Your Photographer +
Your Experience

My journey into photography began in 2007 when I was handed down a Canon EOS 650 film camera — and I was hooked. I taught myself the fundamentals until 2010, when I enrolled in the digital photography program at Vancouver Island University. I still own that film camera today; it’s one of the few sentimental items I’ll always keep. These days, I’m proud to shoot with a Canon R5.

What I love most about photography is its ability to evoke emotion — even years after a moment has passed. That’s why I’m drawn to candid lifestyle photography. I aim to create sessions that are as enjoyable and meaningful as the final images, so when clients revisit their photos, they can’t help but feel those feelings all over again.

For me, photography isn’t just about preserving memories — it’s about experiencing them all over again.

How it all started.

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The Experience

  • “I cannot recommend Areli Images enough! Dominique's ability to capture the most real, candid moments is unparalleled. The photos she takes are more than just pictures-they are genuine, heartfelt representations of the bond between my son and me. The candid shots she captures are always my favourite because they truly reflect our relationship and those small, meaningful moments that I cherish. Working with her is always such a joy. She is incredibly friendly, endlessly patient, and makes the whole process feel like spending time with a friend. Her kindness and professionalism shine through every step of the way. I've done several photoshoots with her over the years, and each time, I am amazed by her talent and creativity. I treasure every photo she has taken and am so grateful for her skill in turning fleeting moments into lifelong memories. She is truly exceptional at what she does, and I can't imagine trusting anyone else with these special milestones!”

    Hollie O.

  • “…Dominique was able to make me feel SO comfortable and relaxed. We were just being our usual silly selves and Dominique created beautiful moments from a wonderful little evening together. She was able to capture genuine moments of us being us and we will treasure these pictures forever!.”

    Alvina M.

  • "Dominique was so easy and fun to work with! She helped us to loosen up and feel totally comfortable. We loved the whole experience! We are beyond thrilled with our family photos and are so grateful for the memories."

    Kylee S.

  • “Dominique met us at the beach our family makes the most memories at. She professionally found the best lighting, backdrops and poses while allowing us to still be ourselves. Our children were so comfortable with her which allowed Dominique to capture their charisma in her photos. She also made room for us to choose some shots while still executing her professional visions. These photos will be a perfect way to look back on such a beautiful time in our life and we thank Dominique from the bottom of our hearts.”

    Joelle G.

  • "Dominique is extremely talented. She was so kind, patient, encouraging and relaxed. She was open to ideas but also executed her visions perfectly. I am so happy with the images from my branding photoshoot and I highly recommend working with her!"

    Lauren B.

  • “I am BLOWN away by our mini session pics!! You totally nailed it. I am so grateful and would certainly access your expertise again in the future. Thank you!!”

    Laura-Lee H.

  • "Dominique was amazing to work with! She made me feel comfortable throughout our entire session. Her kindness, humour, and professionalism do not go unnoticed."

    Suzanne S.

  • “Dominique from Areli Images is professional, creative, personable AND talented! She is patient, calm and collected. I can’t wait for future shoots with her! I would highly recommend her!”

    Ashley J.

  • "Dominique is a patient photographer (even when the subject is awkward and can't stop blinking). I've always hated how I look in photos. I never know what to do with my body, but Dominique helped me with posture and posing and I wound up with over a dozen photos of myself that I love."

    Eliza M.

  • “I loved doing a couples fall photoshoot with Dominique! I really enjoyed that she took the time to ask us about items and activities that had meaning to us so that she could include it in our photoshoot. My partner had never done something like this before so he was nervous about being awkward but Dominique gave just enough direction while also giving us the freedom to be ourselves. The photos turned out absolutely amazing!”

    Georgia T.

  • “Areli Images has an amazing eye for detail. Dominique made the experience so comfortable and fun and was able to capture wonderful family moments. We couldn’t be happier with our experience.”

    Danielle L.

  • “It was an absolute pleasure working with Dominique! She was full of smiles and made me feel so comfortable right away! I just received my gallery and am in awe of each photo she captured! Pictures that I will forever cherish! Definitely won’t be the last time working with such a talented, creative lovely lady! Thank you again!!”

    Brittany B.

  • "I cannot say enough good things about Dominique! She is incredibly professional, quick to respond, and delivers beautiful photos (even if you show up with a snotty and sad toddler on shoot day!) I’ve done several sessions with Dominique and she always makes me feel comfortable and at ease with her warm and welcoming demeanour. She does a fantastic job of directing her subjects to ensure the photos turn out beautifully. I highly recommend Dominique!"

    - Elizabeth B.

  • "Our experience with Dominique was wonderful, quite emotional in fact. I’m a senior raising my now 5 year old grandson. When my daughter was young, I started having portraits taken of her as a newborn. With my new situation, I realized it was time to continue on this tradition. I found Dominique to be very compassionate of my situation. I was a bit teary as our shoot went on, and feel so grateful to her for her great listening and understanding. I am thrilled with our portraits and am ready for a redo in the not too distant future. Thanks Dominique."

    - AS Roth

  • "I loved working with Dominique! Not only is she fun to work with (which really helps with the whole relaxing into the experience and contributes to shots that look more like YOU), she was professional, creative, and timely!"

    - Gillian G.

  • "Christmas photos with the family and dog turned out amazing!"

    - Stephanie B.

  • "My family has done two "mini" sessions with Dominique. She has been so warm, clear, and communicative at both. We ended up with great photos and will definitely use her again!"

    - Robin G.

Awards & Publications

Vancouver Island University | Photography Award

Sarze Magazine | April Headshots Edition 2022 & June Fashion & Beauty Edition 2022

The Photography Chronicles | Female Empowerment 2022 & Green 2022

Brand Rep World Magazine | 2022

Gallery Lane Magazine | Top Picks 2023

Folklife Magazine | The Education Volume 2023