We were in the midst of the pandemic, and I had moved my studio outdoors.

I was nervous about delivering the experience of professional hair and makeup and lots of outfit changes outside of my studio!  

Luckily, I discovered a pop-up changeroom!

Hair and makeup were done at Monica's home, and then we all met for an evening session at Scotsman's Hill in SE Calgary.

The weather couldn't have been more perfect! 

It was a beautiful hot sunny day overlooking the Saddle Dome, the river, and the mountains in the distance.

Monica had signed up for my 30 Days of Gorgeous series, and I couldn't wait to transform the way she sees herself in photos!

And, bonus, she brought her husband along!

An absolutely adorable couple!

30 Days of Gorgeous: 

A Photography Project in Calgary Featuring the Beauty of Women 35 and Older

Tell me your story, Monica.

My story.

I was six years old when I told my mother I was going to be a writer.

My teacher said I had a vivid imagination.

Always loved horses and riding as a kid.

Wore the paint off my neighbours fence watching their horses graze.

Studied Fine Art and graphic design, married young, moved away, and started a business in the remote wilds in NE BC.

Fell in love with country living.

Moved 12 times in 10 years building my husband’s career.

Lost a child.

Massive grief then back to school for Communications.

Writing rocks!

Divorced.

Lost a horse.

Rebuilt my life and started a nonprofit for Canadian Forces members struggling with PTSD.

National media and two programs later, we run out of funding.

Became a Calgary Stampede volunteer emcee.

Love this!

Wrote, hosted, and produced a TV show called The Horse’s Mouth TV with Shaw Cable 10.

This is my purpose! Filmed 12 episodes including with Cirque Du Soleil.

Folded the show and started a private equity investigation business with life partner.

Worked two jobs and traveled.

Burnt out.

Business and partnership end suddenly.

Heart broke.

Rebuild and move to Cochrane.

Became a Toastmaster and keynote speaker.

Stronger me.

Met my husband.

Turned 50.

New job with global organization.

Bought a house.

Wedding postponed due to COVID.

Grateful.

So very grateful.

Why do you want to participate in the 30 Days of Gorgeous?

My goal for taking part in your 30 Days of Gorgeous is to remind myself that just because I’m over 50, doesn’t mean I’m not the same dynamic, motivated, enthusiastic person I was at 38.

I want to show other women that it’s ok to get knocked down in life and that you can get back up and find a stronger, happier version of yourself.

Do you have any fears about being photographed?

My biggest fear in having my portrait taken?

That would be that I look old, frumpy, and tired.

Fifty snuck up on me.

It seemed like yesterday I was 38 and graduating from University as a mature student.

I felt like the world was my oyster!

After taking a few hard knocks in 2016, I’m stronger than ever.

New job.

New marriage.

I’m really excited about what’s in store for my life!

I’d love some fresh photos to embrace the me I’ve become.

Wiser. Kinder. Stronger.

What does being a woman of your age mean to you?

Being a woman of my age means a quiet strength.

Knowing that whatever life throws at me, I can handle it.

I’ve got experience and skills but also support.

I also don’t suffer fools anymore.

What is the number one piece of advice you'd tell your younger self?

Most of the stuff you worry about will never happen.

What makes you feel beautiful?

Lots of things make me feel beautiful.

Wearing my favourite little black dress, getting my hair done.

Dancing to my favourite song.

My husband holding my hand when we walk down the street.

Jeans and cowboy boots.

Getting checked out -at my age. ;)

#shootprintlovelaurie

I am a Contemporary Beauty and Personal Portrait Photographer.  

You will have an unforgettable experience when you book a portrait session with me.  You will look and feel like a celebrity, I promise!

The people I photograph always feel a boost in self-confidence during their portrait session.  They tell me that I set them at ease and make them feel comfortable in front of the camera. 

Print is my passion, and I believe that your portraits deserve to be displayed on your walls and in gorgeous folio boxes.  I will custom-design the most beautiful wall displays and albums to suit your style.  

It all starts with a consultation.  

Tell me how you dream of being photographed and we’ll go from there!