Danielle Gillard Photography

Finally getting around to posting about my fall trip to Yellowknife a few months back!

The colors were absolutely stunning, with the trees painted in rich reds, golds, and oranges. But what really stood out were the mushrooms—there seemed to be so many different types, each with its own unique shape and color. It felt like a mini treasure hunt on every hike, discovering clusters of mushrooms tucked away in the moss and along the trails.

Yellowknife in the fall was pure magic! ✨

There’s something incredibly sacred about the northern lights—a beauty that feels almost beyond words. Seeing the aurora dance across the sky in Yellowknife is like watching magic unfold. Colors ripple and pulse in shades of green, pink, and violet, spilling across the darkness in delicate waves. It’s breathtaking, humbling, and impossibly fleeting, like nature’s own silent symphony.

In the North, these lights are more than a natural phenomenon; they’re part of the heartbeat of the land, a reminder of nature’s wonder and power. They’re woven into the stories, the spirit, and the sense of place. Standing beneath them, bundled up against the chill, it feels as though the entire universe pauses with you, letting you in on a secret shared only with those who journey this far north.

I find myself missing Yellowknife deeply, craving that stillness and that unearthly glow. I miss the awe of standing there, feeling so small and yet so connected. It’s as if every time you watch the aurora, you leave a piece of yourself under those lights—and maybe that’s why I’ll always feel the pull back north.

This image captures a single, delicate lily pad floating gently on still waters. Its vibrant green stands in stark contrast to the deep, almost mysterious hues of the surrounding water, with a soft play of light accentuating its smooth surface. Despite its fragility, the lily pad persists, anchored yet seemingly untethered, a symbol of resilience in an unpredictable environment.

Much like life, this lily pad demonstrates a delicate balance. We float through existence, vulnerable to unseen forces, yet we endure. Just as the lily pad depends on stillness for survival, so too must we find moments of peace amidst life’s uncertainty. Both life and the lily pad teach us that fragility and strength coexist, and in embracing our delicate nature, we find our own unique resilience.

This summer up north was truly unforgettable. I’m so grateful for the time I had to explore the stunning landscapes around Yellowknife, especially sharing those adventures with my brother. From hiking through endless trails to witnessing the beauty of the northern wilderness, every moment was special. There’s nothing like the rugged beauty of this place, and I feel so lucky to have experienced it together. It reminds me of being kids and our childhood of endless smiles and adventures together 🍁

Fall in Yellowknife is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever experienced—cool crisp air, vibrant leaves, and the way the light dances across the endless landscapes. There’s a quiet magic here that I miss so much, especially now.

It’s been a really long month (already) but I’m finally finding time to get some editing done, I look forward to sharing more recent work from the north soon!

🌸: daniellegillardphotography.com

Last summer, I was so happy to witness baby foxes up close, playing among the wildflowers with their siblings by their den. I accidentally found this spot while waiting for a client for a photoshoot.
While pulled over I had the joy of watching their playful energy and photograph them in their home. Watching them explore and chase each other in the beauty of Yellowknife’s wilderness was an unforgettable experience!

I’m so happy to be back up north in Yellowknife, under the beautiful northern sky! This time of year is absolutely breathtaking with the vibrant fall colours transforming every corner into a stunning backdrop. It’s the perfect season for capturing those special moments, whether it’s portraitures, family photos, engagement sessions, or creative outlets.

I have a few spaces left for photoshoot bookings, so if you’ve been thinking about a session, now’s the time! Send me a direct message or contact me through my email below. Let’s create something beautiful together!

🌺: daniellegillardphotography.com
🐚: [email protected]

Balcony Chronicles: September Hues

As summer begins to wind down, the vibrant shades of fall slowly make their way into our world. Crisp mornings and hints of gold and amber in the trees signal the changing season. Soon, we’ll be surrounded by the rich colours of autumn, bringing a new kind of beauty to our days. It’s time to savour the last moments of summer while welcoming the cozy charm and stunning landscapes that fall has to offer!

🌺: www.daniellegillardphotography.com
🐚: [email protected]

Nicole, Christian & Dior

Over the past four years, I’ve had the absolute joy of photographing this beautiful family and their precious baby girl. Watching her grow and capturing these special moments year after year has been an incredible experience. These were from this past summer in Yellowknife on my recent trip!

I’m truly honored that they’ve entrusted me with their memories, and it fills my heart with so much happiness to see them each year. The connection and love within this family are so evident, and it’s a privilege to witness and document their journey.

Here’s to many more years of cherished memories together!

🐚: [email protected]" rel="ugc" target="_blank">[email protected]
🌺: [email protected]

Tofino’s golden sunsets are more than just a beautiful end to the day; they’re an experience that resonates deep within the soul. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson, there's a sense of tranquillity that washes over you.

The vastness of the ocean, the rugged coastline, and the gentle whisper of the wind create a timeless moment. On this island, the connection to nature is profound. Each sunset in Tofino is a reminder that some places don’t just touch your heart—they transform it, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.

I look forward to my next adventure there where I'll explore both on land and under the sea!

🐚: www.daniellegillardphotography.com
🌺: [email protected]

Nature’s shades often reveal themselves in the smallest details, inviting a closer look. The vibrant, almost electric green of new fern fronds uncurling in the damp forest floor stands out against the deep, shadowy undergrowth.

