There’s something that happens when a woman decides to step in front of the camera—not for a headshot, not for a holiday card, but purely for herself. That’s exactly the energy Candy brought when she booked her portrait session with us, and the results? Absolutely stunning.
Before we ever touched a camera, Candy and I connected online for a styling session. We talked about outfits, accessories, and colour palettes—the whole vision. What should she wear to show off the fun, sporty side of her personality? (A woman who golfs, plays pickleball, and has a passport full of stamps has range.) What pieces would feel most authentically her? That pre-shoot conversation is one of my favourite parts of the process because it sets the tone for everything—it’s where the story begins.
On the day of the shoot, Candy settled into the hair and makeup chair of the incredibly talented Madison Gagnon. And here’s the thing about the makeover experience at Abelle: you’re in charge. Madison’s skill is only matched by her ability to listen, and Candy had full say over every brushstroke and curl. The result was a look that felt elevated and polished—but unmistakably Candy. She was pampered, glowing, and ready. What started as a little nerve-wracking (because, honestly, who isn’t a little intimidated by a camera?) gradually transformed, pose by guided pose, outfit change by outfit change, into something genuinely joyful. That’s the magic of the process — by the end, the camera doesn’t feel like something to fear. It feels like a conversation.
Happy Woman’s Day to every woman who is active, curious, vibrant, and fully herself—just like Candy. These portraits are a collaboration between Candy’s warmth and authenticity, Madison’s artistry, and the space we create together at the studio for women to show up and be seen. If you’ve ever thought about doing something like this for yourself, consider this your sign. There is no expiration date on being seen, and you are worthy of it, now more than ever.
