I always strive to blend concept with beauty, aiming to craft visual narratives that tell compelling stories. When Sahara approached me for a portrait session, her unique style and the profound meaning behind her name sparked inspiration. Sahara, meaning “Desert” in Arabic, evokes imagery of vastness and warmth, reminiscent of the golden hues found in sand dunes.

Drawing inspiration from the story of the Garden of Eden, I saw Sahara as a representation of a desert rose: elegant and resilient, radiating amidst the lushness of the Garden before embarking on her own journey.

For the location, I chose the Stanley Park Rose Garden—a timeless beauty among Vancouver’s gardens. Its classic charm provided the perfect backdrop for Sahara’s portrait session.

I photographed these images using both film and digital, but ultimately, I found myself drawn to the timeless allure of film. Opting for Kodak Portra 400 for its warm tones, I captured the essence of Sahara’s beauty, which shines brilliantly against darker skin tones.

I eagerly anticipate returning to the Stanley Park Rose Garden for future shoots, inspired by its timeless beauty and the stories waiting to unfold.

CONTAX 645 + KODAK PORTRA 400 | PHOTOVISION PRINTS

ROSE GARDEN, STANLEY PARK, VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Makeup: HOLLY DOLLY MAKE UP

Planning an engagement or family session in Stanley Park?

If you’re planning a family session or engagement and you like what you see above, then please get in touch either via my  CONTACT form or by emailing me at samin@saminphotography.com