perfect photo shootSome family photo sessions just seem to come together perfectly, and this was definitely one of them! having fun / inside and outFrom the moment we started, everyone was involved and ready to have some fun. The kids were absolutely amazing and so easy to photograph. They were happy to run, laugh, play and just be themselves, which made capturing those natural family moments so much fun. shining personalitiesI loved how involved everyone was throughout the entire session. It wasn't about standing perfectly still and saying "cheese" — it was about spending time together, having fun and letting their personalities come through. perfect weather for photosThe weather couldn't have been better either. A beautiful day, comfortable temperatures and just the right amount of sunshine made for a perfect afternoon outdoors. There were plenty of smiles, lots of laughter and those little in-between moments that make family photos feel real. As a photographer, these are the sessions I love. A great family, happy kids, beautiful weather and lots of genuine moments to capture. I honestly loved every minute of it!
Thank you for letting CatsMac Photography spend some time with your wonderful family. These are the memories you'll be able to look back on for years to come. Who says your wedding dress can only be worn once?A trash the dress session is a fun way to get back into your wedding dress, forget about keeping everything perfect, and simply have some fun. There are no wedding-day timelines, no guests watching, and no pressure. Just you, your dress and the freedom to get a little adventurous. just before sunsetThis recent session at Beavermead Park in Peterborough, Ontario was a perfect example. We headed to the beach just before sunset and created some beautiful, dramatic images as the bride let her dress flow through the shallow water. Safety comes firstWhile these sessions can be adventurous, safety around water is always our top priority at CatsMac Photography. We choose locations where we can work in VERY shallow water, allowing our clients to enjoy the experience without going into deep water or unsafe areas. The goal isn't to take unnecessary risks with your dress or yourself. It's about finding a safe location where we can create something different and beautiful. Sunset is the perfect timeThere is something about golden hour that makes a trash the dress session even more special. The warm, low evening light creates beautiful reflections on the water and gives the dress an almost magical glow. It's also the perfect time to slow down and have fun. Instead of worrying about keeping your dress spotless, you can get it wet, let it move with the water and enjoy the moment. no worries about a dirty dressAnd don't worry too much about getting the dress dirty. Many wedding dresses can be professionally cleaned afterwards, or you can always use an inexpensive second-hand or off-the-rack dress if you really want to go all out. Your wedding day may be over, but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop.A trash the dress session can be whatever you want it to be — romantic, dramatic, playful or simply a chance to do something completely different. At CatsMac Photography, we love creating relaxed, fun sessions that don't feel overly posed or traditional. If you're recently married and still have your dress hanging in the closet, why not put it back on and make some new memories?
the smallest elementsWhen you think about wedding photography, the big moments instantly come to mind—the first kiss, the tearful walk down the aisle, and the high-energy dance floor. But as a wedding photographer, I know that some of the most powerful storytellers of your wedding day are actually the smallest elements. From the delicate lace on your veil and the custom engraving inside your rings to the handwritten vows and carefully chosen table settings, the small details are the heartbeat of your wedding design. Here is why capturing these quiet elements is just as important as freezing those massive milestones. They are the First to Fade in the Rush of the DaywhirlwindA wedding day is a beautiful whirlwind. From the second your morning hair and makeup begins until the final sparkler exit, the day moves at absolute lightning speed. Amid the rush of greeting guests, staying on schedule, and managing all the emotions, it is incredibly easy to experience a bit of a sensory overload. a permanent pause buttonSadly, the intricate details are often the very first things that get forgotten in the blur of the day. You spend months—sometimes years—scouting the perfect venue textures, hand-selecting floral varieties, and coordinating stationery paper types. Yet, on the actual day, you might only get a fleeting glance at your beautifully curated reception space before it is filled with loved ones. Detail photographs act as a permanent pause button, allowing you to look back and appreciate the subtle elements you worked so hard to plan but didn’t have the time to slow down and absorb. They Complete the Visual StoryThink of your wedding album like a feature film. If the movie only showed the main characters talking, you would lose all the atmosphere, mood, and setting. Detail shots provide the essential context and "world-building" for your wedding day. An image of your bridal suite details establishes the morning's nervous anticipation. A close-up of a family heirloom pinned inside a suit jacket anchors the deep emotional history of the day. When you look back at your album in ten, twenty, or fifty years, these shots weave the individual chapters together, instantly transporting you back to the exact texture, color palette, and elegant vibe of your celebration. They Honour Your Hard Work and InvestmentsEvery single choice you make during the planning process reflects your personality as a couple. Whether you chose minimalist modern centerpieces or romantic vintage tableware, those choices represent your unique style and a significant financial investment. Beautifully styled flat-lay photographs of your invitation suite or macro shots of your rings give those intentional choices the spotlight they deserve, ensuring that no piece of your curated vision goes unnoticed. The big moments give your wedding its emotion, but the small details give it its unique identity. Make sure your photography timeline carves out dedicated, quiet time for your photographer to document the little things—because one day, those small details will be the doorway to your biggest memories.
