy home. If you would like to explore more about Goldendoodles and if one could be a good fit for your family, you can also reach out and schedule a phone call with me. I love educating people on the breed and dog ownership.
Q: Do you have advice for families preparing their home for a new puppy?
A: Consistency is key. Make sure the entire family is on the same page with training methods and schedules. That unity makes all the difference.
Q: What tips do you have for including dogs in family photo sessions?
A: Practice simple commands like “sit” and “stay” ahead of time, bring treats, and choose a photographer (like Lauren!) who is comfortable working with dogs and reading their body language.
Q: Why do you think it’s special for families to include their dogs in their photos?
A: Dogs are an integral part of the family, having them in your photos helps to cherish the time and memories you have with them. They also add a cuteness factor for sure.
Q: What are some ways owners can keep their doodle calm, happy, and looking their best during a shoot?
A: This is mainly doing training beforehand as well as choosing the right location that your dog can be successful in. If your pup is excited by other dogs and people, then choose a location that is a bit more remote where they can have greater success being calm and focused on you.
You can learn more about Shining Star Doodles by visiting their website, Facebook page, or Instagram.
Why This Matters to a Colorado Springs Family Photographer
Highlighting a local business like Shining Star Doodles is more than just community support. It’s about showing families that their values can shine through every decision, whether it’s welcoming a new dog into their home or booking a photo session.
As a Colorado Springs family photographer, I love when families bring their pets to sessions. Dogs bring spontaneity, joy, and authenticity — the same qualities I aim to capture in every session. Just as Shari prepares families for their puppies, I guide families through every step of a photo session so the experience is relaxed, natural, and filled with connection.
Ready to Celebrate Family and Community?
Supporting locally owned businesses like Shining Star Doodles is one way we build community. Booking a session with a Colorado Springs family photographer is another. Both choices help create lasting memories! Whether in the form of a beloved family dog or heirloom photographs displayed in your home.
If you’re ready to capture your family’s story (with or without your doodle!), I’d love to help. Reach out today to book your session, and let’s create images as joyful and connected as your family.
Colorado Springs Family Photographer | Lauren Bounds Photography
I’m Lauren. I’m a photographer in Colorado Springs, CO where I live with my husband, two amazing kids, and goldendoodle. I love photographing families in a fun and stress free way that allows me to capture your unique personality and show genuine connections.
My Adventure Family Sessions are all about connecting as a family in nature. Exploring trails, rocks, flowers and the beauty of your family. Let your kids lead the way and see the World through their eyes. Remembering these moments long after the hike is over.
Wander, laugh, and discover—family adventures that celebrate connection and fun.
Starting from inquiry to hanging your framed photos on the wall, I’m here to help and guide you in any way. To stay up to date with current offerings, join my email list here and view my instagram here.
Let’s work together to create something beautiful that will remind you of the small connections you make each day.
