Clarkes 'not your typical christmas photo' // just because session// Toronto Portrait Photographer

Candace bbm'ed me 2 weeks ago inquiring about Christmas photos of her and her brother Brendon. I happily accepted the request and began thinking of locations and outfit choices in my head, that is until I started asking Candace what her goal and overall vision was with the photos.
Candace is Captain of her roller derby team the DVAS, and Brendon is an awesome lacrosse player for the Brampton Excelsiors. SO they wanted to showcase their pride and talent for the sports in portraits for their parents for Christmas. Needless to say this wasn't what I was expecting for Christmas Portraits so my ideas went out the window and I started visualizing sporty poses and different shots.
I thought this was an amazing idea and the images (I hope) are a true portrayal of this.
Brendon organized the location, we shot in a change room at the Brampton Memorial Arena. It was something different than I have done before which was challenging because of the arena lighting but I worked through it and I think that I learned a lot. I always welcome unique sessions like this because I think taking on tasks that scare you a little and that test your abilities is the only way to become better and to learn.

I think this is a great gift and something very special for your parents.

Happy Holidays and all the love for 2011.
xoxox

Lucas + The Chaves Family ..just because // Toronto Newborn and Family Photographer

A couple weeks ago I had the pleasure of meeting the newest addition to the Chaves family, baby Lucas. His momma and I were co workers and as I watched her little bump grow and grow I was anxious to get her little angel in front of my camera.

10 perfect little toesys <3>

Lucas really was the sweetest! He was soo alert and happy for the entire session! I really could have photographed/cuddled him all day! We did a few outfit changes and incorporated some props but my favourite shots were just the simple close up to catch those bigggggg brown eyes of his, soo handsome (the ladies wont stand a chance, he already had my heart meltinnng).
Jason was so wonderful and attentive with his handsome little man!
Thank you so much Janice and Jason for opening your home and new family up to me! It was a pleasure to photograph Lucas and I think you both are truly blessed. I wish you all the best in this new chapter of life, you are great parents!

Sandiford's 'just because' // Mississauga Family Photographer

During my first year of university I transferred from Wilfred Laurier to Trent. I transferred after Christmas break, after everyone had roommates and friends and lots of 'first year' adventures. I didn't have a roommate, a friend or annny first year adventures, that is until a few weeks into the semester we had dorm meeting. After this meeting, I put my nerves and shyness aside and walked up to this group of girls who I thought looked fun and the least hippyish. We talked for a few minutes, and then one of the girls said " my names Anne and no one else is cool soo you should probably be friiends with us" That was it - I became besties with not one but 4 amazing girls, and throughout the next four years we had many adventures that I won't soon forget.


Anne is one of the most vivacious people I know, shes loud, funny, has a sweet sweet heart and is a great friend. Over the years that we have known one another I have also got the pleasure to get to know her family who are also vibrant and such genuine people! Her oldest brother, Patrick moved to Indonesia to pursue his career as a Pilot. This past month he was home for a holiday and her mom really wanted to get some family portraits done. So I went over to their place on Monday for a 'just because' session and it was beyond fun. I think my cheek muscles were stuck in a laughing position when I left!

Leanne and Paul, your family is soso wonderful. Thank you for inviting me into your home to share in these moments with you, I hope you love them, I really enjoyed capturing them :)

Enjoy the sneak peak!

Faculty of Fishing

Awhile back I was hired by the O.F.A.H. (Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters...click here to see images from their annual summer camp - http://jadphotography.blogspot.com/2010/07/ofah-get-outdoors-youth-for.html-) to do a shoot for a new program they're launching - The Faculty of Fishing.

The program is very unique, and the first of its kind - an online fishing school. It aims to bring anglers of all skill levels a set of practical expertise from tournament anglers and scientific knowledge to help you not only catch MORE fish but to catch bigger fish. The great thing about the course is that you can do it anywhere and take lessons at anytime. So you can do it from the comfort of your own home before breakfast one morning and then take your new skills and knowledge out on the boat that afternoon and catch a biggie!

After working with the O.F.A.H. a few times now, I really can't express what an amazing organization this is. From the easygoing and friendly staff to all their efforts in conservation and educational programs like this one - they are remarkable! I want to thank Robert Pye the Communications Director for making me feel so welcome during the shoots and for his continuous contributions in the promotion of conservation and his vision and expertise. Thanks again!

