Debbie Miller

About Debbie

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.

DMH Photography Offers:

Portraits and family photos

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.

General photography

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.

Wedding photography

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.

Gift cards & custom projects

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.

Questions?

"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 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.

#IHaveNoWords

By Debbie Miller

About the book

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.

About the author

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.

I Have No Voice Video
I have no words

I'd Love To Hear From You

If you'd like a photographer for any occassion, or if you have thoughts about the work I've done, I'd love to hear from you.  I'll get back to you as quickly as I can.  Thank You.