When did you know you wanted to be a photographer?

I think I always considered myself a photographer of sorts even when I was a complete amateur and “mom-tographer” ….my kids have impressive photo albums (ha) – I always loved the cameras I had over the decades (most were film cameras) but as a professional photographer – once I had my first paid job, I thought maybe.. I could do this as a career?!

Who are the photographers and artists that have had the greatest influence on you and why?

I, absolutely love Melissa Rodwell, Miss Aniela, Kirsty Mitchell and David LaChapelle – each of them are so creative, authentic and their art makes you FEEL something when you look at them. I can look at their work for hours! I try to emulate that feeling in my own work….

What is the inspiration behind your photographs?

Oh gosh, it’s all over the map….depends on what my clients want to experience, who and what I’m shooting for (commercial or independent projects) or if I am shooting my own personal project. I do love royalty, crowns and crosses …that seems to be a theme within my personal work when I get the chance.

What was the most unique person or place you’ve photographed?

I photograph mainly women and each person is unique and beautiful to me but I know what you mean …I shot David Byrne (from the band Talking Heads) that was cool – as for an unique place…I shot in an old motor garage in London, UK – they have the best historic places to shoot in!

What advice do you have for aspiring photographers?

1. Shoot what you love not what you think will make you money …even if you have to shoot other work in between…make your personal projects about you – it will breathe life into your work.
2. Reach out and/or tag along with any photographer who offers to have you on their set (you will learn so much from every shoot even if you aren’t shooting – a tip, a trick, how to engage with clients, different angles to shoot from – its endless and invaluable)
3. Don’t compare yourself to any other photographer.
4. Don’t shoot for “likes” on social media – this will only make you sad.
5. Always have fun! Don’t turn your shoots into an angsty artist session (ha)…. enjoy every person you shoot and the teams you shoot with. I don’t think there is one person… I have shot with….who I don’t consider a friend now.

If you could have any superpower, which would you choose?

Well at this moment, I wish I had the super power to stop the Australian bush fires….it’s completely devastating to me – the loss of the animals is heartbreaking!

Where is your favorite travel destination?

Positano, Italy …I was there a couple of years ago and I want to go back. It was completely magical!

When you’re not photographing, what are your favorite hobbies?

I’m a bit of a foodie and I love to travel …so eating and wandering about the world (ha)

Where are you hoping your photography will take you—personally and professionally?

I have already exceeded any expectation I could ever have dreamed of ….I feel so lucky to have had the work I have had so far, the opportunities and the people I have met over the past 9 years as a professional photographer. I have recently relocated in LA with my husband …I will try to make some connections here to find like-minded artists to create with. Wish me luck!

Where can people find you online?

You can find my portfolio at www.donnalynnphotography.ca
Instagram: @donnalynnphotog
Twitter @donnalynnphotog