Aug 11
more about us
As Ryckman Photography continues to grow we realized we needed more gifts and talents to accomplish everything we do. Here we would like to introduce you to all the members of our working family.
SHANE & MICHELINE RYCKMAN
Senior Photographers/Editor
contact – ryckmanphoto@gmail.com
I, Micheline, have been doing photography since my University days. I did a degree in Fine Arts at the University of Victoria (graduated in 1995) and photography was a part of my degree. I really began to focus more on photography after my own wedding in 1996. I was sadly disappointed with my own professional wedding photos and it sparked a drive in me to want to provide amazing images for all those brides out there who, like me, were wanting natural more creative memories of their wedding day. I also became more driven in my craft when my first baby was born – I longed to remember everything about her and I wanted to record her childhood in a realistic and beautiful way. I love capturing kids just being kids!
Shane & I have never been drawn to studio photography – though I see some advantages in it – especially when it is pouring rain outside! ;) So the result of staying away from studio stuff is that we are location photographers – meaning we photograph only on location and mostly outdoors. When the weather is cold or not cooperating we will go indoors but prefer to be in a family’s home, a beautiful hotel or even with clients in our own home.
Shane has been doing photography since he met me! He had always had an interest in the craft but never really pursued it until after we married. So much of this journey has been together and that has been a blessing in our marriage. It is amazing to share this with each other and to work together as a team. We never photograph a wedding alone – we try always to do it together. If Shane is unable to attend the wedding then I always bring an personally trained assistant with me. All the obvious advantages of having two photographers at a wedding are indispensable.
Our hope at this point in our career is that we have managed to bless our clients with solid, beautiful and real memories of their special day or their family.
Us Ryckmans!!
AMY CHAPOTON
Wedding Consultant/ Graphic Designer/Assistant Photographer
contact – amyryckmanphoto@gmail.com
The first time I crossed paths with Shane and Micheline was years ago at a photo shoot. I, as participant of an environmental awareness campaign – I was the subject and they were the photographers. Little did I know at the time I would be the subject of many more photo sessions! Some time later we connected through a mutual friend and our friendship began.
Being single and loving families I enjoyed seasons of my life living in others homes and helping out anyway I could. The Ryckmans allowed me the privilege of sharing their home and lives. Upon my return from volunteering in Uganda, Africa for six months Ryckman Photography needed a new assistant. I have always enjoyed taking photos but never thought to pursue it. I was given an amazing opportunity! The Ryckmans provided me with food, shelter and the opportunity to be trained in the art of portrait and wedding photography. I grew up in an entrepreneurial family and was excited to be involved in a small business once again. As time went by I became more involved taking on graphic and administrative work so that Micheline would have more time to edit photos and more time to spend with her family.
Single life ended when I married Lee in 2009. Currently we are enjoying a season in Colorado Springs before we relocate back to Canada in 2011 with plans to renovate a little farm house only a hop skip and a jump away from Shane and Micheline. Along with assisting in photography and doing graphic design I am very excited about my newest role of Wedding Consultant. With a full calendar of weddings and family photos each year we wanted someone to be able to devote their attention solely to the brides and grooms. I am honored to be able to connect and correspond with those planning their special day. I LOVE weddings!!!
ANDI EADY
Office Manager
contact – aandgeady@shaw.ca
Fourteen years ago I left the big, busy city and my very busy life with my very busy career and moved to smaller, quieter Cranbook. I wanted to be able to stay home and raise my kids in a place where I wasn’t afraid to let them walk to the store or take the dog for a walk. After a couple of unsuccessful years in public school I took the opportunity to homeschool my kids and that’s when I met Micheline and Shane and their kids. Mich and I quickly became friends. Mich taught me about photography and I helped her organize her business. I’ve always loved taking pictures of my kids and I’m so grateful to Micheline for teaching me how to take better pictures. What started out as me helping Mich reorganize her home office has turned into a job that I love with two of my favourite things – photography and organizing.
