Today felt like the first true day of spring. The sun was warm, the birds were singing, and I finally rode outside after a long and unpredictable Ontario winter. I headed out around shortly after noon and couldn’t believe how alive the city felt. People were gardening, walking their dogs, and children were playing in the streets. It was the kind of day that reminded me how good it feels to simply be present.
When I ride alone, I always look forward to unplugging. No music, no distractions. Just me, my thoughts, and the quiet rhythm of the ride. It’s often where I do my deepest reflecting. And today, as I peddled through the winding streets of bustling neighbourhoods, I found myself thinking about this journey I’ve been on.
As many of you know, I recently transitioned from being a full-time teacher to pursuing photography full-time. Lately, I’ve been on a meaningful journey to uncover my purpose, to better understand my why and how I can use it to create something lasting and meaningful for others. And on this ride, I found myself doing just that.
As I coasted toward a red light, a black SUV pulled up beside me. Inside was a family, windows down and laughter spilling out. A little girl, maybe twelve, sat in the back seat with her hair dancing in the wind. She caught my eye and smiled. I smiled back. And just like that, I was transported.
I remembered being her. I could almost feel the soft hum of the car, the warmth of my sisters beside me, the quiet comfort of knowing our parents were up front. My mom often says, “It feels like yesterday you girls were that age.” And I know she would give anything to glance into the back seat and see us there again, even just for a moment.
In that fleeting exchange with a stranger, my why came into sharp focus.
This is why I photograph.
I create to help you remember what once was. To bottle up the beauty of ordinary days before they slip through your fingers. To offer more than just photographs, but sensory memories. Ones you can feel in your heart, hold in your hands, and return to again and again.
Too often I hear from clients months after their session saying, “We still haven’t printed anything.” And I get it. Life moves fast. But I want better for you.
I want your memories to live beyond a screen. I want them on your walls, in albums your children will flip through, on coffee tables where stories are shared and laughter returns. Like it used to be, when the photo albums came out and everyone gathered close.
That is why I am now offering heirloom albums and fine art prints to every couple and family I photograph. I have partnered with Dekora Album Co., a Canadian maker of handcrafted, luxurious keepsakes. Their work is extraordinary, rich in quality, made to last, and designed to become part of your family’s legacy.
My promise to you is this:
I will capture the moments you never want to forget, and help you preserve them in ways that feel timeless, tangible, and full of heart.
Because one day, that little girl in the back seat will be grown. And her mother will glance behind her and wonder where the time went.
Let’s make sure she has something beautiful to hold onto, and so do you.
It’s time to hold the memories that matter most.
With love,
As always,
Amanda
Ready to create your heirloom album or print collection?
Contact me here or view options with Dekora.