Akin Dupont members Hamid Mohammadi (@hamidxvi) and MP Guillot (@mp__guillot)

Over the summer, Akin has had the pleasure of working with photography intern Marilyn Braun (@braun_marilyn ), a fourth-year student in Sheridan College's Bachelor of Photography program, who has been documenting Akin members and their studios.

Marilyn is a professional photographer whose work spans event, portrait, and documentary photography, with a focus on capturing authentic moments and genuine human experiences. Driven by a curiosity about people and a passion for visual storytelling, she creates images that are both compelling and meaningful.

As Marilyn wraps up her internship in August, we want to extend our sincere gratitude for the incredible body of work she has created for Akin. Her photographs will continue to be an invaluable resource for showcasing our community, members, and spaces.

If you're looking for a talented photographer, we highly recommend Marilyn's professional services. We've added her to the resources section of the Akin website here, where you can learn more about her service and get in touch.

We also asked Marilyn a few questions about her internship experience so you can get to know her a little better and learn more about her journey as an emerging photographer.

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Akin Richmond-Bathurst members Sheila Cavanagh (@sheilacavanagh) and Su Tarhan (@sutarhan)

AKIN: How did you first become interested in portrait photography?

Marilyn Braun: I first became interested in photography while studying Media Communications at Humber College, but what drew me most to portrait photography was the connection with people. Through my work as a school photographer and event photographer, I discovered how much I enjoy meeting people and creating images that reflect something about who they are.

I believe every person has a story, and photography can preserve and share those stories. Portraits are more than just a record of someone’s appearance; they are an opportunity for someone to be seen and recognized. That sense of trust and vulnerability is what makes portrait photography so meaningful to me.

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Akin members at the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair (@torontooutdoorart/) Anna Tanner (@annastephentanner) and Shayla Bond (@esbe.studio/)

AKIN: How do you help someone feel comfortable in front of the camera?

Marilyn Braun: Many artists are more comfortable talking about their work than being photographed, so I try to begin there. I ask about their practice, what inspires them, and the ideas behind their work rather than immediately making the session about posing. My goal is for the camera to become less noticeable and for the person to feel like they are having a conversation rather than being observed. In a 30-minute session that can be challenging, but creating a relaxed environment through conversation and humour often leads to more authentic portraits.

AKIN: What have you learned from photographing artists?

Marilyn Braun: The main thing I have learned through photographing the artists at Akin is that every creative practice is unique, and the studio environment plays an important role in telling that story. Working with artists across different mediums, I have photographed spaces filled with different materials, textures, and personalities. The studios are not just a backdrop; they are part of the portrait, reflecting the artist’s process and the way they work.

What I have found most inspiring is that there is no single way to have a creative practice. Each artist approaches creativity differently, from the materials they choose to the ideas that motivate their work. Photographing the Akin community has reinforced for me that a strong portrait is not just about the person, it is about understanding what shapes them and the world they create around themselves.

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Akin Dupont members Eli Moser (@elhamos) and Loren Kaplan (@lorenkaplan)

AKIN: What details do you look for that help tell an artist's story?

Marilyn Braun: I look for the details that reveal the relationship between the artist and their work. The studio space is an important part of that because it reflects their process: the textures, materials, tools, and objects that surround them. I am interested in the physicality of making: the hands that create, the surfaces they work on, and the details that show the connection between the artist and their practice.

AKIN: Why did you choose to work with Akin?

Marilyn Braun: When I first heard about the opportunity through the co-op office, I was excited by the idea of working with artists and photographing them within their creative spaces. As a photographer, I am drawn to people and the stories behind their work, so the opportunity to document Akin’s artist community felt like a natural fit.

I was also excited by the opportunity to support Akin’s mission of providing space and community for artists, and to help create images that celebrate the people who make up that community. It felt like an opportunity to contribute while also growing as a photographer, particularly in environmental portraiture. Looking back, I have grown through this experience and developed a deeper understanding of how a portrait can reflect not only a person, but their creative practice. The project reminded me how much I enjoy the process of connecting with people and creating images that reflect their stories and creative practices.

To view more examples of Marilyn’s work or inquire about photography services, please visit: www.artofdetailphotography.com