10 Year Photography Anniversary! <3

Hello beautiful people!

10 years. 10 years today since I started my business. Sometimes it feels like just yesterday and others feel like its been a lot longer. I can't even describe everything I've felt in these 10 years or how I feel today. It has been an absolute dream come true to do what I love. I am so beyond blessed for the opportunities and experiences I've had over the last 10 years. I have achieved so much more than I ever thought I would have. I have travelled to different countries and cities talking and teaching others about my style and my love for this industry. I've had interviews, publications and covers in too many magazines to count. I've gotten the chance to write for a highly sought after magazine. I've been asked to be the ambassador for two of my favourite companies. I've met and worked with so many amazing people, some who have become like my family. The love and support I have received from each and every one if you, whether you have just started following me or you are an OG and been around or 10 years...the love has been truly overwhelming. I cannot express my love and gratitude enough.

Now, usually I do a shoot to celebrate my anniversary. This year was a little different for me. I took a long break. Longer than I have ever taken. Sometimes we need to reset ourselves so we can come back stronger than ever. I'm back now and cannot wait to create and see how my style has evolved. Part ONE of my three parter anniversary shoot will take place in 10 days. I am so beyond excited for this shoot, get ready!!

Here's to the next 10 and many more after! Thank you so much for following me on this journey <3

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

• Here is some of my favourite work throughout the last year! <3

A Letter To My Son On His 1st Birthday <3

To my gorgeous son Kyle,

Today is your first birthday. Where has the time gone? From the first moment I saw you growing in my tummy to your sweet snores I hear as I write this, you had my heart, I knew the moment I saw you enter this world, and I still know to this day, I was put on this earth to be your Mummy. Nothing in my life makes me prouder and or happier than you and your brother. Waking up to your sweet smile, sparkling eyes and wild hair starts each day off with love and light.

Before you arrived, I remember being so excited but also so terrified. I kept thinking, how can I love another little one as much as I love Callum? How will I share my time, attention, love, my heart? It daunted me so much. I wanted you so so much but I was so afraid I wouldn't be able to give you all of me like you deserved.

The moment they lay you down on my chest, every worry, every fear, it all disappeared. You taught me that my heart is limitless in size. Our first few months together were a blur. There was so much going on. You were the sweetest little baby. You loved your brother, your puppy, snuggling into my chest. Your smile lit up a room, it still does. You are so michevious, a little rascal. You are my sweetness and light. Every time I see your cheeky little grin all I can say is “You’re so delicious!” and my boy you so are!

My favourite moments during the first few months of your life were when you’d fall asleep on me. Nothing was sweeter than your little cheeks squished on my chest. Your little parted lips and your breath that always smelt sweet. I breathed you in so much and will never forget your smell.

You love so many things! Swimming has to be one of your favourite activities. You love falling into Mummy’s arms in the water now. You LOVE being on your back in the water, unlike your big brother! You love your puppy Chloe so much, she is your favourite person in the world! You love crawling and cruising the furniture, you are constantly on the move and we can’t keep up! You love bananas, yogurt, water, cheesies, yogurt melts, blueberries, toast with peanut butter or plain butter! You LOVE to put everything in your mouth. Muffins are one of your favourite snacks. You also love sharing your food with Chloe. You could stay in the bath forever - we love bath time! We love having our ‘Kyle and Mummy Days’.

You love your grandparents! And most importantly you love Mummy and Daddy and we love you more! Your first words were ‘Mum” and “Dada” after all!

There are some things you don’t like, but not many. You don’t like being left alone, but that’s okay, because we’ll never leave you. You don’t like getting changed, being on your back was so 6 months ago! But when we sing to you or tickle you, we get through it. You still don’t like eggs, which Papa doesn't understand because according to him he makes the BEST scrambled eggs!

You are on the move and almost ready to walk, and we can’t wait for you to see life through that view. We’re excited for every stage and milestone. We’re so blessed to have you as our son Prince (a nickname we have had since before we knew you were Kyle).

Darling boy of mine, thank you for this first year. Thank you for teaching me and being patient with me. Thank you for your unconditional love, and your sloppy kisses.

I’ll love you forever, and beyond.

Your Mummy xoxo

”You were second. Not in my heart, but one did come before you in time.
Yes, with you, it was different.
There was no gender reveal party. No elaborate showers.

The worries of a first-time-mum had faded, and now my thoughts drifted to fears that I wouldn’t be enough for you. I wondered how on earth my heart could ever be big enough, how I could manage to divide my time and energy and love equally enough.
And then, before I knew what happened (because, you see, time passes so much quicker the second time around), you were here.

And in an instant, every fear faded.
And that was it. I was yours.
A mum of two. A family of four.

You’ve taught me how to juggle 1,000 balls without completely melting down.
You’ve taught me that kids truly are resilient, and that my love covers so many gaps.
You’ve taught me to slow down. To savour firsts and lasts, and to focus on what’s really important, like drinking in the smell of your hair after a bath, and memorizing your tiny fingers and your perfect baby lips.

You’ve taught me how absolutely strong I can be, and you’ve given me a confidence I lacked the first time around.
But more than anything, my love, you taught me that a heart is absolutely limitless in size, and that love is the antidote to fear.

So, it’s true. You didn’t make me a mother.
But you sure made me a better one.”

Meet Baby Kyle!

Hello beautiful people!

I have been so quiet on social media and thats mainly due to this beautiful little boy! He came into the world in April and we’ve been in awe of him since.

