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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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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September 13, 2011 // portraits



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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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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! 


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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)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Gina and Clan . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://www.mckinnonblog.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/443
Danielle had always dreamed of having wedding photos taken at the beach, yet seeing how their wedding was on Mount Washington it wasn't able to happen... until last week that is! 

A few weeks after their wedding we picked an evening to head to the beach. What a fabulous idea!!!

We weren't bound by a timeline, or any of the stresses of a wedding day and it was just an enjoyable evening out photographing. 

I have come to really came about these two, so it was my pleasure to spend a bit more time with them. 

Danielle and Justin, you are stunning - you know that right?

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I love Danielle's expression here, it's something a bit different for her:

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When I first met Adam and Jen - she sat forward eager, grinning ear to ear, he leaned back on the couch, calm, content and attentive to her - I fell for them right away. She loves how kind he is and accepting of her, he loves her compassion and attitude. They balance each other, and make a beautiful couple.

Their wedding was just right - it was calm, but exciting, it was honest and true, and very joyous. Their families were both so happy - a true indication of how right they are for each other. The wedding party was a dream-- the girls, like Jen, were gregarious with their ear to ear grins and laughter, and the men, happy, content and funny.

I have many memorable moments from this day, but the fave, head and heels above the rest, was during their first look before their ceremony. When Adam turned around, he was speechless, until the word "beautiful" stumbled out of his lips, again and again and again.... It was a moment filled with emotion, sweetness and joy - which set the tone for a stunning day.
 


Hair - Headquarters Hair
Makeup - Karen Wiley
Tents & Tables - Rent a tent
Linens and table accessories - All in One Party Shop
Catering - Fraternal Order of Eagles Ladies Auxiliary
Flowers - Thrifty Foods and Judy Stephens


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Christina Craft:

Wow! What a fantastic post. Especially love the shoe shot!

(08.17.11 @ 12:34 AM)
Adam :

WOW! Absolutely stunning Karen. You and Gina did a fantastic job, I can't wait for the rest ;)

(08.19.11 @ 09:10 AM)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry: Adam and Jen say "I do" at a Vancouver Isl. Backyard Wedding . TrackBack URL for this entry: http://www.mckinnonblog.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/436