CARMEN MACDONALD | PHOTOGRAPHER BIO

You don’t make a photograph just with a camera. You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, the people you have loved.
— Vincent Peters

Hi, I’m Carmen.

I grew up right here in Central Alberta (Sylvan Lake), and I carry the small-town spirit of community, connection, and care into everything I do. Life asked me to grow up fast — growing up as the child of a disabled parent, I stepped into the role of caregiver early on. That experience, of course, shaped me. It taught me empathy, patience, and understanding — qualities that still guide me today, especially behind the camera.

Before photography, I spent 13 years as an emergency dispatcher. It was intense, eye-opening, and deeply human work. It reminded me again and again how important it is to be seen, heard, and supported — and how fleeting and precious life really is.

Now as a portrait photographer, I get to be there for people in a different way. I know what it's like to feel like you don’t quite fit the mold, to have a version of yourself in your head that you wish others could see. Photography became the outlet that helped me step into that version of myself — and now, I try to help others do the same.

When you book a session with me, you’re not just getting photos — you’re getting an experience that’s all about you. You’ll feel supported, guided, and absolutely celebrated for exactly who you are. Whether you're camera-shy, quirky, bold, soft, or still figuring it all out — you belong here. And together, we’ll create something beautiful that reflects the real you.

I can’t wait to meet you.