One may be surprised to learn that Dana Rundlof was dreaming about being a photographer and one day developing her green thumb while practicing law in New York for ten years. In Austin, a city that welcomes dreamers and mom-preneurs, she’s been able to realize both of these dreams! Dana’s 2-year struggle with infertility and subsequent early parenthood journey fueled her passion for maternity, newborn and family photography and through it her timeless style that parents love and trust was born with Snow Pixie Photography. One thing I love about Dana’s business is that she not only travels to meet families on location, but she also has a beautiful studio in North Austin for parents who prefer that setting. I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with Dana over the last year as one of South Austin Mom’s featured photographers, and now I’m so glad to introduce her to you!
I’m excited to hear a bit of your background, Dana. Tell us about you and your family!
I was born in Sweden, but have lived in the U.S. for most of my life. My family and I moved to Austin five years ago, from Brooklyn, New York. In Austin, we found a terrific community, and could not be happier here. I have three amazing kids. My boy/girl twins turn 7 this February, and my “baby” is now four years old.
Those are really fun ages & stages. Almost all in school! What is your favorite thing about living in Austin?
I love the people first and foremost. In Austin, people are genuinely nice. I’m part of a community of mothers and parents that support one another. I love the Greenbelt, photographing there and hiking with my family on Saturdays. I love the music. I also appreciate the progressive, independent vibe of the City, and, of course, its tacos. Taco Deli is one of my happy places.
What do you love to do with your family around town?
We love exploring the natural beauty of Austin and its surrounding areas. Last year, we visited Pedernales Falls and Enchanted Rock, and were blown away by both locations. With young children, visiting the playgrounds around town is a staple activity. Play spaces attached to coffee shops, like the Brentwood Social House, are the best! We also love the Botanical Gardens and Wildflower Center. We are truly so lucky to have all the resources we have here in Austin.
Tell us how Snow Pixie Photography came to be and what you love about it now…
I have always loved photography. The seeds of turning that passion into a business were born with my children. I went through two years of fertility struggles before becoming a mother. That experience profoundly changed me. It brought greater compassion and expansiveness into my life, and gave me a deep appreciation for the miracle that children are, the beauty of motherhood and fatherhood, and how important it is to celebrate love and family, always. It also made me want to hold on to every second with my own children, and capture all the memories I could. Monthly photoshoots became a staple in my home.
When my youngest was one years old, I took the leap of starting my own photography business specializing in newborn and family photography. It was important to me that if I was going to be away from my children, that I do something personally meaningful and fulfilling. For me, that is photographing babies and families, and sharing the gift of beautiful, captured emotions and memories.
I love everything about being a newborn and family photographer, but my favorite parts are my clients, having the honor of being able to interact with tiny babies, and the creativity and artistry involved in creating truly beautiful and timeless images. My goal is to create images my clients will treasure forever.
Are you involved in anything else within the community?
I’m very involved in my children’s school, and a member of Impact Austin, which gives annual grants to non-profits in Austin. I believe strongly in giving back to the community. Every year, I donate services to various non-profits and educational institutions. I also celebrate special needs families with giveaways for Autism Awareness month in April, a cause close to my heart.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
Community is so important. Many of my clients are referred to me by current clients and friends. I have also found support and encouragement through partnering with various businesses and groups, and am so grateful for those relationships. I believe in building up those around me, and am lucky to have those around me who feel the same. I feel very grateful to belong to such a vibrant and supportive community, and for the opportunity to do what I love every day.
Dana’s family photo and headshot were taken by another wonderful local photographer Whitney Cooley.