50 Essential Portrait Photographers: Kia Porter of Kia Porter Photography

I can’t remember how Kia Porter got added to Vancouver’s 50 Essential Portrait Photographer list, but I’m so glad she was. Her portraits are absolutely stunning. And her son is pretty darn cute too.

Why did you get into photography?

I’ve always had a camera in my hand. In elementary school, I used to set up little photo shoots in my parents’ backyard – I still remember my favourite “fruit bowl” still life…hilarious. Don’t worry, I’ve come a long way since then. I just seem to “see” things differently. Always looking for that spontaneous moment – that glance, that giggle, that snuggle…those little things that really capture your family. Timeless. I love it.

Tell us a bit about your company.

Kia Porter Photography is all about capturing family life – the chaos, the fun and the everything in between. I live and work on the North Shore and love, love, love it. Location shoots are awesome because I’m always finding new family fun spots to take my kids to! Every shoot is different from the last. Always a new adventure with a great new family. I get to be one of the gang for the day. So cool. I have a lot of fun.

How would you characterize your style of photography?

Candid, fun, casual. I capture the moments that already exist in your family – the craziness, the love, the laughter, the tantrums – real life.

Who are your clients?

Well, anyone I hope. Anyone that sees the same emotion in those crazy life moments as I do. I shoot a lot of families, of all ages and stages of life. It’s always great fun to be able to document a family as they grow. The kids change so quickly and it’s such an honour to be the one to capture that for a family year after year. Every time I do a maternity or newborn shoot, I come home wanting another baby. My poor husband. I can’t help it – it’s such an amazing time in your life!

What should your mom clients expect when working with you?

A fun, casual, relaxed shoot. I have two young children myself, so I get it. No rush, no stress. There’s always time for snacks, clothing changes, whatever is needed. It’s a fun shoot, and I always make sure it stays like that. We all know that when you have kids, things don’t ever go as perfectly planned – and to be honest, that’s real life, and that’s what I’m there to capture.

Anything else to add?

I guess I just want to say that I truly love what I do. I can’t tell you the joy and love in my heart when I look at my own family photos, which makes me so excited to do them for you. Timeless, beautiful, real….there’s nothing like it….