Category Archives: Family portrait

Family Portraits: A Moment in Time.

For this family, our story goes way back. Grade 8 homeroom late 1990s. (It doesn’t make me any younger.)

For this couple, family portraits are important. Every year, I receive Christmas wishes from them that include updated portraits of the growing clan. 1 dog. A belly. A dog and a newborn. A second belly. A dog, a toddler, and another newborn. You get the picture. *Pun intended.

This time, the crew I photographed was made up of three young men and a busy couple.

We set out to do Fall portraits that included casual attire of flannel shirts, jeans, and boots. We didn’t expect the temperature to rise to the high 20s and low 30s Celsius. Hot, it was. Busy, it was. Priceless it is.

In getting ready for the photo shoot, Supermom had planned for two sets of clothing: a coordinated outdoor wear theme, and another sportier look.

Miss Fantastic had also planned out cold drinks and snacks. These turned out to be lifesavers considering the travel time between the different locations we visited and the warm temperatures. The boys were remarkably cooperative. We were then able to go to one final location.

Once home, we were able to prolong the photo session just long enough to create a few more images of the three little monkeys in their natural habitat.

Wall of some of their family portraits (work in progress).

Preggy and Pretty. A maternity portrait photoshoot turns magazine-style at Abelle Studio.

Maternity portrait from Abelle place in a magazine cover.

“Birth is the epicenter of women’s power.” –Ani DiFranco



This woman has had to wait for baby no. 2 less so than other women but more so than most. It hasn’t been an easy adventure, to say the least, but, at last, “Audrey” is on her way. In order to document this life-changing milestone, G came into the studio to immortalize the delicate and raw beauty of her pregnant state.

In-studio, we created a number of different looks with a flowy sheer maternity dress, some taupe taffetas fabric, and then black, body-hugging dresses, tops, and leggings that she selected from her wardrobe.

It is easy to get carried away in the photo studio with props and accessories while creating a magazine-style shoot because there is so much excitement attached to this moment. However, we tried to keep it simple yet elegant. Emphasizing the bump and classic body poses enhanced by natural and studio lighting.

Ideally, for comfort and ease of movement, weeks 32 to 37 are the ideal time frame to schedule the photo shoot. After that, moving is more difficult and your energy level starts to run low. We may have been a bit late to schedule this one but G is strong and flexible. We scheduled two different sittings and took breaks during each session. The results speak for themselves.

Most women feel self-conscious during their pregnancy and hormones sometimes get the better of the self-talk. Feeling fat and unattractive is common for expecting mothers. So, this session attempts to push the self-inflicted negative self talk away as it is simply that: negative self-talk!

Also, many of my readers will look at the finished portraits and believe they could never look this good. I started photographing women in 1999 and have created portraits of close to 1000 women and the feeling of inadequacy is universal. Let’s put an end to it, Sistahs!

I am extremely grateful I got to participate in creating these timeless studio portraits with G. The memories will stay with me forever.

To see more images, visit this link.

#maternityportraits #portraitstudio #pregnancyphotos #pregnancyportraits #glamthebelly #babybump #maternityphotos #contemporaryportraits #portrais #professionalportraits #studioshoot #glamourportraits #magazinestyle #photographer #prophotographer #brockvillephotostudio #montrealphotographer #fineartportraits #existinphotos #portraitsmatter #womenpower #abellephoto #abellestudio #photographystudio #luxeportraits #boutiquestudio #brockvillephotographer #brockvillephotography #brockvilleportraitstudio #2meterdistancing #magazinestylephotoshoot#notouchportraits

Lifestyle gender reveal family photoshoot

Social distancing and the shutdown of non-essential services had Abelle Photo Studio, like the rest of the world, at a standstill. I reconsidered the future of my portrait and wedding photography business. I dabbled in stock photography and fine art landscape photography. It enabled me to improve my study of light crafting and bending and my technical skills.
In the end, there was a silver lining to this. I realized just how important creating portraits and playing with light are to me. How contemporary portraits are priceless to families. How essential professional headshots are to business owners and entrepreneurs, and how cherished wedding photo albums are to couples and their families.

Time didn’t stand still, though. Children grew up and families shared more and more intimate moments. Some businesses disappeared yet others evolved, streamlined, and redefined themselves while new businesses were born during these unprecedented times.

Naturally backlit. Fall-style. The. Best. EVER.

Meet the Fortier family. They decided to document the announcement of the future member of their family in a fashion similar to their firstborn, Oli. We discussed the ideas and general feel of the session ahead of time. What types of images did we wish to create? When was the best time for our busy schedules? For Oli’s schedule? He is 3 years old, goes to daycare, and has decided to skip his afternoon naps.

With the help of a valiant helper, I tested various lighting situations. I got my light readings ahead of time and when the crew arrived, we started shooting, wasting no time.

