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The Still Hour

Freedom Sessions: Healing Through Photography

8/24/2025

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I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone I have had the pleasure of working with throughout my photography journey. Each of you has played a vital role in shaping me into the person and photographer I am today.
What many don’t know is that photography became my lifeline. I originally picked up my camera to gain financial freedom to leave an abusive relationship. I never imagined it would also guide me through a journey of healing, growth, and reclaiming my sense of self.

There were times I walked into sessions right after chaos at home, feeling weak and unworthy. Yet, the moment I lifted my camera, I found solace. I could breathe. I could create. Every click of the shutter became proof that beauty, strength, and resilience exist;  even when life feels dark.
Through photography, I not only rebuilt myself but also connected with so many of you — celebrating good partnerships, growing families, new babies, bittersweet goodbyes, and second chances at life. Your stories have been woven into my own. They have shown me that even in struggle, there is always light.
The Power of Feeling Seen
When I was leaving my abusive relationship, I modeled for a few photographers. Standing in front of the camera, I finally felt seen, beautiful, and worthy again.
Those photos reminded me that I was more than the pain I carried. They gave me a glimpse of who I could become once I was free. That experience planted the seed for what I now call Freedom Sessions.
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Why “Freedom Sessions”
Some of my clients have walked the same path I once did: rebuilding after abuse, searching for confidence, craving evidence of their strength. Too often, women who leave abusive relationships have very few photos of themselves or their families; and the ones they do have are tied to painful memories.
That’s why I’m offering Freedom Sessions.
These are complimentary photo sessions for women who have survived domestic abuse and finally found the courage to leave within the Southern Alberta area.
~Sessions are private, safe, and focused on rebuilding confidence.
~ You can come alone or with your children.
~ You’ll leave with beautiful, professional images that remind you of your strength, your freedom, and your new chapter.
This is my way of giving back... of turning my own survival into a gift for others walking the same path.
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How to Book a Freedom Session
​If this speaks to you, or if you know someone who would benefit:
 Click below to book your confidential Freedom Session.
Book a Freedom Session

Local & National Resources for Survivors
If you’re still in the process of leaving or need extra support, here are resources that may help you along the way:
  • YWCA Harbour House (Lethbridge) – Emergency shelter, outreach programs, and counseling for women and children.
  • Family Violence Info Line (Alberta-wide) – Call 310-1818, available 24/7 in over 170 languages.
  • Lethbridge Family Services – Counseling, settlement support, and community resources.
  • 211 Alberta – A free, confidential helpline to connect you with services in your area.
Financial Support Programs
  • YWCA National Emergency Survivor Support Fund (NESS Fund) – Provides a one-time financial grant to help survivors leave unsafe living situations (rent, moving costs, essentials). ywcacanada.ca
  • Alberta Escaping Abuse Benefit – Emergency funding for housing, transportation, moving,
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          childcare, prescriptions, and setting up a safe new home. alberta.ca
  • Gender-Based Violence Housing Benefits (B.C. & Nova Scotia) – Monthly rental support programs for survivors, offering stability while rebuilding.
  • Temporary Resident Permits (TRP) for Victims of Family Violence – For those with uncertain immigration status, provides a fee-exempt permit, access to healthcare, and work/study permits. canada.ca
You Are Not Alone

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You are worthy of love, joy, and safety.
And when you’re ready, I would be honored to help capture this new chapter in your journey.
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Mini Sessions vs. Full Sessions – What’s the Right Fit for You?

7/31/2025

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Whether you're updating family photos, celebrating a milestone, or just want to capture a moment in time, choosing between a mini session and a full session can feel like a big decision. The good news? Both are great options; it just depends on what you're looking for.
Mini Sessions
Mini sessions are short and sweet. They're perfect if you want just a handful of great images without committing to a full session. These are ideal for:
  1. Kids who have short attention spans
  2. Updating seasonal photos
  3. Scrapbooks or holiday cards
  4. Capturing a small moment or milestone

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Since minis are quicker and more budget-friendly, you can book them more often throughout the year and build a beautiful collection of memories over time.
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Full Sessions
Full sessions offer a slower pace, more time to relax, and room for variety. They're great for:
  1. Larger families or multiple outfit changes
  2. ​Capturing a mix of posed and candid moments
  3. More background/location options
  4. Having a wider gallery of images to choose from
With full sessions, there’s space to explore personalities, connection, and story. If you’re wanting a full gallery for prints, wall art, or heirloom albums, this is the way to go.
So... which should you choose?
If you just need a few updated images and want to keep things simple, go for a mini. If you’re celebrating a big moment or want a full storytelling experience, choose a full session.
Either way, you’ll walk away with beautiful images that feel like you.
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Confidence Is Optional. Presence Is Everything.

