2020 Summer PPOC Gallerie Magazine

PPOC MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2020

PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR ISSUE Danielle Barabé-Bussières - Photographic Artist POY | Rabih Madi - Wedding POY | Nicole Noyce - Commercial POY | Victoria West - Portrait POY Bruce Hendricks - Fellowship of the Professional Photographers of Canada (F/PPOC) and Yousuf Karsh Lifetime Achievement Award

SUMMER 2020 | GALLERIE MAGAZINE | 2

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S E RVI C E

T O R O N T O • MISSISSAUGA • OTTAWA • CALGARY • E D M O N T O N

V IS T E K .C A

TA B LE O F C O N T E N T S 4

Message from the Outgoing Chair

5

Message from the Chair

6

5

Bruce Hendricks The Straight Shooter From Manitoba

By Alph Leydon, MPA

12

Photographic Artist of the Year Danielle Barabé-Bussières: Mindfulness, Details, and Following Passion

By Chelsea Jones, MPA

15

6

15

12

24

Trash The Dress

By Mandy Harding

18

Class Award Images - Best in Class

20

2020 PPOC Designation Recipients

23

2020 PPOC Award Recipients

24

Introducing Nicole Noyce, MPA, PPOC’s 2020 Commercial Photographer of the Year

26

26

Wedding Photographer of the Year Rabih Madi: Embracing the Unpredictable to Create Beauty

By Chelsea Jones, MPA

30

Victoria West Portrait Photographer of the Year

By Victoria West, CPA

34

The Importance of Finding a Niche

By Sébastien Arbour

30

37

My PPOC

By Cheryl Struss, MPA

40

About the Cover

By Vanessa Dewson, MPA

SUMMER 2020 | GALLERIE MAGAZINE | 3

By Raymond Bailey, HLM, MPA, SPA

MESSAGE from the Outgoing

Chair

Thank you to Bruce Hendricks for suggesting I write a short message to include in this issue as the outgoing Chair.

After 16 years on the Atlantic Regional Board, (formerly the Maritime Professional Photography Association est 1933) and 6 years on the National Board, with 3 of those as National Chair, it is bittersweet to step down off both. My children were only 9 and 6 when I went to my Louise Vessey, MPA, SPA first Board regional meeting, they are now 25 and 22! I PPOC National Chair traveled 2 hours to Moncton, took part in meetings that often went up to 5 hours long, then drove 2 hours back home on the same day. This was done monthly! I’ve been a rookie website designer, webmaster, regional chair, convention chair multiple times, archivist, communications, membership plus I am sure other jobs and positions.

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It’s quite mind-boggling to think about just how much has changed with technology, communication, and the photographic industry from 2004 until now. Currently, we can easily have our meetings online, although nothing beats in-person meetings. Having the technology to communicate and be together virtually is a huge advantage now more than ever. I have worked with many members over the years and sadly witnessed some of them leave the Association. I am proud to have stuck it out through thick and thin, even though I felt like quitting occasionally due to personality clashes and differing opinions on contentious issues. The benefits won as I made it through and have many amazing friends who I got to know on a personal level that I never would have otherwise. I’ve learned many things and surprised myself at the things I could actually do (like be the actual national CHAIR!) I got over my paralyzing fear of public speaking, gained organizational and leadership skills, patience, and so so much more.

I don’t think the general membership has any idea of the amount of passion, time, work, and mental energy it takes to be responsible at the board level of our association. Kudos to all who preceded me and to the current board members who are dealing with so much more than ‘usual business’ right now. I have to say that our office staff is incredible and without their continued support and knowledge to keep things consistent as board members change, things could fall apart quickly. New board members tend to have wonderful ideas (like monthly payment plans :) that may cause additional work and confusion, yet they always oblige and rise to the occasion. I will really miss working with them. PPOC owes a lot to all the members who walk the walk, do the work, and sacrifice time and energy volunteering for our Association. Without those people, PPOC would not exist.