A toddler’s attention span is short. Very short. But we rolled with what Oli was willing to give us. The images aren’t posed. Much. The images were directed. I decided on the best angles and sunlight position. The rest was taken on the fly in rapid-fire fashion. The results are images that convey a sense of joy and elation and tell the story of the day mom, dad, and son officially announced that Audrey would soon join this family.

To view more images of this cute family portrait session, click here.
To book or inquire about family portrait sessions, write to me.

Mother: A Title Just Above Queen

Mother, Mom, Mum, Mummy, Mamma, Maman, Mamá, etc. There are so many different ways to call upon her. She is many things to many of us. From counselor, to confident, to nurse, to accountant, to judge, and to cook, she embodies all of those roles without, most times, any formal training in any of those disciplines. Even when she is tired, she always has energy for those in her tribe.

My mother, my little sister, and me. Circa April 1976.
Taken with a Kodak Instamatic 110. Remember those?
The matriarch of my family.

In the last 20 years of photographing women, I have photographed hundreds of mothers. The one constant I have found is the positive shift in energy when they talk about their children. No matter how tired or calm they seem, they always liven up when they talk about their children and family.

Life doesn’t come with a manual.

It comes with a mother.

We provide a place where you can come in, be vulnerable and authentic, and where you can relax. At Abelle Boutique Photo Studio, you are the center of your world for a few hours. When was the last time this happened?

Your portrait session is customized. We map out the outfits, accessories and props, lighting setups, backdrops and overall mood of the images we wish to create. If you also require a business or profile headshot, let us know we will add this to the plan.

You do not need to be photogenic. There is no such thing. It isn’t your job to know where to look, how to smile or where to place your hand. This is what we do: direct, inspire, and pamper you and craft the light in such a way that you shine.

Showing your children and the ones you love you matter sets a great example for them.

Portrait photography studio: Abelle.ca

When your children and loved ones come looking for images of you, what will they find?

See other sessions here.

Order the Portrait Brochure here.

#motherdaughter #mothersday #familyportraits #family #beautiful #portraitstudio #photostudio #mothersdaygift #familyphotos #glamourshots #photographer #thanksmom

Attracting Clients I Deserve: Abelle Portraits

The web makes learning accessible. I use it as part of my regular training to perfect the mastery of my craft, I follow a number of entrepreneurs and leaders in my industry. I am constantly watching and listening to webinars and podcasts. Like every day. Like all the time.

The other day, while listening to a business webinar, the influential speaker said this: «You attract the clients you deserve.» In other words, you attract clients who are aligned with your energy. This line has stayed with me since.

I struggle with the confidence in the service I provide and the quality of the work I produce for people. I have come to understand that and expect it. I know many artists and soul-preneurs feel the same way because our soul is part and parcel of the service we provide for others. Indeed, portrait photography is my labor of love.

Abelle Portrait and Wedding Photography

These are some of the lovely souls that have come into my life in 2018.

When I read this line over and over again: «You attract the clients you deserve.», I am at a loss for words to express my gratitude toward the clients who come into my studio. All I know is I am one darn-lucky and blessed human being!

Brockville portrait photography Abelle

Abelle Loves: Made by Bees©

On my quest to reduce my use of plastic, especially single-use plastic, I found this product right in my neighborhood. I came across Priscilla, owner, and beekeeper, at yoga. She was gifting these wax-covered wraps to the owner-teacher-yogi. I inquired about these and found out that she was the maker of these gems and had them in stock.
These wraps are useful and cute and they smell nice.

Boutique photography studio: Abelle

These are the large-sized wraps which I use most of the time.

product photography studio

I also got a few of these packets. They contain a mix of seeds of plants that attract bees. They make great hostess gifts for people who don’t drink wine.

Photography studio Abelle

This is a kit containing a wrap in each of the three sizes: small, medium and large.

Family portrait photography

Isn’t the bee-shaped wax seal on the back of the packaging the cutest?

portrait photography studio Abelle

The large 13″x13″ completely covers my medium-sized bowl and is perfect for large bowls as well.

Portrait photography studio

 

You can order these online at Madebybees.ca
So long plastic wrap!

Abelle Portrait Photography Studio

Celebrating Family: Mother and Daughter Portrait Photo Session

Ah women… They are a special breed. This mother, sister, wife, and friend is such a remarkable human being. I never want to get too personal so I do not reveal too much of my clients’ personal lives. However, I can assure you that the world is a much better place because F. and S. are in it.

Abelle Family Portrait Photography

Beauty runs deeper than the thickness of the human skin. This is what you is visible in these images: an inner beauty that shines through in these portraits.Abelle Portrait Photography Studio

Based on the phone consultation we had, F. brought a variety of top of various colors, necklines and textures. We tried different colors and played with different necklines until we found what was most flattering and photogenic on photographs. The deep royal and emerald blues looked great on F. You see, this woman is from Cape Breton and the sea is part of her DNA. Not surprisingly, these colors, reminiscent of the ocean, looked amazing on her. Also, notice the neckline on the royal blue top. Take note: cowl necks are a must in your wardrobe ladies.Abelle Portrait Photography Studio

S. came in with simple and understated tops that also worked well in the photos. I hope we did justice to her perfect creamy skin and her sublime eyebrows. Abelle Portrait Photography Studio Abelle Portrait Photography Studio

 

 

Madison’s lip color choices. Frances is wearing Greystone and Sarah is wearing Saint. Colors by Nude Stix.