7/24/2025

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Before the camera clicks, there’s often a moment of hesitation. A pause. A quiet thought like, “What am I doing here?”
That’s normal. Most people I work with aren’t models. They’re students, artists, dreamers, professionals, parents. Real people with real lives, showing up as they are.
The best portraits aren’t about perfection. They’re about presence. The way you stand, the way you breathe, the way your energy fills the space. That’s what makes an image magnetic.
This portrait isn’t about a perfect smile or knowing the right pose. It’s about posture and quiet confidence. It’s about showing up fully and letting the rest unfold.
Some of my favorite sessions have started with uncertainty and ended in transformation. Not because something changed, but because something was revealed.
There is power in being seen. Come as you are, and I’ll take care of the rest.
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Healing Through Art: Why I Create

4/16/2025

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I’ve always believed that art has a way of saying the things we don’t have words for. The pieces in my current exhibit at the Yates Theatre Gallery were born from that exact space — the quiet in-between where grief, hope, and healing live together.
Titled Impact Unveiled: Beyond the Silence, the series explores survival, loneliness, and the emotional pull between darkness and light. Each image was created with strips of hand-cut paper, shaped and layered in black and white to reflect the tension of trauma, the weight of memory, and the stillness that follows chaos. The final piece in the collection shifts into color. A quiet release. A symbol of surrender, softness, and letting go.
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These works were never meant to be perfect. They were meant to be honest.
As I shaped each image, I thought about how often we carry pain alone. How often we smile through it. These pieces gave me space to process parts of my story without needing to explain or justify. They let my hands speak when my voice couldn’t.
Art doesn’t erase trauma. But it gives it form. It makes the invisible visible. And in that visibility, something shifts. The shame loses its grip. The body exhales.
If you're in Lethbridge, I invite you to see the exhibit in person. Stand in front of the work. Let yourself feel. Maybe it will stir something in you. Maybe it will simply let you rest for a moment.
Either way, I hope it reminds you that healing isn’t linear. But it is possible. And sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is create something true.

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The exhibit runs through March 2025 - August 2025 at the Yates Theatre Gallery in downtown Lethbridge. Admission is free.
​If any piece speaks to you, I’d love to hear which one. Feel free to leave a comment or message me through the contact page.
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How to Dress for a Family Photo Session: A Guide to Timeless & Coordinated

3/5/2025

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Family photos are a treasured keepsake, capturing moments you’ll look back on for years to come. One of the biggest questions families have before their session is, "What should we wear?" Your clothing choices play a big role in the overall feel of your images. Here’s a guide to help you coordinate outfits that will result in beautiful, timeless photos.

Choose a Coordinated Color Palette
Instead of everyone wearing the exact same color, select a complementary color palette. Stick to 3-4 colors that work well together. Earthy tones, pastels, and neutral shades tend to photograph beautifully and create a cohesive look. Think soft blues, creams, blush tones, olive greens, and warm browns for a natural and classic aesthetic.
Avoid Large Logos and Busy Patterns
While patterns can add texture and depth to an outfit, avoid anything too bold or distracting. Subtle plaids, florals, or textured fabrics work well. Stay away from large logos, neon colors, or clothing with text, as they can pull attention away from your faces in the final images.
Dress for the Location and Season
Consider the setting of your photo session. If you’re taking photos in a lush green park, earthy and neutral tones will blend beautifully with nature. For beach sessions, soft pastels and light fabrics look great. In the fall, warm tones like rust, mustard, and deep greens add richness. Dress appropriately for the weather so that everyone is comfortable throughout the session.
Layer and Add Textures
Adding layers and textures can elevate your outfits. Think cozy sweaters, cardigans, scarves, and denim jackets in cooler months. In the summer, lightweight linens and flowy fabrics add movement and a soft touch to your photos.
Complement Each Other, Not Match
Gone are the days of everyone wearing the same white shirt and jeans. Instead, aim for a coordinated look where each outfit complements the others without being identical. This creates a more natural and visually appealing aesthetic.
Consider Footwear
Shoes often get overlooked but can make a big impact on your overall look. Stick to neutral or coordinating footwear—avoid sneakers (unless intentional), bright-colored shoes, or overly casual flip-flops. If your session is outdoors, comfortable yet stylish shoes are a great choice.
Keep It Timeless
Trends come and go, but your family photos will last a lifetime. Opt for classic and timeless outfits rather than trendy pieces that may look outdated in a few years. Simple silhouettes, classic cuts, and neutral color schemes help ensure your photos stand the test of time.
Plan Ahead
Don’t wait until the last minute to decide what everyone is wearing. Lay out outfits in advance to see how they coordinate. Try them on ahead of time to make sure everything fits well and is comfortable. If you’re unsure, consult your photographer—they often have great styling advice based on experience!
Keep It Comfortable
While style is important, comfort is key—especially for little ones. Choose clothing that allows everyone to move freely and feel good. If children are uncomfortable, it may show in their expressions and body language. Soft fabrics and relaxed fits can help keep them happy and engaged.
Accessorize Thoughtfully
Accessories like hats, dainty jewelry, suspenders, or a cute headband can add personality and style without overpowering the photo. Just keep it simple and avoid anything too flashy or distracting.
Final ThoughtsDressing for your family session doesn’t have to be stressful! By planning ahead and choosing outfits that coordinate without being overly matched, you’ll create a visually harmonious look that lets your family’s personality shine. If in doubt, consult your photographer—they can offer tailored advice to help you look your best. Happy photo-taking!
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I'm Good and You? – My Fourth Year in the Lethbridge Traveling Dress Project

