50 Essential Portrait Photographers: Linda Mackie of Linda Mackie Photography

Linda Mackie is a lifestyle portrait, wedding and commercial photographer based in Vancouver and mom to a beautiful two-year-old named Connor.

Why did you get into photography?

I’ve loved photography ever since I was a teenager, photographing friends and family and the various places I’ve traveled. When my father gave me his 1974 Canon FTB SLR, I started taking more thoughtful, expressive images of the people and things around me. People began to take notice and encouraged me to pursue it more professionally. I did and have never looked back. I absolutely love creating artistic, timeless portraits of people, mainly because I love capturing the beauty in people and making them feel good about themselves. My father was an avid photographer growing up and so we have album upon album of memories that we can look at, reflect upon and smile about. I love that and feel grateful to be able to share my gift with my own family and my clients.

Tell us a bit about your company

I’ve been in business as a professional photographer since 2004. Before that I had many years of experience traveling and working in creative fields – advertising, makeup design and producing – which have each given me invaluable skills, knowledge and and the ability to adapt well to a tapestry of personalities and situations. My ultimate mandate in addition to creating beautiful images and making people shine is my lifelong desire to make a difference for animals whilst contributing to a greener world and inspiring others to live compassionately in their daily lives.

How would you characterize your style of photography?

I shoot clean, organic images and strive to capture moments that present my subjects in their most authentic light. My style could be described as fresh, authentic, emotional, modern, stylish and revealing; images that we return again and again to because something in them keeps drawing us back.

Who are your clients?

My clients are people who appreciate fine imagery and want to preserve and cherish not only the special moments in their lives like a birthday or a wedding, but the everyday, like a walk in the park or the tender hug from a child.

What should your mom clients expect when working with you?

My portrait sessions are more like visits where we just enjoy each other’s company and I happen to be taking pictures during our time together. I totally love bringing out the best and sometimes unexpected in people and am in my element when I am creating artistic, timeless portraits of babies, children and families in their natural environment. I may give some direction but generally like things to flow naturally and capture what is happening in the moment.

Anything else to add?

Like the many other talented photographers listed here, I too feel very grateful to be doing what I love for a living and most of all having the freedom to be with my family when I choose and having the ability to create wonderful memories for friends, family and clients alike on a regular basis. It’s very fulfilling and I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do!