golden hour at the beachThere are moments in photography that feel almost too perfect to put into words, and this maternity session at Cobourg Beach was one of them and I'm totally in love with how this photo session turned out!  A perfect backdropThe open shoreline proved to be a perfect backdrop against the blue water with the glowing momma-to-be Sam, wrapped in a black lace maternity dress.  Dreamy lightThe evening could not have been more beautiful, We timed the session perfectly for golden hour, which gave us that dreamy light. And being early September, the water still held the warmth of summer. Sam was up for posing in the water too.   sitting in the water for some great photosThis beautiful momma-to-be was all game for sitting in the water for some extra special photos.  Cobourg Beach is one of my favourite spots for sessions like this. The wide horizon, natural textures of sand and water, and ever-changing sky create endless opportunities to capture stunning images. When you add in golden hour—the most flattering light of the day—you get photos that truly feel timeless.
If you’re expecting and considering a maternity session, I’d love to help you plan one that feels relaxed, natural, and uniquely yours.
A beautiful wedding on a beautiful day On a beautiful summer day at Cobourg West Beach, Jade and Rachel said their vows surrounded by love from their friends and family. The view of Lake Ontario made the perfect backdrop as they stood under a simple arch, holding hands and promising forever. Both brides looked incredible — Jade in her flowing gown with delicate lace details, and Rachel equally radiant in her own lace and tulle dress. They stood beneath a simple arch draped in white, their hands clasped tightly as they exchanged words that carried deep meaning.  a sand ceremony and release of butterfliesTheir ceremony included a touching sand ceremony, symbolizing the blending of their lives, as well as the release of butterflies — a beautiful and amazing moment to everyone watching. Both brides looked stunning in their gowns, and the joy between them was unmistakable.    quiet momentsAfter the ceremony, we captured quiet moments along the shoreline, the soft light and calm water adding to the natural beauty of the day. From the heartfelt vows to the laughter and celebration that followed, Jade and Rachel’s wedding was a true reflection of love, commitment, and togetherness.  Golden Hour Magic: A 9th Birthday Photoshoot to Remember flattering light with a natural vibeThere’s something special about photographing families at the beach — the open sky, the sound of waves, the feeling of bare feet in the water. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a mother-daughter session at Cobourg's West Beach to celebrate Lila’s 9th birthday. We chose a 7:30 p.m. start time to take advantage of the low sun, and it gave us exactly what we hoped for: soft, flattering light and a relaxed, natural vibe. Lila and her mom showed up in coordinating white dresses, which looked stunning against the calm blues of the lake and the warm tones of the pebbled shoreline. This wasn’t a stiff, posed session — it was about connection, movement, and memory-making. They held hands, walked the shoreline, and let the water wash over their feet. The whole shoot unfolded naturally — no pressure, just a chance to slow down and be present together. a great choice of clothing - white dresses! What stood out most was how comfortable they were with each other. Lila played at the edge of the water, completely at ease, while her mom watched with a mix of joy and reflection. At nine years old, Lila is in that in-between space — still playful, yet starting to grow into her own. This session captured that perfectly. Real momentsPhotographing real moments like these — the kind you’ll look back on years from now — is what it’s all about. This was more than a birthday shoot. It was a reminder to pause and enjoy these small, meaningful milestones.  If you’re thinking about a birthday session — whether for your child, your family, or just for yourself — don’t wait. These are the moments that deserve to be remembered. Let’s go make some magic together.  a special family momentTaking time with your family for some special moments is all about parenting and having fun. I joined the Post family for some fun at the beach with their kiddos. Getting some giggles out of the kids and little Grayson collecting rocks made for some great photos!  cobourg's new boardwalkCobourg's beautiful new boardwalk had just been completed allowing an easy access for Lily's wheelchair to get to the beach. The later afternoon session was hazy with wildfire smoke. But the sun did peep out a bit in places. The haze made a natural diffuser for the sun, which created an etheral quality to the photos.  making memoriesThis colourful family enjoyed some fun and quality time together. Making memories for everyone.
