Welcome
Because #IHAVENOVOICE a book that will inspire.
I've had the honour of growing up in a single parent household with my three brothers. I say honour, because my up bringing has shaped me into the woman I am today. My mother, has and continues to teach me that “giving up isn’t an option”. That forging your own path is the only way to be happy, accomplish your goals and dreams. My brothers taught me how to be a woman of integrity and elegance. They always encourage me to be the best version of myself. My husband, kids and best friends, remind me that I am talented and that I‘ve got this, whatever this is at the time. They allow me to be selfish in my quest to get that “shot” and protect my craft.
I have one of the most fascinating careers ever! As a police officer, I have the privilege of keeping my community safe, the privilege of supporting, teaching and encouraging our next generation of leaders. Policing has taught me that life can be taken away in a split second, that ones freedom is a privilege, that we are accountable for our actions even when we start life in a disadvantaged position. Policing and life experiences has taught us that we need to step up to the plate and determine where we want to be and seek out ways to get there. It reminds that, failure is a possibility, but that giving up isn’t an option. We must learn from our mistakes, ask for help and be willing to accept it. Policing has allowed me to appreciate my life, to celebrate the little things in life and to live life to the fullest. It has helped me blossom into a thought provoking photographer.
Photography is my outlet, it is my calm during the storm, it is my quiet space to focus, be thankful and help others see the light at the end of the tunnel. I have been told on many occasions, that my photography, is like someones cup of coffee in the morning. It is something that other’s look forward to when they are having a good or bad day. I have been thanked for reminding others to stop and appreciate the things that we so regularly walk passed or discard.
Photography, is my definition of equality and inclusion. I provide a platform for everyone to freely share their story, life experiences , sadness, disappointments, success and love through the lens.
A story that is welcomed by all.
I'm all about family as there's nothing more precious then family. The perfect family or portrait photo brings a lifetime of smiles and memories.
I am available to take photos of your property, garden, local events (charities or corporate), and business photographs that can be used for websites, promoting a business, and so on.
I love taking photos at weddings but not as the main photographer; I specialize in taking candid shots, capturing those tender moments when no-one is looking.
I create gift cards which feature photos that range from nature to sites within the Ottawa/Gatineau area for all seasons. Any photo that I take can be made into a gift card. I also do custom projects.
"Yes, each and everyday. My goal is to improve on my photography and creativity. The only way to build and grow your craft is to practice it. I believe that can go for anything in our lives. If you don’t work on it, it won’t improve. I do this for me. I want to be the best that I can be as a photographer." So what happens when you see that perfect photo? "Complete joy and excitement. I have to pull over and capture it ASAP."
"I would say maybe after the death of my dad. Things that I would have loved to have said to him. That being said, I still have a second chance because my mom is still alive.."
"Guess when I can’t wait to show my followers." Is it different using a phone? "That is my life today. My camera is my go too tool. It’s easy to carry around and is always with me. When I look through my phone, the scenery is totally different from looking through my professional camera. When I have both, I look through both to get both perspectives. I would love to do a coffee book just on iPhone photos. Next project. :)"
"To take time to enjoy life and all the things around you. Its easy to go to the negative, lets focus on the good... My photos now tell a story. Each person can create their own version of that story, I pay attention to details and the subjects, topics are unique. I see more of my creativity in my photos. I think this is because of the confidence I now have."
"I would take the feedback and thank them. I would analyze it and decide what I will take away from it. At the end of the day if it was my favourite photo, it would still be my favourite photos. To each its own!"
"I would challenge myself to get the photo of a particular scene correct in the first shot. That is how you get better. Because, sometimes, you don’t have a second chance to get that perfect shot. So be prepared and get it right the first time. I would explain that. It would make it difficult (many photo's) for them to go through."
"I would say because of experience. I like using the natural light out there. When it comes to using other light sources, I become nervous because I don’t know them that well. That has changed as I have volunteered my time to shadow other photographers who are experts in using other light sources."
"I look up to my mom. She is the true definition of Wonder Woman. She did not let life’s difficulties stop her from accomplishing her goals. She did this while being a single mom.
I also look up to those who have dedicated their lives to helping others. We live in a world that has significantly changed. Those who try to make it a better place to live and raise a family inspire me to want to do good and be apart of such an amazing adventure."
I'm available to photograph your most precious moments. Just complete my contact form and I'll be sure to get back to you right away.
By Debbie Miller
A project was born out of my commitment to be part of the call to action for change. This project captures the effects of intergenerational racism on black families. In a tapestry of photographs, community quotes and documentary, I share stories of pain and injustice in raw emotions that powerfully inspires us to reflect. The killing of George Floyd has ignited a movement. It has put a spotlight on the systemic racism, inequality and discrimination that plagues our communities world wide and right here in Ottawa/Gatineau. This call to action, requires all of us to continue to listen, learn and act to invoke real change.
I needed to harness and channel the rage, anger, disgust and profound sadness that I was feeling as a result of the unjustified
killing of George Floyd on May 25th, 2020 by a Minneapolis police officer.
As a black woman, mother, daughter, sister, wife and police officer, I could no longer remain silent. I needed to stand up and be a part of this call to action to acknowledge that “black” people are facing systemic discrimination, unconscious bias and anti-black racism every single day.
“Debbie, with DHM Photography is an awesome photographer who will help bring out the best in you for your photos! She was professional and alot of fun during my photo shoot, and I was thrilled with the end results! Thank you so much!!”
“We had admired Debbie's photos of a friend of ours, and decided to contact her to schedule a family photoshoot. I called her to discuss her approach and pricing, and I was happily surprised by how easy-going and accessible she was. Despite having a busy schedule, Debbie did not hesitate to schedule us in - even leaving her own family event to photograph us for over two hours (it was the only day we could get the family together). The photoshoot was lots of fun! It was hot, and the kids were tempermental at times, but we were amazed at how Debbie managed to direct the shoot, and charm a 9-year old and 1-year old into cooperating (including a costume change!). The results were fantastic, and we shared them with family and friends right away. The digital copies were available within a few days (which is very fast by industry standards), and the prints were hand delivered. There were so many good shots to choose from. Overall, we had a really great experience, and before the shoot was done, we were already planning our next one with other family members as well! Debbie's positive attitude and warm spirit will leave a lasting impression - we promise!”
“I connected with DHM Photography to create some images for the website I was developing to showcase my electronic music production. The photoshoot was a fantastic experience. Debbie did an incredible job of making me comfortable in front of the camera while capturing “the essence of me”. Using composition, lighting, and textures she captured some stunning photos that I am using on www.xformproject.com. Debbie has a God-given talent for creating and capturing a moment. I have happily referred friends who have inquired about my photos and I look forward to my next photoshoot with Debbie!”
