Deanna McCollum Photography

Corporate Headshots Victoria BC: Nadine

Deanna — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:41:59 +0000

I had the privilege of photographing the lovely Nadine Burton for her new corporate headshots. She felt it was time for an updated image. She had very specific requirements from Edward Jones corporate for how the photo could look. It had to be head and shoulders with a medium grey background. I was excited to work with her, to talk about our recent trips to Hawaii (by coincidence, we were both there at the same time) and to try out my new off camera lighting system. Nadine came into my home studio before work for her session. She is super nice, easy to work with and fun to talk to. And I think my fur baby, Saxon, has a new best friend.

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Empress Hotel Wedding Photographer: Danielle and Derrick

Deanna — Thu, 09 May 2013 15:50:40 +0000

Since becoming a wedding photographer in Victoria, I’ve wanted to shoot a wedding at The Empress Hotel. This year, that wish has finally come true. Twice. The iconic landmark is thoroughly suited for a classic, elegant wedding. Danielle and Derrick‘s celebration was just that - classic and elegant. It suited them perfectly.

They came to Victoria from Washington state to be married in one of Danielle’s favourite places, and to have a destination wedding that their many family and friends could attend. The day started early, with Danielle and her bridesmaids getting ready in her suite. Hair was done by Mischa at Fish Hair Salon and makeup by Melanie Baird. The girls looked amazing!

You are stunning, Danielle. A classic beauty.They opted for a first look at the front entrance to the great hotel. I love when couples choose to see each other before the ceremony. There is something magical about that moment, when they can be open about what they are feeling right then.We then toured around the hotel and gardens for pictures with the bridal party. Each bride’s maid wore a different fascinator in her hair, also fitting for an English inspired venue. Each bride’s maid was a dear friend to Danielle. She has been friends with her Maid of Honour since kindergarten. Danielle is someone who touches your heart immediately. Throughout the day, whenever a little girl walked by and stared at this beautiful bride, Danielle made time to stop and say hello, then offer her a flower from her bouquet. Derrick treats her like the lady she is, with honour, respect and love. They are a remarkable couple.I loved these unique bouquets and boutonnières done by McKenzie Powell Floral and Event Design in Seattle. So pretty.After bridal party and family portraits were finished, it was time for the ceremony in the stunning Palm Court. It was so elegant, with live classical piano playing as Danielle entered on her father’s arm. The officiant is another dear friend. Danielle and Derrick chose their own vows, which included a hand fasting. After the ceremony and receiving line, there was a cocktail hour in the Palm Court. I was so impressed with how quickly the room was transformed. A new pianist came in a played jazz for the guests. So perfect.And we had time for more pictures. Danielle’s veil was so fun to play with.Could they be any cuter?The reception was held in the Crystal Ballroom. I loved the simple elegance of it all. Guests were served High Tea, complete with strawberries and cream. And they were entertained with jazz standards performed by The Time Benders, who welcomed a couple of cute guest stars onto the stage. Just before sunset, went outside for a few more pictures before their get-away transportation arrived- a horse drawn carriage. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Dress: Alicia’s Bridal, Bellingham WA
Tuxes: The Tuxedo Club, Kirkland WA
Florist: McKenzie Powell Floral and Event Design, Seattle WA
Cake: The Empress Hotel
Caterer: The Empress Hotel
Hair: Mischa, Fish Hair Salon
Makeup: Melanie Baird Makeup Artistry
Music: Tom and the Time Benders
Transportation: Victoria Carriage Tours

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Victoria Teen Photographer: Miss N

Deanna — Fri, 03 May 2013 16:14:48 +0000

Photographing teens is quickly becoming one of my favourite age groups to photograph. I love their energy, and they love to be in front of the camera. When I took my oldest daughter out for her portraits a few weeks ago, I also convinced my youngest to come with us for hers. I knew full well that if I didn’t take them both out at the same time, Miss N would not have hers done before this school year ended. Life gets busy and I have to make these opportunities happen. We had fun at Macauly Point in Esquimalt. That place seems perfect for teen portraits; it’s such an interesting blend of nature and grunge.

Miss N didn’t need too much convincing and volunteered to go first at most of our stops in the park. She had the idea of doing a wardrobe change so she could have a few looks to choose from for her session. Her sister thought this was a great idea and followed her lead. And having grown up in front of the camera, Miss N is quite comfortable there. She’s a sweetheart. Just don’t try to make her smile.

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Empress Hotel Engagement Session: Danielle and Derrick

Deanna — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 22:05:30 +0000

Danielle and Derrick met as many couples do – online – but their relationship is anything but ordinary. When they met in person, he was smitten. She was so happy to have met someone taller than she is, and someone so sweet. For what felt like a long time, they endured a long distance relationship, living a few hours apart. Eventually, his transfer came through at work, and he could be with her. They were engaged last May. For her birthday, Derrick brought Danielle to the Empress Hotel for a little get away, which also coincided with the Empress Hotel’s 100th Birthday celebrations. That’s right – Danielle shares a birthday with the Empress. The iconic building holds many special memories for Danielle. They decided then that the Fairmont Empress was where they would be married.