 aheartfelt celebration.This vow renewal was a quiet, heartfelt celebration of 25 years of marriage. Set in the peaceful woods at Whispering Springs in Grafton, the couple stood surrounded by nature and their five children.  The ceremony was simple and full of meaning—focused on the love they’ve built over the years and the family that grew from it. Their vows were emotional, their smiles genuine, and every moment felt intentional. rustic and intimate settingThe setting was rustic and intimate, with soft details like lanterns and greenery, but nothing felt overdone. Just two people, still choosing each other after all these years. After the ceremony, we captured a few portraits with lots of natural moments that reflected who they are: relaxed, joyful, and deeply connected.   It was an honor to document this milestone. A beautiful reminder that love only gets stronger with time.
something a little differentBachlorette parties are fun, but sometimes you want to do something a little different  a fun time in cobourgHaving a best friend who is your maid of honour plan a different type of party is the best friend ever! These girls came from Toronto to shop, eat and party in Cobourg.  chilly june water at the beachBeing earlier June, the water was a bit chilly, but the girls love hanging out and splashing around at the edge of the water.  beautiful bride-to-be and maid of honourThis beautiful bride-to-be and her maid-of-honour enjoying a quick hug.  these girls know how to have funThey finished off their fun-filled day with some memorable and fun photos at Cobourg beach and boardwalk.   celebrating 50 years!I was asked to capture the large celebration of Dekeyser Excavating's 50th anniversary in business celebration and I loved every minute of it. A family owned company since 1975 is certainly worth celebrating. So many past and present employees enjoying themselves on this beautiful day.  dekeyser company coloursBlack and yellow/gold accented their celebration with lots of food, games and entertainment.   And, of course, lots of construction equipment spread around for kids to play on and take photos on. great entertainment enjoying the dayMatching celebratory hats were a nice touch for everyone!
 my favourite beach for a photo session There’s something undeniably magical about a lakeside beach engagement session with the golden light dancing on water, and the natural beauty framing every moment. Last week, I had the pleasure of photographing Lyndsey and Jeff’s engagement session at the stunning Wicklow Beach just east of Cobourg, Ontario, and it quickly became one of my favorite shoots of the season.  capturing connections on the rocksWicklow Beach is a hidden gem on Lake Ontario’s north shore: rocky outcroppings perfect for playful poses, a gently sloping pebble beach for candid strolls, and a backdrop of pine-dotted dunes that catch the evening light just right. As the sun dipped lower, the water transformed into a shimmering canvas, and the couple was bathed in soft, ethereal glow—ideal for capturing both intimate moments and dreamy silhouettes.  We began atop the flat rocks of the east pier, where Lyndsey and Jeff naturally held hands and leaned into each other. I guided them through small prompts—“Walk toward me, hold hands, whisper something funny”—and instantly their genuine affection shone through.  golden hour silhouettesAs the sun sank lower, I shifted gears to silhouette shots. Positioning Lyndsey and Jeff slightly closer to the water’s edge, I underexposed just enough to let their profiles stand out against the glimmering lake. The result? A tender nose-touch kiss that feels timeless, with sparkling bokeh dancing around them like fireflies.  Lyndsey and Jeff’s Wicklow Beach engagement session was a perfect blend of joy, romance, and natural beauty—one I won’t soon forget. If you’re dreaming of sun-kissed lakeside portraits or a playful adventure on the rocks, I’d love to help you craft your own unforgettable session.
