Review is written by Staff @ The Ring and is based on • Interviews with this vendor • Interviews with past brides
When we first met with Karen McKinnon, owner of McKinnon Photography, we had already heard about her fabulous reputation around the island.But we were still blown away with her professional work and her fun-loving personality.Her zest for life, and thoughtful approach to every single image she takes, is abundantly clear.
As we walked along the streets of downtown Courtenay, it was amusingly obvious that Karen is very well known in the Courtenay/Comox area. By the time we finished our interview; she had already shared numerous conversations with friends and fellow downtown business owners.
There are countless reasons why her brides love her, ranging from her natural artistry to her laid back, stress-free approach to working with clients. With Karen McKinnon, it’s about capturing the connection between couples and bringing back those incredible memories of love and happiness from their wedding day. Here’s more on why couples can’t get enough of Karen…
Photography runs in the family.....
Karen's mother was a professional photographer so it's no surprise that Karen was always drawn to photography. At first, she tried "being all sensible" by going to school to become a dietitian. But Karen found herself living for the moments in between her studies, when she was able to get back behind the camera. Eventually, her love of photography won the day and she enrolled in photography school. Karen says, "I realized life living your passion is a very rewarding one!"
Rewarding experience, celebrating moments…
After earning her Diploma of Professional Photography from Western Academy of Photography Karen went on to work as a photojournalist before starting down her path as a wedding and portrait photographer. She has since gone on to serve on the faculty of the Western Academy of Photography and North Island College's Professional Photography Program. She has been recognized repeatedly for her photography including receiving the Professional Photographs of Canada (PPOC) Vancouver Island Photographer of the Year (2009) and being a finalist for the PPOC British Columbia Photographer of the Year (2012). In her community she has received the award for Business Woman of the Year (2009), was a nominee for Professional Merit of the Year (2007), was awarded Small Business of the Year (2008). Although it is lovely to be recognized, it is truly the reputation that Karen has with her clients that she is most proud of.
For Karen, the real rewards are seen through the eyes of her camera, especially on a wedding day. "I am motivated by celebration,” she explained to staff at The Ring. “Celebrating relationships, celebrating what we have, celebrating love. Being photographed or having someone photographed is an act of love, and so is my photography."
To date, Karen has shot over 200 weddings. And to keep her passion for wedding photography burning, she admits she now limits the number of weddings she shoots each year, “I do this so that I can give my full attention to my bride's and groom's and feel connected to their event.” Karen says she also finds it fun to challenge herself with every wedding she shoots.
Karen is well known for loving social media and the way it allows her to connect with her clients as well as the community. Karen's blog is a well-crafted testament to her excitement for her bridal couples and other clients, filled with fabulous sneak peeks of some of her favourite moments of each event.
But her favorite tool is to follow the golden rule, 'do unto others as you would have them do unto you'. "This keeps me true to myself and my clients – which I believe generates honest and positive word of mouth and genuine relationships with my clients."
Karen says she feels that experience is one of the things that set her apart. "I have been taking photos of weddings for nine years now and am always amazed at the tremendous amount of diversity!" Karen finds it easy to see the beauty in all people and moments.
Contemporary in style, warm at heart
Karen knows her own photography style and says she’s wary of trends. "I don't want my clients’ albums or photos to be dated ten years from now. My style is very contemporary in its composition… Warm and sometimes edgy… Something that will stand the test of time…"
So when it comes to clients, Karen says she loves to work with couples "who have put photography at the top of their wedding wish list." Karen adores a bride who is "down to earth, excited, warm, open-minded." Karen says a McKinnon bride usually wants her wedding to have style and be classy, but most importantly, she wants to have fun, be stress free, and of course, say ‘I do!’.
Connecting with couples first
Karen places great emphasis on meeting beforehand, typically a few times. Of course, since many of her clients are from out of town, she and her assistant are happy to set up phone and/or Skype meetings to simplify logistics.
Karen feels part of what she offers a bridal couple is the personal experience. "We get to know each other, typically we chit-chat about life and find what we have in common - there is always something! Then we talk through the priority of their day, followed by flow, and details. This brings us then to how the photography fits in. My couples find this meeting really helpful as often we end up talking about the general flow of the wedding. And I am usually able to be helpful with my knowledge of weddings!"
Britney Adcock, married August 27, 2011, appreciated Karen's knowledge and communication. "We chose Karen because, after meeting with her, we got the sense that she was going to be more than just a photographer. Her services weren't just photography - her, and her assistant, were absolutely phenomenal. They would have done anything for us on our wedding day if it meant that we were comfortable."
