Big White Mountain isn’t just a backdrop for my winter family photos—it’s the place where my photography journey truly began. Long before I was an Okanagan family photographer, I was a young mom raising my babies on the mountain, documenting our days in the snow and learning how magical winter could be when viewed through both motherhood and a camera lens. This is the story of how my Big White winter sessions started, why they matter so deeply to me, and how they grew into one of my most-loved yearly traditions.
The Origin of Winter Sessions
Before I was ever a photographer, I was simply a young mom living year-round on Big White Mountain. For five years, the mountain was home. It was where I watched my kids take their first steps, where we bundled up for long winter walks, and where motherhood—both overwhelming and magical—shaped me.
Those years on the mountain are still some of my favorites.
How Photography Slowly Turned Into Something More
My love for photography didn’t begin as a business. It began as a teenager who loved documenting life long before digital galleries existed. When my children were babies, that instinct became more intentional. I found myself wanting to capture every little moment with them.
Around that same time, I was running a small handmade crochet business. I needed photos, so naturally my kids and friends became my models. Before long, people began asking if I offered sessions—planting the seed for something new.
In 2017, I officially started offering family photo sessions. It was flexible, creative, and gave me a sense of connection outside motherhood.
The Magic on the Mountain
If you’ve ever spent a winter at Big White Mountain, you know how easily inspiration comes.
-
sparkling snow
-
snow-dusted trees
-
epic mountain views
-
soft mountain light
Families could snuggle, play in the snow, or simply walk and hold hands. Winter doesn’t demand perfection—it naturally invites presence.
It was the perfect place to capture authentic, candid moments.
When I Moved Away, I Thought Snowy Sessions Were Over
Eventually I moved off the mountain, and I assumed that chapter of winter photography would close with it.
But then past clients started messaging:
“Are you still doing photos up at Big White this year?”
The answer became clear: yes, absolutely.
I would pack my camera bag, make the drive up the hill, and return to where it all began.
Each winter felt like reconnecting with a piece of my story.
What Comes Next
This blog series will continue with a topic close to my heart: returning clients, the magic of consistency, and watching families grow through winter sessions.
Stay tuned.
And if you’ll be visiting Big White this winter—or if you have roots here just like I do—winter sessions are now open for booking. I’d love to create something beautiful with your family.
Now Booking for
2025/2026
Let’s Capture The Magic!
