Sylvie Mazerolle: Capturing the Beauty of Everyday Life

With an appetite for artistic expression, photographer Sylvie Mazerolle creates visually stunning images that allow viewers to take pause and enjoy the beauty that can be found everywhere in the world. Through her thought-provoking pieces, Sylvie effectively captures moments of splendor and makes them timeless. As you browse through some of the photos from her collection below, I think you’ll agree that she’s quite accomplished at her craft. Please take a moment and experience the wonder of Sylvie’s exquisite pieces of art.

It’s my pleasure to share Sylvie’s thoughts and ideas about her work with my readers. Sylvie, thank you for taking the time to participate in this interview and best of luck to you with all your future creations. You are a very talented artist and someone whose work is definitely worth following. I hope to see more great things from you in the future!

If you’d like to learn more about Sylvie, please visit her website. You can also follow her on Instagram.

Can you please tell the readers a bit about yourself?

I have been photographing for over 10 years. My creative career started as a professional makeup artist in film, beauty, and fashion in Toronto, Canada.

After my son was born in 2008, I wanted to return to my roots, to Canada’s beautiful east coast. I moved back to New Brunswick. My lifestyle has slowed down but not my creativity. Nowadays, you can find me by the ocean with my camera in hand.

My approach to photography focuses on using my instincts and trust in not just what I see, but how I see it. Being mindful in the moment, I follow where my heart guides me. I rely on trusting my guts and intuition when creating an image. Exploring and experimenting.

What inspired you to be a photographer?

I needed to find some kind of creative outlet when I moved back to New Brunswick. I tried painting but honestly, I didn’t have the patience to wait for the paint to dry….no lie..(LOL). Photography was the closest outlet that fit in with my past as a make-up artist. I had worked with some of the best in the biz back in the day.

Are you satisfied with your choice of getting involved with this industry?

I don’t know if I consider myself PART of the industry. I walk to the beat of my own drum. Always have. I consider myself an artist and creator more than a photographer.

Is there anything else you would rather be doing?

I still have the urge to paint once in a while. *LOL*

When shooting subjects, what do you find most challenging?

I’m still learning about lighting. There are so many layers to it. It’s not just black and white. *LOL* Many shades of grey in between.

What was your most memorable experience behind the lens?

My mermaids tears series. I had so much fun creating that series. It was inspired by a poem called “I want to age like sea glass.” I was going through my own acceptance of maturing (for lack of a better word) and this photoshoot really helped me see the beauty in aging. I wanted all the women to be 40 plus and have a story to tell. I created the series of images throughout the summer and by fall I had landed my first gallery show. You can see the complete series on my website or at Trinity Galleries.

In regard to marketing, how much of your time do you dedicate to social media?

Too much time. ..ha ! ha! I would rather be photographing than posting on IG, FB, and website.

Do you use any special programs or services?

I do have two gallery representations at the moment and I am also a part of the Redwood Art Group in NY. It’s a virtual storefront. Other than that it’s all on me. It takes a lot of time to shoot edit and promote.

How did you develop your style?

I think my style comes from years of being a make-up artist and loving the close-up beauty shot. The attention to detail.

What drives you to create; does it satisfy a need or passion?

It keeps me sane. I HAVE to create…be it food preparation, home décor, photography…It makes me feel alive. There is a saying: if you don’t create, you disintegrate.

Who is the most inspirational photographer in your life?

In my life? So many great photographers live here on the east coast it’s insane. To pick just one wouldn’t be fair. However I do have one photographer that I just adore his style and philosophy and that’s Jay Maisel, a NY photographer. He has a no-nonsense approach.

What do you hope viewers take away from your images?

That beauty is everywhere if you slow down long enough to look at it.

Do you have any tips for aspiring photographers?

Talent and skills and style come from practicing. Keep experimenting.

Study old paintings and look for light and shadows. Feed your brain images every day.

What photographic gear do you currently use?

Canon Mark II 6D, 3 lenses (50ml, portrait that does macro as well, a zoom lens for travel) reflector, tripod and that’s it. I really like keeping things simple.

What is your favorite photography accessory?

The side strap that my husband got me for Christmas last year. Really helps saves my neck and shoulders.

How important is Photoshop or other image editing software in your final images?

Very important. That’s where the magic happens. For me when I am editing I get in a flow. It’s the closest I can get to my make-up background. Removing blemishes and accentuating details. I love it.

Where do you currently display your work? How can people purchase one or more of your pieces?

I currently have two galleries showing my work. SYLVIE MAZEROLLE — Trinity Galleries | Fine Art Gallery in Saint John, NB, Canada You can find Mermaids Tears at this Gallery.

And I just opened a new show on May 16, 2021 at an up-and-coming gallery, La Galerie du Tchai in Richibucto, NB.

And I also have an exhibit at CANVAS, an Art Boutique hotel by Hilton.

Or of course, all are also on my website.

Was there a point in your journey when you started to feel really good about your work? If so, what did it feel like to get past that “tipping point?”

I think I’m just now getting some confidence in my abilities. Photography may look simple but there are so many moving parts to creating a great image. So many variables. If I ever get past the tipping point, I’ll let you know.

Do you have any projects that make you look back and shake your head? What made the experience so unpleasant?

I shoot mostly for myself and then share it with the world……not everyone will love what you do. But if you are happy then that’s all that matters.

Do you have any new projects coming up or plans to expand your portfolio?

I’m always looking to better my skills and expand my portfolio. If not you are not growing as an artist.

During Covid lockdown, I did a series of 40 days of Self-portraits and really loved the black and white images. Those were fun. I want to do more of those but on others, not just myself.

And I really enjoyed still life and food during quarantine. I’m still really enjoying exploring my creativity and seeing where it takes me. Stay tuned and see.