Shelley Vandervelde, MPA
Master of Photographic Arts, PPOC
Master of Photography, PPA

“Her portraits and paintings have been described as timeless, classical, and elegant.”

Shelley holds a bachelor's in (child) developmental psychology and linguistics. She went on to obtain a Masters's Degree in Speech Pathology. and support children with autism in developing communication skills for 20 years. When her husband became critically ill, she retired and began to explore photography as a hobby. She soon discovered her true calling and never looked back.

Years later, Shelley is one of Canada’s most accomplished photographers with a long list of Canadian and International awards and accreditations. She holds a Master of Photographic Arts with the Professional Photographers of Canada (PPOC) and a Master of Photography with the Professional Photographers of America (PPA).

Shelley owns and operates a portrait studio overlooking Fish Creek Park in SW Calgary. She’s an active member of the photographic community, having served on the board of directors for PPOC and the International Committee for PPA. She mentors professional and up-and-coming photographers and teaches public workshops. Shelley also supports numerous non-profit organizations and charities close to her heart.

Canadian Portrait Photographer of the Year 2012 PPOC
Published PPOC Loan Collection 2012
Published PPA Loan Collection 2013 & 2014
Alberta Portrait Photographer of the Year 2014 PPOC
Best in Class Child Portrait 2006, 2007, 2014 PPOC AB
Cover and article in June 2013 edition of Professional Photographer
Bronze Medal International Photographic Competition PPA 2016
Best in Class Portrait 2021 PPOC-AB