TRANSFORMATIONAL PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER

For modern, soulful, and timeless portraits that empower and enrich

Specializing in women and gender diverse people over age 35.

Located in Red Deer, serving Central Alberta

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The personalized portrait experience that helps you look and feel your best, every time.

Carmen R. Photographer is a PORTRAIT, MATERNITY and HEADSHOT photographer located in Red Deer and serving communities including Sylvan Lake, Lacombe, Ponoka, Innisfail, and others throughout Central Alberta.

“As a person I value authenticity, and as a photographer I celebrate it. In this studio, your photo shoot is custom designed to convey exactly the unique person you are - extroverted, reserved, sensual, modest, joyful or reflective. I love to plan your photo session to capture every facet that you want to share.

I take pride in building relationships that enable people to relax in front of the camera and make photo sessions fun and fulfilling. Professional hair and makeup are included in each session, and you won’t be worried for a moment about where to put your hands - I’ll observe your natural body language then direct your movements to bring out your beauty in such a way that you’ll never be able to say “but I’m not photogenic” again.

I love to serve a wide variety of clients, but find special joy in connecting with women 35 and above - there is something very special to me about helping women my age and older rediscover what they love about themselves now.

It’s my goal to take the best photos you have ever seen of yourself. To give you a memorable and meaningful experience and to create art for your walls that will bring those magical memories rushing back every single day. Let’s plaster your walls with love!”

Magazine-style images for real, everyday people

Our service specialties include classic and magazine style portraiture for women 35 and beyond, boudoir-alternative photography for women 35 and beyond, modern maternity sessions, and headshots and personal branding photography for professionals and entrepeneurs.

I’ll take you step-by-step from start to finish. Starting with discovering what type of photoshoot experience you’re looking for through a conversation about you and your goals, we spend the time to plan every step so you can feel confident and relaxed, not nervous and unsure. Professional styling and session planning are all part of the process that ensures this experience is fulfilling and grounding. Your photoshoot experience will take place in my cozy and welcoming downtown Red Deer photo studio, and I can’t wait to meet you there.

A professional and fully-guided studio photoshoot experience that helps you look and feel your best

The number one

It all starts

with a conversation.

Click here to contact us.

The number two

We plan and style

your fully guided 

photo shoot.

The number three

Relax, enjoy the

experience

and your best portraits ever.

Ready to feel the best you’ve felt in years?

BOOK YOUR SESSION NOW

Client Testimonials

  • Black and white portrait of a pregnant woman draped in a cloth, standing in a thoughtful pose by Red Deer photographer Carmen MacDonald

    This was SO much fun to be a part of. Truly one of the best things I could have done for myself. Robyn Lynn Hair and Makeup Artistry made me feel so gorgeous, and Carmen made this such a fun and beautiful experience. And it was a whole experience, not just a photographer taking pictures. We put together mood boards, we had video chats, we curated a playlist, we had snacks, it was a whole vibe. Thank you SO MUCH!

    - Meagen

  • Portrait of a woman with light skin, wearing a strapless top, hands clasped near chest, looking contemplative by Red Deer photographer Carmen MacDonald

    I was so incredibly lucky to be referred by a friend to Carmen. She absolutely nailed my vision. I am completely in love with my images … getting my hair and makeup done, choosing outfits and settling into the process of taking these images made me feel special and beautiful.

    - Amanda

  • Smiling woman in a floral dress with curly hair against a gray background by Red Deer photographer Carmen MacDonald

    I just looked at my photo album, and the photos are amazing!!! I love every single one of them. The quality of your work is unbelievable! Thanks for everything, it was truly an amazing experience. Highly recommend!!!

    - Sophia

  • A black and white portrait of a smiling woman wearing a strapless dress and several necklaces. She has a small tattoo on her chest, and her arms are crossed by Red Deer photographer Carmen MacDonald

    Before the session, I was nervous and excited at the same time. Carmen made me laugh, we had a great time, and seeing the pictures afterwards it was hard to believe I could have pictures like that taken of me - I felt more empowered and proud of myself. What would I say to someone who is considering a portrait session but feels unsure? Do it!

    - Rhonda

  • Smiling woman reclining on a sofa with a brick wall background by Red Deer photographer Carmen MacDonald

    I am just elated and feel so confident as a woman. Carmen made me feel comfortable stepping out of my comfort zone and is truly blessed with a talent. She captured everything I ever imagined in a short amount of time. I am so grateful and just truly blessed to have been given this day.

    - Janelle

  • Man sitting on a stool wearing a burgundy velvet blazer, white shirt, black pants, and sneakers; hands resting on knees by Red Deer photographer Carmen MacDonald

    ★★★★★

    Thanks for taking your time to make me look good. You the best Carmen!

