About Me

Hello and welcome to my photo blog. I am Karen McKinnon, a Vancouver Island based photographer - a gal fortunate to be living my passion. The blog is where you can see recent sessions, keep in touch with what is new around here (and I promise you it is never dull) and get a better sense of who I am, what I love and how I show it. 

Thanks for visiting. Please leave a comment and let me know you were here - it really does make me smile! 

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March 7, 2011 // my life / news / portraits
I didn't think I was going to write anything on my blog. However, this morning it is all over facebook, and I realized, that  blogging, was her medium. She would want and expect me to.

Last night, the dear to so many, Jenn, passed away. For all of you that sent her love, helped money be raised and hold her and her family in your prayers, know that you made a huge difference. Your love was and is felt.

To Jenn,
know that I now have an extra special compartment of my heart, full of funny stories and extra love, it will always be with me, and will help me stay true, brave and vulnerable.

Thank you for all that you gave us. We will see you often. Rest well. Love K.


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It has been a long time since I had to share challenging news here on this little blog community. It is monday morning, take this news and walk with your eyes open wider this week and your heart a little softer. Smile because her family and this community was given a bright star like Jenn. To be honest,  I will  waver between sadness, anger and peace, but I will also carry a smile and warmth with me.

xoxoxoxo

 

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Jessica @ Dairy free betty:

Beautiful Karen! Truly a loss for this world. She left such beautiful footprints in all our hearts.

(03.07.11 @ 08:05 AM)
Sandra McLaughlin:

Well said Karen.

(03.07.11 @ 08:09 AM)
Merrilee:

Beautiful words Karen. I never had the pleasure of meeting Jenn, but I will always hold a piece of her in my heart for being such an inspiration to so many of us.

(03.07.11 @ 08:14 AM)
Lori Lucas:

Oh, I am so terribly sorry and saddened for her loved ones. I didn't even know her but followed her battle, and really felt like I did know her through her blog. The world sure lost an amazing women. Brave, articulate and lovely in every single way. Prayers to her family and her sweet boy Coady.
She touched the lives of more people then most do in a lifetime.

(03.07.11 @ 08:19 AM)
vanessa falle:

It amazes me the way you and the rest of the community rallied around Jenn and her family. You all demonstrated such love for them and each other by your actions. That kind of love is something to be admired and I know the family will cherish that forever as they spend each day holding onto the memory of her. I know your heart is hurting and if i were closer, I'd hug you so that you knew that while I can't take away your sadness over losing someone special that I can remind you that you are also loved and cherished.

(03.07.11 @ 09:12 AM)
Corrie:

Yesterday afternoon my sister shared Jenn's blog with her teenage daughter. As a young woman my niece was inspired and moved to a happier place because of the words that Jenn has shared in her blogging! Jenn's life has touched so many .... even those who did not get the privilege of meeting her. Holding you and others I know who knew Jenn in my heart and prayers Karen!

(03.07.11 @ 09:34 AM)
Monique Masson:

Thank you Karen. Our lives are all so blessed to have known and loved Jenn.

(03.07.11 @ 11:18 AM)
Melissa O'Brien:

Thank you Karen for your beautiful blog. I followed Jenn's story and am so saddened to hear that she will no longer be in person to raise her little boy or hug her husband. I didn't know Jenn but have felt strengthened and inspired by her spirit throughout her journey. As one person already wrote, she sure left beautiful footprints behind.

(03.07.11 @ 01:32 PM)
Rebecca:

Karen, I agree that Jenn would be touched by the blog contribution...I think it is like talking her love language. That is a gift. Priceless. Thanks for stepping out of your comfort zone a little. xo

(03.07.11 @ 02:37 PM)
Erin:

I first learned of Jenn's journey through a post by you. I am grateful to you for sharing. I know at times, it can seem like blogging is just writing words to the wind. Know that it isn't. Know that words shared have the power to change the course of lives. Can change, can do good. Can be inspiring. Know that you are inspiring. I've followed Jenn's blog and her last entry will serve to so many people as a constant reminder to be AWESOME. To be, more. That should be shared, and you are a part of that. My heart, truly goes out to all of you grieving. Thank you for your beautiful heart. xoox

(03.07.11 @ 07:32 PM)
Sarah Leakey:

I am so saddened to read this news, I never had the priviledge of meeting jenn but I did get to read her blog every now and again, which gave me goose bumps every time I read it. Wow, what a women, mother and strong individual, not to mention amazing,talented and the list goes on ;-) Jenn you will always be rememered and I send my thoughts, prayers and love out to all your family and friends. I will miss reading your blogs and seeing what new adventure you are on but I do know you have made such a different to so many lives you touched and those you didnt' even get to meet.
xo
beautiful post Karen xo

