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Welcome to the Okanagan Wine Photography journal
— a space dedicated to the stories of vineyards, winemakers, and the landscapes that shape this region’s spirit. Since 2017, I’ve been documenting the Okanagan through design and photography, creating a body of work rooted in connection, craft, and legacy.
Here, you’ll find behind-the-scenes looks at winery collaborations, bottle shots, seasonal campaigns, and the artistry of capturing wine in its many forms.
If you’d like to dive deeper into my personal stories, travel and tourism adventures, and family photography work, I invite you to explore my journal at Deanna Dunham Designs. Together, these two spaces reflect both sides of my creative world: the refined storytelling of wine and the heartfelt narratives of everyday life.
All Posts
Understanding Styling, Props & Model Fees in Professional Photography
Styling, props, and trained models are essential elements of professional lifestyle photography. They create cohesive, on-brand visuals, increase the number of usable images, and elevate the overall campaign. With intentional set design, curated props, and skilled talent, your final gallery becomes more efficient, polished, and effective in communicating your brand story.
Deanna Dunham
23 hours ago4 min read
Lifestyle vs. Commercial Bottle Photography: A Clear, Honest Guide to Lighting, Compositing, Copyright & Licensing
I specialize in lifestyle and commercial bottle photography, blending warm, atmospheric storytelling with precision composite work. My process includes multi-exposure lighting, meticulous retouching, label correction, and professional licensing. I deliver polished, brand-ready images with industry-standard copyright protection and optional exclusive licensing.
Deanna Dunham
23 hours ago5 min read
Styling a Winter Story: Behind the Scenes of Fort Berens’ Seasonal Wine Session
This winter Fort Berens session was styled with intentional symbolism: vintage Canadian books to honor Lillooet’s heritage, lanterns for warmth and guidance, Bella Vita Flowers’ greenery for natural winter texture, and stars for quiet seasonal magic. Subtle colour grading echoed the winery’s iconic orange emblem, creating cohesive, elevated, brand-rooted imagery.
Deanna Dunham
20 hours ago3 min read
A Holiday Story in Four Scenes: Behind the Meyer & Mayhem Christmas Campaign
This year’s holiday campaign for Meyer Family Vineyards and Mayhem Wines unfolded into a warm, joy-filled story told across four beautifully styled scenes. From cozy studio moments to playful Santa shots and snowy tree-farm romance, the collection blends lifestyle, product, and festive energy into a complete seasonal toolkit—captured and styled with love and intention.
Deanna Dunham
4 days ago3 min read
From Vineyard to Cellar: The Magic of Harvest at Heaven’s Gate Winery
There’s something electric in the air when harvest arrives at Heaven’s Gate Winery. The vineyard rows, heavy with clusters of deep purple...
Deanna Dunham
Sep 171 min read
Photographing Fort Berens Estate Winery: A Story in Two Chapters
In August, I traveled to Lillooet to photograph Fort Berens Estate Winery, capturing their vineyards, tasting room, and team with a shot list curated by Marketing Manager Kim Lawton. Guided by Seth, I documented the distinct beauty of the Fraser Canyon and the authentic rhythm of winery life. From crisp bottle photography to storytelling imagery, this project reflects my love for the Okanagan wine industry and its people.
Deanna Dunham
Sep 33 min read
Golden Hour at The Cove: A Venue Walk Before the Wedding
In the days before a wedding, I walk the venue slowly, camera in hand, letting light and story guide me. At The Cove, sunset spills across the lake, while next door the century-old orchards of Gellatly Nut Farm whisper history. These quiet walks are where my work begins—mapping where love and light will meet. A tender preview now, soon to be the stage where vows are spoken and forever begins.