 

Hair and makeup: Madison Moore HMUA
Photography assistant: Angélique Gravelle
Photographer: Isabelle Bouchard

High school senior portrait photography studio

High School Student Portraits: Abelle Celebrates Teenage

When I hear comments like: «Today’s youth are lazy.», «In my days, we were better at (fill in the blank)», etc. I think to myself that we are dead wrong about young adults. There are so many creative, eager, good-natured, whole-hearted and smart young people out there.

With high school graduation and prom season around the corner, this next post is a reminder that thousands of young men and women are about to start a new and significant chapter in their life. We love to photograph them in our studio to immortalize them at this very important stage in their life.

High school senior portrait photography studioHere is one such example. Angelique is an outstanding young woman. I have the pleasure of working with her in the studio. I wanted to capture her youth forever.

High school senior portrait photography studio

She willingly agreed to spend a few hours with me, at the studio. We tried out the new gear.

Professional portrait photography studio

Behind the scenes: a pulled back image of the lighting setup. A little Hollywood Glamour lighting never goes out of style,

Indeed, Christmas came early as we invested in some «light-in-a-can» portrait studio photography equipment. There is only so much daylight November and December can bring.

High school senior portrait photography studio

Doesn’t she remind you of Grace Kelly?

Our portraits celebrate people of any age. Young, middle-aged and mature women sit in front of our camera. Let’s celebrate you; because every stage of life is worth celebrating. 

 

#seniorpictures #senioryear #modernteenstyle #portraitphotographer #rising_masters #abell#portraitphotography #portrait_perfection #portrait_shots #oldmasterslighting #fineartportraits #portraitstudio #abellephotography #abelleportraits

Mother and daughter portrait photography session.

Celebrating Family Ties – Mother Daughter Photo Shoot: Abelle

Meet Andrea and Annie, the models in this beautiful and intimate portrait photo shoot.
This is Andrea’s testimonial:

“ Isabelle in her thoughtful and skilled manner has marked a transitional age/stage for Annie and I. Annie is completing high school and is heading to university in September.

Studio magazine-style portrait shoot by Abelle.

She reminds me of Chelsea Clinton.

I am growing my businesses in preparation for retirement from soon to be 25 yrs. of teaching. We very much appreciated Isabelle’s organization, professionalism and attention to detail in creating a safe atmosphere for the photo shoot and the exciting reveal process. As a painter, I am fascinated by how she masterfully paints her subjects in their most beautiful and authentic light! Annie’s casting shot captured her fresh look and was ideal for the intended purpose of her performance audition in Toronto.Studio portrait photo shoot by Abelle.

Senior portrait photo shoot.Portrait photography studio: AbelleBeauty makeover and portrait photo session.

Isabelle suggested a business shot for me which I will use in various multi-media forums including Facebook promoting my local businesses – Buells Creek Furnishings (hand-painted custom furnishings) & Walk More, Bark Less  (pet nanny and dog walking).

 

Mother and daughter portrait photography session.I treasure the images which caught my girl and me in our groove together. Such fun working with you, thank you again.”

Photography assistant: Angélique Gravelle
Hair & makeup artist: Madison Moore
Photography and styling: Isabelle of Abelle

 

 

Beauty portrait photo session

A Few Shades of Grey: Abelle Portraiture

Remember this woman?

Back in 2015. A very different look.

Natasha was the face of a few of Abelle’s promotional pieces back in 2015 and 2016.
Well, look at her now!

It takes courage to go gray and for Natasha, it was a journey. Courage is this woman’s middle name.

Beauty portrait photo session

Rocking the Silver Pixie Cut!

After choosing to live a chemical-free life, it became clear that she would eventually have to make that decision. I cannot believe how stunning she looks. Look at the other glamorous portraits of her taken a few years ago.

Mother daughter portrait photography session: Abelle

She, too, has changed a lot since 2015!

Classic portrait of a young girl shot by Abelle

A classic portrait of her daughter back in 2015.

Beauty portrait photo session

Oh yes! A Sparkly Dress!

Beauty portrait photo session

A Classy Look. Love the Jackie O’ Dress.

Here is to celebrating the different stages of life! What stage do you wish to celebrate?

#glamourportraits #Abelleportraitstudio #corporateportraits #familyportrait #portraitphotographer


Natasha is an energy worker: a Reiki Master Practitioner and teacher, a Young Living Essential Oil Aficionado. She is also a Raindrop Technique massage therapist.

Styling: by Natasha herself
Hair & makeup: Madison of Madison Moore MUA
Lip color: Sin by Nudestix
Photography: Abelle.ca