Giving Back Through Photography

As a last-semester student in the Honours Bachelor of Commerce – Management program at Seneca Polytechnic in Toronto, I get access to job postings offered exclusively to students. That’s how I landed a meaningful role as a research assistant–photographer for the School of Fashion. I had the honour of capturing fashion student projects and taking professional headshots for those participating in a research study. It was during this time that I met Karen—an Indigenous Counsellor at Seneca.

Karen later reached out to me, asking if she could hire me to take graduation portraits for her Indigenous students. I was thrilled and invited her to the studio to discuss the project further. From the moment I read her email, I knew this was something I wanted to do as a volunteer. I felt excited—and deeply honoured.

On the day of the event, I arrived at the Odeyto building at Seneca Polytechnic. The architecture of the space is breathtaking - rich in symbolism and cultural meaning. One of the symbolisms is the roof shaped and resembling the underside of a canoe - supported by 28 glue-laminated ribs, symbolizing both the ribs of a canoe and the 28-day lunar cycle. I was mind-blown by the design and thought behind it! Karen graciously gave my assistant and me a short tour, sharing the significance behind these design elements and how they reflect Indigenous ways of knowing and being. It was a quiet day, as many students couldn’t make it—understandably so, with the semester nearing its end. But for those people who did attend (not only students but the faculty members too, indigenous and not), I had the honour of capturing professional headshots. Each headshot session felt like a small celebration of resilience and achievement.

As professionals, we don’t always need to receive financial compensation for our work. Sometimes, the opportunity to contribute, to show up for a community, and to create something meaningful is its own reward. I always try to seek out opportunities to give back to the community in any way that I can - not only through photographs. As a Toronto portrait photographer, I believe that photography about more than just about taking pictures and charging money for them, but more about connecting with people, celebrating their milestones and successes, and offering something meaningful. I’m truly thankful to Karen for trusting me with this opportunity. The experience left me inspired and reminded me that giving back—especially through something I love—is one of the most meaningful parts of being a professional.

Feel free to scroll down to see a few of the portraits from this session—shared with permission (By the way! The last photo is of me). The backdrop you’ll notice is the Future Ancestors mural by Anishinaabe artist Quinn Hopkins, a powerful piece created by a young Indigenous talent. It includes augmented reality elements that enhance the viewer’s experience - you can check out what it looks like in action here.

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Why Professional Headshots Are a Must in 2025

By acc_2kldypyw8dpjv • April 10, 2025

Let’s be honest—most of us have been guilty of using that same old headshot from five years ago (or more). Maybe it was taken at a friend’s wedding, or maybe it’s a cropped photo from an event where you just happened to look halfway decent. I get it. Life is busy. And getting a proper headshot can feel intimidating or unnecessary. But in 2025? It’s actually more necessary than ever. Whether you’re applying for a new job, speaking at a conference, launching a business, or just updating your LinkedIn, your portrait matters. In a digital-first world, people often meet you online before they meet you in person. That little circle image? It’s doing a lot of heavy lifting as it represents your professionalism, your energy, and how seriously you take your work.

Why I’m Now Offering Headshots And Why You Might Need One

April 10, 2025

For years, I’ve had the absolute joy of photographing families, mamas-to-be, and those sweet first moments with newborns. These sessions have shaped me not just as a photographer, but as someone who loves helping people feel confident and seen. And now, I’m bringing that same energy to a new offering: professional headshots and personal branding photography in Toronto. The shift started when I began working as a research assistant photographer at Seneca Polytechnic . One project led to another, and before I knew it, I had completely fallen in love with professional portraiture. What really stood out? People weren’t just asking for “nice” photos but they were asking for images that actually felt like them. It became a pattern. After family shoots, someone would quietly pull me aside: “Hey, could you do a headshot for my LinkedIn?” And then another. And another. That’s when it clicked: people want business portraits that are modern, natural, and, most importantly, real. Not stiff. Not awkwardly posed. Not overly retouched. Just professional photos that reflect who they are. So I dove in. I studied posing that flatters every body type. I played with light and backgrounds for both studio and on-location sessions. I created an experience that’s fast, relaxed, and (yes!) fun, even if you’re camera-shy. In 2025, a headshot isn’t optional. It’s your first impression across LinkedIn, your business website, speaking engagements, or job applications. Whether you’re a student entering the workforce or an executive updating your brand, a high-quality headshot makes a real difference . If you’ve been putting it off because it feels intimidating or too formal, I completely understand. That’s exactly why I approach every session with empathy, clarity, and a touch of humor so you can feel like yourself in front of the camera. I am ready when you are! View my packages or book your session by clicking the button below.