    - Michael

  • Woman in a historical costume with a veil and ornate dress by Red Deer photographer Carmen MacDonald

    Working with Carmen was a wonderful experience. Her attention to detail as well as the time she took to ask questions and do research really impressed me. She made me feel beautiful as well as appreciated for the time I've put into creating these looks. It felt like we made art vs a photoshoot, both of us in our own element. Never have I felt so comfortable and confident during a photoshoot, she is very skilled and knows how to explain what she wants.

    - Brook

A young woman smiles joyfully, text reads "crush your session. your confidence guide to the plan and prep so you can feel your best before, during, and after your photo shoot."

FREE “CRUSH YOUR SESSION” GUIDE

Want to look your best in all your photos and feel great heading into your photo shoot? This guide is full of tips, tricks, and advice on how to get the most of your photo shoot, no matter who your photographer is.

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Central Alberta’s Modern Portrait Photographer

Focused on creating authentic imagery through fully guided photo shoots that represent your self and your soul.

Located in Red Deer, Alberta, serving Central Alberta and beyond.

Carmen R. Photographer

4920 50 Avenue, 2nd Floor

Red Deer, AB T4R 2W3

Phone: 587-815-8562

Studio Photography Services

Headshots and Personal Branding Photography

Portrait Photography Sessions

Modern Maternity Sessions

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THE LATEST FROM OUR PHOTOGRAPHY BLOG

FAQs

Frequently asked questions about photoshoots in my Red Deer studio

What types of photoshoots do you offer?

I offer a range of professional, custom curated photoshoots. My style is varied and includes both classic portraiture and more modern, magazine-style sessions. From dressed up in formal portraits to dressed way down in my Come as You Are sessions, there is a portrait offering to suit your needs. I also offer custom studio headshots and personal branding sessions as well as studio maternity photo shoots.

Do you provide guidance during the shoot?

Most definitely. This is a major part of what makes my photoshoots so comfortable for my clients. From the first conversation we have, I’ll be guiding you on wardrobe choices. My hair and makeup artist will provide expert guidance and opinion on how to help you look your best, and throughout your photoshoot I’ll be giving you direct instruction on exactly where to put your hands and whether or not you should smile. Photoshoots are intriguing and exciting, but I know they can also be nerve-wracking and scary. It’s important to have a photographer you trust - I’ve got you!

What makes you different?

I combine a thoughtful, individual-centered approach with clear communication and reliable results. It’s not just what I do—it’s how I do it that sets me apart. Your experience is fully guided and custom curated and includes professional hair and makeup artistry. Lots of planning goes into your photoshoot, and part of the success we achieve comes down to the warm relationship we build with each other through the process. I don’t want to just take photos of you - I want you to connect with yourself and find your own reason “why,” and then help you realize the results you’ve been seeking,

How much do sessions in your Red Deer photo studio cost?

Just as my session offerings vary, the cost varies alongside. For custom sessions you will pay a session fee of $690 that will cover the cost of your entire experience including all the planning and preparation, plus your hair and makeup and the photoshoot itself. A portion of that session fee ($500) will be applied as credit to whatever products (albums and artwork) you decide to purchase. What you ultimately spend will depend on what you fall in love with and choose to purchase. Occasionally I run special event days for headshots and personal branding with a pared-down offering (not customized) or special projects with short-term session fee differences. Sign up for my mailing list to stay in the know!

What should I wear for my studio portrait photoshoot?

This is a very important question that doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all answer, aside from basic advice that applies across the board.

  • Don’t wear clothes that are way too big for you.

  • Don’t wear clothes that are way too small for you.

  • Don’t wear patterns and logos that take attention away from your face.

The beauty of your custom portrait shoot in my studio though is that you get expert guidance on this question, and it’s based on YOU and your goals. Check out these blog posts (How many outfits should I bring for my photo shoot? and What to wear for your maternity photo shoot) for more info, or download the Crush Your Session guide to get even more details on what to expect and how to prep for your photoshoot. 

Where is your studio located?

My photo studio is located in downtown Red Deer on the second floor of a heritage building. The address is 4920 50 (Gaetz) Ave. Check out the map here.

Being on the second floor, there is one flight of stairs to walk up - if you’re wanting to book a session and have mobility differences, let me know. I would love to make alternate location arrangements for you. The studio is very close to a few great places to eat on Ross Street as well as a Vietnamese sub shop, Sunworks, and Kawa coffee shop and bakery. Perfect for a little indulgence after your photoshoot has ended. 

Where can I find more information?

Check out the full FAQ page, or give me a shout. My phone number is 587-815-8562 and I’m open for text messages or phone calls. You can also e-mail me at hello@email.carmenrphoto.com

Follow me on social media to keep up to date on what I’m up to in the studio!