The end of the school year is a whirlwind of excitement, emotion, and pride. From Kindergarten “big cheers” to Grade 8 promotions, from high school cap tosses to college and university commencement ceremonies, this is the season when years of hard work and friendship culminate in one unforgettable moment: “I did it!” As a professional photographer, I genuinely believe that these milestones deserve to be celebrated and preserved in beautiful, timeless images—images you and your graduate will treasure forever. Why Graduation Photos MatterGraduation is more than just a ceremony; it’s the sum of countless late nights studying, group projects, pep rallies, and friendships that shaped who your child is today. Memories of laughter in the school hallways, the excitement of senior trips, and that perfect group of friends standing by your graduate’s side—these are the moments that deserve to be frozen in time. Every year, I watch families gather in joy and pride as caps sail into the sky and gowns sway in the breeze. Whether it’s a tearful Kindergarten celebration as your little one “graduates” to Grade 1 or a proud parent’s first view of their college graduate in regalia, there’s something truly magical about this chapter of life. Introducing Our 2025 Grad Photo SessionsTo honor these special milestones, CatsMac Photography is thrilled to offer custom graduation photo sessions designed for every age and every level of achievement. Here’s everything you need to know: What's included in your session: • Pre-session consultation to plan location (our large property with pond and bridges is always available offering a unique setting • 15 - 30 minute photo shoots - 2 packages available! • Professional retouching on every image • Group/Friendship packages at a reduced rate for everyone • Online gallery with high-resolution downloads • Print-release rights so you can create albums, announcements, and keepsakes AND WE SUPPLY THE GOWNS AND CAPS! Session Options & Add-Ons
   a special connectionThere’s something truly magical about a bride including her horse on her wedding day. It’s not just a beautiful touch—it’s a deeply personal one. For many brides, their horse has been there for the quiet moments, the life lessons, the growing up. That bond runs deep, and bringing that connection into the most important day of their life is incredibly meaningful.  after the ceremonyOne of my favourite parts to photograph is the quiet time after the ceremony—when the vows have been spoken, the nerves have settled, and the bride takes a few peaceful moments with her horse. There’s something so calming, grounding, and emotional about that time together. It’s often when the most authentic, heartfelt photos happen. Just the bride, her gown, her horse, and a love that goes back years.  Including your horse in your wedding isn’t just about the photos—it’s about honouring a bond that has shaped your story. And those moments together? They make your wedding day even more unforgettable. riding down the aisle on your wedding day Kindergarten to university — capture your memories with catsmac photographyGraduation is more than just a ceremony — it's a milestone, a moment of pride, and a celebration of growth. Whether it's the adorable grin of a kindergartener in a tiny cap and gown, the confident smile of a grade 8 graduate stepping into high school, the accomplishment of a high school senior ready to take on the world, or the triumph of a college or university graduate, each stage deserves to be captured and remembered. Kindergarten GraduationThere’s something so heartwarming about a little one in a miniature graduation gown. These sessions are full of joy, laughter, and often a few wiggles and giggles. It’s the start of their educational journey, and those proud smiles (and missing teeth!) deserve a permanent place in your photo albums. Grade 8 GraduationThis transitional moment is big — children are growing into teens, discovering their interests, and preparing for high school. Grade 8 grad photos often reflect budding independence and personality. It’s a perfect time to document their unique style and spirit before high school years begin. High School GraduationThis is one of the most iconic stages. High school graduation photos capture excitement, achievement, and dreams for the future. These portraits often become treasured keepsakes — framed on mantels, featured in grad announcements, and revisited for years to come.
