Who I Am (The Real Version)

If the idea of standing in front of a camera makes your stomach do a little flip — you're not alone. Most people who book a session with me lead with something like, "I'm really not photogenic" or "I never like photos of myself." And every single time, I think the same thing: that's not a you problem. That's a photographer problem.

Hi. I'm Allison Jones, the photographer (and sole human) behind Black Bat Design. And if you've been putting off booking a portrait session because you're convinced you'll look awkward, stiff, or somehow worse than you feel — I'd love to change your mind.


I'm a studio photographer based in Owen Sound, serving Grey and Bruce counties. I've been doing this long enough to earn a Canadian Choice Award in 2025, a Gold ranking in Photographers from Grey County Votes, and a feature in Chasing Light Magazine — but honestly, none of that means much to me if a client walks out of a session still not loving photos of themselves.


What actually matters to me: that you feel like yourself in front of the camera. That's it. That's the whole job.


I shoot out of a soft, natural-light studio — white walls, sheer curtains, window light that flatters pretty much everyone — and I bring that same low-key, comfort-first energy to every location shoot, pop-up event, and mini session I do throughout the year.

I also take continuing education seriously. Photography trends change, editing techniques evolve, and the best photographers never stop learning. I stay current so your photos don't look like they were taken a decade ago.


The Sessions I Offer (Without the Sales-Brochure Energy)


I shoot a wide range of portrait sessions — families, engagements, couples, graduation portraits, and boudoir. Seasonally, I run mini sessions with themes like Halloween, Easter, summer beach, and fairy, and every Christmas I run a Santa booth at Heritage Place Shopping Centre that my clients genuinely look forward to all year.


My boudoir work deserves its own mention. My Vixen Valentine's sessions are some of the most popular things I do — limited spots, a relaxed and private environment, and the option for face-hidden images if you'd prefer to keep things anonymous. I also partner with Bold Boutique for wardrobe support and After Dark Artistry for hair and makeup, so you can show up and just be present. No scrambling to pull an outfit together the night before.


Every session — from a 20-minute mini to a full two-hour shoot — gets the same approach: I walk you through every pose. Nothing is assumed. Nothing is rushed.


What Makes This Different


A lot of photographers will tell you to "just be yourself" and then give you zero guidance on what that means in front of a lens. That's not how I work.

I'm known for being the kind of photographer who can get a shy four-year-old laughing within five minutes and make a grown adult forget they were ever nervous about their arms. I guide you through the whole session — what to do with your hands, where to look, how to stand — so you're never left standing there wondering what to do next.


I also offer sensory-friendly sessions. If you have a child (or a client, or yourself) who is easily overwhelmed by noise, touch, or new environments, I've got you. Comfort-first is a value, not just a tagline.


And if privacy is a concern — for boudoir, empowerment shoots, or anything else — face-hidden image options are always available. No questions asked.


A Little About the Community Side


Black Bat Design is more than a photography business to me — it's genuinely part of this community. I'm involved with the Grey Bruce Hospice, the Chamber of Commerce, the Owen Sound Referral Club, and Grey Bruce women's groups. I've built partnerships with local businesses that I actually believe in, and I show up for local events because I want to, not just because it's good marketing.


When you book a session with me, you're supporting a solo local business that puts its money — and its time — back into the community it serves.


Let's Actually Talk


Free consultations are available for every prospective client. You don't have to commit to anything. We can talk about what you're hoping for, what you're nervous about, and what kind of session would actually feel right for you.


I'd love to hear from you. Reach out through the booking link below, and let's figure out what we can create together.


Because you deserve photos you actually love — and I think we can make that happen.