It’s a real shame that I didn’t get to greet and hug all my PPOC friends in Saskatoon this year and congratulate the many member successes. It would have been nice to have had an in-person send-off, although the online Salon Awards did make me feel very special and appreciated! Thank you to everyone who believed in me and supported me while I was your Chair.

I believe in the value of what we do as professional photographers now more than ever.

PPOC is still very relevant in this era offering guidance, support, opportunity, education, and community in these trying times. I have the utmost confidence in your new Chair, Ross Outerbridge MPA who will guide the Board and PPOC into the next era!

In time the COVID-19 Pandemic will be behind us and we can physically gather and be together again. I very much look forward to that time! Until then...

Louise Vessey, MPA, SPA PPOC Past Chair

GALLERIE IS THE PREMIER MAGAZINE FOR PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS ACROSS CANADA. EACH ISSUE FEATURES AWARD-WINNING IMAGES, EDITORIAL INFORMATION, TECHNICAL AND FEATURE ARTICLES, ADVERTISING, AND MEMBER SERVICES. ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS ARE WELCOME TO VIEW THE DIGITAL VERSIONS ON OUR WEBSITE. GALLERIE is published three times annually; - February (online issue) - June/July (print and online) - October (online issue) SUBSCRIPTION All PPOC members receive the printed issue directly to their doorstep. Online issues are available to all photographers.

To be added to our email mailing list please contact the PPOC office (info@ppoc.ca) indicating your province of residence.

Additional printed copies of Gallerie are $6.95, plus postage. Please contact the PPOC Office.

SUBMISSIONS Articles and member stories are welcome, please submit them to the editor for consideration.

ADVERTISING One single advertising package will secure your ad space in all three issues for the year.

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PPOC Trade members receive a 20% discount. To reserve your ad, contact the advertising manager.

EDITOR Bruce Allen Hendricks, F/PPOC, MPA p: 204-227-9447 e: editor@ppoc.ca DESIGNER AND COMPUTER GRAPHICS Josée Talbot, CPA p: 418-881-3998 e: josee@talbotphotoart.ca ADVERTISING MANAGER Brad Kelly, MPA e: advertising@ppoc.ca

MESSAGE

from the Chair “The Celebration Issue”

In this edition are the highlights of our National Image Salon, the Award winners, Photographers of the Year (Congratulations to Victoria West, Danielle Barabe-Bussieres, Nicole Noyce, and Rabih Madi) as well as the Yousuf Karsh Award winner for Lifetime Achievement and PPOC Fellowship recipient Bruce Hendricks. The work of these photographers is exceptional and in this issue, their achievements and stories are celebrated.

Congratulations to all of them!

Ross Outerbridge, MPA PPOC National Chair

This year a public health emergency with the Covid-19 pandemic, interfered with our ability to celebrate these achievements in person.

For the first time, we held a “virtual” Awards Ceremony with many members from across the country “attending” in their Sunday Best.

I would like to recognize and congratulate Charles Van den Ouden, Gerry David, and Nelson Simard for putting together a wonderful virtual Awards Ceremony.

When I first joined the National Board in 2018 my first meeting involved an exercise in looking at what we do as an organization and how it can be better to serve our membership. One of the conclusions was to focus on the issue of professionalism and promoting the value of professional photography. So, this got me thinking. What is a “professional” and how does it fit into the context of photography?

Some professions are regulated (medicine, law, engineering) and have formal requirements for entry and ongoing certification as well as regulatory bodies (Law Society, College of Physicians and Surgeons). We are the Professional Photographers of Canada. But we are not a regulated “profession”, are not subject to licensing, and do not have a regulatory body. In fact, anyone can state they are a photographer, get work, and make a living. What is it then that separates us within this organization and justifies the term “Professional Photographer”?