College & University GraduationAfter years of dedication, late nights, and hard work, college or university grads deserve to celebrate their success. These sessions often include professional attire, academic robes, and the graduate’s chosen setting — whether it’s a campus landmark or a favorite outdoor location. It’s a time to reflect on how far they’ve come and what lies ahead.  Why Graduation Photos MatterLife moves fast. Kids grow up in the blink of an eye, and even the biggest milestones can begin to blur together with time. Graduation photos freeze those fleeting moments — the proud parents, the excited graduates, the shared smiles — and turn them into memories you can revisit forever. Whether you’re booking a full portrait session or adding a few family shots, graduation photography allows you to celebrate your achievements and tell the story of your educational journey. Ready to Capture the Moment?No matter the age or stage, graduation is always worth celebrating. If you have a graduate in your life — big or small — I’d love to help capture their moment in the spotlight. Let’s create something they’ll treasure for years to come. Booking graduation sessions now for kindergarten, grade 8, high school, and post-secondary grads!  a mother's love is so powerfulThere’s something incredibly powerful about a mother’s love — and as photographers, we have the unique privilege of capturing that love in a single moment. This Mother’s Day, I had the honour of photographing a truly special session: a beautiful mama dressed in a long, flowing muted pink gown, cradling her baby girl who wore a matching dress. The entire session radiated softness, elegance, and connection.  a natural rhythmWe began with the mother and daughter cuddled in a wicker chair, sunlight spilling across the room. Their dresses added a sense of harmony. There was such a quiet intimacy in these moments — soft smiles, little fingers wrapped around mom’s hand, and the natural rhythm that only exists between mother and child.  natural backlit lightingThen, we moved to a large window where they stood together, backlit by warm, natural light. The glow created a dreamy silhouette that felt ethereal — like time had paused for just a second to let this mama soak in all the love. Her gown caught the light in all the right ways, and her baby girl’s hair glowed like a halo.  freezing these days of babyhoodWhat I love most about sessions like this is how they freeze these fleeting days of babyhood and new motherhood — moments that can otherwise pass in a blur. This session wasn’t just about creating pretty portraits; it was about telling a story of unconditional love and connection.  creating beautyTo all the mamas out there: you deserve to be seen, celebrated, and remembered just like this. If you’ve ever thought about a photo session to capture your bond with your child, let this be your sign. Let’s create something beautiful together.    setting the stage: a simple spaceThere’s something profoundly tender about capturing the quiet, everyday moments between a mother and her daughter—especially when you strip away all distractions and let their bond take center stage. That’s exactly what we set out to do during this Momma & Me session, using only soft, natural light and a handful of minimalistic props to craft an intimate atmosphere that felt both timeless and genuine.  diffused light creates a beautiful glowWe chose a bright, airy corner of the studio for this photoshoot—white brick walls, pale hardwood floors, and a single, generously sized window that poured in gentle, diffused daylight. Because the goal was to focus on emotion over environment, I kept props to an absolute minimum: a macramé rope swing suspended from the ceiling, a low wooden step stool (never more than a suggestion in the frame), and a lightweight cream-colored throw. These elements provided a touch of texture and depth without competing for attention. minimalistic photo sessionWhat makes this setup so magical is the interplay between the backdrop and that soft window glow. As Momma and her little girl settled onto the swing, the light wrapped around them—highlighting every fine detail of the beautiful matching lace-and-floral dresses they wore, and accentuating the soft curls of the daughter’s hair. The minimal décor ensured that our focus remained entirely on their connection.  photos to treasure foreverThese sessions are always such a reminder of how important it is to slow down and be present – to celebrate the small gestures, the shared smiles, and the unconditional love that exists between a parent and child. Photographs like these become treasures, not just for mom to look back on, but for that little girl to hold onto one day when she’s all grown up.  safeguarding historyPhotographs are time machines that allow us to step back into moments we never experienced or ones we long to relive. Restoring old photos isn’t just about fixing blemishes; it’s about safeguarding history. Each image holds a wealth of emotion, from milestones to everyday moments. These photos connect us to our roots and provide future generations with a tangible glimpse of their heritage.