This summer we have been adjusting to life as a family of 5 (Chloe loves her little brother also!) and doing as many things as we can as a family before Callum starts school tomorrow (my poor mama heart is breaking).

Once I know Callum is settled in school, Kyle and I will be welcoming people back into the studio! I can’t wait to create again and see all your beautiful faces and have you meet my newest little addition!

For now, please enjoy some photos I’ve taken of my little Prince.

Lots of love,

Lisa-Marie xo

A Pandemic, Lockdown and Pregnancy #2!

Hello beautiful people!

Its been over a year since my last blog post and my what a year its been. 2020 was such a chaotic year for everyone, I don’t think any of us expected it to go the way it did. The whole world has been in and out of lockdown/restrictions for coming up on a year now and its hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel some days. Creating has always been an outlet for me and not being able to be behind my camera was definitely challenging. Each time we were able to open up, I was so nervous to start shooting again as it had been so long between lockdowns.

The first lockdown in March 2020 was scary to say the least. I was able to see my Mum and in-laws due to having cohorts which definitely helped but I don’t think I drove my car in over 2 months. I took my son on 2-3 walks a day with our puppy just to get out of the house. I didn't set foot in a store so the first time I did was daunting. Masks, arrows, plastic dividers…it felt like we were in a movie.

I think we’ve all gotten used to it by this point but still with the uncertainty and the continuing lockdowns and dips and rises in cases there is still a sense of unease. I hope we can get back to some sense or normality soon, I think we all need it.

One wonderful thing that happened during 2020 though was that we became pregnant with baby #2! We are so excited to grow our family and give our son Callum a sibling. Its been another challenge being pregnant during a pandemic and not being able to celebrate with family and friends like we want too.

I will be taking a few months off here at the end of March as we prepare for this little ones arrival. We will take some time to get into a routine as a family of 4, 5 including Chloe! I already have big plans for when I come back. photography is such an important part of my life and I will never not be behind my camera creating.

Stay safe and stay healthy.

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

PINKIE PROMISE

Hello beautiful people!

I wanted my first blog post of 2020 to be about my annual pink shoot, more specifically the 2019 pink shoot. A little background on the pink shoot and how it started. My favourite colour has always been pink, for as long as I can remember. My room was pink, I got pink prescription sunglasses when I was young, my bathroom is my old studio was pink; literally everything I owned was pink. When I first started experimenting with fashion photography I used to buy all the clothing, every pay check went to clothes for models. I started having this vision that I wanted to do a pink on pink shoot; pink backdrop and pink clothes. I still remember my first ‘pink’ shoot and from then on every year I HAD to do a pink shoot…it became part of my brand.

In 2018, I had this idea for my pink shoot and Billee was the perfect model for it. I had bought more clothes and used my pink Chanel handbag for a prop. I loved those photos. The night I posted my first one, I was ready to sit and see what the response was but there was a missing dog in our neighbourhood so my Mum and I went out looking for him and I left my phone at home. When I got back I was not expecting the response that I got. The photo became my most liked photo ever and the comments just kept coming, some from photographers I admire and respect so much. On my 1st wedding anniversary I posted another photo from the series, again not expecting much I put it on and left my phone as we went for dinner. The photo had the Chanel bag in it and I of course tagged Chanel. The next morning my phone was STILL blowing up from that photo, I couldn’t believe it. Over 1500 likes and it was still growing. I was so shocked! After the 2018 version I couldn’t wait for the 2019 version.

Billee had asked if she could be the model again for the pink shoot and I of course said yes. She then started travelling all over the world for modelling (super proud of you babe!) and it kept getting closer and closer to the New Year. I believe everything happens for a reason and if I had done the shoot before July, it wouldn’t have been the same. I have grown as a photographer since I came back full time from having my son and I also met Kendra and Delaney who were a huge part in making this shoot possible and what it was; perfection.

On December 22 we finally shot the pink editorial. Its funny; there was so much build up hype from all of us for this shoot. When the day actually came, we were all so deflated for some reason. We ended up just talking for 2 hours before we even started makeup or anything. Once we did the first look and saw the images we all got goosebumps. It was even better than what we had pictured.

I have never been so excited to edit a shoot than when we finished after 8 hours of shooting, I went straight to editing. I couldn’t choose! I ended up editing 17 images. And theres still more I could edit!

I have included every image from the series that I edited. What one is your favourite???

I was not expecting the response to be as overwhelming as it has been for these. I am so incredibly grateful for the love and support we have received on these images. To see my peers and fellow artists share these all over social media means the absolute world, thank you all so much!

Now onto planning 2020’s pink shoot, how can I top this?!

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

Balancing Life, Motherhood and Career

Hello beautiful people!

I feel like I was on such a roll a few months ago with blogging, posting and just keeping up with social media but then life right? This past year I have struggled so much with balancing everything in my life: being a new mother, raising a baby, taking care of myself, working, creating art for myself, having a social life, keeping in touch with people…the list goes on! Just when I think I have a handle on things, life happens and it starts the never ending cycle again.

When I first had my son, I knew I would take some time off. I had taken time off a few weeks prior to his birth due to unforeseen circumstances with my pregnancy. When my son was about 5-6 weeks old, I was itching to shoot. I HAD too. I set up a shoot, planned to have my son there with my Mum just in case he needed me, and then…the model never turned up. Go figure right? I remember feeling defeated, why was I leaving my baby to do a shoot? Because…photography is my love. Being a mother fills my heart and soul but photography is something I NEED in my life. I crave it when I’m away for too long. The first 6 months of Callum’s life I did a few shoots here and there, just trying to get used to how I was going to balance everything. I’m the first to admit, my communication skills have seriously took a beating since becoming a mother. I am horrible at responding and I really don’t mean to be so let me be the first to apologize.