2/14/2025

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Four years. Four different visions. One dress that continues to challenge and inspire me.
The Lethbridge Traveling Dress Project is a creative collaboration where 14 photographers each receive the same emerald gown for two weeks, with complete freedom to interpret it through their lens. This was my fourth year participating, and I wanted to create something that felt heavier, more emotional, more honest.
My piece, I'm Good and You?, is a self-portrait and digital composite. A woman in a flowing emerald gown floats mid-air, clinging to a rope tied to a barren tree at the edge of a rocky cliff. The scene is stormy and dramatic, with circling crows overhead, yet there is a quiet valley below, lush and full of promise.​
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This image is layered with meaning. The woman is suspended between collapse and rise, between silence and strength. It mirrors the emotional weight of survival, especially after trauma. The title comes from that familiar phrase we say without thinking, “I’m good and you?” even when we are not.
Not all the reference images were taken in Alberta. The composition is surreal by design, created to reflect an emotional reality more than a physical one.
This piece was displayed for the month of February at Streatside Eatery as part of the 2024/2025 Traveling Dress Project.
I am proud to have been part of this project again. After four years, it still pushes me to dig deeper, feel more, and create work that speaks from a place of truth.
PREVIOUS SUBMISSIONS
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Quilled Portraits

11/21/2024

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What Are Quilled Portraits? A quilling portrait involves using thin strips of paper to form the likeness of a person, animal, or even a scene. Artists carefully roll, twist, and pinch the paper into different shapes, layering the pieces to build the image. This art form is often used to create highly stylized versions of the subject, where the focus is on capturing key facial features, expressions, and the overall essence of the individual.
The Process of Creating a Quilled Portrai
1.Choosing the Right Materials
To start, quilling artists select high-quality paper, often in various colors and shades to match the portrait's details. The paper strips are typically 1/8-inch wide and come in a variety of lengths
2.Designing the Outline 
A rough sketch of the portrait is made, mapping out the key features such as the face, hair, eyes, and clothing. The artist then decides on which quilling techniques will be used for each section.
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3. Rolling and Shaping the Paper
The paper is rolled tightly or loosely to create coils. These coils are then shaped into teardrop, marquise, or other forms that bring the image to life. The layers are meticulously glued together to form a cohesive piece.
​4. Adding Texture and Details
Shading and highlighting are achieved by adjusting the tension of the coils and adding layered paper strips to mimic light and shadows. The hair, eyes, and skin tones require careful attention to achieve a lifelike effect.Why Quilling Portraits Are SpecialWhat makes quilling portraits stand out is their ability to combine artistic creativity with the delicate nature of paper. The art of quilling requires patience, skill, and a keen eye for detail, making each portrait a labor of love. The end result is a beautiful, textured piece that feels almost three-dimensional. Unlike digital or painted portraits, quilling brings a tangible quality to the image, where each swirl and curl of the paper contributes to the subject's personality.
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Techniques of Quilling