end of summer sunflower sessionsSummer is slowly winding down, and our sunflower field is almost ready for blooming. We are absolutely thrilled to invite you and your loved ones to our private property in Cobourg for this year's Sunflower Mini Sessions. There's something magical about golden sunflowers making them the perfect backdrop for: *Family photos *Maternity sessions (featuring our beautiful vintage peacock chair) *Engagement sessions *Couples *Children The Details:
How to Book: Click here to send us a message to book your session! what to wear: styling tips for the sunflower field.Choosing the right outfits can make your photos truly pop against the vibrant yellow and green backdrop. Here are a few color palettes that look stunning in a sunflower field.
early evening beach photo sessionThere’s something about an early evening at the lake that makes a family photo session feel less like a photo session and more like a fun evening together. The light gets softer, the pace slows down, and it’s the perfect time to forget about the camera and simply have fun together. I recently had the pleasure of photographing this lovely family at Cobourg West Beach and Boardwalk, and we had the perfect combination of beautiful light, a gorgeous waterfront setting, lots of laughs—and two very important family members with four paws! Natural shoreline and pebblesCobourg's West Beach is one of our favourite spots for family photography. The combination of the lake, natural shoreline, pebbles, greenery and boardwalk gives us lots of variety without having to go far. Just west of Victoria Park it features a mix of sand and pebbles with naturalized areas and the waterfront boardwalk. Yes, Bring the Dogs!And the best part? We love when you bring your pets to your family session! To us, they're family too, so why leave them at home? Some of the best photographs happen when everyone is together, doing what they normally do—walking, laughing, cuddling and enjoying an evening by the water. everyone includedWhether your family has toddlers, teenagers, grown children, or a couple of beloved dogs who think they're human, we want everyone included. Because when it comes to family photos, the whole family belongs in the picture.
celebrating a milestoneSixty years of marriage is something truly special—and celebrating that milestone surrounded by the people you love makes it even more meaningful. a very special dayI recently had the pleasure of photographing Mike and Donna’s 60th wedding anniversary celebration in Peterborough, and it was such a wonderful day. Their friends and family gathered together to celebrate not only six decades of marriage, but all the memories, laughter and love that have been shared along the way. There was something incredibly special about seeing so many generations of family and friends come together for this couple. After 60 years, there’s a comfort and connection between them that simply can’t be posed. The smiles, the closeness and the way they look at each other say so much. why photographs matterMilestone celebrations like this are a beautiful reminder of why photographs matter. Years from now, these images won't just show what everyone looked like—they'll bring back the feeling of the day, the people who were there and the love that surrounded them. Congratulations, Mike and Donna, on 60 wonderful years together. It was an honour for CatsMac Photography to be there to capture such a special celebration.
