Welcome to i-CanDee Photography, where every click tells a story, and every frame captures the essence of life's most beautiful moments. Again, I'm CanDee, your dedicated storyteller and visual artist, proudly based in the heart of Charlotte. Originally hailing from the sun-kissed shores of San Diego, CA, I've called Charlotte home since 1990, and I've fallen head over heels for its charm, character, and dynamic energy.
Finding Inspiration in Charlotte's Diversity. From the bustling streets of downtown to the serene tranquility of its parks and gardens, Charlotte is a city brimming with inspiration at every turn. Whether it's the vibrant colors of a bustling market or the quiet serenity of a hidden garden, there's no shortage of beauty to be found here—and I'm inspired by it all.
I've always had a passion for capturing life's fleeting moments through the lens of a camera. With a background rooted in fashion photography, I bring a unique perspective and a meticulous eye for detail to every shoot. My approach is simple yet profound: to create stunning, authentic images that tell your story, evoke emotion, and captivate the viewer.
Photography is more than just a profession—it's a personal journey of connection, emotion, and storytelling. When you choose i-CanDee Photography, you're not just hiring a photographer; you're inviting a friend to join you on your journey, share in your joy, and help you create memories that will last a lifetime.
I can't wait to meet you and learn more about your unique story. Whether you're planning a family portrait session, an intimate wedding ceremony, or a corporate event, I aim to capture the moment and preserve it for future generations. So don't hesitate to reach out and say hello—I can't wait to embark on this creative adventure with you!
Meet Your Charlotte
Portrait Photographer
I am so excited you're here!
Hi, I'm CanDee
Unusual Facts About Me!
* I was born and raised in San Diego, CA
* I have a beautiful daughter who is married and is excelling in her career. I'm so proud of her and all she has accomplished in such a short time.
* Yes, my name really is CanDee. My mother named me after her best friend Dee.
* I lived in Japan for four years.
(Kon'nichiwa, genkidesuka)
* I'm a Navy Brat;
* I have four sisters and two brothers, yet I'm an only child.
(Let me know if you figure it out)
* I could eat breakfast for every meal;
* I love all types of music;
* I can not sing, so I make a joyful noise;
* I have zero instrumental talent;
* I love to dance and wish I had taken it seriously when I was younger;
* I love all animals;
* I owned a horse, and she will forever be in my heart;
* I have two dogs;
* I was gifted a white RAT. (Long Story)
(Short Version)
- My daughter had it for a college lab course, and was supposed to donate it to the owls. She decided to
"gift" it to me on a visit home from college.
She lived for about a year.
The rat!
My daughter is fine. (Hahaha!)
A Look Into My
Life
Publication & Features
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There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.”
- Winston S. Churchill
As a long time horse lover, I would have to agree with Winnie that the outside of a horse is good for a man, and a woman! I find solace in the saddle. The purity of being at one with such a majestic creature, the smell of the leather bridle, the sound of hoof beats, the bond of horse and rider.
My fondest experience to date was with my horse, Pumpkin. She was a half Arabian and half Quarter horse mix. I originally got her for my daughter. And once she outgrew the “horse stage” (like many teens do), she became mine. I have to admit that for me inheriting care of her was much more a blessing than a burden.
I have relished in the natural beauty of the horse since I was a child. Now as a photographer, I am able to translate their essence into a moment that will last forever. Although equine photography is not listed as one of my specialties I have a great deal of experience in taking pictures of many of my client’s horses. Feel free to reach out to me if you have a special steed that you would like to capture in pictures for all time.
Me and Pumpkin
horses
My Favorite
Things
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I guess I am just a foodie! It’s true, I love almost all foods and have a very adventurous pallet and am willing to try many different foods. However, if I had to choose a favorite among all of them, it would undoubtedly be Oriental soups.
My adoration for this dish stems back to my childhood when I lived in Japan for four years. Oriental soup, better known as Osoba, is a staple and served with almost every meal. I prefer mine with a little cilantro, fried egg, pork, spring onions and fresh basil – YUM! The best part of Osoba is the variety. There are so many elements you can add to it that the possibilities are truly endless. It is easy to integrate your favorite ingredients into the recipe.
In much the same way I have an adventurous spirit when it comes to food, I also have an eccentric spirit when it comes to my photography. Where other photographers may not be willing to take chances or explore their creativity, I will, and do! Some of my best shots come from unexpected moments and unique backdrops. My experience and eye for design also help me capture the emotions, along with the beauty, in my photos. Just like food, you never know what you are missing if you are never willing to take the chance!