If one looks at definitions of “professional” it is often defined by income; that a “professional” earns their living (50 – 100% of their income) from their “profession”. But many of our members are not full-time photographers because as many know, it is difficult these days to make a living as a full-time photographer. I strongly think the income definition is simplistic and does not recognize the main qualities that make up a “professional”.

The word “Professional” brings with it many things; an education with special training and skills, a commitment to participate in ongoing education and professional development, a positive way of behaving and conducting your business, treating your clients and colleagues with respect and providing excellent service and imagery, adhering to a code of conduct and a code of ethics, continuing to seek and respecting the feedback of your peers to help you become a better photographer. These are the factors that make us “Professional” and why belonging to and actively participating in PPOC is important.

Why is it important to be a part of an organization like PPOC and how do we use that membership to its advantage when interacting with our clients? To me, it is a question of legitimacy. Our clients can be confident that we are not simply an individual with a camera. That we belong to and engage in the activities of a professional organization now 50 years in existence.

That our commitment to ethical business practices (PPOC Code of Ethics), ongoing education and professional development, and the highest standard of professional image-making is of the utmost importance.

Enjoy the amazing imagery in this edition of the Gallerie Magazine.

Ross Outerbridge, MPA PPOC Chair

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Welcome to the Gallerie Magazine – Summer edition, what I see as “The Celebration Issue”.

THE STRAIGHT SHOOTER FROM MANITOBA

By Alph Leydon, MPA WHAT GREATER HONOUR CAN THERE BE IN CANADIAN PHOTOGRAPHY THAN BEING AWARDED FELLOWSHIP OF THE PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS OF CANADA (F/PPOC)?

THE ANSWER IS… BEING AWARDED FELLOWSHIP OF THE PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS OF CANADA (F/PPOC) AND BEING HONOURED WITH THE YOUSUF KARSH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD. AS IF THESE HONOURS ALONE WERE NOT ENOUGH, BRUCE ALLEN HENDRICKS IS THE FIRST EVER TO ACHIEVE BOTH IN THE SAME YEAR.

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Hendricks is a straight shooter. He’s rarely short of an opinion and always happy to share it; he speaks his mind and will stand up for what’s right. He’s ruffled a few feathers along the way, and he’s been known to block the odd social media account, however, if you’re a decent person he’ll treat you like gold. His friends are tight and would tell you he’s a stand-up guy, always ready with a fast quip, often with a note of sarcasm, but that’s what makes Bruce… Bruce!

For some, their photographic career starts later in life, for others, it may be an adjunct to their primary career. Not so for Bruce Hendricks. Hendricks is the quintessential photographer’s photographer. He found his passion early in life and from there it has matured into a lifelong vocation.

The year was 1985 and on any given day the young Bruce Hendricks could be found working steadily in the red glow of his high school darkroom, in his hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba. He was in Grade 10 and had already chosen Photography over Drafting or Graphic Arts in his Visual Communications Program. Regularly scoring in the mid-90s for his photographic work he was in high demand by fellow students to help with their assignments. The deal was that Bruce got to experiment with what interested him and his colleague for whom he was doing the work would have to accept the score, good or bad.

Today as he dodged and burned, adjusted the chemistry, and transferred his substrate from bath to bath he experimented with high contrast printing on fiber paper. The results were solid, the score was high, and his buddy was thrilled.

The British Columbia Years Life’s lessons come to each of us in different ways. For Bruce, the five and a half years he spent in British Columbia through the latter part of his twenties were formative to his future career and personal life. A little naïve yet eager to expand his knowledge in his chosen career he was captivated by the offer of partnership and big promises for a successful career with a recognized professional

photographer, whom he knew and trusted. What ensued was a roller coaster of business and personal challenges as Bruce slowly discovered that not all in the garden was as rosy as he had anticipated. Then there was the drug-addicted wild partying roommate, the transgender acquaintance with the gold Pontiac Fiero and an overly zealous and dishonest preacher woman who tried to put the thumbscrews to Bruce at the city’s main mall while he was engaged in some studio promotion until video cameras revealed the truth. From a photographic perspective, Bruce got a rapid education in the good, the bad, and the ugly of running a photography business. On a personal level, lessons were learned, and Bruce returned home to Winnipeg a more mature and wiser man. He started IMPACT Photographic Design immediately upon his return.

