McKinnon PhotoBlog

September 15, 2011 // portraits

It was a beautiful evening, with touches of fall but the warmth of summer as we headed out to create some images. Jesse and Garrett, your mom loves you in such a huge and kind way. You might not have noticed the way she looked at you, the way she smiled sweetly and sincerely when you weren't noticing and she looked at you, the way she talks to you and listens. Colette, these boys adore you. Jesse talked about you with such respect, and Garrett felt best when connecting with you. Thank you for bushwhacking with me, and allowing me to capture your stunning family!

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Carrots and Photos

September 13, 2011 // portraits

I am driving up a beautiful rural road, enjoying deep breaths, and stunning landscape. I turn into a gorgeous welcoming home where under backlit light I see dad pulling the children in a little wagon and right away I know it is going to be a fabulous time.

Alana, Dustin and their children Quinn and Rio welcomed me with big smiles and excitement (thank you!)

They are a family that knows what matters, they have created a life they chose - one full of passion, hobbies and meaningful family moments. It was beautiful and inspiring to be around - we played silly games, shared some apple juice and created some photos - they sent me packing with fresh from the garden carrots and a feeling that all is well.

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Anonymous:

Thank you Karen. You've captured a lot here! I luv luv luvvv the one of the boys together!!! It was great having you out to our home. My boys (all 3 of them!) and I loved your energy and approach. Look forward to seeing more photos, look forward to seeing ya!
Alana

(09.13.11 @ 01:30 PM)

Karen McKinnon:

thanks you so much Alana - we can't wait to show you the rest

(09.15.11 @ 06:57 AM)

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Gina and Clan

September 10, 2011 // news / portraits

I first met Gina and Brock when I photographed their wedding and now Gina and her family now make their home in Calgary where Gina coincidentally works with a friend of mine from photo school, Dana Bowes Photography - such a small world.

Each summer when she is back visiting I am fortunate to have her come and assist me on a wedding. I always look forward to this little catch up of talking shop, family, marriage and dreams. This year we managed to squeeze a little family session in with her, Brock, Ella and Oliver. Ella was her usual outgoing free spirited charming self, and Oliver was a pensive stunner, and well Gina and Brock - they are a seriously handsome, stylish couple!

http://www.bowesphotography.ca/blog/

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Gina :

Karen I have NO idea how I missed this email that these were on here! I LOVE THEM!!!! Oh my gosh I love them!!

(10.25.11 @ 11:35 AM)

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I was even a little bored

September 9, 2011 // my life

So for august I did something a little radical, for me that is. I just stopped. Other than photographing weddings and processing them, I did no work - really - none. Selah and I packed up and moved to Hornby Island for the month. My step-children were away with other family and John was working, so most of the time it was just the two of us. The month was about slowing down, disconnecting from computers, and spending extensive time with my mom and step-dad.

It was incredible - here is a little de-brief of our time:

- I was not a stressed at all - rarely did I say or think - "I need to......."

- We woke up late and just passed time, we hit the beach, the couch, rode our bikes, ate blackberries, played games and read.

- I am thankful my 8 eight year old likes to read - a lot. Many hours were sitting on the beach reading with her. Not once, did the eight year old tell me she was bored. She also thinks that cuddling is an activity. I am so incredibly thankful that the two of us sync so well.

- My mom and step-dad are really as fabulous as I always think they are.

- Christine, my office-manager/work-wife, also is really as fabulous as I always think she is.

- Only once did I feel restless. Which is quite something considering my life is usually go,go,go. The feeling lasted about 15 minutes. I think I actually was experiencing a bit of minimal boredom - which was such a luxury and an oddity

- Spending extended time with myself, my true self, not what anyone wants or needs me to be, was like a huge deep breath.

- I was expecting for it to be life changing, not so, just life affirming. I am slightly addicted to personal growth and to learning. So it seems I was even able to take a break from that. A true holiday.