For September 2010 bride, Justine Lister-Adams, the connection between Karen and herself was instant. “Right from the beginning I felt like I knew Karen before we even met. She's so personable and easy going. She is also really good at reading clients and knowing how much or little direction they need from her which put us at ease immediately."
For Jennifer O'Connell and her fiancé, married on August 6, 2011, it was all about the above-and-beyond style attention they received. They could hardly believe how much work Karen did for them. "She scouted out areas for pictures days before the wedding, she was always there to answer questions as the big day approached and those last minute panic attacks are happening, and Karen will only book a limited amount of weddings to make sure that her full undivided attention is on your special day."
Options & prices
Wedding, portrait and boudoir photography are all offered by McKinnon Photography. And, as part of her services for weddings, Karen says couples can receive an engagement session, as much time as needed for planning, and an online album. They also have choices for albums, digital files, cards and prints.
Karen is definitely up for shooting destination weddings, although "most destination weddings are coming to Comox Valley, not the other way around!" In Mikhaila's case, she was getting married in Maui. "At first, I didn't consider McKinnon Photography because my wedding was taking place in Maui, Hawaii. But after viewing several photographers there, I just didn't feel a connection with any of them. I knew if I had a wedding in town I would no doubt choose McKinnon Photography, so I contacted Karen and the planning began! Mikhaila's wedding took place on October 12, 2011 with the photographer Mikhaila wanted...and Karen couldn't complain about working in Maui!
Mikhaila was very happy with what she paid for the McKinnon Photography experience. "I am a firm believer in you get what you pay for. Photography in general is not an easy thing to spend a lot of money on until you receive your pictures and it is 100% worth it. I know I could get my pictures done elsewhere for cheaper but I know the quality and professionalism is not the same. I want unique photos that I can look at for years and still be in awe. Karen delivers on this expectation time and time again."
Mikhaila continued, "We loved how easy it was to communicate with Karen, and so did the rest of our family. Several family members have printed engagement photos because they were stunning and we also decided to get a wedding album."
Walking you through a McKinnon Photography wedding
While Karen is known for her easy-going personality that goes right out the window when it comes to getting to the wedding on time! "My assistant and I are always there early. Call me paranoid but you never know when there might be a road obstruction or something else crazy!"
During her time working with each couple, Karen is aware of their priorities, the itinerary of the day and their photography vision. She makes sure that they know the family names and photo groupings. She loves to have a great plan in place that has been created in consultation with the client. This allows the day to flow smoothly. "I am a big believer in being prepared, but open to change. My extensive experience and relationship with the couple allows me to be flexible and ready to switch things up it, should the situation, such as weather or the energy of the couple, changes."
Britney appreciated Karen's capturing certain important moments perfectly. "I can't even put a value on the image she captured of my husband's face when he saw me coming down the aisle. There was also this picture of my Grandpa leaning against a door frame watching me prepare for my big day. The look on his face is something that in many years, when he is gone, can never be replaced. That image alone was worth every penny."
Justine loved how committed Karen got to a certain shot at her wedding. She told the Ring, "One of my best memories would probably be Karen, lying in the dirt under a bridge, all for the love of a good photo - it really did turn out to be a good shot!"
Jennifer was thankful that Karen suggested she have a 'first look' photo before the wedding ceremony. "I was hesitant at first however it was the best experience we could have had. I would not have done it any other way. We were able to have an intimate moment, and have time with each other before we were crowded around by so many people after the ceremony. It was one of my favourite moments of the day."
Karen seems to have the ability to be a part of the scenery on the wedding day. Jennifer didn't even notice she was taking photos most of the time! "One of the best parts of McKinnon Photography is that it is like Karen is a part of the family; she fits right in and it is not like having a photographer dodging in and out trying to get their perfect shot."
Once the wedding day is over, the sneak peek is a must! Karen gets something up on Facebook or the blog as soon as possible. A few weeks later the client receives notification that their personal online album is ready. They can log-in and see their photos and share the link with whoever they choose.
If they are doing a Custom Album, Karen guides them through choosing their favourites and begins the process of designing their book. Once their design is complete, they approve it, and we can have the book in their hands within four weeks. She also does rush orders for eloping couples who are returning to their wedding reception and want their photos to take back with them.
