Danielle Gillard Photography

Horizon

When I look back on my life before Vancouver, I felt a lot of uncertainty and continued to move around in hopes of finding my place. Being closer to the ocean for 5 years now I realize that my place will forever be by the sea. I have so much gratitude that scenes like this sailboat on a beautiful sunny day cruising by is just a normal day here.

I know it sounds silly to some but these moments bring so much joy to my life. The simplistic but wild beauty of the sea and the people it brings to it, will forever be one of my favourite things. Regardless of diving, or what ever you do, the ocean is a place of healing, wonder, adventure and so much more. I’m really happy I chose this place and I’m excited for more adventures on the horizon.

Happy World Photography Day.. it was yesterday but every day is photography day for me.

Photography has been around me my whole life. From my grandparents to my parents, I remember always having so many photos to look at and admire. As I grew up that’s exactly what I wanted, my own camera so i could capture moments that would last a lifetime.

I remember getting my first film camera in the 90’s and being so stoked about it. I must have been 6 or 7. Since that day I knew I loved to capture moments and create stories. Fast forward to 2026 and I’ve had my own business for over 10 years and I’m still very much in love with photography. Ive had the opportunity to work with so many beautiful people and families, Im so incredibly grateful for you all!

I’ve travelled around the world with my camera in hand and I’ve captured hundreds of thousands of images. No joke and I can say it absolutely is overwhelming! I’m trying to be more mindful when I photograph and with purpose rather than quantity. Which is hard in a digital world. But regardless, I’m grateful for the incredible moments I’ve witnessed over the years from sunsets, waterfalls, flora & fauna, underwater, northern lights, newborns, engagements, couples saying I do, and all the beautiful moments in between.

Instagram only lets you share 20 images and to narrow down a few hundred thousand images you could imagine is hard.. took me my entire day off to round these down. Don’t get me wrong though, I’ve left thousands of beautiful images out that mean the world to me, especially the ones of my clients.

Photography has changed my life, my perspective and my heart. The way I see the world is completely different and in my eyes its been such a beautiful journey. Ive had the pleasure of showing so many people different places around the world that they may never see. It's helped with my depression, anxiety and confidence. It's shaped me into the women I am today, and for that I'm so grateful!

I look forward to the many adventures ahead, capturing beauty through my eyes and sharing with all of you.

www.daniellegillardphotography.com

Pink Hour 🩷✨

Before the mosquitoes filed a formal complaint that we were enjoying ourselves too much.

Yellowknife really knows how to put on a show. These cotton candy skies never get old, and for a few peaceful moments, everything felt perfectly still… until the mosquitoes reminded us we were, in fact, the evening buffet. 😅

Totally worth a few bites for a sunset like this. 💕🌅

There’s something about the midnight sun that slows everything down. No rush, no noise—just still water, golden light, and quiet moments that remind us how beautiful the North can be.

My brother paddling across Neck Lake, soaking in one of those evenings you never forget.

www.daniellegillardphotography.com

A few weeks ago, I had the absolute joy of photographing my wonderful neighbours, Nuno & Kristian, during their engagement session.

Over the last year, what started as being neighbours has grown into a truly lovely friendship. Getting to know these two has been such a gift, and it was incredibly special to spend an evening capturing this exciting chapter in their lives.

The way they laugh together, support one another, and simply enjoy being in each other’s company made this session feel effortless and genuine. Every photograph tells a little piece of their story, and I feel so honoured that they trusted me to document these memories before they say “I do” this July.

Nuno & Kristian, thank you for allowing me to be part of such a meaningful time in your lives. I can’t wait to celebrate with you both and watch this beautiful next chapter begin. ❤️

Congratulations, you two!

Yellowknife 💛 I’m coming home for a little bit this summer, and I honestly can’t wait.

There’s just something about being up north — the light, the people, the feeling — it always fills my cup in the best way.

I’ll only have a limited number of sessions available while I’m there, so if you’ve been thinking about booking, this is your sign!
Available dates:

June 26–28
July 2–3

Send me a message to grab a spot ✨

I’m so excited to be back and see some familiar (and new!) faces.

Magnolias are slowly starting to bloom 🌺 — my favourite flower! I feel so lucky to see so many on my way to work and around home.

Soft petals, blue skies, and that feeling that everything is coming back to life. Best time of the year. Bonus: running outside and not getting blown or rained away!

🐚 daniellegillardphotography.com

Last Sunday, I got to go to Hornby Island for work with Vancouver Diving Locker & Instructor Sheena — and it turned into one of those perfect dive days.

Our surface interval consisted of hot chocolate, sunshine, lots of laughs, and a rock absolutely covered in Sea Lions.

Exploring new places with great company is always the best part of the job. 🌊📸

Some mornings just feel extra special ✨

I took the ferry to work a few weeks back. and the city was wrapped in the softest blanket of fog. The sun slowly started peeking through, turning everything gold and dreamy. The water was perfectly still, the skyline looked like it was waking up, and for a moment it felt like the whole world hit pause.

There’s something about commuting by boat that makes even a regular workday feel magical. ☀️

Grateful for quiet mornings like this.