From North Kildonan to the Whiteshell: A Photographer in the Making

Jessica grew up in Winnipeg’s North Kildonan neighbourhood, but her first memories with a camera trace back to her family's lake trips—snapping shots of wildlife and summer moments with loved ones. The creative spark lit early, and it never left. After high school, she enrolled in the Professional Photography Program at Red River College, graduating in 2020. But Jessica was already in motion—she launched her business in 2019, balancing bookings with mentorships and styled shoots to hone her voice and build a portfolio.

Her very first wedding? Shot at 19 for a family member, without having ever attended one herself. “I had no idea what I was getting myself into,” she admits. But the experience sealed her fate. From there, she sought out every opportunity—second shooting, mentorships, and model calls—to build her skills, confidence, and client base.

A Dual Career Built on Care

Jessica’s path isn’t linear. In addition to running her photography business, she works full-time as an Early Childhood Educator and is completing her Level 3 certification. The connection between her two roles is clear: both are grounded in attentiveness, patience, and creating positive emotional experiences for others.

“The way kids see the world inspires how I photograph,” she says. “Sometimes that means shooting through leaves, or lying on the ground to get the right angle. It’s about perspective.”

It’s also about stamina. Wedding photography can be physically and emotionally demanding—and Jessica is no stranger to busy days. But she embraces the pace. “My drive to succeed is so strong. I’m always juggling, but I love it and wouldn’t change it for the world.”

Photographing Weddings Like a Friend

Jessica typically photographs 5+ weddings each year across Manitoba, offering coverage packages that range from 4 to 10 hours. Her most popular option is a full-day experience, and her process is rooted in comfort and connection. Every couple gets two video calls, a pre-wedding questionnaire, and an engagement session—not just for logistics, but to build trust.

Her shooting style is best described as candid and relaxed, with a strong emphasis on storytelling. “I want to capture the real moments without adding stress. I’ll prompt people when needed, but I’m also that fly-on-the-wall—shooting through a bush, waiting for a quiet glance, or sneaking a laugh.”

From the high emotions of the ceremony to the energy of the dance floor, Jessica flows seamlessly through each part of the day. She focuses on documenting the full scope of the experience—from the nervous hands during prep to the joy of celebration. And while her editing style leans light and airy, she’s also drawn to deeper, moodier tones when the moment calls for it.

What Clients Say

The most common feedback she hears? That working with her felt natural, joyful, and deeply personal. Her approach puts even the most camera-shy couples at ease.

One bride summed it up beautifully:

“Jessica photographed my wedding this past September and made two people who are awkward and not big into photos so relaxed—and we both got really into it and had a blast! She made it so fun and my guests even said how great she was! We couldn’t be happier with how the photos turned out.”

Looking Ahead

Jessica’s goals are grounded in growth—booking more weddings, meeting new couples, and continuing to offer heartfelt photography that becomes part of her clients’ love stories. She’s also planning her own wedding and fully understands the emotional whirlwind her couples face.

Whether she’s at a ceremony in Winnipeg, a snowy trail in winter, or a dock in the Whiteshell, Jessica brings her full self: artist, educator, empath. And that’s what makes her work—and presence—so deeply memorable.

Website: jessicadawnimages.com
Instagram: @jessicadawnimages