I create thoughtful, modern photography for businesses and organizations who want to show up with clarity and purpose.
My work spans portraits and headshots, event coverage, content for social media and websites, editorial stories, and imagery for print and marketing campaigns - always with a focus on connection, intention, and impact.
Lately, I’ve been especially energized by editorial stories about people making a difference in their communities, collaborating with organizations working toward a better world, and helping breathe new life into businesses as they refresh their online presence.
MARIEL NELMS, Founder & LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER
I’m Mariel Nelms - a commercial and editorial photographer driven by connection, curiosity, and the belief that visual storytelling can be a powerful force for change.
With a background in Interior Design and early career experience at a social media SaaS company, I bring a unique blend of aesthetic insight and marketing strategy to every shoot. This combination allows me to create modern, polished, and intentional images that support the growth of the businesses I work with. Since 2017, I’ve been self-employed as a full-time photographer, running two distinct brands: Note Photography, a wedding photography business I co-own with my husband, and Mariel Nelms Photography, where I focus on commercial and editorial work that makes an impact.
At the heart of what I do is a desire to help people and organizations show up with clarity and confidence. I love collaborating with clients who are reshaping their industries, uplifting their communities, or reimagining how their business shows up in the world. Facilitating that transformation through photography is a joy and an honour.
Outside of work, I’m a core member of a grassroots climate action group where I advocate for local environmental change and more sustainable living practices. Lately, I’ve also been exploring another creative path: writing fiction. Fuelled by my love of the natural world and a hope for a more thoughtful, connected future, I’m drawn to stories that imagine new ways of living, and caring for each other and the planet.
When I’m not shooting, editing or writing, I spend my free time with my family, elbow-deep in house projects, or growing strange and wonderful vegetables in our community garden plot. I’m constantly inspired by good design, meaningful work, and passionate people who care deeply about what they’re building.
MY Mission
I want you to feel proud of the way you’ve represented yourself or your business online. I want to create images that look and feel exactly like who you truly are, and help you to build an authentic and purpose driven brand.
“I was a little bit nervous about having my photos taken, but Mariel went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable—I had so much fun! She’s a total pro and I couldn’t recommend her enough.”
- KATE BLACK, PROFESSIONAL PORTRAIT CLIENT
Featured Work