I started back work full-time at the end of June. I had a wedding, the Coco Rocha Model Camp and a bunch of family sessions, portrait sessions etc. I’ll be really honest, being away for so long I worried people would have forgotten about me because I know in this industry if you’re not active, people think you’re not serious. For a while there, I was doing multiple shoots a week so on top of shooting there is the editing (most people don’t realize how much time editing can take!), plus I still had to be a mother and take care of my son and my puppy (she needs love and care too). I’m really lucky that my Mum and Mother-In-Law would watch Callum when I needed to work. I would only be away from him for 3-6 hours at a time. Not bad right? After a month or so constantly doing that, I felt incredible guilt. I felt guilty for not being with him every minute of every day. So, I stopped for a few weeks. Then that familiar feeling of ‘I NEED TO SHOOT’ arose and the cycle started alllllll over again.

The last few weeks now have been a rollercoaster. Due to family health issues, I’ve had to reschedule so many shoots. I swear I have not had to reschedule so many shoots since becoming a mother, again I’m sorry but life happens and I need to put my son and my family first.

I struggled with not having the luxury to just plan a shoot, set it up and then do it…sometimes with a few hours notice. But I wouldn't change it for the world…it just takes me a little longer now and that’s okay. There is no rule book they give you when you become a mother, it takes a lot of time to figure out your routine.

Maybe in another year I’ll finally have it figured out…maybe. But then baby #2 might be here by then…and the cycle will just continue!

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

A Letter To My Son On His 1st Birthday <3

To my gorgeous son Callum,

Today is your first birthday. Where has the time gone? From the first moment I saw you growing in my tummy to your infectious laugh that I hear as I write this, you had my heart, I knew the moment I saw you enter this world, and I still know to this day, I was put on this earth to be your Mummy. Nothing in my life makes me prouder and or happier than you. Waking up to your sweet smile, sparkling eyes and wild hair starts each day off with love and light.

Before you arrived, we had no idea what we were doing. Your Daddy and I were so nervous. We, but especially me, were so ready for you to arrive and change our lives forever - and boy did you ever my Prince. When you first were put on my chest the moment you were born, I felt like I was born too – my purpose in life became clear. My purpose is you! I don’t remember life before you, and what I do remember, it seems empty – because you aren’t in it.

Our first few months together weren't easy, we had to go through a lot. There was a lot of worry, waiting on tests, going to the doctor and hospital. There was a time when you were a month old that Mummy was so scared she was going to be taken from you and leave you with no Mummy. I knew in that moment, I had to be strong for you no matter what the obstacle. Luckily everything started getting better and we finally got to settle into being a family. You were the most patient and sweet newborn. You loved to snuggle, sleep and look around at everything. Everyone always commented on how alert you were! You always had to be a part of the action.

My favourite moments during the first few months of your life were when you’d fall asleep on me. Nothing was sweeter than your little cheeks squished on my chest. Your little parted lips and your breath that always smelt sweet. I breathed you in so much and will never forget your smell.

You love so many things! Swimming has to be one of your favourite activities. You love falling into Mummy’s arms in the water now. You aren’t a big fan of swimming on your back but you are getting so much better. You love playing in your ball pit, reading and flipping through pages of books, music and of course The Wiggles. You love crawling and cruising the furniture, you are constantly on the move and we can’t keep up! You love avocado, yogurt, waffles, cheesies, square sausage, toast with peanut butter or plain butter! You also LOVE Nana’s steak pie (who doesn't?!). Muffins are one of your favourite snacks. You also love sharing your food with Chloe. You and Chloe are the best of friends and it melts our hearts to watch you both together…even though sometime she is a grumpy old lady, she loves you too! You could stay in the bath forever - we love bath time! We love having our ‘Callum Day’ with your Nana, Papa, Grandma and Grandpa!

You love your grandparents, Chloe and all of your friends! And most importantly you love Mummy and Daddy and we love you more! Your first words were ‘Mum” and “Dada” after all!

There are some things you don’t like, but not many. You don’t like being left alone, but that’s okay, because we’ll never leave you. You don’t like getting changed, being on your back was so 6 months ago! But when we sing to you or tickle you, we get through it. You still don’t like eggs, which Papa doesn't understand because according to him he makes the BEST scrambled eggs!

You are on the move and almost ready to walk, and we can’t wait for you to see life through that view. We’re excited for every stage and milestone. We’re so blessed to have you as our son Prince (a nickname we have had since before we knew you were Callum).

Darling boy of mine, thank you for this first year. Thank you for teaching me and being patient with me. Thank you for your unconditional love, and your sloppy kisses.

I’ll love you forever, and beyond.

Your Mummy xoxo

How I Got Into Fashion Photography

Hello Beautiful People!

This is Part Two of ‘How I Got Into Photography’ as fashion photography was not on my radar. I remember when I got into photography, America’s Next Top Model was huge. I loved watching it. Nigel Barker was the only fashion photographer I really knew of because of that show. I always thought the concepts were so cool and remember thinking ‘Oh I wish I could do that, but I’ll never be good enough.’