11/20/2024

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Exploring Different Techniques of Quilling
Quilling, also known as paper filigree, is an intricate art form that involves rolling, shaping, and gluing strips of paper into decorative designs. The beauty of quilling lies in its versatility, offering various techniques to create everything from delicate flowers to elaborate 3D sculptures. Here’s a look at some popular quilling techniques:
  1. Rolling
    The foundation of quilling, rolling involves tightly or loosely coiling a strip of paper. The size of the coil depends on how tightly it’s rolled, creating different shapes. This technique is often used to form flowers, spirals, and basic decorative elements.
  2. Pinch
    Pinching the rolled coil into a specific shape is a technique that allows for more control over the design. By pinching the paper between fingers, quillers can create teardrop, marquise, or leaf shapes, ideal for floral patterns and intricate designs.
  3. Shaping
    Shaping involves bending and folding the coils to form more complex shapes. After rolling the paper, quillers can adjust the edges to form hearts, stars, or other custom shapes. This technique requires precision but yields beautiful, detailed results.
  4. Combining
    Quillers often combine different shapes and techniques to create intricate patterns. By mixing tight coils, loose coils, pinched elements, and shaped pieces, artists can build multi-layered designs for cards, wall art, or jewelry.
  5. 3D Quilling
    3D quilling takes the basic techniques a step further by constructing multi-dimensional pieces. This style adds depth and texture to designs, resulting in sculptures, flowers, or even figures. Quilling flowers arranged in a 3D format are popular for creating stunning centerpieces.
  6. Fringing
    In fringing, paper strips are cut into small slits and then rolled and shaped. The result is a delicate, frayed effect, often used to mimic the look of feathers or to add texture to flower petals and leaves.
Each quilling technique offers a unique way to express creativity, whether you're crafting simple designs or complex masterpieces. By mastering these techniques, quilling enthusiasts can produce an endless array of beautiful works of art.
Start today!
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Quilling 101: A Guide for Beginners

3/22/2023

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 Quilling is the art of rolling and shaping thin strips of paper into intricate shapes to create a piece of decorative artwork. The craft has been around for centuries, with references to it dating back as far as the Renaissance period in Europe. Over the years, quilling has evolved into a popular hobby and form of expression for people of all ages and skill levels. With its versatility, quilling can be used to create anything from simple greeting cards to intricate wall art and even jewelry.
One of the best things about quilling is that it requires very few materials to get started. All you need are a few basic tools, such as paper strips, glue, and a quilling tool, and you're ready to dive into your first project. Once you have your tools and materials, the possibilities for quilling are endless. You can create designs using a wide range of colors and patterns, and the techniques you use can vary to create unique, personalized pieces. Some popular quilling techniques include the tight roll, the loose roll, and the teardrop. These techniques are simple to learn and can be combined to create intricate designs.
If you're new to quilling, you may want to start with a simple project, such as a greeting card or a small piece of wall art. As you become more comfortable with the techniques and methods, you can challenge yourself with larger and more complex projects. Quilling can also be a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day. The repetitive rolling and shaping of the paper can be soothing and meditative, allowing you to focus on the present moment and let go of any stressful thoughts or worries. In fact, some people even use quilling as a form of therapy to help manage anxiety or depression.
In addition to being a fun and relaxing hobby, quilling can also be a unique and thoughtful gift for loved ones. You can create personalized pieces that reflect someone's personality or interests, such as a quilled portrait of their pet or a favorite landscape. With a little creativity and imagination, the possibilities for quilling are truly endless.
If you're interested in getting started with quilling, there are many resources available online, including tutorials, patterns, and supply stores. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new techniques, as this is a craft that allows for endless creativity and customization.
Quilling is a relaxing and rewarding hobby that can provide hours of entertainment and creativity. Whether you're looking to create a unique gift for a friend or family member, or simply want to explore your artistic side, quilling is a versatile and accessible art form that is sure to provide endless possibilities for years to come.
Whether you're looking for a creative outlet or a way to add a personalized touch to your home décor, quilling is definitely worth exploring.
Quilling is an art form that dates back to the fifteenth century. It involves rolling, looping and curling of colorful strips of paper to create intricate decorative elements like flowers, animals, and abstract shapes.
Often referred to as paper filigree or paper folding, quilling is a simple and enjoyable art that anyone can do with a little bit of patience and creativity. With the right tools and a few basic techniques, you can make anything from a small card embellishment to an entire quilled masterpiece.
In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about quilling.

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