If a client is also doing digital files, or is just doing digital files, they will have them in approximately three weeks after the wedding.
Our favourite things…
♥ Karen's flexibility and willingness to go above and beyond for brides. Justine remembers, "McKinnon Photography did our engagement photos, full wedding day photos and had additional staff at our reception to run a photo booth. The photo booth was our idea and not something she actually offered. Once we ran the idea by Karen, she wouldn't let us NOT have it! Everyone at the wedding loved it and it created some awesome photo memories for us."
♥ Karen's passion for photography is also a passion for people and treating them well. When a client had their house burn down, Karen instantly thought of the photos which were gone forever. She immediately ran through all her files to find everything ever taken and let the friend know that all the photos could be replaced!
♥ Karen's office manager, Christine, who keeps things running smoothly in the McKinnon Photography world. As well, Karen’s photography assistants add their own experience. "My assistants have all been with me for many years and are experienced photographers in their own right."
♥ Karen's involvement in the Comox Valley business community as well as with Y.A.N.A.
Karen is very involved in the her community. She is well known for her involvement with Y.A.N.A (You Are Not Alone) a unique charity that supports Comox Valley Families who have to travel for medical assistance for sick children. Co-ordinator Anita Brassard said,
"Karen has been so generous in donating hundreds of hours of her time with the organization. She is involved with our Annual Fundraising Auction, photographs all the families who use Y.A.N.A. and she goes every year to Children's Hospital and photographs a family going through treatment. She is known as an amazing friend with so much compassion for raising money for those in need. She is also constantly taking on new photographers for mentoring and helping them become great with her amazing passion for her industry." It was these type of raves that saw Karen nominated for the Most Amazing Person in the Community in 2011. Karen also contributes to many other community endeavors such as creating photo stories for the Mobile Care-A-Van that provides free medical care to the homeless, and generally being there either with her camera or community spirit when someone in her photography or local community is in need.
Details, details, details.....
• The average bride spends roughly $2200 with McKinnon Photography, however prices can range from $2,200 to $4,500 (taxes are applicable to all bookings)
• Intimate Weddings start at $980
• A $600 deposit will book your wedding with Karen McKinnon Photography
• It's best to book six to 18 months. "You just never know how popular a certain date is going to be. The earlier the better to guarantee you capture your dream day!"
When we first met with Karen McKinnon, owner of McKinnon Photography, we had already heard about her fabulous reputation around the island.But we were still blown away with her professional work and her fun-loving personality.Her zest for life, and thoughtful approach to every single image she takes, is abundantly clear.
As we walked along the streets of downtown Courtenay, it was amusingly obvious that Karen is very well known in the Courtenay/Comox area. By the time we finished our interview; she had already shared numerous conversations with friends and fellow downtown business owners.
There are countless reasons why her brides love her, ranging from her natural artistry to her laid back, stress-free approach to working with clients. With Karen McKinnon, it’s about capturing the connection between couples and bringing back those incredible memories of love and happiness from their wedding day. Here’s more on why couples can’t get enough of Karen…
Photography runs in the family.....
Karen's mother was a professional photographer so it's no surprise that Karen was always drawn to photography. At first, she tried "being all sensible" by going to school to become a dietitian. But Karen found herself living for the moments in between her studies, when she was able to get back behind the camera. Eventually, her love of photography won the day and she enrolled in photography school. Karen says, "I realized life living your passion is a very rewarding one!"
Rewarding experience, celebrating moments…
After earning her Diploma of Professional Photography from Western Academy of Photography Karen went on to work as a photojournalist before starting down her path as a wedding and portrait photographer. She has since gone on to serve on the faculty of the Western Academy of Photography and North Island College's Professional Photography Program. She has been recognized repeatedly for her photography including receiving the Professional Photographs of Canada (PPOC) Vancouver Island Photographer of the Year (2009) and being a finalist for the PPOC British Columbia Photographer of the Year (2012). In her community she has received the award for Business Woman of the Year (2009), was a nominee for Professional Merit of the Year (2007), was awarded Small Business of the Year (2008). Although it is lovely to be recognized, it is truly the reputation that Karen has with her clients that she is most proud of.
For Karen, the real rewards are seen through the eyes of her camera, especially on a wedding day. "I am motivated by celebration,” she explained to staff at The Ring. “Celebrating relationships, celebrating what we have, celebrating love. Being photographed or having someone photographed is an act of love, and so is my photography."
