

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monique McKenzie.
Hi Monique, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My photography journey began when Apple introduced Portrait Mode on the iPhone. I would take photos of my family, and they would come out perfect! At first, I didn’t know much about photography, but I quickly discovered it to be a creative outlet for self-expression and a way to capture the beauty in everyday moments. As my interest grew, so did my passion for the art. I began experimenting with different styles and techniques, initially focusing on personal projects. As more people noticed my work, I started taking on clients.
Working with a variety of subjects families, events, branding, and birthday or themed sessions helped me refine my skills and expand my portfolio. Today, I specialize in creating unique, high-quality photography experiences for my clients, including maternity, branding, “just because” sessions, and popular themed shoots like Christmas or birthday sessions. My growth has been driven by persistence, creativity, and a constant desire to deliver something special.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road hasn’t always been smooth. In fact, there have been many challenges along the way. One of the biggest struggles is that photography styles and trends change constantly. What’s in vogue today may not be tomorrow, and keeping up with those changes can be tough. There have been times when I felt defeated, questioning whether my work was still relevant or if I was heading in the right direction. On some days, I even considered giving up.
But in those moments of doubt, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have my family and friends They’ve always been there to remind me why I started and to pour life back into me when I needed it the most. Their support has been crucial in helping me keep going, even when things felt uncertain.
To anyone starting out, my advice is simple: keep going. The creative journey is never a straight line. You’ll face setbacks, doubts, and moments when things feel tough. But persistence, adaptability, and leaning on your support system can make all the difference. Stay true to your vision, keep learning, and trust that the hard work will eventually pay off.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a photographer specializing in high-end studio portraits, where artistry meets meticulous attention to detail to create powerful, timeless images. My work revolves around capturing the unique essence of my clients in a way that feels both sophisticated and authentic. Whether for personal branding, professional headshots, or creative portrait sessions, I focus on bringing out the best in every individual. Every shot is carefully crafted to highlight not only the client’s appearance but also their personality and presence.
One of the things I’m most proud of is pushing myself to take on my very first project. With no prior experience in photography, I booked a studio, enlisted a couple of friends as my models, and dove into the world of portraiture. The result? A collection of beautiful, high-quality portraits that truly captured the essence of them. That experience was a defining moment for me, sparking a passion that has only continued to grow. Now, every year around that time, I recreate those same styled portraits as a tradition celebrating how far I’ve come and continually refining my craft.
What sets me apart as a photographer is the deep, personal connection I build with my clients. To me, they’re not just clients—they’re like family. I take the time to understand their vision, their story, and their unique needs, ensuring they feel comfortable and valued every step of the way. My goal isn’t just to capture beautiful images, but to create an unforgettable experience where every shot tells a part of their story. The greatest reward comes in seeing my clients genuinely happy, knowing I’ve exceeded their expectations.
Beyond my commitment to client relationships, I focus on quality, versatility, and creativity in every shoot. Whether I’m working on a high-end business project or an intimate portrait session, I bring a thoughtful, personalized approach to each assignment. The end result reflects not only my technical skill but my passion for storytelling through photography. It’s not just about the images it’s about the relationships, the stories, and the art we create together.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The Covid-19 pandemic taught me invaluable lessons, both as a photographer and as a healthcare worker. Working in healthcare during the crisis gave me a unique perspective on the seriousness of the situation, which pushed me to quickly adapt in my creative work. I shifted my focus to outdoor and in-home shoots, allowing for social distancing while still maintaining a natural, relaxed environment for my clients.
The pandemic also deepened my understanding of the emotional power of photography. With many people feeling isolated, my work became a source of connection and comfort during such a challenging time.
On the business side, the crisis forced me to think outside the box. I embraced virtual consultations, online styling, and new technologies to connect with clients in fresh and meaningful ways. Although. challenging, the pandemic opened up new opportunities for growth and creativity.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @TheVisual.Introvert
Image Credits
@TheVisual.Introvert