When I was in university, I really just loved shooting anything and everything. But fashion wasn’t something I saw myself doing. I just thought it was for glamorous people or people in New York. In my 2nd year of university I was really getting into food photography. Anyone who knows me knows that I adore cooking and I loved cooking and taking photos of the process and finished product. One of my teachers really encouraged me to pursue food photography and we even spoke about Bon Appetite Magazine in New York. During one of our classes which was ‘People and Portraits’ I had to take some images of a person and do different lighting such as side lighting, butterfly, Rembrandt and loop lighting. I shot my images with a friend in another class and went into photoshop and tried all these different things (like blurring the skin and using gradients oh boy!) and I was SO proud of the finished results. I printed my imaged, put them in my portfolio and handed them to my teacher for our portfolio review. He looked down at my portfolio and was really silent, just turned it page after page. I was waiting for him to say ‘These are fantastic!’ I was so proud of them and myself. I will never forget the statement he made that followed. He closed my portfolio, looked up at me and said ‘People aren’t your thing’ and walked away to the next student. My heart dropped. I was so incredibly proud of those images and thought I did a great job. I’m a perfectionist and hearing that just crushed me.

After that class, I was determined to prove him wrong. I spent the summer finding local models, doing the hair and makeup myself, using my clothes and pinning them on the girls to appear like they fit and going from location to location. By the end of my third year, my entire portfolio was fashion and beauty (or what I considered fashion and beauty at the time!). I had met some wonderful models and makeup artists during my third year who helped me and brought my crazy ideas to life. I look back at my earlier work and just cringe BUT I love seeing how far I’ve come and its also part of my journey. We all grow and evolve as artists and in a few years from now I’ll look back at my work now and think ‘Girl, what were you thinking?’

During our portfolio review at the end of the year, the teacher looked at my portfolio which was all fashion and I remember saying to him ‘So, remember when you said people weren’t my thing?’ he just looked up, smiled and winked at me then left my table. It was then I realized he said what he said because he knew I was a perfectionist. He knew I would go out to prove him wrong. Honestly, if he hadn’t said that to me, I wouldn’t be sitting here writing this blog 7 years later.

I didn’t set out to have this career but I truly feel like it found me. I found my niche and my passion in life. I love meeting new artists and creating beautiful images with them. I have met some of my closest friends in this industry. Fashion and beauty photography just makes my soul happy. This industry has its low points too but the highs outweigh the lows. I have so much I want to accomplish and can’t wait to see where this journey takes me in another 7 years.

When I was younger, I always felt I was never good at anything. I danced, I swam, I liked to write but I never felt like I found the thing in life I was good at…until I found photography and then I found fashion and beauty photography. I truly feel like I found what I was meant to do in life.

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

What Is Beauty Photography?

Hello beautiful people!

What is beauty photography? I get this question a lot at my seminars. To me, beauty photography is a glamour-type portrait from the chest up where the model is showcasing makeup, skincare, eyewear, jewelry etc, or showing off a makeup artist/hairstylists creativity. I found this quote on Google and I loved it:

“Beauty photography is a more modern version of glamour-style portraiture. The objective of a beauty session is to reveal your inner and outer beauty, your presence, your femininity and your personality while providing you with an experience like no other!”

Beauty photography is also a great genre of photography for us photographers to practice with studio lighting. You can add gels, snoots, gobos, multiple lights, using a macro lens to get really beautiful close-up shots of the eyes, lips, etc.

When I am working with new models or models who haven’t done beauty photography before they always ask me, what do I wear? A bandeau, strapless bra or I have had girls who have shot with me before and were comfortable wear pasties but all you need is a strapless top. And if you don’t feel comfortable with that, that’s okay too! A misconception with beauty photography is that you need to be nude from the waist up, That is NOT true. If you and the photographer discuss beforehand when they send you the concept and moodboard and you also feel comfortable then yes absolutely. You can wear pasties and get beautiful implied nude shots showing off side boob which can be so striking. But again, this should be discussed before you show up to the shoot.

Now, I know concepts can evolve during the shoot. It happens to me all the time. BUT when it comes to nudity or removal of clothing, that should be discussed before the shoot has even begun.

If a photographer, male or female, tells you that you need to be nude from the waist up for beauty photography; that is a lie. You can use a macro lens and crop in. And if you get a shot with some clothing, you can always edit it out. I know us photographers hate the whole ‘Oh you can just photoshop that’ but when it comes to this, yes we can. If you are comfortable being nude or wearing pasties then yes go ahead. If you’re comfortable with your photographer and their vision that’s great! But please remember no photographer should force you to remove clothing if you do not want too. And you CAN say no, you CAN say you’re not comfortable. I had a shoot with a young girl for beauty photography who wasn't comfortable putting her straps down and you know what? That was completely okay! I can crop in and photoshop if I need too.

Since I am on the subject I want to write a few things about photography etiquette. Whether you are male or female, you should always ask the models if you can fix anything on or near their body and/or face before you do it. I always ask.

What can you expect with beauty photography? A lot of fun! I always work with the makeup artist and we typically start off very natural and this allows the model to get into a groove and practice facial expressions and using their hands as I find thats what models say they find hard with beauty photography is where to place their hands. After the natural shots we start having fun with makeup! Sometimes we get crazy, sometimes we keep it clean. There are so many possibilities and thats the fun of it!

Beauty photography is one of my favourite genres, I love experimenting with light and getting to work with so many talented artists.

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

How I Got Into Photography; Where It ALL Began

Hello Beautiful People!

I have been working with so many new people these last few weeks and everyone has been asking me this question so I thought I would do a blog on how I go into photography for all of the new people joining my journey!