To date, Karen has shot over 200 weddings. And to keep her passion for wedding photography burning, she admits she now limits the number of weddings she shoots each year, “I do this so that I can give my full attention to my bride's and groom's and feel connected to their event.” Karen says she also finds it fun to challenge herself with every wedding she shoots.
Karen is well known for loving social media and the way it allows her to connect with her clients as well as the community. Karen's blog is a well-crafted testament to her excitement for her bridal couples and other clients, filled with fabulous sneak peeks of some of her favourite moments of each event.
But her favorite tool is to follow the golden rule, 'do unto others as you would have them do unto you'. "This keeps me true to myself and my clients – which I believe generates honest and positive word of mouth and genuine relationships with my clients."
Karen says she feels that experience is one of the things that set her apart. "I have been taking photos of weddings for nine years now and am always amazed at the tremendous amount of diversity!" Karen finds it easy to see the beauty in all people and moments.
Contemporary in style, warm at heart
Karen knows her own photography style and says she’s wary of trends. "I don't want my clients’ albums or photos to be dated ten years from now. My style is very contemporary in its composition… Warm and sometimes edgy… Something that will stand the test of time…"
So when it comes to clients, Karen says she loves to work with couples "who have put photography at the top of their wedding wish list." Karen adores a bride who is "down to earth, excited, warm, open-minded." Karen says a McKinnon bride usually wants her wedding to have style and be classy, but most importantly, she wants to have fun, be stress free, and of course, say ‘I do!’.
Connecting with couples first
Karen places great emphasis on meeting beforehand, typically a few times. Of course, since many of her clients are from out of town, she and her assistant are happy to set up phone and/or Skype meetings to simplify logistics.
Karen feels part of what she offers a bridal couple is the personal experience. "We get to know each other, typically we chit-chat about life and find what we have in common - there is always something! Then we talk through the priority of their day, followed by flow, and details. This brings us then to how the photography fits in. My couples find this meeting really helpful as often we end up talking about the general flow of the wedding. And I am usually able to be helpful with my knowledge of weddings!"
Britney Adcock, married August 27, 2011, appreciated Karen's knowledge and communication. "We chose Karen because, after meeting with her, we got the sense that she was going to be more than just a photographer. Her services weren't just photography - her, and her assistant, were absolutely phenomenal. They would have done anything for us on our wedding day if it meant that we were comfortable."
For September 2010 bride, Justine Lister-Adams, the connection between Karen and herself was instant. “Right from the beginning I felt like I knew Karen before we even met. She's so personable and easy going. She is also really good at reading clients and knowing how much or little direction they need from her which put us at ease immediately."
For Jennifer O'Connell and her fiancé, married on August 6, 2011, it was all about the above-and-beyond style attention they received. They could hardly believe how much work Karen did for them. "She scouted out areas for pictures days before the wedding, she was always there to answer questions as the big day approached and those last minute panic attacks are happening, and Karen will only book a limited amount of weddings to make sure that her full undivided attention is on your special day."
Options & prices
Wedding, portrait and boudoir photography are all offered by McKinnon Photography. And, as part of her services for weddings, Karen says couples can receive an engagement session, as much time as needed for planning, and an online album. They also have choices for albums, digital files, cards and prints.
Karen is definitely up for shooting destination weddings, although "most destination weddings are coming to Comox Valley, not the other way around!" In Mikhaila's case, she was getting married in Maui. "At first, I didn't consider McKinnon Photography because my wedding was taking place in Maui, Hawaii. But after viewing several photographers there, I just didn't feel a connection with any of them. I knew if I had a wedding in town I would no doubt choose McKinnon Photography, so I contacted Karen and the planning began! Mikhaila's wedding took place on October 12, 2011 with the photographer Mikhaila wanted...and Karen couldn't complain about working in Maui!
Mikhaila was very happy with what she paid for the McKinnon Photography experience. "I am a firm believer in you get what you pay for. Photography in general is not an easy thing to spend a lot of money on until you receive your pictures and it is 100% worth it. I know I could get my pictures done elsewhere for cheaper but I know the quality and professionalism is not the same. I want unique photos that I can look at for years and still be in awe. Karen delivers on this expectation time and time again."
Mikhaila continued, "We loved how easy it was to communicate with Karen, and so did the rest of our family. Several family members have printed engagement photos because they were stunning and we also decided to get a wedding album."
