Meet Tegan Monaco- a Milton based photographer and the owner of Tegan Monaco Photography. Tegan captures life’s moments through maternity, family, and small business photography, helping brands and families create lasting memories. Tegan sat down with our team to share her entrepreneurial journey and why she chose to invest in Milton.
Tell us about Tegan Monaco Photography
I launched Tegan Monaco Photography in December 2020, offering professional portraits both in-studio and on-location. I photograph families, corporate teams, and individuals, along with branding sessions for small businesses. I also love capturing family milestones, weddings, and special celebrations. My goal has always been to create a relaxed, engaging experience where clients feel confident and truly themselves in front of the camera.
Tell us a little about your journey to becoming a photographer and building your studio
I’ve always had a camera close by—it’s been my way of freezing life’s little moments. Things really started to take shape when my family moved to New York City. The energy of the city inspired me, and I decided to enroll in the New York Institute of Photography. I didn’t realize it at the time, but that decision would eventually lead me to starting my own business.
When we moved back to the Toronto area, I was ready to go—but then the pandemic hit. Like so many others, I found myself at home with our young kids, trying to balance family life while figuring out how to build a business from the ground up. I joined a photography coaching program that connected me with other photographers navigating similar challenges. By the end of it, I had a website, a plan, and my first bookings coming in.
How did you go from idea to launching the business?
Mentorship, community, and education really shaped the early stages of my business. Between my training in New York and the support I found through the coaching program, I learned how to build structure around my creative work. Creating a client-focused website, setting competitive pricing, and planning my marketing months in advance helped everything come together.
In 2023, I officially opened the studio—a huge milestone made possible by amazing clients and the support of my professional network. I knew things were really working when clients started coming back for new sessions and referring their friends and family. That kind of trust means the world to me.
Why Milton?
Milton has such a special place in my heart. My family-owned Daphne’s Place, an upholstery shop that served the Campbellville and Milton communities for 25 years. When the shop closed in 2020, we decided to transform the space into a photography studio— a project that gave the property new life. Now, it’s a warm, welcoming studio where I photograph families, professionals, and even pets from all over the area.
What’s your favourite project or photo shoot so far?
There have been so many over the past few years! It’s always rewarding to capture special moments with families, big and small, and especially those with multiple generations together. Seeing the love, laughter, and real connection families share always reminds me why I do what I do—these are the moments that matter most.
I also love working with business owners on their branding and headshot sessions. There’s something really special about helping people see themselves in a new light—confident, approachable, and proud of what they do. Watching them use those photos on their websites or social media and seeing how it boosts their confidence never gets old.
What advice would you give an entrepreneur who wants to start or grow their creative business?
Progress over perfection—every small step forward counts. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect before putting yourself out there. Share your work, tell your story, and let people see what you’re about. Try not to compare yourself to others; stay focused on what makes your work unique and what you truly enjoy.
What’s next for the business?
I’m excited to keep growing with new and returning clients—families, individuals, and businesses—by creating memorable experiences that go beyond expectations. I’m also planning to add creative portrait experiences and headshot events: fun, confidence-boosting sessions that help people feel their absolute best in front of the camera.
To get in contact with Tegan and view her amazing photos, visit: Tegan Monaco Photography | Milton + Toronto Photographer