I first began to have an interest in photography during my grade 10 year of high school. I had to choose two classes to gain credits for graduating and I had 3 choices: Computers, Art or Photography. I was already taking a computer course and didn’t want two back to back classes of computers. Art? Well I can’t draw. So all that was left was photography. I remember thinking to myself ‘Photography is so easy, all you do is click a button. This will be simple.’ Boy was I wrong! I had no idea how hard photography was but during that first class I was intrigued and wanted to learn more.

That entire semester I couldn’t wait for my beginner photography class. Every day I would count down the hours until it was time for class! I couldn’t stop thinking of photography and what we were going to learn each lesson. Once that semester was over I remember my lovely photography teacher Ms. Price saying she would do an after school class if any of us were interested. I immediately wanted to be a part of that class. What teenager wants to stay after school? NOT MANY! I finished my intermediate course in photography the second semester in grade 10.

Grade 11 came along and I took the advanced course of photography. When it was time in Grade 12 to pick a credit course, I had completed the three photography courses so I could have a spare. But I wanted to keep learning. So, Ms. Price created an ‘Advanced +1’ course for me. I learned more photoshop and I absolutely fell in love with it. I remember during parent teacher interviews that Ms. Price told my parents that I had a natural talent for photography. She encouraged my parents to get me a camera and thus my first ever Canon, the Canon 40D. I named her Chanel (and she is still on my shelf!)

When it came time for everyone in grade 12 to start thinking of college or university, everyone was going to be a doctor or a teacher some even lawyers. I can’t count how many times I got scoffed at or not taken seriously because I wanted to do photography. But I am so glad I did. When people found out I was going to apply to Grant MacEwan College, because it was a college at that time, I was laughed at and mocked.

I took a year off to work so I could pay for University myself and was finally accepted into Grant MacEwan University (because it became a university that year ha!) I enrolled in the Design Studies program. I remember the photography classes were full and I was so crushed that they put me in Motion Image for my second year. But if enough people dropped out I would be pushed up on the list. I think I was 3rd or 4th on the list. Every night of that first year, I prayed and prayed. And luckily by the end of the first year 4 people had chosen to change their major and I was enrolled into photography.

Now fashion photography wasn't on my agenda, I never thought I would choose this path. But that’s another story ;)

Until next time!

Lisa-Marie xo

How I Got The Shot: Fashion Photography

Hello beautiful people!

I have done 3 blogs this month…what is going on?!

I wanted to do a blog on one of my favourite fashion photography shoots to date.

I have always been inspired by Jingna Zhan’s work. It is so soft, feminine and beautiful; something I try and create with my images (unless I am doing something WILD). I have a HUGE list of inspiration and this shoot has been sitting dormant for a few years…until just last week. Freya had contacted me a while ago and we just were never able to set anything up with schedules etc. She was leaving for Hong Kong the next day and I NEEDED to shoot with her. The day before I went shopping as I wanted to style the shoot myself, anyone need a stylist? ;) Kendra became part of our team for hair and makeup and the whole set, team, clothing just worked so beautifully together.

I used one Elinchrom Litemotiv, camera right (Shock!) and my large living room window created a beautiful fill light on the left. I grabbed some flowers from Save On Foods while I was getting groceries that morning. I didn’t want the typical roses so I found some that were different. We shot some of these with natural light which was beautiful but the light from the Litemotiv just made everything pop and flow together. The editing was something I had so much fun with. I wanted it to look more painterly so I experimented and ended up loving the results! There is still more to come from this shoot so make sure to follow me on Instagram at @lisamariephotog to see the next set!

What’s your favourite image you’ve shot recently?

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

How I Got The Shot: Beauty Photography

Hello Beautiful People!

First off, thank you all so much who read my last blog. I also want to thank everyone for their messages of love and support. I hope speaking out helps at least one person.

Anyway, back to our regular schedule program of positivity and all things photography!

I have focused on beauty photography for a few years now and have experimented with different things in hopes of getting something different and unique. Little bit of a back story: every Christmas my family and I go to Bulk Barn and buy Quality Street in bulk. If you’re from the UK, you know what Quality Street is. If not, it is little pieces of chocolate heaven. They are wrapped in different coloured cellophane and they have different flavours for each colour. One day my Mum said to me, “Have you ever thought about using these wrappers as gels?”. They were too small for gels but it got me thinking…what if I used it in a different way? What if I used it to create a coloured vignette around the image? What if I cut out shapes and see what happens?

When I first started photography, and if you have been following me for a while you will already know this, I thought you needed the most expensive gear, clothing, accessories, lighting etc. What I have learned over the years is that you can make the simplest of things work and make it beautiful.

The first time I used this technique was with Madeleine and Jabeen. It was definitely hit and miss, and still is to this day, on getting that perfect shot. I cut different shapes in the middle of each little square and put it in front of my lens. WOW. I loved the way it looked. When I held it further away from the lens, it created a bokeh with the light. I’ve tried this with different lighting but my favourite it barn doors! The contrast of the harsher light really looks beautiful for beauty photography. For this particular shot I used one Elinchrom BRX 500 with barn doors. Does it always work out? No. But that’s photography and that’s what I love about being a photographer. You keep trying and trying and then one day you’ll finally get the shot and see your vision come to life.

If you end up trying this out, tag me as I would love to see what you create!

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

Bullying: It's NOT okay!

Hi Everyone,

I've been trying to write this blog post for 3 years after I read some horrific news about a fellow photographer attempting to take his life because of the bullying he was encountering. I keep coming back to it after speaking with fellow photographers and even models and makeup artists. For some reason I haven’t been able to post it until now. Please take a moment and read this. 

