My story…

My interest in photography began when I received a tiny 35mm camera as a birthday gift when I was about 10 years old.  I loved capturing memories on film and watching the expressions on people’s faces as I would share the printed images with them later.  As I got older, this interest evolved into a position as a photographer for my high school yearbook (the Beacon) and I would skulk around the halls capturing candid moments.  What fun!!

My ever-practical parents discouraged me from studying photography in college, so I opted for the safer Commerce program – but always had a camera close at hand.  I eventually found a position in the corporate world and built a successful career as a director for a Fortune 500 company.  In 2004 as my boyfriend and I were planning a road-trip to Moab, Utah with about 10 other couples from across the country, I approached Canada 4WD Magazine and proposed an article about our trip.  They accepted, but asked that I provide photos.  I bought a Nikon D70 and shot most of my images on “Program” mode, but I had almost a dozen of those shots featured in the magazine, one of which was a two-page spread.  I was elated!

I eventually left my corporate job to pursue a more meaningful role at the non-profit Ecomuseum Zoo as the Director of Communications and Special Projects.  I upgraded to a Nikon D200 and started shooting the promotional shots for the Ecomuseum, including the photos for press releases, internal signage, newsletters and other marketing materials.  I also joined the Lakeshore Camera Club where I was inspired by many of the members and took part in the mentoring program to help me develop my skills.  In my first year as a member I placed in the top ten in the provincial Society for the Promotion of Photography in Quebec competition with a portrait of a red fox.  Later that year, I also won awards from BetterPhoto.com for some of my nature images.

I believe that photography is an ongoing learning process and I feel that I get better with each shoot that I do.  To continue to expand my creative vision, I seek out learning opportunities and follow workshops regularly.  Most recently, I have taken workshops with world-renowned photographer Freeman Patterson  as well as a 5-day seminar with Jasmine Star, one of the top 10 wedding photographers in the US, which was broadcast live on the internet through CreativeLIVE.

Fast-forward to 2010 and I find myself embarking on a career as a full-time photographer, with my primary focus on weddings and portraits.  I fell into this role almost by accident, when, three years ago, a friend who runs a wedding photography business asked me to second-shoot for him at a wedding.  Although this was a new avenue for me, I relished the opportunity to try something different and found that I truly loved it!  There is nothing more beautiful than sharing the experience with a bride on her wedding day… and capturing the emotions of such a joyous occasion provided fulfillment in a way that sitting in a boardroom reviewing sales numbers never could! When I pick up my camera to photograph a radiant bride, or the look on her parents’ faces as she walks down the aisle, I know I am living the dream that began as my 10-year-old-self and I am so thankful that my passion is now my career.

Whether you hire me for your wedding, your family portraits or to photograph your favorite four-legged friend, you will get a passionate, committed professional who will deliver photos with a uniquely creative perspective.

- Victoria