Marissa Naylor is a wedding photographer based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, who wears many hats. Known for her stunning photography and sharp marketing skills, Marissa has found a way to blend creativity, business savvy, and athletic prowess into a unique career path that keeps her busy and fulfilled.
Marissa will be the first to tell you that even the best photographers need to master marketing. While capturing picture-perfect moments is essential, it’s the ability to market those moments that really sets a photographer apart. Knowing how to promote yourself can be just as important as knowing how to work a camera. After all, it doesn’t matter if you have the best photos if no one ever sees them.
In addition to running her photography business, Marissa works full-time as a marketing officer at the University of Manitoba. Marissa has had years where she’s photographed 20-25 weddings in a season but she looks forward a more manageable number of 10-15 so she can focus more on each client, providing a personalized experience while still enjoying what she does. Plus, it leaves her some room to breathe—and golf.
Marissa isn’t just about lenses and laptops. She’s also a hardcore athlete. Picture this: Marissa at five years old, barely taller than a bowling pin, already knocking them down like a pro. She made her first nationals at the age of 8, and by 19, she was representing Canada in international bowling competitions. During the pandemic, her travels with Team Canada took a pause, but she’s been back on the lanes since 2021, competing around the world, including a trip to Kuwait.
And then there’s golf. Marissa was on the University of Manitoba’s golf team for five years, even serving as captain. She’s still hitting the greens regularly, balancing her love for golf with her business.
A well known Winnipeg wedding photographer, Marissa has also started booking weddings in British Columbia, particularly on Vancouver Island. Thanks to her fiancé’s family connections, she’s been able to shoot some stunning weddings there, using the scenic backdrops to build her portfolio. She’s also working on connecting with local vendors and planning more shoots to solidify her presence in the BC market.
Marissa Naylor is a master of juggling multiple passions and careers. Her story is a testament to the power of combining skills, continuous learning, and finding joy in what you do. Whether she’s behind the camera, on the golf course, or in a bowling alley, Marissa approaches everything with enthusiasm and a can-do attitude. She’s an inspiring example of how diverse interests can come together to create a rewarding and dynamic career. Plus, who wouldn’t want to hire a wedding photographer who’s also a national bowling champion? Talk about a great icebreaker at parties!
Website: Marissa Naylor Photography
Instagram: @marissanaylorphotography