Professional Photographers of Canada – PPOC Bruce joined the Professional Photographers of Canada as a student member at age 17. In high school he was a hero, scoring high on all his assignments and making the Dean’s honour roll.

High school however is a very different world from the professional world. Bruce submitted ten 8x10 prints to his PPOC Regional Board, as was the requirement at the time, and fully expected to be granted full Active Membership.

“I waited a long time for the result. They wrote me a very polite personalized letter informing me that perhaps two of my images might be acceptable. I was devastated.” says Hendricks.

members for much of his advanced education in professional photography. Over the years he has become involved in every level of the Association serving on the Board of Directors in Manitoba, heading up National Projects, Programs, and Committees. He is also a National Competition Judge and the Editor of Gallerie Magazine.

Hendricks believes wholeheartedly in the value of Professional non-profit Associations. He joined the Professional Photographers of America - PPA and has become the first Manitoban ever to be Certified by this organization. He is also their first Canadian Liaison and has been instrumental in introducing their “Super 1 Day” Photo Workshops and Certification Programs to the Canadian market.

“It’s my philosophy that one must continue to learn about the boundaries of one’s own ability to be able to constantly produce better more creative images for one’s clients.” Bruce Hendricks As a photographer, Hendricks describes himself as a generalist. That said, he specializes primarily in fine portraiture and believes in the value and importance of wall décor. He has been named Manitoba Photographer of The Year four times, has been a finalist eleven times and has twelve National Accreditations to his name in:

At this point in his career, Hendricks has a deep reservoir of technical knowledge and experience and is confident handling virtually any project.

The PPOC Fellowship Award – F/PPOC

Many a person would stop right there, believing that these people don’t know what they’re talking about, that they are old fuddy-duddies stuck in their traditional ways. That they don’t understand the youthful modern approach. But young Hendricks took the opposite track. He dug in and doubled down. By his own admission, he decided to swallow his pride and learn. He learned from the best and became the best of the best. To this day he credits the PPOC Association and its enormously talented

To date, there has been a total of eight PPOC Fellowships awarded in the history of the Association. Of those, there are just six of the recipients still living. The PPOC Fellowship program’s main objective is to allow accomplished members to share their knowledge with the general membership while providing technical and administrative education. This award represents the highest level of achievement within PPOC. To be eligible the photographer must be an active member of PPOC for a minimum of 10 consecutive years. They must also hold an MPA designation with a minimum of two bars.

The applicant is required to submit a 6,500 to a 7,000-word thesis of a technical, educational, or administrative subject. They must also provide 15 Salon quality digital images, to be accepted by a panel of Nationally qualified judges.

Hendricks has titled his thesis, IMPACT… Defined in the Cambridge Dictionary as…

A powerful effect that something has on a situation or a person.

He believes so vehemently in the role IMPACT plays in photography that he chose the word to brand his company.

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Portraiture | Animal Portrait | Children and Infant Portrait | Environmental Portrait | Family Portrait | Feline Portrait | Senior Graduation Portrait | Canine/Dog Portrait | Wedding Environmental | Wedding Formal | Wedding Story | Wedding Couples

“In the photographic judging systems of both the Professional Photographers of Canada (PPOC) and the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), the “impact” of the photograph being judged weighs heavily on its final score. More importantly, the impact of an image on the general public cannot be overstated.

The pure impact of the image before them can simply mesmerize the viewer.”

