What I do
A portrait that says something
before you say a word.
Most portraits look like portraits. Posed, flat, forgettable. They document a person without revealing anything about them.
Every session starts with a conversation — about your work, your audience, and what you want people to understand about you before they've read a single word of your bio. Then we build an image around that. Bold, cinematic, human.
The result is a portrait that doesn't just represent you. It works for you.
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Why it works
What makes every
session different.
It starts with a conversation, not a camera
Before anything is shot, we talk. About your work, your audience, the feeling you want these images to create. That conversation is where the portrait actually begins — and it's what separates something distinctive from something generic.
Built for creatives who have a lot to say
Actors, musicians, visual artists, writers, makers — if your image needs to carry the weight of your work, I know how to build it. I'm not flattening your identity into a professional headshot. I'm making something that reflects who you actually are.
You'll feel more comfortable than you expect
Most people come in thinking they're not photogenic. They leave with images they're genuinely proud of. The directing, the pacing, the conversation — all of it is designed to get you out of your head and into something real.
17 years. Award-winning. Still curious.
New York Photography Awards. PX3 Gold Prize Paris. City of Ottawa Permanent Collection. The experience shows — not in a polished, corporate way, but in knowing exactly when to push and when to wait for something real to happen.
What people say
Five-star reviews on Google
Shawn was wonderful to work with. I usually feel a bit awkward in front of the camera, but he made the process comfortable. His pose suggestions were really helpful. The photos turned out better than expected — they captured the vibe I was hoping for and they made me feel confident and pretty. I'd definitely recommend him to anyone considering a shoot.— Sarah T.
Pricing & Information
Everything you need
to know before we shoot.
Every session starts with a free consultation — a conversation about your work, your goals, and what you want these images to do for you. No commitment, no pressure. We figure out the right package together.
Session
The focused session. One setting, one look, built entirely around you. Everything you need for your website, LinkedIn, and social profiles.
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Room for multiple looks, locations, or outfit changes. Ideal for musicians, actors, and creatives who need range across different contexts and platforms.
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A full creative collaboration. Multiple settings, looks, and contexts. For brand shoots, editorial projects, and performers building a complete image library.
Book this sessionI work primarily on location across Ottawa and Gatineau — parks, urban settings, architectural spaces, natural light. I also work with several studio spaces in Ottawa, each with their own character. Studio rental fees typically range from $100–$180 and are always confirmed in advance — never a surprise on your invoice. We'll decide what fits your vision during your consultation.
All sessions include a royalty-free license for personal and commercial use. No credit required, though always appreciated. · Travel fees apply for sessions more than 100km from my location.
Common Questions
Portrait sessions in
Ottawa & Gatineau.
If you're thinking about booking, you probably have a few questions about how it all works — locations, what to wear, turnaround time. Here are the ones I hear most often.
There are excellent options across the region — Major's Hill Park, the Experimental Farm, the Arboretum, Gatineau Park, and areas around the ByWard Market. Each has a different character. I can also suggest lesser-known spots that fit your specific aesthetic or brand.
Choose outfits that reflect your actual style — not your "photo day" style. For creatives, that might mean pieces that connect to your work or aesthetic. Solid colours and simple textures photograph best. Bring 2–3 options and we'll decide together. See my full session prep guide for more detail.
Typically within two weeks of your session. During busier periods it may be up to four weeks. If you have a specific deadline — a launch, a submission, a publication — let me know upfront and I'll do my best to accommodate.
Ottawa weather is what it is. I monitor forecasts closely and we'll be in touch beforehand. If conditions aren't workable, we can reschedule or shift to an indoor option. Flexibility is built into how I work.
Absolutely. Items that represent your work or personality can add a lot to a portrait session. An instrument, a tool of your trade, a pet — just let me know in advance so I can plan for it properly.
Reach out through the contact page or email contact@shawnmoreton.com. Once we confirm a date, I'll send a booking form and a session guide to help you prepare. The first step is just saying hello.
Let's make something
Ready for a portrait that
actually looks like you?
Stand out from the crowd.
Every session starts with a conversation. Reach out and let's figure out exactly what that looks like, together.
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