update your family photosIf there’s one thing we hear from parents all the time, it’s “I can’t believe how much they’ve grown!” Life moves fast. One minute you’re chasing toddlers around the house, and the next they’re heading off to school, growing taller and developing their own little personalities. That’s one of the reasons we think family photos are worth updating regularly. It’s not just about having another nice picture to hang on the wall—it’s about documenting who your family is right now. Why Summer Is the Perfect TimeSummer makes family photos easy and relaxed. The days are longer, everyone is spending more time outside, and there are so many beautiful locations to choose from. Whether it’s a beach at golden hour, a favourite outdoor spot, or simply a beautiful location where the kids can run around and have fun, summer sessions tend to feel less like a formal photo shoot and more like spending time together. And honestly, those are often the photos we love the most. You don’t need everyone standing perfectly still and smiling at the camera. Some of the best images happen when your kids are laughing, playing, exploring and just being themselves. Photographs Become More Valuable With TimeYou may not think you need another family photo right now. You have plenty of pictures on your phone, after all. But years from now, you’ll look back and be so glad you captured this particular stage of your family’s life. Because your family will change. Your kids will grow. The seasons will come and go. Photographs give you a way to hold onto the little things that time doesn’t. So take advantage of those long summer evenings, get everyone together and update those family photos. You’ll never regret having too many memories to look back on. ❤️
CatsMac Photography — capturing your family, just as you are, one stage at a time. Smaller, more personal, less stressfulElopements and micro weddings are becoming a popular choice for couples who want something smaller, more personal and a lot less stressful. save money!Maybe you only want your closest family and friends there. Maybe you'd rather spend your money on a house, travel, starting a family or simply putting it toward your future together instead of one big wedding day. beautiful photosWhatever your reason, a small wedding can still be incredibly special — and you still deserve beautiful photos to remember it by. we offer elopements and micro weddingsAt CatsMac Photography, we offer wedding photography and officiant services for elopements and micro weddings, making it easier to plan your day with fewer vendors and less stress. Small wedding. Big memories.Whether you're exchanging vows with just the two of you, surrounded by a few loved ones, or planning a small intimate celebration, we're here to capture the moments and help make your day official. Click here to message us to chat about your elopement or micro wedding.
Sun, sand, and the perfect glowing light—beach session season is officially here!There is nothing quite like the relaxed, joyful energy of a photo shoot by the water. Whether you want to capture updated family portraits, celebrate an anniversary with your partner, or get some beautiful lifestyle images, the beach offers a timeless backdrop that brings out everyone’s natural smiles. This season, CatsMac Photography is bringing exclusive beach portrait sessions to the stunning Cobourg West Beach and Boardwalk. With its soft sand, beautiful wooden boardwalk, and open horizons, it is easily one of the most picturesque stretches of shoreline in the area—providing the perfect blend of natural shoreline and wide-open spaces to make your photos truly stand out. Timing is Everything: Why We Shoot in the Early EveningWhen it comes to beach photography, lighting makes all the difference. That is why we exclusively host these sessions during the early evening hours. By scheduling our sessions later in the day, we skip the harsh, midday glare and heavy shadows. Instead, we get to work with a lower sun angle. This magical window of time provides a soft, warm, diffused glow that flatters every skin tone, adds a beautiful sparkle to the water, and gives your images that dreamy, cinematic look you will want to print and hang on your walls forever. Limited Edition Beach Session DetailsThese promotional beach packages are perfectly curated for Engagement, Maternity, Couples, and Families:
Don't miss out on capturing your family's memories in the best light of the summer. Let's create beautiful memories together... because life is beautiful.
Click HERE to book your spot. its prom season!Prom season is easily one of the most exciting times of the year, and getting to capture Noah and Emily before their big night was an absolute joy. They stopped by our property before heading out to their big night, and they absolutely crushed their portrait session. soft natural lightWe took full advantage of the beautiful, soft natural light of a early evening lower sun angle and the lush greenery that surrounded us. coordinated lookI was completely obsessed with their perfectly coordinated look! Emily looked absolutely breathtaking in a gorgeous lavender dress with perfectly styled curls and elegant makeup. Noah looked incredibly sharp right beside her in a tailored navy blue suit, complete with a matching lavender bow tie and a crisp rose boutonniere. We are talking style here folks!! There’s a unique energy to senior portraits—the perfect mix of anticipation, style, and celebration. As Noah and Emily posed together against our natural rustic backdrops, their connection and genuine smiles made every single shot effortless to capture. It is a true honor to capture these big moments for Cobourg Collegiate Institute (CCI) grads as they prepare to close an unforgettable chapter and celebrate all of their hard work. cci grad's magical prom nightWishing Noah, Emily, and the entire CCI graduating class the most magical prom night and a bright, beautiful future ahead! Your high school graduation only happens once, and your prom portraits should be just as unforgettable as the night itself. Skip the rushed school gym photos and celebrate your milestones with a personalized, stress-free portrait session in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Our Cobourg property is the perfect backdrop for solo portraits, couple sessions, or group shots with your absolute best friends. Spaces fill up quickly every spring! Click here to contact us and secure your prom portrait date today. memorable momentsJayia and Joshua’s wedding day was filled with love, joy and those beautiful little moments that make a wedding so memorable. From their quiet moments together to celebrating with the people they love, it was such a pleasure to be there to capture it all. the abbey road walkThe "Abbey Road" walk—because every wedding squad secretly wants to look like they’re dropping the hottest album of the year. No matter the venue or the vibe, recreating this iconic lineup is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect mix of classic styling, sharp tailoring, and a fun nod to music history that groomsmen absolutely love. sparkling water for a beautiful backdropAnd what a beautiful backdrop for their portraits! With the sparkling water, blue skies and gorgeous light, these two made our job pretty easy. Congratulations, Jayia and Joshua! Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness, laughter and many more beautiful moments together.
