Melissa Rae
Natural, Classic, Fun….
This is what Melissa Rae Photography and Media has been described as by fellow photographers and clients.
I look for the natural beauty in every shot and make sure that it is perfect right off the camera. I am intrigued with people and how beauty lies differently between each and every one of us. I have been called an “Old Soul” which in some cases brings out a very Classic look in my pictures; these are the timeless pictures that can be displayed for an eternity. I am an on the go person who loves to have fun, your experience with me will be full of smiles, laughter, and excitement. As my husband calls it, “my day job” as an Early Childhood Development Educator I thrive on making sure children have the best experience that they can. Kids get tired just as you and I, so I’m okay with taking breaks and giving them their play time… of course capturing some of the most unique pictures in the process, both of mom and dad as well as of the children.
My life and interest in photography began in 1999 when my first son Dayton was born. This is also the day my little boy left us for the greater unknown. This was both the happiest and saddest day of my life. A friend of the family had taken a few pictures of the funeral for us, and at first I thought it was a bit strange but allowed it. Now I am forever in debt to her for these photos as they are the only pictures and memories I will ever have of him.....
Ever since then I have made a promise to look at everything in life differently, to see the beauty and delight in everything this earth has to offer. I did not get fully into my photography until a few years later as I looked at it as taboo for me, like no one would understand. In 2006 when my third child was born I decided to buy a DSLR camera. I began to play and practice with it and did a few shoots for the Bonnyville Pro Rodeo Association in prep for their cowboy gala. A friend pushed me to pursue my passion in photography and now I can make memories that will last a lifetime for other as Margo had done for me. Finally someone who understood me! Thanks again Cathy.
Since getting serious about my photography, I have had the chance to work with two well known bull fighters, Miss Rodeo Canada 2009- Aaron Courchesne. In working with Miss Rodeo Canada my photos have been added to the Miss Rodeo Canada website, as her autograph cards and published in the Xtreme Rodeo Magazine July/August Issue. I have also had the opportunity to work with a few different local artists: Tiffany Dowhan and Six ways to Saturday on their Promo packages. I have had the privilege of being part of the Lakeland 2010 Alberta Winter Games, and offer my services out to charities such as STARS Air Ambulance and the Bonnyville Community Health Centre for their Gala Fundraisers.
I am always working on my photography skills by taking extra courses and keeping up to date with the latest fads and designs. I am currently working on my portfolio for the PPOC (Professional Photographers of Canada) and I have recently completed my Diploma in Photography, these are some great credentials to have. I thank my husband Corey every day for the support he gives to me with yet another venture in my life. I am located in the Bonnyville area and have recently added a portable studio to my business which allows me more flexibility to serve you better.
I will see you soon
Thanks for stopping by!
Melissa Rae