Over a fabulous lunch date, with a marvelous friend Karen this afternoon we got to talking about originality, photography and the variables of a photo session (among many other things including sausages, hedgehogs and drool).
I believe that each session has a life of it's own. Each couple/family/person, brings their own energy, their own story. I believe that yes, I create the images, but there are also many other variables that make the final images what they are. The outfits, their personalities {my personality}, the moods, the weather, the location... everything. I believe in being prepared, professional, and having everyone as informed and ready as possible for their session. However, I like to let each session breathe life into itself.
I absolutely loved watching my session with Renate and Scott and their beautiful children form in front of me.
I am not a fan of snakes. I find them unpredictable and creepy. However, I also find bunnies and cats kind of creepy, and all of them I can find beautiful if I really take a moment to look at them. The moment when Renate scooped up this snake and showed her little girl one of natures masterpieces I was instantly aware of how amazing life is. It was as though time, just slowed right down... and stood still.
I watched her gently show the snake to her little girl and knew I was in the presence of the magic of island living. The bottom line is, I couldn't have scripted this session. It just happened. So, I suppose if you are preparing for your session... daydream about up your outfits, the colors, what you'd like to see in your images, but when the time comes, maybe just take a deep breath and let it all happen. Your images will thank you.
I photographed Renate and Scott's wedding in 2007 and was thrilled to share more moments with them and look forward to more as the years move on.
Thank you, for choosing me {again}.
I was compelled to look back through Renate and Scotts wedding images from 4 years ago, and I just can't help but share a few. I think it's a great sign, that I still love them.
I love our weather forecasts. This session in breathtaking Parksville, called for 90% chance of rain. I would have likely re-scheduled if they lived on the island. But they don't. Kristina and I were determined to make it happen, and our mutually amazing friend Shannon told me she knew it would be perfect weather. 
A first birthday is special.
I'm not sure exactly what it is that makes it so special. Maybe it's that it is the first, or that it will never happen again. Or that you had no idea what to expect, but all of your expectations were exceeded and then some. Maybe it's a celebration of the most pure year of a life. Whatever it is...
I've always been an admirer of beauty. Of great beauty. Of beautiful things. But, most importantly beautiful hearts.
You may see these photos and think. "Ugh... look at them. They are all perfect. Beautiful. I hate beautiful people. They are probably mean to waitresses." You'd be totally wrong. They are wonderful. Gentle. Lovely. You'd want to be friends with them instantly. I first met Dorian and Corey 3 years ago, while photographing their beautiful Tofino wedding. I've loved getting to know them over the years, and am always honored to be chosen to document and capture more amazing moments in their lives.
Thank you for choosing me, for trusting me with your family images, your moments and your lives. I am so honored. Always.
Wishing you all of the joys this life can offer.
We headed to the studio to capture a bit of little Arianna's sweet face, and baby blues.
Mother's Day is just around the corner. Let's face it... (not to discredit all the amazing work that you incredible Daddy's do) but Moms... we work. Hard. We are on duty.... always. 