The absolute sweetest Mother’s Day session with this beautiful crew.Our Mother's Day photo sessions were a big hit this year. Here is one beautiful momma and her two littles enjoying some quality time together on our property. I must admit, there is nothing quite like capturing the bond between a mother and her little ones, and this session with Courtney and her beautiful kids was an absolute dream. matching denim outfitsI couldn't get over how adorable they looked in their coordinated outfits—all three rocking matching denim jackets! It brought such a fun, timeless vibe to their portraits with big sister Norah keeping a gentle, loving hand on baby brother Casey, My Greatest Hopes, Dreams and Blessings Call Me Mommy. Sessions like this are a beautiful reminder of why I love photography. These fast-fleeing seasons where the kids are small and want nothing more than to be wrapped up in mom's arms are the ones that matter most. Thank you, Courtney, for bringing Norah and Casey over to the property and allowing me to freeze these precious memories for your family! capturing those tiny perfect featuresDuring our baby sessions, we always make time to gently capture those little features—the little ears, wrinkly fingers, curled toes, chubby legs… and those big, beautiful eyes taking in the world for the first time. We weave them into your gallery so you have the full story, not just the big smiles, but the tiny details too. It all changes so quickly. And those close-ups that might seem small now, end up meaning everything later. Because one day, those are the moments you’ll miss the most. And thank you little Elise for being the perfect model! chubby legsjust look at those eyes!hands and earsthe family dog gets involved in the photo session!cuteness overload - baby in doll pramBe still my heart. Just look at little Brielle enjoying her photoshoot. What amazing weather we have had for some outdoor sessions! Brielle's older sister was photographed in this vintage doll carriage 10 years ago!
Kids at weddings bring a whole different kind of funKids at weddings bring a whole different kind of fun! They’re curious, unpredictable, full of personality—and usually completely unaware that they’re creating some of the best photo opportunities of the day. the little momentsAs photographers, we love capturing those little moments: the funny faces, the serious expressions, the dancing, the sneaking treats, and all the adorable antics that happen when kids are simply being kids. kids and the candy barThere's just something about kids at a Candy Bar at a wedding! These two were literally having the time of their lives. Moments like this are why I love being a photographer. Glad I didn't have to deal with their sugar high later on! small moments=meaningful memoriesAnd while those moments might seem small at the time, they become incredibly meaningful years down the road. One day, parents will look back at these photographs and remember just how little they were, those funny little personalities, and all the things they did that made everyone laugh. documenting a bride and groom's special dayWedding photography isn't just about capturing the bride and groom. It's about documenting the people, personalities and little moments that make the day special.
𝑪𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒔𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖!
