Today we’d like to introduce you to Aireonna McCall-Dubé
Hi Aireonna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey into photography and event coordination has been a combination of passion, creativity, and a deep love for storytelling.
Photography has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, but it truly became my career when I purchased my first DSLR camera in college. I pursued my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Notre Dame College with minors in Philosophy and Art, specializing in Photography. That foundation, combined with a natural eye for capturing moments, led me to work at a portrait photography studio for six years after graduation. During that time, I honed my ability to bring out the essence of my subjects—helping people see the light within themselves and translating that into beautiful imagery.
In addition to photography, my background in event planning grew when I became an Event Planner and Designer for HEDGE Event Planning at 78th Street Studios. That experience gave me an in-depth understanding of event logistics, creative design, and client management—skills that would later become essential as my business expanded.
Over ten years ago, I officially founded Extraordinaire Photos, specializing in portrait, commercial, and event photography. What started as a solo endeavor gradually grew into a full-service brand, along side my business partner, best friend and husband, Julian Dubé, dedicated to storytelling through imagery. As my expertise in event coordination continued to develop, it felt like a natural next step to expand our brand into EP Events—offering coordination services, officiant services, floral design, and décor rentals.
Today, we’re proud to have a studio space inside 78th Street Studios in the Gordon Square Arts District. Beyond being a creative workspace, we use this location to support other artists, offering both short-term and long-term residencies where they can showcase their work while also receiving business guidance. We believe in fostering a sense of community among creatives, helping them turn their passion into a sustainable career.
Throughout this journey, my love for photography, event planning and creative design has remained constant. Whether I’m behind the lens capturing a milestone or designing an event that tells a unique story, my goal is always to bring someone’s vision to life in the most meaningful way possible.
Beyond my work, I’m a huge art enthusiast, a plant and cat mom, and someone who deeply values supporting local businesses and creatives. I live by the philosophy of community over competition, and that mindset is at the heart of everything we do at Extraordinaire Photos and EP Events.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge along the way has shaped me into the business owner I am today.
One of the biggest setbacks early on was in college when my car was broken into, and my camera was stolen. At the time, that camera was everything to me—it was my tool for creativity, the foundation of what I was building. Losing it was devastating, but instead of letting it stop me, I used it as motivation. I saved up, worked hard, and eventually reinvested in better equipment, which only pushed me further in my craft.
Beyond that, balancing the demands of growing a business while working a full-time day job was a struggle in itself. There were long nights, early mornings, and moments where it felt like I was constantly playing catch-up. Juggling both required an immense amount of patience, dedication, and sheer hard work. There were times when I questioned if it was sustainable, but my passion for photography and event coordination kept me going.
Through all of this, one thing has remained constant—my commitment to providing the best possible service to our clients. Whether it’s capturing a once-in-a-lifetime moment, designing a breathtaking event, or helping an artist showcase their work, I pour everything I have into making sure the experience is seamless, meaningful, and unforgettable. I know that the work we do becomes part of someone else’s story, and I take that responsibility seriously.
Getting to where we are today—with a studio inside 78th Street Studios, expanding Extraordinaire Photos into EP Events, and creating a space for artists to thrive—wasn’t something that happened overnight. It took years of persistence, learning, and overcoming obstacles. But looking back, every challenge was worth it, and I know this is only the beginning. We will continue to grow, evolve, and create opportunities—not just for ourselves, but for the creative community around us.
We’ve been impressed with Extraordinaire Photos, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Extraordinaire Photos (EP) and EP Events, we are all about storytelling—whether through photography, event coordination, or creating spaces for artists to thrive. What started over a decade ago as a passion for capturing moments has evolved into a multi-faceted brand dedicated to preserving memories, elevating events, and fostering creative entrepreneurship.
What We Do & Specialize In
Our business operates in three key areas:
Extraordinaire Photos – We specialize in portrait, commercial, and event photography, ensuring each image tells a compelling story. Our approach is deeply personal and intentional because, to us, it’s more than a product, it’s an experience. We don’t just capture moments; we create an atmosphere where clients feel seen, celebrated, and at ease, resulting in truly authentic imagery.
EP Events – Expanding beyond photography, we offer event coordination, officiant services, floral design, and décor rentals. With a background in event planning and creative management, we don’t just help clients execute their vision—we bring an artistic touch that makes every event unique and unforgettable.
Artist Support & Residency Program – Located inside the 78th Street Studios arts complex in the Gordon Square Arts District, our studio serves as a creative hub where artists can showcase their work through short-term and long-term residencies. Beyond providing space, we offer business guidance, helping creatives turn their passion into a sustainable career.
What Sets Us Apart?
We go beyond just providing a service—we build relationships, create immersive experiences, and support the artistic community. Our deep-rooted commitment to personalization, artistic excellence, and client satisfaction makes us stand out.
We don’t just take photos; we craft visual narratives.
We don’t just plan events; we bring dreams to life.
We don’t just give artists a place to showcase their work; we help them grow their businesses.
What We’re Most Proud Of Brand-Wise
One of our biggest accomplishments is the growth and expansion of our brand. What started as a one-woman photography business has evolved into a multi-service creative enterprise. Having a physical space at 78th Street Studios—where we can uplift fellow artists, host events, and create freely—is something we’re incredibly proud of.
What We Want Readers to Know
At EP, we pour our hearts into every project, whether it’s an intimate elopement, a large-scale event, a branding shoot, or helping an artist launch their career. We believe in community over competition and strive to make each experience feel personal, seamless, and inspired.
Whether you’re looking for stunning photography, expert event planning, or a supportive space to showcase your art, Extraordinaire Photos and EP Events are here to bring your vision to life. Because to us, it’s more than a product, it’s an experience.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I wholeheartedly believe that risks are always worth taking—because at the end of the day, the worst thing that can happen is someone tells you no, or you fail. But failure doesn’t mean the end; it’s just another lesson, an opportunity to grow.
Some of the biggest moments in my career have come from taking leaps of faith. Starting Extraordinaire Photos over a decade ago was a risk in itself—turning a passion into a business is never easy, especially while balancing a full-time job. There were no guarantees, no clear roadmap, just a deep belief in my craft and the drive to build something meaningful. I’m also self-taught in photography and event coordination, which made the journey even more challenging but also incredibly rewarding.
One of the biggest risks we’ve taken as a business was expanding into EP Events and securing a studio space inside 78th Street Studios. It was a huge step forward, but it was only made possible by the support of our community—the people who believed in our work, supported our growth, and helped us thrive. It’s a reminder that, while risks are necessary, it’s the people around you who truly help you succeed.
Every time I’ve taken a risk—whether it was trying something new, pitching myself for an opportunity, or making a big business decision—it has either propelled me forward or taught me something invaluable. I don’t believe in playing it safe just because it’s comfortable. Growth happens in the uncomfortable, in the moments where you’re unsure but take the step anyway.
So, my perspective on risk is this: take the chance, ask the question, go after what you want. The worst that can happen is a no, but the best that can happen? That can change everything. And with the support of a strong community, that change becomes even more powerful.
Pricing:
- Based on the services rates can be found on our website extraordinairephotos.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://extraordinairephotos.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/extraordinairephotos
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExtraordinairePhotos/
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/extraordinaire-photos