The undersides of flowers and leaves, with their delicate patterns and subtle color variations, tell a story of life thriving in hidden corners.

These small, often overlooked details reveal nature’s quiet, profound beauty, reminding us that some of its most stunning shades are found in the tiniest places.

It’s been a while since I introduced myself, I’m Danielle or Dani!! With some new followers I thought I would be nice to share some fun facts about myself!

🐚: I’m currently based out of Vancouver, BC but I’m originally from Yellowknife, NT.. I’m very proud to be a northerner but my soul belongs by the ocean

🐚 I manage my own photography business, everything from my website, bookings, inquires, editing, and of course, the photos!

🐚 I’m a certified Divemaster and I currently work at a diving shop in Vancouver (Diving Locker) retail, social media, newsletters and guiding safaris! And yes that means fun dives around Vancouver finding cool marine life. It took 11 years to work in the diving industry so I’m very excited and grateful for this job.

🐚: I absolutely love water and marine life. Everything from swimming, diving, paddling, and even just being near it.. I just want to be in and around the water all the time

🐚: My dream is to become a marine biologist.. and I plan on making that dream come true very soon

🐚 This year marks 14 years since I bought my first DSLR camera and began taking photography more seriously

🐚 I live with my boyfriend of three years (future husband 😉 ) and our two Guinea pigs

🐚 I love running random 10km just because I love running

🐚 I love and enjoy all foods especially snacks.. I usually have snacks on me at all times. Hanger is a real thing… 👀

🐚 I have five jobs and love working all of them! They are all different and give me a nice variety to keep me busy!

🐚 I’m a very independent person who enjoys being alone or around less people. Quality over quantity.

The list goes on but that’s it for now! Thank you all for the continued support in my art, business and following along for my adventures! I’m excited to continue to share land and sea photography and tons more adventures with you all! 🪼🦋

Celestial Dance

Im a month away from being back up north and I am so excited! The northern lights are coming out again and by the time I’m back I’ll be able to lay under them as they dance!

My dates are September 13-19 and my books are open for engagements, couples, family and creative portraits for limited spaces! Send me a direct message or contact me through my website, link is in my bio!

See you soon, Yellowknife ✨

The midnight sun in Yellowknife always makes my heart so full! The sunset light lasts all night and shimmers so vividly, bringing a sense of calm and connection that’s hard to find anywhere else. The North has a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to return.

I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be back in Yellowknife from September 9th to 13th! If you’re looking to capture the magic of this beautiful place, I still have a few limited spaces available for photoshoots. Let’s create something unforgettable together under that stunning midnight sky.

Visit my website using the link below and message me so we can plan the perfect shoot for you!

📲: www.daniellegillardphotography.com
💻: [email protected]

Meagan & Sharwyn

I had an incredible time during my recent couples shoot with Meagan and Sharwyn in Yellowknife. Their love and connection were evident in every shot, making the session both fun and heartfelt. Meagan’s laughter and Sharwyn’s gentle smiles created a warm and joyful atmosphere that was a joy to capture.

Their chemistry made each moment feel authentic and special. Working with such a wonderful couple in the charming setting of Yellowknife was truly an unforgettable experience. Im so happy to finally share the images with all of you!

📲: www.daniellegillardphotography.com
✉️: [email protected]

Cornelia & Mendel

I’m so thrilled to finally share this engagement shoot with my gorgeous friend Cornelia and her Fiance, Mendel. I was truly honoured to be asked to capture this special time for them as well as their wedding coming up in September 🥰

This engagement shoot was done over two days in two seperate months. When Cornelia told me she wanted cherry blossoms in the foreground, I knew just the perfect spot! It was definitely cooler in the spring but they toughed it out for what turned out to be a fairytale photoshoot with tons of flowers.

Part two was at the end of June when the weather was a lot warmer. Her friend and amazing assistant helped throughout both shoots, making sure Cornelia always looked her best (wasn’t hard as she is just so gorgeous) she created special moments within the shoot that I could capture like bubbles, the veil and different poses she had planned.

This was a shoot I will always cherish. I’m so grateful for getting to capture these beautiful moments and share them with all of you 🥹

Mountain whispers

Nestled amidst towering peaks and pristine wilderness, Watersprite’s turquoise waters was a stunning treat. The tranquility of the mountains, with only the sounds of distant waterfalls and birds in the distance, created a peaceful day away from the city.

The hike up was quite an adventure but to have this view at the top, was worth every km. This was my second time up here and I’m happy i had my love with me this time. It’s been so fun to show him some of my special places.. Watersprite is one of those places ❤️

Just got back from an incredible weekend trip with my love, hiking up to Watersprite Lake. The trail was challenging but so worth it.

We were surrounded by breathtaking scenery—towering mountains, lush forests, and the crystal-clear waters of the lake itself. Every step brought us closer to nature, and it was amazing to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It was around 8km both way and we had a hell of a time.

We didn’t realise we needed to have reservations to stay, so we were really grateful someone cancelled theirs last minute and we able to stay! Spending time together in such a beautiful place made the experience even more special. Can’t wait for our next adventure! ❤️✨🏔️