Deanna Dunham
Aug 202 min read
When a Visual Language Catches On
In 2020, I designed a sparkling wine label for Heaven’s Gate Winery that captured Summerland’s curves, colours, and sun-soaked warmth. That visual language—waves, soft corals, golden light—has echoed across their branding and even into recent regional campaigns. My 2021 Gamay Nouveau label, with seven hidden bears and a floating hot air balloon, remains a personal love letter to this place. Sometimes, the stories we design ripple further than we imagine.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 283 min read
Exploring the Adra Tunnel: A Chilly, Epic Ride into the Dark
Last week, we ventured into the newly reopened Adra Tunnel on the KVR Trail — and it felt like stepping into another world. With motion-triggered lights, dripping rock walls, and even the sound of a train echoing through the dark, this 111-year-old tunnel was equal parts eerie and awe-inspiring. The kids were brave (especially Niko, our little spooky monster), and I captured the adventure with my Canon 50mm and flash in hand.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 273 min read
A New Chapter: Little Joys by Deanna Dunham Designs
Little Joys by Deanna Dunham Designs is a slow, intentional photography brand rooted in presence, emotion, and memory. Born from a desire to capture life’s quiet in-between moments, Little Joys offers heartfelt family, motherhood, and love-filled sessions with an artful, grounded touch. This gentle rebrand reflects a deeper return to self and a calm space where you can feel seen, safe, and beautifully remembered.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 162 min read
Oasis Lavender: Memories from Garnet Valley Ranch
Last summer, I photographed quiet, tender moments among the lavender fields of Garnet Valley Ranch — a rare, untamed estate in Summerland, BC. The land’s beauty remains. From family legacies to golden sunsets, every frame here carries the story of connection, elevation, and wild-hearted peace. It’s a joy to return to a place that holds so much meaning for my clients — and for me.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 162 min read
Finding the Balance: Fine Art vs. Natural Edits in My Photography Style
I specialize in bright, true-to-color imagery with a soft fine art touch. My default edits reflect a clean, natural style that honors real light and skin texture. For clients seeking a more polished, painterly finish, I offer Fine Art Edit upgrades. In every gallery, you can request custom retouching like blemish removal, face swaps, or artistic enhancements—ensuring your images reflect your vision and comfort.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 124 min read
Frequently Asked Questions
At Deanna Dunham Designs, sessions are carefully planned to reflect your vision. From candid moments to fine art finishes, you'll choose your editing style and preferences during booking. Sessions are phone-free to keep the focus on connection. Afterward, you'll enjoy a curated gallery with upgrade options like retouching or painterly edits—all designed to bring your story to life beautifully.
Deanna Dunham
Jun 52 min read
How I Use AI Tools in My Photography Business
Ever wonder if I use AI in my photography business? (Spoiler: I do — but not in the way you might think.) From faster image culling to marketing help and brand consistency checks, AI tools have become a behind-the-scenes assistant at Deanna Dunham Designs. They help me work smarter, not replace the heart of what I do. I wrote this blog to answer a question I get asked often — especially by techy husbands during sessions!
Deanna Dunham
May 43 min read
Why Choose Deanna Dunham Designs for Your Family Photos?
At Deanna Dunham Designs, I create more than just portraits — I capture heartfelt connection with thoughtful light, natural posing, and timeless editing. Whether it’s midday sun or soft evening glow, every session is tailored to tell your family’s story with warmth, emotion, and ease. If you're looking for a session that feels as good as it looks, you’re in the right place.
Deanna Dunham
May 42 min read
Why Being Licensed & Insured Matters: Peace of Mind for Your Session
At Deanna Dunham Designs | Little Joys Studio, your peace of mind matters. I'm fully licensed and insured — including an Intercommunity Business License that allows me to legally operate across the Okanagan and Similkameen. Whether we're shooting in Kelowna, Penticton, or Oliver, you can trust that your session is in safe, professional hands. Let’s create joyful memories, worry-free.
Deanna Dunham
Apr 62 min read
The Art of Wine Bottle Photography: Capturing the Essence of Your Brand
Transforming your bottles into works of art that enhance your branding and marketing efforts.
Deanna Dunham
Mar 132 min read
Testing the Godox V100 for Little Joys Studio Portraits
Soft light, natural beauty, and expert retouching—Little Joys Studio captures authentic portraits with a refined, intimate touch. ✨📸
Deanna Dunham
Feb 61 min read
📸 What’s in My Camera Bag (and Why It Matters)
Okanagan-based photographer Deanna Dunham creates emotive, editorial-style imagery using natural light, studio setups, and professional gear. With a background in wine marketing and a 2024 MacBook Pro for precision editing, she captures everything from family connections to product detail with clarity, warmth, and intention. Her work blends storytelling with artful execution to deliver timeless, honest photographs.
Deanna Dunham
Jan 63 min read
What’s Included in a Photography Session (And Why It’s Worth It)
A photography session with Deanna Dunham Designs is more than just time in front of a camera. It includes personalized planning, expert direction, professional gear, thoughtful editing, and a gallery that tells your story with warmth and clarity. Every detail—from lighting to final delivery—is handled with care, ensuring a calm, meaningful experience and timeless images you'll treasure.
Deanna Dunham
Nov 15, 20242 min read
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