https://www.memoriesphotography.ca/

When given an ultimatum in his high-level management career, Gerry Smith chose love. With his wife Shirley, they created Memories Photography, and the name says it all.  

The couple met 20 years ago when Gerry was an assistant general manager within the auto industry. Shirley was a long-time teacher for the Thames Valley District School Board. Their combined talents and experience built a rare photo studio that has both heart and know-how.

Gerry and Shirley understand that every individual needs a genuine smile, and they will work to get the best picture even if a new shoot is needed. The Smiths quickly develop trust with clients, especially those who don’t enjoy their photos taken. Gerry says that if they can make their clients smile, laugh, and cry when looking back through memories then they have done their job.

Wedding Photography

Gerry’s first wedding shoot was at 17.  Today, capturing couples’ happiest moments is Memories Photography’s domain. Every good angle and each extraordinary moment are preserved in a beautiful leather-bound album. Each album is unique, says Gerry, and he believes families need physical documents of their special day. All photo packages include an engagement shoot and all pictures come on a digital USB. Gerry and Shirley keep backup files for minimum 1 year in case clients need new prints or albums.

Their own wedding experience informs their philosophy. They didn’t have much say in what the photographer was going to do. It was a rigid plan and price. At Memories Photography you are the boss! That’s why every package is only a guideline and can be customized to meet specific needs. Their agreement with clients is to look after them.

The Smith’s deep connections in their community and extensive network have rescued a few big days from disaster. Gerry recalls when the hair and makeup artists didn’t show and the brides maid ripped her dress. Gerry quickly reached out to his contacts to get the hair and dress fixed saving the day. That is the difference between a photographer and someone who just wants to take your photo.

Corporate and real-estate photography

Image is everlasting in a media age. Gerry and Shirley understand that professional photography sets many apart, from realtors to job seekers. Memories Photography works with big and small businesses to build reputation and mark history. McMaster University hired Memories Photography to shoot interior of their then new, Ron Joyce Centre. Gerry and Shirley have also worked with local realtors to attract new families with the charm of a beautifully shot home. An executive headshot from Memories Photography can follow someone through their career and put their best face forward for every achievement. Many Londoners might be familiar with Gerry’s photos, they only need to look up! (at a billboard).

Community Involvement

Gerry and Shirley are involved members of the public and believe that it takes small businesses to raise a community. Gerry, a past president of the Optimist Club of Byron, continues to serve the community on the board of the Byron Sports Complex which facilitates sports for 2,500 kids. Gerry and Shirley have also raised money for children’s charities because they believe all kids need structure in life. The couple say it’s a good feeling when they get to see the community come together.

Gerry and Shirley are more than photographers. They are wedding planners, business people, and involved members of the community. Countless baby shoots to graduation shoots can testify to their deep customer relationships and reputation for the highest quality. Memories Photography will provide a free consultation for any serious inquiries. When looking for a photographer choose Memories Photography because everyone has a story worth remembering.

Biography by Dean Dzoja