Behind the Lens: Whatever It Takes to Get the Shot!
Being a photographer takes more than artistic vision and technical know-how. Sometimes it takes a little creativity, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to look completely ridiculous to get the perfect shot! Monique has been known to:
- Sing “I’m a Little Teapot,” jump up and down, and make outrageous faces to coax genuine smiles and laughter out of even the shyest little ones.
- Lie in knee-deep snow in –20°C weather to capture that magical winter wonderland wedding photograph.
- Climb playground equipment, hang off bridge railings, and wade through knee-deep water in pursuit of the perfect angle.
Monique will do (almost!) whatever it takes to capture that special moment! It’s often these unexpected perspectives and spontaneous moments that turn an ordinary photograph into something extraordinary.
More Than a Photographer
Photography is just one of Monique’s many adventures. Based in Calgary, Alberta, she also runs a private counselling practice specializing in children, teens, and young adults through Prusik Youth Counselling & Mentorship Services. She has mentored varsity and national-level athletes through Athletes in Action and has worked as an outdoor guide.
These experiences have shaped more than her career. They’ve helped her develop the ability to connect with people of all ages, put them at ease in front of the camera, and recognize those authentic, fleeting moments that make photographs meaningful.
With so many interests and commitments, you might wonder how she finds time for photography. The answer is simple: photography isn’t just something Monique does. It’s something she loves. Even while working on counselling contracts in Canada’s North, she’s often found wandering through northern communities, camera in hand, searching for the next interesting face, beautiful landscape, or unexpected moment worth capturing.
When she’s not behind the camera, Monique might be backpacking in the mountains, rock or ice climbing, cross-country skiing, coaching wrestling, playing guitar, travelling, or exploring another creative pursuit. Always curious and rarely one to turn down an adventure, Monique believes life is full of stories worth telling. And wherever life takes her, you can be sure her camera won’t be far behind.
