By day, Farrah Laviolette, known as Dr. Farrah to her young clients, is a child and adolescent psychiatrist.
But in her spare time, the Birmingham resident has combined her passions for photography and the Birmingham community and launched Pure Birmingham (@purebirmingham), an Instagram page dedicated to showcasing, as she says, the “magic of this incredible city.”
Below, she gave us a look behind the camera for an opportunity to see what she sees.
BIRMINGHAM CITY LIFESTYLE: Tell us about your day job?
Farrah Laviolette: I’m a child and adolescent psychiatrist with a particular interest in those living with ADHD as they discover their strengths and unique paths in a world that often misunderstands them. But in my free time — or whenever inspiration strikes — I step behind my camera to capture the essence of the city that I call home.
BCL: How did Pure Birmingham come about?
FL: In 2018, I combined my love for photography with my deep connection to Birmingham and launched Pure Birmingham. I wanted to create a space where people could discover, celebrate and connect with the vibrant community around them.
For me, Pure Birmingham is more than just a collection of images. It’s my love letter to the streets, culture and people that make Birmingham special. Through my lens, I aim to find beauty in the everyday — whether it’s a historic landmark, a bustling neighborhood, a quiet corner or a vibrant local event. But the heart of it lies in its mission: to bring the community closer, one post at a time.
BCL: What makes Pure Birmingham unique?
FL: Its authenticity. Every post reflects not only what I see but how I feel about this city. I like to think that every caption is warm, inviting and deeply personal. It’s about sharing stories, celebrating hidden gems and creating meaningful connections.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of building a community of followers looking for inspiration, updates and a sense of belonging. I’ve made countless connections, participated in advocacy events and brought attention to causes close to my heart, from championing children’s rights to supporting local initiatives.
BCL: What do you hope to achieve with it?
FL: This is not just a hobby for me — it’s a purpose. It’s about fostering meaningful conversations. Looking ahead, I hope to collaborate with community leaders to amplify the platform’s impact and build something lasting. I strive to create a space where artistry meets advocacy, where photographs spark connection and where the heart of the city is captured for all to see.
BCL: What are some of your favorite local spots?
FL: It’s hard to choose among so many gems! The Townsend Hotel holds a special place in my heart — their tea service is a classic tradition. Recently, I discovered the tea experience at the Daxton, and it was nothing short of spectacular. For steaks, The Rugby Grille is my go-to.
When it comes to local bars, Luxe Bar steals the show. It’s small, intimate and effortlessly charming — a cozy spot frequented by locals and recently reopened after renovations. For coffee, Birmingham Roast is a favorite. The café’s inviting atmosphere pairs perfectly with their exceptional coffee selection.
But what I love most are the events that bring the community together. Movies in the Park is a tradition I cherish with my nephews every year. And the Birmingham Art Fair — it’s a true celebration of talent, bringing the city alive with creativity and inspiration.