I met Emily last summer when collaborating on a photoshoot in Edworthy Park (the final product is pictured below). From there I styled a shoot that was featured Fienfh Magazine and this spring she photographed FAUN’s new collection lookbook. I’m obsessed with her dreamy photography and had to ask her some questions about being a photographer in Calgary.

Feature shoot for Fienfh Magazine - Model: @s.aradonnelly

Emily pictured in one of her early music videos.

How did you get started in photography? How did you make the shift from amateur to professional photographer?

My dad would help my sister and I recreate our favourite music videos when we were younger, and I was always super fascinated by the way the camera was able to capture certain feelings and moods. This lead to my friends and I back in Shanghai to plan huge shoots with multiple outfits and just walk around our neighbourhood taking thousands of photos. Then in university, I took a huge break from being creative to focus on my studies, but when the pandemic hit I decided to start back up. I wouldn’t call myself a professional photographer, but I have definitely grown from small shoots with my friends to collaborating with brands and models.

Did you study photography? What advice do you have for people wanting to get started?

I never formally studied photography, but in my IB art class back in high school, I had to create an exhibition for my final examination. That is where I really pushed myself and taught myself with the help of my art teacher how to use different programs. Without my high school art teacher Ms. Dayton, I probably would have never made the switch from editing in Photoshop to editing in Lightroom. My advice to people would be to just keep going, and keep trying everything. Everyone starts at the same spot with not really knowing what to do. It's all about practice and figuring out what you personally like.

Where are some of your favourite places to shoot in Calgary?

I personally prefer shooting in nature more than urban settings. My go-to place is 100% Griffith woods in the SW of Calgary. I love shooting in the forest and catching the rays of light through all the trees. I also love shooting in Nose Hill park, because once you get there it feels like you’re not even in Calgary anymore.

You have a dreamy, vintage style to your photos. What inspires you?

Thank you! I am definitely inspired by music videos and movies the most. I have always been fascinated in watching the way cinematographers choose to frame their subjects in order to tell the story or convey a certain mood.