This is a little more of a somber post for me. Normally, I don't like to talk about negativity and I like to keep it positive and upbeat. There have been some things that I have seen come up within our industry the last few months that I feel like I need to write about it. First off, we aren't all going to get along. I know that. Personalities clash and you know what? Its okay. Its okay to not like every single person you meet and come across in this world. Its okay to disagree with someone. In regards to this industry, its okay to not like every single persons work. Whats not okay is when you cyber bully someone so much to the point that they feel worthless. Its not okay to break someone so much they feel the only way to escape is to harm themselves. I can't even write the words because it hurts my heart.

I have been bullied since the age of 4. One thing I never expected was to be bullied as an adult. When I was younger and was struggling with overcoming the words and actions of others, I kept thinking to myself "Just wait, wait until your older. You can do this. Grown ups are mature. Grown ups won't hurt you." Boy was I wrong. Turns out, adults are worse than kids/teenagers. There came a point in my late teens/early twenties that I went spiralling into a deep depression. I couldn't see past this, I couldn't convince myself there would be a time were it would stop. Then one day, I was having a conversation with a friend of mine. He told me about a group of people who, in their words, wanted to "destroy me". Those are some pretty harsh words. What in the world can one person do to anger someone so much that you want to break them down and destroy them? Those words are so powerful. Something in me snapped that day. As a child, I was always quiet and timid. I never stood up for myself. It all changed after that day. I promised myself I wouldn't let them get to me. I wasn't going anywhere. All of my life I just thought this was normal, that being treated like that was okay. That night I realized, its NOT okay. 

I see so much going on all over the world and in this industry in regards to bullying. When I see a young child/teen/adult end their life because they can't take the bullying anymore, it breaks my heart into a million pieces. I can't breathe every time I see an article about it. I could have been one of those kids. The industry I am in happens to be really bad for it. I don't know why. I don't know if its jealousy or intimidation but the hate is strong. I've seen it first hand but also recently witnessed how far someone will go to make it all stop. This industry is big but in our community, we should all be supporting and encouraging one another. Can you imagine what we would accomplish if we all came together? Sadly, I don't think that will ever happen. 

The intensity that some people have in regards to cyber-bullying scares me. You may not agree with everything someone does. Your personality may not jive with theirs. Thats OKAY. I am sick and tired of the bullying that goes on not just in our industry but in all regards. We need to STOP THIS! How many lives need to be lost for us to realize that how we treat people affects not just the person but everyone close to them? I didn't tell my parents about what I went through until a few years ago. I was scared to tell them. Now they know everything and I'm not afraid to open up. But I understand how people feel. They don't want to burden people. They feel ashamed. They feel like its never going to end and telling people will just make it worse. Please, if you are being bullied or going through something, open up to those around you. Tell someone. Never feel like you are a burden. People will want to help you. Don't push people away.

I'm very lucky that I have an amazing support system. My parents especially. I have also met some amazing people in this industry. People who I consider part of my family now and people who are my dear friends. Thats what it should be all about. Creating magic together in the form of our art. 

Why can't we stop this? Are we really so stubborn? Do we really want to keep filling this world with hate? I know I don't. For me, I don't worry about what these people are doing. I don't worry about what they are saying about me now. Its all irrelevant. I stick to doing what I love, being around positive people who make me laugh, and living my life because I am so blessed. 

Thats my rant done. All I hope for is that we can all stop this. Put the egos away and at least be civil. Be supportive. There is so much talent in this community. I want everyone to succeed. I want all of our dreams to come true. Thank you for listening and remember: spread love, not hate. 

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo 

Happy New Year!

Hello beautiful people!

Happy New Year! I am so excited for 2019! Again, I haven’t blogged in far too long. Why? Well I welcomed this beautiful baby boy in November:

He has completely changed my world. I am beyond in love. I took a few months off from shooting, before he was born and then after so I could settle into motherhood. I have done 2 shoots since being back and although it was wonderful being back behind my camera, it made me realize I am not ready to be back full time. So, for the next few months I will be taking on 2-4 shoots a month until I feel ready to come back and then I will be taking on more.

What is in store for 2019? LOTS! I am travelling back home to Scotland in May and would love to set up a shoot…or two ;) I hope to continue teaching seminars and travelling.

I also plan on expanding my portfolio, stepping out of my comfort zone. What haven’t I tried? What can I do thats different and not the norm? Stay tuned!

Also, I plan on just being present and soaking in every moment of being a mother. I will never get these moments back and I want to enjoy all the little things while my gorgeous wee one is still so little. Every snuggle, every kiss, every milestone.

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

Fighting Your Inner Saboteur

Hey Everyone,

Its been almost a year since I blogged and I apologize wholeheartedly. So much has happened in this last year. I've been in Toronto hosting a seminar for the Contact Festival, which was AMAZING! If you want a blog about that, let me know! My husband and I are expecting our first baby this fall. We are so beyond excited and cannot wait to meet our little bundle of joy! I've been working on some stuff behind the scenes that I can't wait to share plus have some really cool shoots coming up, one for a new Edmonton company I can't wait to brag about! 

But this wasn't my intention of blogging today. I wanted to talk about something I've been struggling with the last few days and I think many other artists will sympathize. I've had some wonderful shoots the last few weeks, some concepts I've been dying to shoot. I'm lucky that I get to work with such talented ladies and we always have a blast together. Its when I download the shots and start editing I feel like I'm stuck. I feel stuck in a rut. I'm trying to step out of the box and do new things, be different and creative and push my creative mind. I have been trying to edit the photos and when I'm "finished" I look back and like the raw image better. I just can't seem to put what I have in my mind into the finished product. I know what I want, I know what I want to achieve but I can't seem to get there. Does anyone else struggle with this? 