Time can take a toll on photographs, but restoration offers hope.   Whether it’s a treasured portrait of a grandparent or an image of loved ones long gone, preserving these memories allows families to carry their stories forward. Don't let your family history fade—restore those special moments so they remain vivid and full of life for generations to come.  the perfect christmas photo propThis Christmas season, I had the absolute pleasure of using a unique and nostalgic prop for my mini sessions—a stunning vintage 1956 International red truck. From the moment I laid eyes on it, I knew it was going to be a showstopper. This beautifully restored piece of history brought a timeless charm to every photo, making it the perfect backdrop for holiday memories.  1956 red international harvester truckFor the sessions, we adorned the truck with seasonal touches—fresh greenery, vintage props, and cozy details that perfectly complemented its character. The truck became more than just a backdrop; it became the centerpiece that tied the magic of the session together. Families snuggled close on the truck bed, kids peeked out the windows, and even a few furry friends joined in on the fun (as you can see from the adorable pup in the photo above!).  abit of nostalgia with charmWhat I loved most was how the truck brought out genuine smiles and excitement from everyone. People couldn’t resist sharing a sweet moment in front of its timeless charm and enjoyed sitting in it too! The truck was more than just a prop—it became part of the story, adding an extra layer of nostalgia and joy to the photos.   This year’s Christmas mini sessions were truly unforgettable, thanks in part to this beautiful vintage truck. It was a reminder of the magic of the holiday season, where old traditions and new memories come together in the most delightful ways. a cherished keepsake To everyone who joined me for these sessions: thank you for making this year so special! I hope these photos become cherished keepsakes that bring you warmth and joy for years to come.  a wedding of individuality and uniquenessAs a wedding photographer, I have the privilege of capturing love stories in their most intimate and magical moments. Recently, I was honored to photograph a truly unique couple at The Mount in Peterborough, Ontario—a venue as full of character and uniqueness as the couple themselves.  a true love storyFrom the moment I met them, their deep connection was palpable. Their love radiated in every glance, touch, and laugh they shared. The Mount provided the perfect backdrop for their celebration, with its rich history and breathtaking grounds complementing their modern yet timeless romance. cutting the cake with a swordThe whole wedding was a true reflection of their individuality and love story. From the personalized decor to the speeches that shared anecdotes of their journey together, every detail told a story. The couple’s cake cutting was unique and led to their creativity in making their day their own. elegance and intimacy weddingThe Mount's unique charm added an extra layer of intimacy and elegance to the celebration. This picturesque old convent located in Peterborough makes every image captured unique and stunning. This wedding reminded me why I love what I do—preserving memories that couples will cherish for a lifetime. To the newlyweds, thank you for letting me be a part of your extraordinary day. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and adventures together!  If you’re planning a wedding at The Mount or another unique venue, I’d love to help capture your special day. Let’s create something unforgettable together. Christmas Mini Sessions: A Day Filled with Families, Fun, and Furry Friends!The holiday spirit was in full swing during our recent Christmas Mini Sessions! We had a wonderful day welcoming families to our property, and the energy and excitement were contagious from start to finish. It was heartwarming to see so many familiar faces returning and new families joining us to capture their holiday memories.  A Festive Setup for All AgesCreating a cozy winter wonderland, complete with holiday-themed props that added a magical touch to every photo. The Perfect Family MomentOne of the most rewarding aspects of these sessions was witnessing the joy and connection between family members. Parents, grandparents, and children all came together, creating memories that will last a lifetime. There were so many genuine smiles, playful moments, and warm embraces captured throughout the day.  Furry Friends Steal the ShowWe were especially thrilled to welcome several four-legged family members to our sessions! Dogs of all shapes and sizes joined in the fun, and their excitement was palpable. They were on their best behavior (mostly!) and added an extra layer of joy to the photos. Whether they were donning festive sweaters, posing by the tree, or giving slobbery kisses to their little humans, these pups definitely stole the show!   Thank You for Joining UsA huge thank you to all the families who participated in our Christmas Mini Sessions. Your laughter, joy, and holiday spirit made the day unforgettable. We are so grateful to be a part of your family’s holiday traditions and can’t wait to see many of you again next year.  Looking AheadAs we wrap up the Christmas mini sessions, we’re already looking forward to our next seasonal offerings. Stay tuned for more fun events, and don’t forget to follow us on social media for updates and sneak peeks of your photos!
