vancouver athlete photographer

UNPOSED, STRONG, AND TRUE TO THEM

I photograph athletes and dancers with an easy, natural approach—focused on confidence, movement, and real expression, not stiff poses or forced moments.

my approach

confident | powerful | heartfelt

  • Relaxed, natural sessions that feel like them — no stiff posing or forced smiles.

  • An approach built for this season, where confidence, nerves, and excitement all show up — and are welcomed.

  • A personalized experience that captures athletes and dancers in a way that feels modern, authentic, and meaningful.

click here to learn about the athlete experience

get to know me more…

I’m a mom of two teens - one deep in rugby, one in competitive dance - so I know firsthand how fast these years move. One minute it’s early-morning practices and gear bags in the hallway… the next it’s grad photos, applications, and figuring out what comes next.

And before I was a photographer, I was a competitive athlete myself. I spent my high school years and early twenties playing softball and curling at the provincial and national level - with Olympians and against Olympians. I know what it feels like to train, compete, push through nerves, and show up under pressure.

I also know what I don’t have from those years: action photos that captured the intensity, the movement, and the pride of being in my prime as an athlete. I wish I had more portraits and moments to look back on - the ones that truly showed who I was during that chapter.

That’s why this work matters so much to me now. Watching my own kids grow and compete has shown me how important it is to pause and document these years - the confidence, the drive, the friendships, and the moments where they’re becoming exactly who they’re meant to be.

That’s what I love to photograph - the real, honest in-between moments that tell an athlete’s or dancer’s story right before everything changes.

click here to learn more about me

the process

  • step 1 - contact

    You want your athlete or dancer photographed in a way that feels real — the grit, the focus, the joy, the movement.

    This first step is where we connect. I’ll learn about who they are, what they love, and the story you want captured, so their photos feel true to them.

  • step 2 - plan

    Once everything is official, we’ll choose the perfect outdoor location that matches their sport, style, or movement — whether it’s a field, court, park, or coastline. You’ll get clear wardrobe guidance and simple prep tips so your athlete or dancer arrives feeling confident, relaxed, and ready to move.

  • step 3 - your photo day!

    Enjoy your session at the beautiful outdoor location!
    This is their time to move, play, laugh, and fully step into the athlete or dancer experience. We’ll capture real moments of strength, expression, and personality - nothing forced, just who they are in this chapter.

  • step 4 - gallery

    Receive your athlete or dancer portraits in a beautiful custom online gallery.

    You’ll be able to view, download, and share everything with ease.

    If choosing what to print feels overwhelming, I’ve got you. I’ll help you pick the images that will look incredible framed or displayed in your home, and that support is always included.

featured athlete galleries

the power behind the passion

view here

the energy of game day

view here

light, strength & rhythm

view here

custom heirloom prints

prints that are simply beautiful - crafted to last, and delivered right to your door.

When life gets busy with practices, games, rehearsals, and performances, printing photos often falls to the bottom of the list. And figuring out what to do with them can feel overwhelming.

Your gallery includes more than digital downloads. You’ll have access to order professional prints and products directly from your online gallery, all designed to showcase your athlete or dancer at their best. I also offer complimentary guidance on choosing the perfect print sizes and finishes for your home.

Digital files are great for safekeeping - but seeing your athlete or dancer’s images on your walls every day is something truly meaningful for you and your family.

you don’t have to plan this all on your own — I’ll help you through every step.

You don’t have to plan this all on your own - I’ll guide you through every step.

Between school, training, competitions, rehearsals, and everything else on your plate, life is already full. Planning photos shouldn’t feel like one more thing to manage.

That’s where I come in. I’ll help you choose the right outdoor location, outfits that move well, and timing that fits both light and your schedule. The session will feel relaxed, comfortable, and true to who you are as an athlete or dancer.

No stiff poses, no forced smiles - just honest, expressive moments that show your strength, movement, and personality in this chapter of your life.

I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s create something that feels like you - confident, real, and ready for what comes next.

click here to start planning!

kind words

I couldn’t be more pleased with the session I scheduled with Michelle for my daughter. Michelle found the perfect location that created a stunning backdrop! She did a fantastic job at capturing my daughter’s natural beauty and highlighting her dance skills and smile. I would highly recommend Michelle for a personalized session!
— Jessica Switz

faqs

  • My work specializes in natural, relaxed photography that captures genuine emotions and real connections. I combine traditional, documentary, and lifestyle photography to capture authentic images for you to treasure for a lifetime.

    I will provide a generous gallery of images that can be displayed in your home as pieces of art. These photographs will be an investment in your family history. Images from your session often tell a story, capturing a treasured moment in time. I do not try to make you look perfect, stiff, or unnatural. I am not after that "one" shot with everyone looking at the camera and smiling. Sure, I may get some with everyone looking and smiling, but I promise if I do, it will not feel stiff or forced.

  • Choose outfits that reflect who they are and allow for easy movement. Their uniform, training gear, or a simple, comfortable outfit they feel confident in all work well. I’m happy to offer suggestions once you reach out, so their look fits the location and the style of session.

  • Photographs grow in value over time and become family treasures. I know the importance of archiving and saving digital images. I offer one simple, all-inclusive collection where you receive all the high resolution digital files delivered via direct download and a print release. A minimum of 25 digitals files will be available to you (but usually there are more!), in both color and black and white. Furthermore, you will have the option to buy additional prints and boutique products.

  • Yes - game day coverage is available as its own package. It includes documentary-style images that capture the intensity, emotion, and story of their sports game.

learn more

let’s chat!

inquire for details and pricing

As your athlete photographer, I want you to feel like your session with me is like having a friend you can now trust with your athlete portrait photos. No posing, nothing awkward, just you + your athlete being yourself.

I can’t wait to hear from you!