Meet Danusia Zdunek | Professional Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Danusia Zdunek and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danusia, what is the most important factor behind your success?
When asked about the most important factor behind my success in photography, I would say that it is my genuine love for pictures that started at a very young age. I remember being fascinated by the ability to capture a moment in time and freeze it forever. As a child, I would take pictures of everything and anything that caught my eye, and this passion only grew stronger with time. As a 19yo girl I moved to a beautiful city in Poland, Krakow, to study photography at one of the TOP PHOTOGRAPHY SCHOOLS in the World, Cracow School of Art and Fashion Design and graduated with the title of Fine Art Photographer. That was so big and so important to me! I finally made my dream come true! Right after graduating in 2015 I moved to America. Photography unfortunately got pushed a little to the side as I was trying to find myself in the USA . I still promised myself to come back to do what I love! I lived in Florida for a couple of years, but traveled to Colorado and fell in love with this beautiful state! I fell in love so much that my family and I decided to move to Colorado Springs and I knew that this would be the perfect place to capture my clients’ memories and build my own together with my family.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

My favorite type of sessions is family photography. I find great joy in capturing the love, connections, and cherished moments shared within families. Being able to document their unique dynamics and preserve those precious memories is incredibly rewarding for me.
Elopement photography has also become one of my favorites, primarily because it allows me to capture love in the breathtaking surroundings that Colorado has to offer. The stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for intimate celebrations and heartfelt moments between couples. I enjoy embarking on adventures with couples, exploring new locations, and capturing their love in such awe-inspiring settings.
Senior and graduation sessions hold a special place in my heart as well. It’s a pivotal moment in a young person’s life, and I feel privileged to capture their individuality, personality, and accomplishments during this exciting time. These sessions offer a chance to showcase their unique style and aspirations as they transition to the next chapter of their journey.

I have a profound love for maternity and newborn sessions, especially when I have the opportunity to witness the miracle of new life. There is an indescribable joy in capturing the beauty of expectant mothers and the precious moments of newborns. It is an honor to be part of these incredible journeys and to create images that celebrate the love and connection within growing families.

What sets me apart ?
I believe what sets me apart from other photographers is my Love for Photography and my deep commitment to my clients. I approach each session with a genuine passion that shines through in every aspect of my work.
From the initial consultation, I go above and beyond to ensure that my clients feel heard and understood. I take the time to connect with them on a personal level, allowing me to capture their unique story and create a session that truly reflects their vision and desires. My dedication to building a strong relationship from the start sets the stage for a remarkable photography experience.
During the session, I capture the true essence of my clients and their relationships, resulting in photographs that are filled with genuine emotion and connection. My clients feel comfortable and at ease, allowing their personalities to shine through in every frame.
But my commitment doesn’t end with the session. I firmly believe in the power of displaying photographs on the walls as treasured pieces of art. I understand that photographs are meant to be tangible, cherished part of your home that can be enjoyed for years to come. By offering high-quality printed products, I provide my clients with a way to preserve their precious memories in a tangible form. Whether it’s stunning wall art or beautifully crafted albums, I ensure that each piece is of the highest quality, capturing the true beauty and essence of my photographs!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friend or family was visiting the area I would definitely take them to Garden of the Gods! Is my number 1: You simply cannot miss the Garden of the Gods! The towering red rock formations against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains create a jaw-dropping sight. It has so many amazing trails , I can not get enough while exploring it and it’s also my number one place to take my clients portraits! After exploring GOG we would stop at Red Leg Brewing Co. that serves good food and beers with views!

The next day after delicious breakfast in Adam’s Mountain Cafe we would take the journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s most iconic peaks. The breathtaking panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth it!

Spend the day in Manitou Springs the town that we simply felt in love with and moved to Colorado ! After a day of hiking beautiful trails of Red Rock Canyon Open Space ,Bear Creek Park or hiking to the top of Manitou Incline (that’s on my bucket list) I would definitely visit Sunwater Spa to recharge and rejuvenate!

The visit in Colorado can’t finish without drive on Gold Camp Road and it’s breathtaking views! We would hike the trails by Hellen Hunt Falls that are truly one on my favorite !

Let’s not forget about a trip to charming Cripple Creek (my absolutely favorite time to go there is fall )! Cripple Creek District Museum is a must. We would also explore the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, where guided tours take you deep into the mine shafts.

My favorite restaurants?

When it comes to food I highly recommend The Rabbit Hole restaurant that serves in my opinion the best steak and drinks in town!
Bonny and Read is my favorite seafood restaurant in Colorado Springs, their shrimp and scallop ceviche is amazing!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my amazing husband, Zach, my supportive parents, and my inspiring professors. Each of them has played a significant role in shaping my journey and contributing to my success.

First and foremost, I am incredibly grateful for my husband’s unwavering support. His constant belief in me, encouragement, and understanding have been the driving force behind my pursuits. His presence has provided me with the emotional stability and confidence to chase my dreams in photography and beyond. His love and support have been a constant source of motivation and inspiration.

I also want to give credit to my parents for their unwavering support of my education in photography. They recognized my passion for the art form and embraced it wholeheartedly. Their financial and emotional support enabled me to pursue my studies, acquire the necessary equipment, and explore various opportunities in the field. Their belief in my abilities and their constant encouragement have been instrumental in my growth as a photographer.

Furthermore, I am grateful for the incredible knowledge and guidance imparted by my professors. Their expertise, experience, and dedication to their craft have been invaluable in shaping my skills and perspective. They have not only shared their technical knowledge but also instilled in me a deeper appreciation for the beauty and power of visual storytelling. Their mentorship has broadened my horizons and pushed me to constantly challenge myself creatively.

In addition to my husband, parents, and professors, I would also like to acknowledge the power of books and the authors who have influenced my journey in photography. Through their written words, they have shared insights, techniques, and stories that have expanded my understanding of the art form and inspired me to explore new avenues of expression.

Collectively, this support has all contributed significantly to my success and growth as a photographer. They deserve credit and recognition for their efforts, love, mentorship, and encouragement in shaping my path and helping me reach where I am today.

Website: www.danusiazdunekphotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danusia_zdunek_photography/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danusiazdunekphotography/

Image Credits
Miriam Dudley Photography – my profile picture