I photograph important people.

Not just people with titles — although I’ve photographed CEOs, Dragons, public figures, senior executives, and leaders across finance, healthcare, government, and the nonprofit sector.

I mean that everyone who steps in front of my camera is important. Important to their organization. Important to their colleagues. Important to their clients. Important to their own professional story. And my job is to make sure they look that way.

I’ve been a professional photographer since 1994. I trained at a time when photographers were expected to master the craft in its entirety — on film, in studio, on location, across subjects and industries. That foundation still shapes how I work today: with technical precision, creative intelligence, and complete responsibility for the result.

Over the years, I’ve photographed everything from people to food to jewellery to dogs. Today, my work centres on photographing people in the service of their professional lives and brands.

What I Do

I create images that embody your brand’s quality and purpose and communicate your message with clarity and impact.

My clients range from solo professionals to large corporate and government organizations. I am a Vendor of Record for the Government of Ontario and work with major financial institutions, foundations, healthcare organizations, professional associations, and communications teams. I also work with individuals who may never have had a professional portrait taken before.

Whether I’m photographing a CEO for an annual report, a team for a corporate website, or an individual business owner building an online presence, the goal is the same: images that do their job: build credibility and trust, and communicate leadership, excellence and professionalism.

How I Work

I take responsibility for how you show up; I don't wait for you to "perform". I direct and coach with precision and intention.

That means guiding posture, expression, energy, and presence. It means adjusting clothing, smoothing fabric, moving stray hairs, and helping you choose the wardrobe option that works best when we have options. It means creating an environment where you feel comfortable enough to look natural, but guided enough to look your best.

Many of my clients begin a shoot feeling unsure or self-conscious. Most leave saying they enjoyed the experience — sometimes even had fun — and are surprised by how good the photographs look.

As someone who has acted in television commercials myself, I understand what it feels like to be on the other side of the lens. That empathy shapes everything I do.

Technically, I am meticulous. I am an expert in lighting and composition and never rely on chance or available light alone. I still work in studio and on location and often use custom green-screen techniques, including capturing backgrounds specifically for a client’s organization so I can create controlled, flattering, and realistic portraits even when space constraints would otherwise limit us.

I can work quickly when circumstances demand it. Decades of experience allow me to pivot, adapt, and remain calm under pressure. At the same time, I will always suggest building in enough time for shoots, rather than rushing which can undermine both the experience and the result. The best images happen when there is space for trust, refinement, and intention.

What Matters to Me

Empathy, integrity, kindness, excellence, and a sense of humour.

I work particularly well with capable, high-achieving professionals because I understand their standards. And, I bring the same level of care and attention to every subject, regardless of title.

I specialize in still photography because I care deeply about the craft of still imagery and the impact a single, well-executed image can have.

My goal is always the same: that you look like the best version of yourself — polished, credible, authentic — and that no one is surprised when they meet you in person.

When you stand in front of my camera, you are important.

And you should look that way.

Hollinrake.com, KathrynHollinrake.com