(03.08.11 @ 09:34 PM)
Karen McKinnon:

xoxoxoxo

(03.09.11 @ 08:32 AM)
David Frisch:

Coady and I visited your site today as CBC (Charlottetown) was filming us and I was swept away as Coady reiterated the story I told him after he simply pointed out that "mommy is broken". "Yes she is", I said as we both looked over her body. A few days later he asked, "where's mommy?" My heart skipped a beat. The weak part of me hoped I wouldn't have to explain. I barely understood myself. "She's up in the stars," I explained, "but mommy loves you very much." "Can I go to the stars with her?" he asked. "No, Coady. You have to stay here with me, but someday you'll see her." It was the best I could do, and, as he repeated these things to me today, I painfully pleasant tears ran down my face.
Thanks for having these pictures so easily available for us to see together. I'm planning on using many of them for a Love for Jenn Website. Thanks again.

(03.28.11 @ 10:18 AM)
Karen McKinnon:

I can't wait to hug you big and have you over for a girl power dinner. Thank you for that super sweet heart touching email.

(03.28.11 @ 01:46 PM)
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February 25, 2011 // my life / news
The beauty of life is often in the details. They are what weaves things together to make a whole.


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Welcome little, beautiful and perfect Quinn. I know you are entering the bravest family, full of dotting siblings, parents and grandparents. Lucky boy !
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Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Details - little Quinn . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://www.mckinnonblog.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/311
February 23, 2011 // my life / news / wedding
It's time to get your tickets if you haven't yet. Yes, you can get them at the door for $10 each, but if you pre-purchase it is $8 or 5 for $30. This includes your gourmet Tria Culinary Studio Crepe, a Blue Moon winery cocktail, the chance to win a Dreamy Wedding Package valued at more than $300 and of course, a lovely time visiting with exhibitors, such as me.

You can pre-purchase tickets here

The event is open to brides, grooms and of course... the curious at heart!

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February 22, 2011 // my life / news / portraits
Many of you know of Jenn's fight and, her love for life. She came into the studio yesterday with her sibling and  I just couldn't end this day full of sunshine without sending some her way.

Until tomorrow Jenn...

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Jenn zahavich:

In the past few weeks I've been struggling physically with some major abdominal and back pain as well as some severe side effects of a high dose of morphine, making looking after a three year old difficult to say the least, however,the support system I have is nothing short of heaven sent. My friends deserve a better title than friends because they are indescribably helpful, they swoop in, they cook us meals,, they clean my house, they arrange doctor appointments for me, they attend the appointments with me, they drop by with treats, hugs, flowers, books, laughter and love in the most abundant amounts. They offer me the best of themselves and the best of their talents. Karen for instance, one of my most treasured friends, with a heart of gold and generosity that knows no limits made time in her crazy schedule to capture beautiful portraits of me with my fantastic siblings, each of whom I am so incredibly proud of because they are so unique and talented in their own way. The first shot is me and my little sister ,Julie-lynn, a talented artist who made the trip across the country from nova scotia to illustrate a very special childrens story that we are going to publish together, for more info about this exciting project please visit my blog at www.babywillyoulovemewhenimbald.blogspot.com. JulieLynn is a sweet soul, she's quiet and gentle and this portrait is a beautiful reflection of her. The next sibling is shiny and new and I ADORE her. Ashley is my soon to be sister in law. She"s going to marry my lucky brother next summer and I could not have designed a more perfect match for him. Besides being beautiful, she has a pure heart, she is nurturing, full of integrity, soft, gentle and dependable. I loved Ashley the moment I met her and I think that together, her and my brother will be unstoppable, these two are going to bring about positive change in this world, they ooze potential. I can't wait until next summer when I get to officially call Ashley my sister, I think this image reflects our immediate connection, thanks Karen. The next shot is a pic of my best friend and I. Melissa is Dave's sister but I consider her mine. I am so proud of this beautiful girl. Melissa is currently working her tail off, she is a single mom, going to school full time at NIC to become a nurse. I would be lost these days without Mel. She has totally taken me on as her real life patient. She comes with me to most of my doctor appointments, she keeps track of my medicines, my appointments, she asks my doctors the hard questions, she offers me her guidance and her opinions which I value and trust. Last year, Melissa received an award for the highest grade average in the entire nursing program, she's currently in her second year, did I mention she's a single mom? I love and respect this girl so much. I've watched her grow up over the past ten years and our relationship has evolved and changed. Our sons are five months apart in age and are more like brothers than cousins and I'm so overjoyed that they will have each other to lean on and while dealing with two three year old boys together all the time is challenging there is no one in the world I'd rather be working with so closely with as a parent. I'm so proud of Melissa and I love her so much, I think this picture shows our mutual love and respect for each other and also the way we lean on each other, just the right amount, thanks again Karen for your accurate eye. And finally, my little brother who has grown into a strong, dependable, handsome man. This picture could not be more accurate in the way it captures our relationship. My brother is my rock, he is totally the one I lean on. He is simply the best. This guy just steps up when I need him, no questions asked. I can talk to him about anything, he walked me down the aisle on my wedding day, he's the first one I call if I need anything. A couple of weeks ago, when my health wavered a bit and I knew I was going to need some in home care, I dialed Jeff's number. When he heard my voice the first thing he said " how soon should I book a ticket? all of my siblings, except Melissa, live on the East Coast. He was out here within days. I've never been so happy to see someone. The best part about having my brother as a house guest is that he just does stuff, he doesn't need any direction or assistance he just does for instance, the first morning he stayed with me he got Coady up out of bed, dressed him, he made him breakfast, he packed Coady's lunch, he brushed Coady 's teeth, got him dressed and out the door on time to drop me off at my doctor appointment, he just did it, I loved watching my brother with my son, he just worked with him so naturally, it filled my heart with pride. I know my brother is going to be a fantastic husband and even better I know he's going to be an incredible dad. It really is an amazing thing to watch a human grow from infantcy into a fully capabel and beautiful person. I'm so proud of my little brother, if Coady grows into a man like Jeff I will be bursting at the seams with pride. Dependable, capable, a true safety net, that is what I see and love in this picture Karen, thank you once again.

