Genuine. Caring. Connected. Meaningful.

Vancouver Island Photographer based in the Comox Valley.
Voted Best Photographer Comox Valley 8 years running.

I am your friend with a camera, and that camera is an extension of my heart. Let me guide you through a
stress-free photography experience and capture meaningful, impactful photographs true to who you are.

tell your story

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Wedding

You want wedding photography that is genuine and captures the connection you have with your loved ones. As the magic unfolds, my goal is to capture the real moments and create beautiful portraits. The images will transport you back to the connections you celebrated and the care you have for each other and your loved ones. My care and experience ensures your day is set for success and enjoyed without stress.

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Commercial

Your commercial photography begins with the knowledge that it is time to level up how you connect with your clients. Together, let’s make a plan that brings out the best in your business and improves your marketing. From headshots to full photography branding packages, I bring years of marketing and communication knowledge, along with genuine enthusiasm, to every experience.

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Portrait

We start with an amazing photography location in the Comox Valley, Campbell River, Qualicum or Parksville that suits your portrait vision. Then we mix in the fun and create memories that capture your relationships. During your portrait session, I will provide lots of direction, while keeping the mood relaxed and genuine. 

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Pleased to meet you

I am Karen McKinnon (she/her) I’m a Vancouver Island wedding, portrait and commercial photographer, based in the Comox Valley. Surrounded by the ocean, rivers, the forest and just a hop away from the mountains, I know plenty of beautiful places to photograph you!

Your photography should be a fantastic experience with someone you trust to guide you. It should capture the heart of YOU. With years of experience behind the camera, I am still as crazy about photographing people as when I began my career - originally as a photojournalist. Now, I am passionate about connecting with and capturing the authentic beauty of my photography clients. Our connection begins from the moment you reach out - and we can start planning your photo vision.

My mission is to create a space where you can relax, trusting me to guide you through an experience that will allow your genuine self to shine in beautiful, honest photographs you love. I am also really good at making sure everything is very stress-free!

I feel strongly that all families and marriage ceremonies are beautiful regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, diverse abilities, culture and race. If this does not align with you, I am probably not the right photographer for you.

Voted Readers Choice Best Photographer, Comox Valley, 8 Years Running.

Masters of Wedding Photography, Fall 2023, Winner of the Quarter.

2024 President’s Merit (for professional success and community contribution) Comox Valley Business and Community Chamber of Commerce Awards.

kind client words

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“What!!!! Seriously Karen. We are looking at Tyler’s photos and I have more than 25 favorites. They made me cry, actually I’m still crying. During a grad year with so much bummer news, the session was something hopeful and happy. I could see it in Tyler. Tonight was a special gift from an artistic and talented photographer. I know you took extra time to make the experience extra special for our son and that is super heartwarming for me.Your photos are getting such great feedback. I feel like you must be zonked the day after a photo shoot, your energy and enthusiasm was so appreciated by Tyler.Thank you Karen

— Tyler’s mom, Grad 2020

 
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I have opened this to start a text to you multiple times this past week, but have never been able to find the words to express how happy and grateful we are for you being our photographer, and capturing our day as beautifully as you did. We are so in love with our photos!! I finally got it together enough to make a Facebook album last night, and still couldn't caption most photos because I was struggling with words. You are amazing. We love your attention to detail, your use of light, your ability to capture raw and candid moments, and the fact that you somehow seemed to be everywhere that day, and didn't miss a thing. Thank you so much Karen!”

- Maggie & Jordan, Married 2019 in Port McNeil

the stories we share

Insta

let’s connect

info@mckinnonphotography.com
(250) 703-3486

Comox Valley, Campbell River, Parksville, Qualicum

Vancouver Island, British Columbia