These are the moments you’ll look back on for years—the dress, the suit, and that "end of an era" feeling. Don’t let them just live on your phone; let’s turn them into memories that last a lifetime. I’m currently booking outdoor sessions with two great options: The Garden Studio: Our outside private property here in Cobourg (perfect for a variety of backdrops). On Location: A spot of your choice that fits your vibe. Spaces are limited as prom season approaches! Send us a message to grab your date. a beautiful historical place in cobourg ontarioThere’s something incredibly special about a wedding that feels effortless, meaningful, and deeply personal. And having the opportunity to photograph this beautiful wedding at Cobourg's City Hall located in beautiful Victoria Hall on King Street in downtown Cobourg is something that I love to do. And Kuniko and Ark chose the most beautiful venue to say their vows! classic stone archesThe building itself is absolutely beautiful. Those classic stone arches and columns give it such a timeless look creating the perfect backdrop. It’s one of those places where you don’t have to try too hard—the character is already there. Every spot feels like it was made for photos. an intimate gathering for friends and familyInside, it’s just as lovely. There’s plenty of seating for family and friends, Everyone is close, everyone is part of the moment, and you can really feel that connection during the ceremony. What stood out most was how simple and personal the whole experience felt. No stress, no over-the-top production—just two people getting married, surrounded by the people who matter most. a special four-legged best man!And, having the opportunity of having your furry best man present created such a fun atmosphere. having fun with family and friendsbride & groom formals after the ceremonyart gallery of northumberlandThe Art Gallery of Northumberland is located upstairs in Victoria Hall where bride and groom formal photos can take place. We were lucky enough to request a bit of time for some outstanding photographs. That’s what I love most about weddings here—the intimacy. It never feels like a big production. It feels real, relaxed, and meaningful. As a photographer, venues like this are a dream. If you’re planning something smaller or just want a wedding that focuses on what really matters, Victoria Hall is such a perfect choice. Simple, beautiful, and full of character.
Updating your family photosIf you’ve been browsing photography options, you’ve probably come across the term mini session. These have become incredibly popular—and for good reason. At CatsMac Photography, mini sessions are one of our favourite ways to connect with families while creating beautiful, updated images you’ll love. So, what exactly is a mini session?A mini session is a shorter, simplified photo session. They typically run about 20 minutes and most often take place on specific dates with a styled setup we’ve created in advance. You’ll still receive the same professional quality and attention to detail—just in a shorter, more focused experience. Why choose a mini session?For many families, mini sessions are the perfect fit. They’re:
Why we offer mini sessionsAs photographers, mini sessions allow us to create something really special. We design each setup with intention—whether it’s a fall scene with pumpkins, a Christmas setup, or something fun and unique like our duckling or unicorn sessions. Because everything is prepared ahead of time, we can focus fully on capturing genuine smiles and real moments. Mini sessions also give families the chance to come back year after year, capturing memories as your children grow. Are mini sessions right for you?If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and meaningful way to update your family photos, a mini session is a perfect choice.
If you’re wanting a fully customized experience with multiple locations or outfit changes, a full session may be a better fit. Either way, we’re here to make sure your experience feels easy, relaxed, and enjoyable—and that you walk away with photos you truly love. the creative heart of editing photosWhen a snowstorm hits and the world outside slows down, I hunker down and dive into the creative heart of my work: the editing process.
This is where the magic happens! While Jenn and sometimes Justin shoot sessions for CatsMac Photography, I (Cathy) am the one who is behind the scenes doing all the other work involved in keeping a photography business going (and yes, I do photograph sessions as well. My workflow is built around productivity by using a dual-monitor setup that allows me to maximize my creative space.
From Capture to Share - The process doesn't end when the shutter clicks. My setup ensures a smooth transition from a raw file to a finished product ready for clients. It’s about creating an efficient and enjoyable experience, even when the weather outside is wild! Want to see more behind-the-scenes content? Click here to see some of our behind the scenes work or maybe book your own unique session? Follow us on social media or reach out today to discuss your vision! shaprness has its placeLately I’ve been thinking about how obsessed the photography world has become with razor‑sharp everything. Don’t get me wrong—sharpness has its place. But it’s not the soul of a photograph. not technically perfectSome of my favourite images aren’t technically perfect at all. They’re the ones where the moment was real, the story was unfolding, and the emotion was impossible to fake. A little blur, a little grain, a little imperfection… sometimes that’s exactly what makes a photo feel alive. catch the magic happening right in front of usPhotography isn’t a contest of pixels. It’s a way of seeing, feeling, remembering. When we chase only sharpness, we risk missing the magic happening right in front of us. Give me a meaningful moment over a perfect sharp photo any day.
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