Wow Karen, I'm speechless, I love these photos, I love my sisters and brother and I love you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, you are such a treasured friend during the moments when I find myself counting my blessings you and my siblings are always near the top of the list. I love you with my whole heart.
Jenn,
xoxo

(02.23.11 @ 02:56 AM)
Joanne Coady:

Lovely pics of my neices and nephew. Thank you so much!

(02.23.11 @ 01:54 PM)
Trish Kato:

OMG these are breathtaking. Absolutely Beautiful. I'm trying to write as tears are streaming down my face. Love you all!

(02.23.11 @ 05:27 PM)
Phebe May:

Beautiful Karen. Jenn, you are one lucky Lady. xo

(02.23.11 @ 10:23 PM)
Sandra McLaughlin:

Very beautiful Jenn and family!

(02.24.11 @ 11:58 AM)
Dave & Caroline:

Your spirit and generosity of love are an inspiration to us all!

(02.24.11 @ 07:50 PM)
Christine:

It comes as absolutely no surprise that you captured something so beautiful and emotional, Karen. Jenn, you are and always will be an inspiration to me and everyone around you. We are all sending you so much love. xoxoxo

(03.02.11 @ 09:25 AM)
Jeannie:

You are a gift karen, a beautiful beautiful gift to the comox valley! Thank you for being YOU!

(03.05.11 @ 09:17 PM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: For Jenn . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://www.mckinnonblog.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/307
For the last four years I have had the honor of creating stories for some pretty special brave people. 
Each year I spend some time at Children's Hospital working with local families, for whome the hospital unfortunately becomes part of their life.  These families are heroes, heroes for their little people. I typically fall in love with them, their openess, their grace and gratitude. 

One of these families was Kai's. This slide show was presented last year at the YANA (You are not Alone) Annual Fundraising Auction. YANA is a non-profit society providing financial assistance to families in the Comox Valley whose children must be moved from the valley for medical care.  

I also always donate to the auction. This year we have two items, a portrait session (value $165) and A Bella (our version of boudoir) session for two, including professional makeup application and your photos afterwards. This has a value of $600 and would be great to split with a friend. 
So if you have been thinking of one of these sessions, and you are going to be there, keep in mind if you bid on me, I promise to add a little extra awesomeness to your experience and you are donating to a charity! 


I just finished up this years slideshow, and here is last years. I recommend turning your volume up to enjoy the lovely Helen Austin's music that goes with it. 


YANA 2010 - Kai's Story from karen mckinnon on Vimeo.

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Jessica @ Dairy free betty:

Wow Karen, this is just beautiful! What a touching video and a beautiful charity!! :)

(02.22.11 @ 10:58 AM)
Sandra McLaughlin:

Karen....wow...that was so amazing. Talk about bringing tears to one's eyes...especially after we just enjoyed seeing Kai and his Mom at diaper gym this morning, and have enjoyed watching Kai growing while we shared various play groups and music classes! Kai is such an amazing little guy, and just lights up the room! Thank you for all the hard work and dedication you do to such essential groups like YANA. You are so amazing Karen!

(02.22.11 @ 11:36 AM)
Melissa O'Brien:

This video still makes me cry every time. Thank you Karen for capturing our experience and the happiness that Kai brings us. We are so fortunate.

(02.28.11 @ 10:10 AM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Y.A.N.A Auction donation and Kai's Brave Fight . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://www.mckinnonblog.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/306