Melissa Johnston Photography

I can’t seem to remember exactly how or when Veronique and I came to know each other. One thing’s for sure – it was through the photography world. Veronique is a fellow photographer in the Montreal area so we probably stumbled upon each others work one day on the world wide web and that’s how it all started. Veronique asked if I’d be interested in doing a shoot with her and her man and I of course agreed. We decided we would meet somewhere in between Ottawa and Montreal, somewhere that would suit both our tastes so I suggested a tiny town called Vankleek Hill, an old, quaint little place.

We started off with some urban themed shots using the old brick buildings in town as backdrops, and then moved out into some nearby farm fields for a more country feel.

This session actually took place tonight and the reason why I am blogging it so soon is because I wanted Veronique to be able to get her sneak peek on her birthday – tomorrow! Happy birthday to one gorgeous girl xoxo

Where did the summer go? I cannot believe that September is right around the corner. I love this time of year when things get a bit cooler and more colourful. Even the late day sun seems more golden and radiant and that makes for wonderful light during evening sessions.

I was especially excited because Lianna, being a wedding planner, had many great ideas in mind for her engagement shoot. Since we have such similar tastes, it was easy for us to settle on location, props and feel for these pictures. At first Brent was a little hesitant to embrace the idea of the theme but once we started shooting I could see that he was getting more comfortable and the connection between them flourished in front of the camera. I am really looking forward to spending another day with them in May, when they finally tie the knot!

The sunset was absolutely GORGEOUS!

As we were rapping up, we noticed a full moon was out so we had to include it in a few shots…

Couples shouldn’t hesitate to rock their engagement shoot the way that Mel and Pete did. You should all bring props or I can even suggest some (I have tons in mind and most likely have them all laying around at home somewhere) and best of all – bring your personalities…

Most of my clients ask for ‘natural, genuine’ photographs, I have to say that it’s easier said then done. Those are the kind of shots that I am aiming for as long as you are willing to be ‘REAL’ in front of my camera. If you are up for doing so, I will capture the true essence of who really are with the one that you love, just like we did with this gorgeous couple:

I also want to send out a HUGE thank you to the James family for letting us use their farm and their sheep for some of the shots.

Jessica, Joel and I met up at a location that was sentimental to them. Not only did they choose the location that they were comfortable with but Joel brought a guitar, an excellent prop. Jessica and Joel are both musicians and I found it very romantic when they told me that their favourite pass time was to snuggle up and jam together. I really enjoyed my time with this couple as they seemed so genuinely happy with one another. I am really looking forward to their wedding in October.

And for one of my favourite shots EVER taken:

I encourage anyone to bring props or come out with some of their own ideas for pictures. I want my clients to be open and fearless! In the end, we get some great results like these

Candice and Dexter decided to have their engagement session at the Museum of Civilization. I was excited because I actually have never photographed a session or a wedding there before, which is suprising because it is such a nice location. I had so much fun chatting and laughing with the two of them.I’ll never forget when Candice went to the washroom to change, I asked Dexter how Candice and him met. His eyes lit up and he was so thrilled to tell me their story. They are both so lucky to have each other and I am really excited for their wedding in September.