Bruce Hendricks In it, Hendricks initially considers the effects both Emotional Impact and Visual Impact can have on the viewer and the availability to the photographer to leverage both. He goes on to further explore the many tenets of Visual Impact, many of which have been embedded in the human psyche over the eons of our evolution. The Fibonacci Sequence and the Golden Ratio provide the foundation for a compelling study into fundamental COMPOSITION. From here Hendricks introduces us to a concept he developed over time, which if adhered to will deliver highly impactful images on a consistent basis. He refers to this concept or system as SLDP – it stands for Shapes, Lines, Dimension, and Patterns. It has become his Mantra ever since.

“Initially I forced myself to constantly look at the world in that way. Everywhere I looked, I would try to imagine how I could create an interesting and impactful photograph. Where would I place my subjects for a more dynamic image? At what camera angle? In time, I trained my subconscious mind to constantly be on the lookout for these opportunities in my day-to-day life and it actually changed the way I viewed the world around me. Today, I do not actively look for these opportunities, I “feel” them. I know what feels right compositionally. Everything started for me with SLDP and expanded from there.” Bruce Hendricks With many solid photographic examples and illustrations, Hendricks brings home his point. His approach will provide a solid foundation for creating more impactful images to any photographer willing to internalize this process.

Hendricks does not stop there however, he rounds out his thesis by providing us with several other tools to maintain the viewers’ attention within the image, including the use of Perspective, Visual Blocks, and Circular Posing.

In conclusion, Hendricks leaves us with the thought that… “If a photographer can train themselves to have a solid foundation of composition and the SLDP system, they will find that their images will dramatically increase in Visual Impact. This will allow them to better capture the attention of the viewer’s subconscious mind and consequently be appreciated far more by the public at large.”

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The Yousuf Karsh Lifetime Achievement Award This award was established by the Professional Photographers of Canada in 2002 to commemorate the legacy of Canadian photographer, the late Yousuf Karsh. The Yousuf Karsh Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes photographic excellence amongst PPOC members.

Members of the Professional Photographers of Canada earn “print merits” by demonstrating outstanding photographic ability through annual National Image Competitions and National Accreditation. The Yousuf Karsh Award is presented annually to the member with the highest number of print merits in excess of 4,000. The award can only be received once in a career.

The Yousuf Karsh Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the greatest achievements that can be earned by a member of the Professional Photographers of Canada and speaks directly to the outstanding photographic talent of the recipient.

As most of our members will know, achieving print merits is a challenge, an honour and always a learning experience. It is never easy, but then again nothing of value ever is. For each Accreditation 30 merits are earned. And for every image accepted in National Competition 60 merits are earned. One can imagine then the dedication, quality of work, and time it takes to accumulate in excess of 4,000 merits.

Hendricks, like all other recipients of this award, is to be applauded for his consistency and perseverance.

Future Goals Life has had its challenges for Hendricks. When just a young boy he was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, a condition that runs in his family. It has affected his life greatly and has, at times, been debilitating. Nonetheless, he has pushed through, overcoming the hurdles, and has achieved so much. He currently holds his 8th Bar to his PPOC Master of Photography designation and has a goal to achieve his 10th Bar in the years ahead. He enjoys Competition Judging and the role of Jury Chair. As a sought-after National Judge and head of the Image Review Committee in Manitoba he looks forward to lending his experience to help other photographers interested in competition.

Educating others has for many years been something Hendricks has enjoyed. He has conducted many seminars and workshops over the years and has a target to schedule four to six speaking engagements annually going forward.

Hendricks has undertaken a personal project of significant importance and one which has much heartfelt meaning to him. His mother passed away having struggled with two bouts of breast cancer.

His desire, therefore, is to produce an inspirational book of stories and photographs of women who have beaten breast cancer and have returned back to their normal lives.

“The basic premise of this project is to prove to women that were just diagnosed with breast cancer that it is not a death sentence. They can beat the disease and go back to living and enjoying their lives just like they were doing before the diagnosis. I want to give these women hope when they are at their most fearful and when they are at their lowest.” Bruce Hendricks This important project continues to this day and Hendricks is always on the lookout for inspirational candidates.

