When I first came to Ottawa, I was newly married. Nisha and I had just graduated from Trent University—she from Toronto, and I from France. Wanting to stay close to both Quebec and Montreal, we chose Ottawa as our home.

I still remember how kind and welcoming people were when we arrived. At the time, we were both vegetarians, and finding restaurants that could accommodate us wasn’t always easy. Yet chefs across the city often went out of their way to adjust their menus. That kind of small kindness has stayed with me, and it’s one of the reasons Ottawa has always felt like more than just a city.

Now, 23 years later, much has changed—but that sense of community remains. Both of our daughters were born here, and every time we return to our Ottawa photography studio, it feels like coming home. For a city of over a million people, Ottawa still feels like a village.

This week was especially meaningful. A family we know from church came in for a portrait session. The mother has been facing some serious health challenges, and they wanted to capture a moment of togetherness—a visual celebration of their bond.

Moments like these remind me of why I love creating portraits. They’re more than photographs; they are heirlooms of connection, presence, and love.

Nisha, my wonderful wife and partner in both life and work, often tells me I have a gift—especially with children, teens, and even those on the autism spectrum. She sees how I connect, and how that trust transforms into lasting images. It’s high praise, and I don’t take it lightly.

Ottawa has given us so much—community, friendship, and the privilege of photographing families through their most important chapters. Returning here always reminds me that family portraiture is not just about light and shadow—it’s about belonging.

You can book your portrait session here or contact us here - we would love to meet with you.