Welcome to my Journal

Today is the 30th anniversary of my Bat Mitzvah. There was a luncheon and a dance party and so many guests. The whole thing was draped in purple and teal. I memorized my portion on a yellow Sony walkman and was terrified about reciting it (AND giving a speech) in front of my family, my […]

Mother’s day is coming up VERY soon. Many of you are, or will be, shopping for the perfect gift (and hopefully many of you will also be receiving perfect gifts!). I’m here to help. I’ve put together a list of photo-related presents for all the incredible mothers in your life.  LEAF LOCKET, showshdesigns.com $180 As […]

If you’re thinking you’d like to schedule a session soon, but worry the city is still a wash of grey and brown, I offer the obvious solution: GRAFFITI. Underpass park is one of my favourite locations in downtown Toronto and I was beyond excited when my client and I agreed it would be a great […]

When I used to work in TV, I loved producing the stories about the first New Years baby. It’s sort of amusing that average newborns around the world are celebrated simply for the time of their birth – but I could never get enough of these happy and sweet images of tiny newness on January […]

Out of all my family sessions this fall, this was the one I really wanted to blog about, but it was also the one I was most intimidated to blog about. Why? Because my lovely client Renee is a blogger and how could I write about her as well as she writes about herself? I […]

Anyone else sing Grease all summer? Just me? I’m obsessed with evening sessions this summer. The light is amazing. The temperatures are perfect. Kids think it’s fun to be out when they should be getting ready for bed. Also Toronto summers are so short, every beautiful night feels special. This family wins awesomeness points for […]

“What should we wear?” It’s my most-asked question from my family photography clients. And with good reason – everyone wants to look as great as possible, while still feeling comfortable and true to themselves for their session. I admit, before my own family session this spring, I spent a lot of time thinking about what […]

When it comes to email inquiries for family photo sessions, here’s one phrase that brings me so much joy:”We’re free on Tuesday mornings.” Ahhhh Tuesday. There’s something magical about this weekday morning in Toronto. Parks and landmarks are quiet and free of tourists, locals (even those who take Monday or Friday off to extend their […]

Hi journal, it’s me Janis. It’s been too long. I’ve been meaning to get back to writing and posting, and thought this sweet family session was a great occasion to jump back in. This is the third shoot we’ve done together – and the first with their new baby girl! Two things I’d like to […]