I feel like as artists we are our own worse critics. I talk about this in my seminars and I'm going to touch on it a little bit right now. There are times I struggle with comparing myself to others in this industry. Artists I admire and look up to so much. But the voices in my head are constantly saying, "You will never be as good as them.", "Your work is garbage.", "Just quit." I have had so many new and aspiring photographers come to my seminars or email me asking me, "How do you deal with comparing yourself to other photographers?" Truth is, I still have them every now and then just like I am experiencing now. It never truly goes away. As artists, we always strive to be the best we can be. And sometimes that means we become negative about our own work. So how do you fight the voices?

Typically, after a shoot and I have downloaded the images, I walk away. I go do something completely different. I stay off instagram, I stay off Facebook. I walk my dog or watch TV. I get away from what I've just created and do something else. The next day, I sit down with a clear mind and start going through the images. I go through my images really fast, and if one catches my eye I stop and go back to it. Thats how I know I've captured something with a 'WOW' factor. Then I just start editing. I could edit for hours sometimes and then other times, I'm done within thirty minutes. If I don't have a shoot to edit and I'm struggling with doubting myself, I pull up a previous shoot that I absolutely adore and start a new edit. This always helps bring me back to, "You are talented. You are creative. You can do this." I'll also set up new shoots. Get some friends, models and makeup artists you trust and love working with. Try new things. If it works, great! If not, oh well. You tried. It keeps the creativity flowing. Shoot a different genre. I took my dog out a few nights ago and just snapped some pictures of her for fun and it honestly started to make me a feel better. 

The inner voices will always try to tear you down. That's what we artists have to deal with on a daily basis, we can be our own worst enemy. But if we step away for a bit, clear our minds, come back and try new things...we grow to be even stronger.  So, since I'm struggling with this at the moment...I'm going to go walk my puppy, sit and feel my baby kick, dance to some music and then sit down and start editing. I may like the outcome, I may not and end up restarting. But I'm going to keep going until I prove those voices wrong. 

Never give up. Because if you do, you are letting your inner saboteur win. And we can't allow that to happen.

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

Where Have I Been?!

Hello beautiful people!

Its been so long since I posted on social media let alone write a blog! I've been away from social media and photography for a few months. All for good reasons though because I got married in June! After my Calgary seminar I took some time off as wedding planning was getting into the final stages and I needed all hands on deck! We did a lot of DIY and I created a lot of stuff specifically for our wedding. Big shout out to my mum, mom-in-law, maid of honour and my bridesmaids for all of their amazing help! 

We had a lot of family and friends fly from all over the world to celebrate with us. It was so overwhelming and we are completely honoured that so many people travelled to be with us on our big day. After we got married, I was planning on taking a week or so off to spend time with family and just enjoy being a newlywed before my husband (still so weird writing that!) went back to work. And then I got sick...extremely sick. I think it was all of the stress, late nights and all of the hard work we put into the wedding just coming to a head. I am now finally on the mend! I did my first shoot a few days ago and it was such a thrill being back behind my camera. I can't even describe how much I missed it. 

I have some awesome shoots coming up in the next few weeks and my articles are still out in Practical Photography Magazine so be sure to check those out!

Thank you to everyone who messaged me over the last few months. I am so excited to be back. I can't wait to keep creating beautiful art with beautiful people!

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo 

A Little Life Update

Hi Everyone,

I have been slacking on these blog posts lately. I wanted to jump on here quick to give a quick update on whats been happening. Life has been pretty hectic lately. I am getting married this summer to the love of my life and wedding planning is crazier than I ever anticipated! I have also been gearing up for my first Edmonton Seminar on April 6th (sponsored by Canon, Elinchrom and Vistek) followed by Calgary on April 13th. And unfortunately I have been dealing with the loss of my gorgeous boy Mac. I wrote about him in my last blog post. He had been getting better in January but for the last little while things just got worse. My family and I had to make the hardest decision ever. 

Anyone who knows me personally knows that Mac was my everything.  I love my dogs, I am a huge animal lover. My family and I got Mac when I was 16, he was such a blessing. He made our family whole. All of his life he suffered from heart problems. During the last little bit he had spondylosis which eventually spread all over his body. From the moment we got him we said we would never EVER let him suffer. He was our world. A little over a month ago we had to say goodbye. In the blink of an eye, my world completely crumbled. Mac saved my life, he taught me how to love and he listened to me when I needed someone. He was my best friend. Forever would not have been enough time with him by my side but I am so blessed to have spent almost 9 years with him. He took a piece of my heart with him, but he left a piece of his with us. Its taken me all this time to write about it. I have never experienced heartbreak and pain like that ever. My little girl Chloe is helping us all with the grieving process, and vice versa. She misses her best friend. 

Anyway, I am gearing up for my first seminar in a few days and thats helped keep us busy! I am super excited, I am working with amazing teams I cannot wait to tell you my story.

I will be a little quiet on social media for the month of May as I get prepared for our wedding. Keep an eye out for sneak peeks of images from my seminar!

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

Run free my precious boy. My light, my love, my life, my Mac <3

ProFusion Expo 2016 & What's Been Happening Lately

Hey Everyone!