Advice for a new generation of photographers

“Somebody who is a good businessperson and a mediocre photographer will be more financially successful than a great photographer with mediocre business skills.” Bruce Hendricks Ultimately as a photographer in today’s world, one also needs to be at the top of their game and ahead

of the competition. Art, technique, and craft all come into play here and so to study Hendricks’ IMPACT thesis and his SLDP system, would be a step in the right direction.

When the current lockdown due to COVID-19 finally ends you will find Bruce cycling his favorite trails, throwing a rock in a local Bonspiel, or settling into a booth at one of the several locations of his favourite eatery, the historic Salisbury House Restaurant…

Bruce Allen Hendricks now stands as the most decorated photographer in Manitoba history.

Way to go Bruce!

Designations

Awards

2020 Honour of Fellowship of the Professional Photographers of Canada 2020 Yousuf Karsh Lifetime Achievement Award for Photographic Excellence - PPOC 2020 8th Bar - Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada 2019 7th Bar - Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada 2017 6th Bar - Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada 2016 Emerald Bar – Honour of Fellowship (F.Ph.) - PPOC-Manitoba 2015 5th Bar - Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada 2012 4th Bar - Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada 2012 Honour of Fellowship F/PPOC-BC - PPOC-British Columbia 2010 Certified - Professional Photographer (Professional Photographic Certification Commission) 2009 3rd Bar - Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada 2007 Amethyst Bar – Honour of Fellowship (F.Ph.) - PPOC-Manitoba 2006 2nd Bar - Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada 2000 1st Bar - Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada 1999 Honour of Fellowship (F.Ph.) - Professional Photographers of Canada-Manitoba 1998 Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada 1996 Craftsman of Photographic Arts (CPA) - Professional Photographers of Canada

(4) Photographer of the Year - Professional Photographers of Canada-Manitoba (11) Finalist for Photographer of the Year - PPOC–Manitoba/British Columbia (2) Most Creative Award - Professional Photographers of Canada-Manitoba (2) Child Portrait Award - Professional Photographers of Canada–Manitoba/British Columbia (1) Presidents Award (Highest Scoring Print) - PPOC-Manitoba (2) Best Portrait Award - Professional Photographers of Canada–Manitoba (12) Judges Choice Awards - PPOC–Manitoba/British Columbia (12) National Accreditations - Professional Photographers of Canada (Numerous) Canadian Loan Collection Book Images - Professional Photographers of Canada (3) Canadian Loan Collection Images - Professional Photographers of Canada (Several) PPA Showcase Book Image - Professional Photographers of America (1) Nature Award (Animal) - Professional Photographers of Canada–Manitoba (1) Fashion Award - Professional Photographers of Canada–British Columbia (1) Portrait of a Woman Award - Professional Photographers of Canada–British Columbia Honourable Mention Portrait of a Man Award - PPOC–British Columbia (1) Best Commercial Image Award - Professional Photographers of Canada–Manitoba (1) Wedding Album of the Year Award - Professional Photographers of Canada–Manitoba (1) Kodak Gallery Award (Commercial) - Kodak Canada (1) Kodak Gallery Award (Portrait) - Kodak Canada Finalist Fuji Wedding Award - Fuji Canada

Bruce Hendricks, F/PPOC, MPA Bruce Hendricks’ work may be viewed on his website; http://www.ImpactPhotographicDesign.com IMPACT PHOTOGRAPHIC DESIGN 875 Simpson Avenue Winnipeg, MB R2K 1S3 Phone: 204-224-2424 | 1-866-338-0633 Email: Bruce@ImpactPhotographicDesign.com

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It is difficult to be successful financially in the world today without strong business skills. This goes double for those in photography and the arts. Hendricks has spent his adult life learning and honing his business skills and strongly recommends finding workshops and courses to bolster one’s knowledge in this area.

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Did you know

you can become a member of Canada’s oldest and most recognized professional photography association for as little as $26 monthly (plus tax) ?