Kevin+Mandy Engaged //Peterborough Wedding Photographer//Kawartha Lakes Photographer

The day started off with excited smiles and easy conversation because that's how its always been with Mandy. We met one summer working our way through post secondary studies at Home Depot and have been friends ever since. We bonded over our mutual love/hattte relationship with our job...we loved it because we got to chat and socialize with one another but hated doing the actual 'cashiering' part. She is a great listener, gives the best advice and is the most genuine and sweet person I have ever met.




Her and Kevin have been together for years and I couldn't think of two people more perfect for one another. They compliment each other in every way, and like Mandy he is so sincere (and funny!) and I love them both very much! Their love reminds me of 'old' love. I say old love because its the kind of love that lasts through anything, its the love you see when hes 85 and still opening doors for her. Its the look in his eye when Mandy is talking, like she is the most stunning and beautiful girl in the world (which she is). Its the way she takes his hand, and loves sweet forehead kisses. Their love is strong and beautiful and I wish them the very best life, filled with love and a lot of forehead kisses.

yeaa thaatss definitelly somme bliiiiiiinnnnnggg

Im so honored I was able to sneak a peak at their love during the engagement session and I cannot wait to be apart of the day we all have been waiting for, when they promise forever to one another on December 31st, 2o11.
x0 jad

Kevin+Kayla engaged //Peterborough Wedding Photographer // Kawartha Lakes Photographer

uhmmmm, fierrrrce? yesssss you are!

When I asked how they fell in love, Kevin said Kayla tells the story better ... She laughs from the backseat and says "You loved me, I was scared of you" she then recalls a time when she ran into him in the hallway of their highschool and died. Literally. But she eventually grew out of that shy and terrified stage and realized that this guy, well he wasnt so scary afterall. Now 7 years later, after all the basketball games, passing of notes, highschool, then college, racing, and living together they have decided to promise a lifetime with one another. They will be married in 2012 and I cant be more thrilled and honored to not only document their love but also be a part of the wedding. They make each other shine, literally. When he looks at her, she glows. And when she grabs for his hand his eyes light up and he couldn't be more handsome. They support one another with whatever they do, she never misses one of his races and he stays up late and helps her study when she needs it. Their love is wonderful and seeing them through my lens and now as I post this blog it warms my heart and puts a smile on my face. Kayla is my cousin and one of my best friends and I am so happy she found someone to love her (even in the morning). as much as Kevin does. I had so much fun during their engagement session, it was a little brisk but the day was perfect and we got some really fun shots!

above are my favourite! they were hilarious with the apples!
*J

Kevin + Amanda Married //Port Hope Wedding Photographer // Kawartha Lakes Photographer

As I entered the Port Hope Golf and Country Club I just knew this day, the day Kevin and Amanda would promise forever to each other would be perfect. From the gorgeous weather, the smiling guests, the fierrrce looking bridesmaids and dreamy groomsmen everything had come together into a fairytale kind of day.

the handsome shot above of Kevin was taken by Signey (my assistant)When I walked up to the bridal suite I could hear the girls chatting and laughing and just having a great time getting ready together and I was excited that I was able to share in their laughs and stories. As Amanda put on the finishing touches of her makeup and got into her dress, she was radiant.After a few girly pictures inside the suite we headed out onto the golf course to soak in the sun and get a few more shots before the guests started to arrive. Amanda was sooo organized and knew exactly what she wanted in terms of time line because she said that she just wanted everything to flow so her and Kevin could join the party as soon as possible and have time to relax and visit with all their friends and family. When the guests started to arrive we headed back up to the bridal suite and waited. Waited for the time when she would go from her fathers arm to Kevins, when she would no longer be the girlfriend or fiance but a wife to the man she loves and who wants to spend the rest of his life with her.The ceremony was a dream. As a light breeze swept over the golf course the horse and carriage pulled up and Amanda and her father stepped out. He escorted her down the aisle where Kevin waited to promise her a lifetime full of happiness and love, and waited to seal their forever with a kiss.Kevin and Amanda thank you so much! I had the most wonderful time at your wedding. You both were gorgeous and enjoyed so much sharing in this day with you. I wish you sooo much happiness and I hope you honeymoon was amazing!

you both are s-t-u-n-n-i-n-g!

and I will end with this because the day really was like fairytale and I do hope there is a happily ever after in store.

All the best,
*J