I'm finally caught up since coming back from vacation! I've been meaning to write this blog for weeks but when I came back from Scotland, Mac my eldest dog and my everything was having some issues. I don't want to get into too much detail but he has had heart problems all of his life and for the last 2 months things have gotten worse. For a few weeks there, it was the most scariest and hardest thing we have had to deal with. After taking him to the vet and getting him on some medication an monitoring his heart, he is doing so much better! I'm planning shoots again now that he's on the mend and is getting better day by day. We are just taking it one day at a time but he was my priority for the last few weeks.

Anyway! Onto my blog for today. I wanted to write a little bit about my time in Toronto at the ProFusion Expo. Buuut I go in depth in the February Issue of Practical Photography Magazine (out soon!). So be sure to pick up a copy at your local store to read all about it ;)

Thank you so incredibly much to Vistek and Elinchrom LTD! Thank you so much to Gary for giving me this opportunity and believing in me. It was a pleasure meeting everyone from Vistek Toronto and Bram from Switzerland! A huge thank you to everyone who came out to watch me speak. Thank you for coming up after the show to ask me questions, talk to me and even ask for selfies. The amazing team of ladies I had: beauties Olivia and Julia from Anita Morris Models and the wonderful Ann Oster. You ladies are incredible, I could not have done it without you thank you so much! Last but definitely not least I just want to thank my amazing fiancé. He travelled with me and was my assistant for the 2 days we were there. You were such a huge support and help for me. I can't thank you enough for everything you did for me. Love you! And my amazing parents, in-laws and everyone else who supported me from near and far. You have no idea what your support means to me. Thank you! 

For those who inquired about workshops/mentoring sessions please keep an eye out for an announcement. They will be happening!

I have some amazing editorials coming up after my winter sessions so be sure to keep an eye out! The New Year is looking to be amazing!

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

 

New Columnist For Practical Photography Magazine

Hey Everyone!

I'm back from vacation and finally catching up on emails and work! I started writing this blog right before I left for Toronto to speak at Profusion (blog post to come!) but needless to say I forgot to post it. Oops!

In June I was approached by Practical Photography Magazine to be featured as their Pro Showcase for the July Issue, which I still can't believe happened and I cry every time I look at the article. In August they contacted me again and asked if I would be interested in being their new columnist for the next 12 months. They loved my interview and wanted to feature a fashion photographer as their columnist. Of course I said yes! It was a pleasure writing the interview for their July issue and I was incredibly honoured to be asked. 

Each month I'll be writing about something different. My first column came out in October for their November issue and was all about fall. I had to write about my favourite fall shoot with Martina and Sheba. Beautiful fall colours and vibrant red clothing. I still get shivers from that shoot and to this day I am STILL editing images from it! My next two columns are written and ready for publication. The next ones feature our Twisted Fairytale shoot and The Face editorial which has become my most favourite studio shoot. In the columns to follow I will be talking about my time at Profusion, how to come up with concepts, lighting techniques and much more!

Practical Photography Magazine can be purchased in stores all over. I found a few copies at Glasgow Airport when we were flying back from our vacation. So surreal seeing my picture and my work in a magazine in my home country! In Canada the magazine can be purchased at Chapters, Indigo and Vistek! 

Keep an eye out each month for each article! Huge thank you to Practical Photography for this amazing opportunity! So excited to be a part of the team!

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo

DIY Backdrops

Hey Everyone!

This blog is for all of my fellow photographers/artists out there! For years I have been admiring backdrops used by people like Lara Jade, Emily Soto, Felix Knuze etc. I always used seamless, one colour backdrops that I got from Vistek. I still love those backdrops but this year I wanted something different, some different colours and different textures. As a photographer on a budget, I unfortunately couldn't afford the backdrops I long admired once I calculated shipping and the size I needed. 

I watched youtube videos where photographers created their own custom made backdrops. I didn't think I could do it honestly. I thought I would mess up and probably ruin it. One day during summer I decided that I was going to try it. What was the worst that could happen? I went to Home Depot and purchased my blank canvas plus some primer. We had a ton of paint leftover from when we painted our house when we first moved in so I just used that. At the dollar store I grabbed a bunch of rollers, paint brushes, mops etc. Anything I could get my hands on that would help create different textures. 

You need quite a large space to do this so I chose my garage. First I placed a clear protective sheet on the ground so no paint would transfer to the cement (it did oops! Sorry Dad!). Make sure you water down your primer, I used 5 parts water and 1 part primer to seal the canvas. This usually takes a while to dry so I would do this first thing in the morning (it only takes about an hour to completely cover) then I went about my day. Once its completely dry, put your base colour down. I also watered down the paint. Next I chose a lighter shade of the base colour and used my dollar store brushes to sloppily paint it on. I would go up and down and back and forth. Lastly, I would use my lightest shade and just do quick splatters. After it dried, I couldn't believe I had created my first backdrop. It was one-of-a-kind. It made me want to create more and so far I have made three different backdrops. Each with different colours and textures. With winter fast approaching, I think I'll stick with these three for now and next year create some coloured ones. 

Now, you are probably wondering how much this cost. Each backdrop cost me under $100. That may seem expensive but compared to some of the backdrops I had originally wanted my custom made one is substantially cheaper. Plus, there is no other one like it. They are unique. The primer lasted me for three backdrops and I still have paint leftover.  

Here are a few pictures showcasing each of my custom backdrops! I have had so many inquiries about them since I posted these pictures so now you can create your own! If you would like a custom one made by myself, send me a message and let me know what design you would like! 

Until next time,

Lisa-Marie xo