1-888-643-PPOC (7762) info@ppoc.ca ppoc.ca

SUMMER 2020 | GALLERIE MAGAZINE | 11

Apply to join today!

PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTIST OF THE YEAR

DANIELLE BARABÉ-BUSSIÈRES: MINDFULNESS, DETAILS, AND FOLLOWING PASSION SUMMER 2020 | GALLERIE MAGAZINE | 12

By Chelsea Jones, MPA DANIELLE BARABÉ-BUSSIÈRE’S REACTION TO BEING THE 2020 RECIPIENT OF THE PPOC PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTIST OF THE YEAR AWARD WAS INITIALLY ONE OF SHOCK AND DISBELIEF. VIEWING HER IMAGES, IT IS APPARENT THAT SHE IS DESERVING OF THIS TITLE AND EXHIBITS THE VERSATILITY AND STORYTELLING ABILITY THAT MANY PHOTOGRAPHERS CAN ONLY ASPIRE TO. DESPITE HER NUMEROUS ACCOLADES, DANIELLE’S PHOTOGRAPHY JOURNEY IS DEFINED BY MINDFULNESS, PATIENCE, PASSION, AND DETERMINATION. Danielle was born in a small village in the countryside of Trois-Rivières, Québec. She later moved throughout Canada, eventually ending up in her current residence in Ottawa, ON. While a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, Danielle picked up an old camera for the first time and realized she was interested in photography. With the demands of an intense career and motherhood, this interest was put on a temporary hold until it could be fully embraced after her children had grown and moved out. In June 2014, Danielle became a member of Professional Photographers of Canada and started her business, Danielle Bussières Photography, shortly thereafter. Danielle creates prints that are sold at art exhibitions as well as online. Her favourite genres to photograph include landscapes, nature, wildlife, and macro photography. She also has memberships to other local artist collectives and associations. Joining

the PPOC fulfilled Danielle’s need for goal-setting by providing milestones to work towards such as designations, accreditations, and awards. Danielle loves a challenge and saw the PPOC as a venue to facilitate inspiration, creativity, and personal growth.

When asked what inspires Danielle in her photography, she replied, “Life.

I am inspired by everything around me. Life is about having passion (and) photography is my biggest passion...nature, wildlife, landscapes... life is not about work. I want to keep it a passion.”

Danielle has always been attracted to nature and enjoys activities such as hiking, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits. Despite having a full-time profession aside from photography, she practices her art daily. Danielle has a number of favourite conservation sites, backroads, and areas where she can watch and wait for wildlife; even if just from a vehicle on cold winter days. This mindful, patient, and deliberate approach while embracing

Having a technically sound image straight out of the camera is important, but basic Photoshop techniques are what Danielle utilizes to bring the imagery to a competition level. Danielle states she, “treats every image like it is for competition.” Attention to detail and a vision of perfection are what guide the editing process that she has developed over the years. She has a patient approach to editing and may work on an image, leave the image for a few days, and then return to it and see if her vision has changed.

Danielle credits her detail-oriented process and technical proficiency to engaging in the PPOC and greater photography community. She never misses an opportunity to view PPOC judging, either in person or online, and takes the feedback to heart and to her workflow immediately after.

She also acknowledges the subjective nature of art, and that it is easy to become attached to your images. This is why she reaches out to her friends in the PPOC for their advice, and critiques of her images before entering them in competition. Entering Accreditation, unofficial branch competitions, and regional salons are also ways Danielle “tests” the images to see how the judges receive the images. Rosé Petals and Eyes of the Night were previously entered in the Saskatchewan and Ontario Regional Image Competitions receiving accolades which also

contributed to Danielle being named the PPOC Ontario Photographic Artist of the Year in 2019. Danielle states, Sleepy Heads, was a “risk” she took when she entered in the 2020 National Image Competition as she had not entered it in regional competitions in the past. This was a risk that paid off.