Wishing you all a joyful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and beautiful memories. True EleganceThere’s something so magical about maternity sessions—celebrating the beauty of life growing and the excitement of a new chapter about to begin. Recently, I had the honour of capturing this beautiful couple during an outdoor maternity session, and let me just say—it was breathtaking.  an amazing red dress The momma-to-be absolutely radiated elegance and strength. She started the session wearing a stunning red dress that flowed effortlessly in the breeze. Against the natural backdrop, the vibrant red symbolized love, passion, and the incredible power of motherhood. Every moment felt like a painting come to life as the sunlight danced on the fabric, adding a golden glow to the already magical scene. time for a wardrobe changeLater, she changed into a soft and graceful blue dress, bringing an entirely new energy to the session. The blue dress complemented the serene outdoor surroundings, creating a peaceful and tranquil vibe. As she cradled her bump and exchanged loving glances with her partner, it was clear just how excited and ready they are for this next chapter.  The dad-to-be was equally wonderful, full of pride and love. His connection with his partner was so natural and genuine—it shone through in every photo. Whether it was a quiet moment where they simply held hands or the way he looked at her with admiration, their bond was truly inspiring to witness.  nature's beauty outside settingThe outdoor setting added an extra layer of magic to this session. Surrounded by nature’s beauty, with tall trees, golden grass, and the soft glow of the sun, the photos tell a story of hope, love, and new beginnings.  To this wonderful couple: Thank you for letting me be part of such a special time in your lives. You are already incredible parents, and I know your little one is so lucky to have you. I hope these photos remind you of the joy and love that filled this chapter of your journey.  Vintage Red Truck Christmas Mini Sessions Are Perfect for the Season Why Choose a Red Truck for Christmas Photos?There’s something truly magical about holiday photos with a vintage red truck. The vintage red truck symbolizes a classic holiday aesthetic, with its deep red color contrasting beautifully against the greens of the Christmas trees and seasonal decorations. It’s perfect for both traditional and playful moments, whether it’s capturing the kids’ excitement, a couple’s sweet embrace, or your dog sitting proudly in the truck bed. Plus, the truck’s rustic charm makes it easy for everyone to relax and have fun, adding natural warmth and authenticity to the photos.  Dogs Are Family, Too!For many, a family photo wouldn’t be complete without the family dog! That’s why dogs are welcome in these mini-sessions. Imagine your pup sitting by the truck, happily surrounded by holiday cheer. These sessions are designed to be fun and inclusive for all family members, so feel free to bring your furry friends along! If you’re looking to create a cherished memory this holiday season, our vintage red truck setup offers a unique and memorable experience. Sessions are filling up fast, so book now to reserve your spot. Let’s make this Christmas season one to remember with photos that will warm your heart for years to come!  celebrating family with love and laughterAs a photographer, I often find myself in awe of the incredible families I get to work with, and this recent fall photoshoot was no exception. The crisp autumn air, vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and red, and a family bursting with love and laughter made for a truly magical session.  contagious energy and laughter From the moment we met, their energy and laughter was contagious. It’s always heartwarming to see a family so connected, and they made my job effortless with their playful spirit and genuine joy. We kicked off the session with some classic posed shots surrounded by the beauty of the fall leaves, but it wasn’t long before the real fun began.  This family reminded me why I love what I do. Their laughter, love, and willingness to embrace the moment made this photoshoot one for the books. I’m so grateful they chose me to capture these memories, and I hope they treasure these photos for years to come. memories to cherishTo the amazing family — thank you for the joy, the laughter, and the reminder that life’s best moments are often the simplest ones. Here’s to many more adventures and photo-worthy memories!
|
AuthorCathy & Jenn of CatsMac Photography, Cobourg, Ontario. Archives
September 2025
Categories |
RSS Feed
CatsMac Photography
2012-2025
Creating Memories with Custom Photography...Because Life is Beautiful
Professional photographer based in Cobourg and serving Northumberland County, Peterborough, Quinte, Durham Region, including Trenton, Belleville, Brighton, Newcastle, Bowmanville, Courtice, Oshawa
2012-2025
Creating Memories with Custom Photography...Because Life is Beautiful
Professional photographer based in Cobourg and serving Northumberland County, Peterborough, Quinte, Durham Region, including Trenton, Belleville, Brighton, Newcastle, Bowmanville, Courtice, Oshawa
