These photos were part of a slideshow presentation at YANA’s annual fundraising event. My family was deeply supported by YANA when we faced having a critically ill child and after capturing our journey, I have been telling YANA family stories for 17 years. These images are a gift to YANA and a gift to the family I capture. It is an honour to be trusted to create these and thank you to this incredible family for welcoming me, and the community into their story. Meet Penny and her awesome sisters and beautiful parents.

Marianne’s work stopped me in my tracks the first time I saw it. I was immersed in curiosity as the painting reminded me of an adventure I was yet to have, but was imagining and feelings I had while travelling in Asia. It brought the future and the past together. Now, when I see her work, I often look at it through that lens. The woman who makes this art is equally magnificent to her creations. She is adventurous, has a range of different energy and creates a space of peace. Which, I realize as writing this, is much like her paintings.

Leanne believes in the power of movement to enhance the quality of life and the importance of listing to your body. This value is clearly illustrated in the positive and welcoming environment that has a focus on mind and body healthy. Of course, Leanne has years of experience and knowledge and combined with her care for her Inner Pursuit Fitness community you and see why this is a go-to spot in the Comox Valley for fitness.

In full transparency, I have to tell you that I absolutely adore Leanne, if we weren’t already friends, my friend crush level would be 11,259,000 points

The Grove Health and Wellness is a team of health professionals that includes Chiropractors, a Naturopathic Doctor, a Registered Acupuncturist, a Chinese Medicine Practitioner and a Registered Massage Therapist.

Make a compost pile look cool? Show it off in a way that speaks to how much work and passion goes into organic gardening? Ok, I am in. I spent the day capturing life at Eatmore Sprouts. Glenn and Carmen Wakeling are deeply committed to running their business with social responsibility and sustainability at the forefront of what they do.

For the second time,  I joined the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation to capture portraits and moments of the difference makers and the patients under their care. It is always an inspiring project. Initially, there is some fear as to if the patients will allow us to photograph them. Each time though, our requests are met with enthusiasm – most people share that same sense of appreciation I carry and are honored to share their story.

I was full of anticipation for our session and when I walked in to our shoot I was even almost overwhelmed, and needed a bit of time to take in her beautiful studio space and her vibrant work before I picked up the camera.

So when I have the chance to take new photographs for her we always get pumped. This time there was something significant to celebrate. In true Leanne fashion she is growing her business to meet the demands of her loyal participants, and continuing to innovate her business.