Oriential soups
FOOD
My Favorite
Things
3 / 4
I was tasked at identifying my favorite season (among other faves of mine), when building this website. I have to admit; I have always been solely about fulfilling the desires and needs of my clients and would have never dreamed that a client would want to know more about me? However, in doing so, I really feel I am developing a heightened sense of getting to know YOU by you knowing a little more about me. This way, when we meet, you will feel more comfortable and at ease during your photo session. Nothing translates better in a positive way than a model, or family, that feels relaxed in front of the camera ….
Now, back to my favorite season! Without a doubt, it has to be autumn!
Why, you may ask? When I mention the season, I can literally feel, taste and smell it. Falling leaves with all their colors ablaze and the way they “crunch” underfoot. Warm apple cider on a fall evening gathered around the fire pit making s’mores, friends and memories. The way Mother Nature prepares for her winter’s nap, preparing for spring’s rebirth. Warm fuzzy sweaters, pumpkins, apple picking. Autumn is the season that exhilarates the senses – all of them!
Fall is also a great time to plan your family photos. Whether you need a group image for your annual holiday card, or just a picture-perfect portrait over the mantel, no other season makes a better backdrop.
North carolina Blue ridge mountains
aUTUMN
MY FAVORITE
THINGS
4 / 4
Ok, I’ll admit it, flowers are probably one of my biggest weaknesses. My Father spoiled me with flowers growing up and solidified my adoration for flowers from an early age. I fondly remember receiving flowers from him on every special occasion, and I loved it! I have carried that memory with me for all time, and flowers now and forever will serve as a reminder of my Father’s love. It is really no wonder that I loved being surrounded by flora (and fauna) as an adult. Having fresh flowers to enjoy just makes the day better; if I am having a rough day, or it’s rainy outside, a bouquet of fresh flower is an instant “perk up” that heightens my mood!
Not only do I find inspiration in my everyday life through flowers, they also work magic in bringing out the best aspects in a photo shoot. A bride’s smile will convey more emotion … a new mother-to-be’s inner glow will shine a little brighter… Would you dare imagine a bride without her bouquet? Or a maternity photo shoot without an element of Mother Nature?
Wild Flowers
in THE North Carolina Mountains
FLOWERS
MY FAVORITE
THINGS
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So happy I stumbled upon I-CanDee Photography. My daughter had her first photo session as a novice in the modeling business. Words cannot express my true gratitude. CanDee was professional, patient, extremely knowledgeable, and fun! She took her time and provided helpful tips to my daughter to capture stunning photos. Not only was she our photographer for the day, she was a mentor and coach. Her photographs are magazine quality and her ability to draw the character out of her subject for a particular shot is something to behold. We will definitely be using CanDee for future projects. Thank you CanDee!
~ Terrie Bradshaw
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i-CanDee Photography did our firm's staff headshots and they were absolutely fantastic. She went the extra mile and provided an extremely high level of service. I would definitely recommend her corporate offerings. Based on her work, we have actually asked her to come back and update our website photography as well.
~ Cornerstone Common Wealth
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I had the best experience with I-Candee Photography. My daughter models and she took the most amazing photos. Some of the best she has taken so far in her career. She was very helpful with telling my daughter how to change her pose slightly to get the best look in the photograph. She took extra time to make sure that every photo was perfect before we moved on to the next one. She showed me many photos while she was taking them to make sure I was happy with the pose and look to make sure she had what we needed and we looking for. We loved working with her so much we scheduled another shoot 2 weeks later to get more photos, as working with her gave us many more ideas of what kind of looks we wanted to try for her portfolio. She does amazing work and I highly recommend using her for your photography needs.
~ Nikki Creasman
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CanDee shot our maternity photos back in December and my husband and I had the best time! She was so kind and told us exactly how to pose. We have only had professional photos done for our wedding and we didn’t feel super comfortable in front of the camera and CanDee made it so fun and a memorable experience. The photos are STUNNING and better than I had expected. You can tell how much love and time go into each shoot. Thank you CanDee for the beautiful photos. They will forever have a special place in our hearts. ❤️
~ Courtney Horvath
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I could not be more pleased with choosing i-CanDee Photography for my family photos. CanDee exceeded my expectations. After searching google we came across I-CanDee Photography and I fell in love with her work. She has an amazing eye for capturing breathtaking images in a natural setting. We reached out to her and she explained the whole process which was effortlessly. We chose the beautiful “Freedom Park” as our location. CanDee worked so well with my 3 young children. She went above and beyond trying to get my two younger ones to focus on the camera. We truly enjoyed meeting and working with CanDee. We will definitely refer her to our family and friends.
~ Eureka Barefield