- I smile, a little indulgent smile, thinking about it. It was one of my best choices in years. It will be annual event.

xoxoxo Hornby Island -

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Sandy Lipovsky:

I loved this blog---one day I hope to have a similar experience. So far, my vocabulary is still "I need to slow down". I am even more impressed with your Hornby retreat because most of my self-employed friends (including me) mostly say 'yes' to more work if it is out there than 'yes' to relaxation time. Thanks for the inspiration! And THANK YOU for leaving your idyllic haven to photograph Lindsey and Tony's wedding - you ARE being spoken of often and the words include 'incredible', 'how did she get that shot-I never saw her', 'where did you learn about this photographer', etc. Besides, every vacation needs at least one rocking party in it, right? So glad you could be part of ours.

(09.09.11 @ 10:15 AM)

Karen McKinnon:

So true Sandy, it is really hard to say no when you are self-employed, as you are always thankful for the work, however making sure you have enough energy for each job is so important. It really felt like a bit of a risk to disappear for a month, but as they say risk often leads to reward. Thanks so much for the feedback on the wedding - made my day!

(09.10.11 @ 12:06 PM)

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Britt & Darryl - A Merville Wedding

September 7, 2011 // wedding

Years ago, Britt and Darryl met one fateful late evening - truly, their connection was fate. They crossed paths, he was in need of a friend and she was there. The impression was set. However, it wasn't until years later, and another chance meeting, that they realized they were meant for something special.

They are a yin and yang couple, he is the calm, she is the vigour. They share the same vision for a life of family, connection and fun. They make a stunning couple together, both of them gorgeous, especially when they look at each other or melt into one another's arms.

Last Saturday they sealed that commitment under beautiful sunny skies at the equally vibrant Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens. In true character, Britt was excited, talkative, bubbly and maybe a bit anxious. Darryl broke down moments before Britt walked down the aisle, realizing the long awaited day, and dream was real.

Surrounded by the closest of friends and a family who knows them so well, they said an emotional "I do". The reception was hallmarked by speeches filled by sentiment and humor. Britt and Darryl stayed close to each other, laughing and being in the same moment.

This was a long anticipated wedding, and there are many memories from it that will stay with me. Darryl's face as Britt walked down the aisle, their honest and emotional words to each other during the ceremony, and the strong connection they had with each of the wedding attendants, who truly shared in the celebration of the day.

Thank you Britt and Darryl, you are an inspiring couple and capturing you on your day was an honour and a complete joy!! This was my last 2011 summer wedding and what a fulfilling way it was for me to end the season.

Thank you to my assistant Andrea Keenan

Ceremony: Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

Reception: Merville Hall

Catering: Plates Catering & Eatery

Makeup: Ali Crowhurst 250-203-3574

Cake: Rachels Cakes

Dress: Fashion on 4th

Hair: Eden Street Spa

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Brittany:

Karen!!!! I cannot believe how stunning all the images are I am so happy you were able to share our special day with us YAY I had to look at them I have my screen tiny at work hahah Thank you so much again!!

(09.07.11 @ 10:26 AM)

Shelley Grondahl:

These are stunning! Brittany and Darryl were and are definitely a beautiful couple!!

(09.07.11 @ 12:29 PM)

Danielle Lister:

Such amazing photos Karen!!!! Brittany, I am so happy for you! I feel like I was there :)

(09.07.11 @ 03:41 PM)

Donna Adcock:

Wow,,Amazing, Beautful pictures, made me cry,,what a Beautiful, special day it was.

(09.07.11 @ 10:40 PM)

Charlene Keats:

I cried as soon as I seen the picture of Darryl crying and never stopped till it was over!!!
They are gorgeous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Shannon loves them too!!!!!!!!

(09.08.11 @ 04:01 PM)

Jessica Grimard:

Beautiful slideshow Karen!! You did such an amazing job. Every photo is absolutely stunning. You captured every emotion of the special day! And like everyone else, I shed a few tears as well. Great job!

(09.08.11 @ 08:54 PM)

Patricia Stephenson:

Beautiful couple and amazing pictures!

(09.09.11 @ 06:55 AM)

VALERIE MCGARVEY:

LOVED THE SLIDE SHOW IT WAS BEAUTIFILL MADE ME CRY A PERFECT COUPLE LOVE THEM BOTH

(09.09.11 @ 03:54 PM)

Andrea Keenan:

Awesome shots! It was a great day/night! You guys look great together!

(09.10.11 @ 03:44 PM)

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