Walking you through a McKinnon Photography wedding
While Karen is known for her easy-going personality that goes right out the window when it comes to getting to the wedding on time! "My assistant and I are always there early. Call me paranoid but you never know when there might be a road obstruction or something else crazy!"
During her time working with each couple, Karen is aware of their priorities, the itinerary of the day and their photography vision. She makes sure that they know the family names and photo groupings. She loves to have a great plan in place that has been created in consultation with the client. This allows the day to flow smoothly. "I am a big believer in being prepared, but open to change. My extensive experience and relationship with the couple allows me to be flexible and ready to switch things up it, should the situation, such as weather or the energy of the couple, changes."
Britney appreciated Karen's capturing certain important moments perfectly. "I can't even put a value on the image she captured of my husband's face when he saw me coming down the aisle. There was also this picture of my Grandpa leaning against a door frame watching me prepare for my big day. The look on his face is something that in many years, when he is gone, can never be replaced. That image alone was worth every penny."
Justine loved how committed Karen got to a certain shot at her wedding. She told the Ring, "One of my best memories would probably be Karen, lying in the dirt under a bridge, all for the love of a good photo - it really did turn out to be a good shot!"
Jennifer was thankful that Karen suggested she have a 'first look' photo before the wedding ceremony. "I was hesitant at first however it was the best experience we could have had. I would not have done it any other way. We were able to have an intimate moment, and have time with each other before we were crowded around by so many people after the ceremony. It was one of my favourite moments of the day."
Karen seems to have the ability to be a part of the scenery on the wedding day. Jennifer didn't even notice she was taking photos most of the time! "One of the best parts of McKinnon Photography is that it is like Karen is a part of the family; she fits right in and it is not like having a photographer dodging in and out trying to get their perfect shot."
Once the wedding day is over, the sneak peek is a must! Karen gets something up on Facebook or the blog as soon as possible. A few weeks later the client receives notification that their personal online album is ready. They can log-in and see their photos and share the link with whoever they choose.
If they are doing a Custom Album, Karen guides them through choosing their favourites and begins the process of designing their book. Once their design is complete, they approve it, and we can have the book in their hands within four weeks. She also does rush orders for eloping couples who are returning to their wedding reception and want their photos to take back with them.
If a client is also doing digital files, or is just doing digital files, they will have them in approximately three weeks after the wedding.
Our favourite things…
♥ Karen's flexibility and willingness to go above and beyond for brides. Justine remembers, "McKinnon Photography did our engagement photos, full wedding day photos and had additional staff at our reception to run a photo booth. The photo booth was our idea and not something she actually offered. Once we ran the idea by Karen, she wouldn't let us NOT have it! Everyone at the wedding loved it and it created some awesome photo memories for us."
♥ Karen's passion for photography is also a passion for people and treating them well. When a client had their house burn down, Karen instantly thought of the photos which were gone forever. She immediately ran through all her files to find everything ever taken and let the friend know that all the photos could be replaced!
♥ Karen's office manager, Christine, who keeps things running smoothly in the McKinnon Photography world. As well, Karen’s photography assistants add their own experience. "My assistants have all been with me for many years and are experienced photographers in their own right."
♥ Karen's involvement in the Comox Valley business community as well as with Y.A.N.A.
Karen is very involved in the her community. She is well known for her involvement with Y.A.N.A (You Are Not Alone) a unique charity that supports Comox Valley Families who have to travel for medical assistance for sick children. Co-ordinator Anita Brassard said,
"Karen has been so generous in donating hundreds of hours of her time with the organization. She is involved with our Annual Fundraising Auction, photographs all the families who use Y.A.N.A. and she goes every year to Children's Hospital and photographs a family going through treatment. She is known as an amazing friend with so much compassion for raising money for those in need. She is also constantly taking on new photographers for mentoring and helping them become great with her amazing passion for her industry." It was these type of raves that saw Karen nominated for the Most Amazing Person in the Community in 2011. Karen also contributes to many other community endeavors such as creating photo stories for the Mobile Care-A-Van that provides free medical care to the homeless, and generally being there either with her camera or community spirit when someone in her photography or local community is in need.
Details, details, details.....
• The average bride spends roughly $2200 with McKinnon Photography, however prices can range from $2,200 to $4,500 (taxes are applicable to all bookings)
• Intimate Weddings start at $980
• A $600 deposit will book your wedding with Karen McKinnon Photography
• It's best to book six to 18 months. "You just never know how popular a certain date is going to be. The earlier the better to guarantee you capture your dream day!"