We met in February at the hotel for their engagement session. Despite the sun, it was super windy and cold. They braved the elements for a few shots outside, trying to enjoy the architecture while freezing. The snuggling close to stay warm make for some cute engagement photos.

We soon went back inside where things were more comfortable, but no less snuggly.They are so happy together. When my youngest daughter saw their images while I was editing them, she said, “They look like they belong together.” Yes, yes they do.Watch for their amazing wedding images coming soon. Danielle put together an incredible day.

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Caesha’s Sweet 16: Victoria Teen Photography

Deanna — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 15:37:47 +0000

I can’t believe it! She’s 16! Already! I know, every parent feels this way watching their babies become adults; it seems to happen in a blink. I’m glad she’s not quite there, but I also know it will happen before I’m ready.

Caesha is an amazing kid. Truly. She’s a straight ‘A’ student, former athlete, and a gifted musician. She plays piano, guitar, and cello. She sings and writes her own music (which I often can’t get out of my head). She’s performed a few live shows. Music is her life (her words). You can watch and listen to her YouTube channel here. She’s nice to everyone, even her little sister. She’s crazy about Cameros and can’t wait to get her driver’s licence. But she doesn’t just want to learn to drive; she wants to learn to drive a stick so she can “really” drive. She does love a challenge. Yes, that is her real hair colour. She was a year old the first time someone asked that. Caesha is an incredible blessing.

She recently recorded a single with Hooge Studios, where she performed every part of the song except the drums. (A HUGE thank you to Todd for rocking it on drums for her, and producing a great song.) Todd Hooge was so impressed that he wants to promote it. We recently went out to Macauly Point take some bio pics for the release.

Happy Birthday, Beautiful.

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Business Head Shots: Joanna & Lance

Deanna — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:59:42 +0000

I met with Joanna and Lance in early January. (Yes, they were outside without coats in January. They rocked it.) They work together running an online business called CopyHackers, helping other businesses write text for their websites. Joanna is also an author, with a work of young adult fiction being released in January 2014. They were looking for professional but casual head shots for use on their business page as well as for Joanna’s book. And because they are life partners, as well as business partners, we included a few couple’s portraits at the end of their session for fun.

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Marithza & Dorian: Engaged

Deanna — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 23:09:24 +0000

Marithza and Dorian were high school sweethearts. They broke up briefly, but couldn’t stay apart. Dorian proposed at Moraine Lake in Banff National Park while on a family trip to the Rockies. He even got down on one knee. (Dorian said he watched a few romantic movies so he’d know how to propose properly.) These two are big smiles and love to laugh. Despite the cold, rainy February day for their engagement session at Saxe Point, they made the best of it. It was a good excuse to cuddle close, too, so they could stay warm. Dorian has rebuilt this car, and has had it since he was 16. It seemed only fitting to include both his sweetheart and labour of love in a picture.Congratulations to you both. All the best on your wedding day.

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The Devine Family

Deanna — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 22:45:58 +0000

I met with the Devine family last fall for a mini-session in Beacon Hill Park. I know Robynne through Island Swimming; both our middle girls used to swim together. They were so fun to work with, and it was great to get to meet the rest of the family. The whole family is always smiling and laughing together, and are a joy to be around.
The gorgeous Miss Taylor, a recent Belmont grad.The always fabulous Brooke. Watch for her on the Olympic team one day. The super cute Mitch, who loved having his picture taken. It’s true!I love that they brought their sweet fur baby along!Robynne, you are beautiful. Trevor obviously thinks so too.

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Weddings at Butchart Gardens

Deanna — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 15:26:26 +0000

I was invited to attend an open house at Butchart Gardens last week. They were showing different wedding vendors from Victoria what they have to offer for weddings. Did you know Butchart did weddings? Me neither, until now. And let me tell, you it’s a pretty stunning venue! They have a limited wedding season from January 15 – March 31. They offer a few different options, including ceremony and reception packages. Ceremonies are held indoors in their Spring Prelude Garden.There are 2 sites for ceremonies, either under the pergola or by the pillars. So pretty! Each site can accommodate up to 60 people. While it is designed for guests to stand during the ceremony, the gardens will set up seating for guests who need to be off their feet. Getting married in the winter and want pictures in a garden? Butchart is the place. They also offer photography packages if you are getting married elsewhere but still want to stay warm in a beautiful garden for your portraits. And they offer a preparation room for the bridal party.The reception is held in the restaurant. There’s a cute, private room for dinner and cocktails. They presented us with yummy appies, a signature drink that included rose syrup and elderflower water, and a gift as they would offer for favours at your wedding.
I was impressed with the venue, the options and with how friendly everyone was. I have no doubt a Butchart Gardens wedding would be amazing.

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The Hammond Family – Beacon Hill Park

Deanna — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 22:59:48 +0000

Meet the Hammond family. We met last fall for their family portraits during my mini-session day. It was fun to work with this beautiful family on a thankfully beautiful November day. I love the candid moments I can capture as a photographer. It shows just how close this family is to each other.

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