Danielle has earned 5 Accreditations as a professional photographer in the categories of Nature, Ornithology, Entomology, Fine Art/Photo Decor, and Wildlife. Remaining goal-oriented in photography is important to Danielle and future goals include Accreditations in food and product photography. She is looking forward to potentially opening a studio in the future where she can further her passion for photographing animals by offering professional pet portraits. She also hopes to have a designated gallery to display her accolades and artwork to the public.

As well as being the recipient of the coveted PPOC Photographic Artist of the Year award, Danielle was also awarded Best in Class-Animals for Eyes of the Night with her other image, Sleepy Heads, as the runner up in the same category. Both these images are in the 2020 Loan Collection and Sleepy Heads also received a Judge’s Choice nod. The juxtaposition of these two wildlife images, with one being intensely high-key and other quite low-key, demonstrates the skill and versatility Danielle has as a wildlife and nature photographer. She is also very proud to have achieved her Craftsman of Photographic Arts (CPA) designation after only 3.5 years of being an Accredited PPOC member.

Danielle takes great pride in being a PPOC member and formal mentor within the Association. She advises newer PPOC members to attend and listen to every judging opportunity possible whether this is via regional or national salons, accreditation, or more informal branch level opportunities. Whether positive or negative, listen to what the judges are looking for and change your workflow accordingly. Getting involved as a volunteer also assists with learning about a myriad of photography related topics as well as being inspired by other photographers. Many opportunities for informal mentorship take place through these interactions and friendships. Most importantly, Danielle advises:

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nature is enjoyable for Danielle; however, she also enjoys the post-production process which allows her to take her images to the next level.

If you are passionate about something, you have to do it. Keep photography a passion and do it every single day. If you put in the time and effort, and value feedback and mentorship, you will get there.

Do not give up or get discouraged.

Danielle already has two images selected for the 2021 PPOC Image Competition, however, she notes that when you go out to photograph daily, something better can always come around.

Danielle’s mindful, meticulous, patient, and determined approach to photography is what allowed her to capture the viewer’s imagination through her beautiful imagery.

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Congratulations Danielle on your 2020 PPOC Photographic Artist of the Year award!

Danielle Barabé-Bussière, CPA Since her childhood, Danielle has been a lover of nature and uses it fully to recharge her batteries and to meditate when life goes too fast.

She is involved on the committee of her branch of PPOC, Eastern Region and is a mentor for three new PPOC members.

Danielle is the proud mother of two and soon to be the grandmother of a third granddaughter. She can’t wait to teach them how to fish and introduce them to the wonderful world of insects!

TRASH

THE DRESS SHORTLY AFTER MANDY HARDING GOT MARRIED 11 YEARS AGO, SHE RALLIED UP SOME PHOTOGRAPHER FRIENDS, AND FRIENDS WHO WERE RECENTLY MARRIED TO DO A GROUP TRASH THE DRESS PHOTOSHOOT. IT WAS SO MUCH FUN, THEY DECIDED TO DO IT AGAIN THE FOLLOWING YEAR TO RAISE MONEY FOR CHARITY. LITTLE DID THEY KNOW 10 YEARS LATER, THEIR EVENT WOULD RAISE OVER $169,300 FOR THE JIM PATTISON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF SASKATCHEWAN FOUNDATION. In 2010, The Children’s Hospital Foundation had just announced that a new Children’s Hospital was coming to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, the first in the province. When brainstorming charities to receive the donations from the event, it was decided that a children’s charity would be ideal, since most people have a special little person in their lives. With the announcement of this new, much needed, facility in our province, it didn’t take long to decide that the CHF would be the perfect recipient of our event’s donations.

Harding along with her PPOC mentor Gina Yesnik decided it would be best to keep the photographer list to PPOC members to ensure the brides would get the best quality and value from the photographers. Each bride also received hair, makeup, and limo transportation from Living

Skies Limousine to three top-secret locations on the day, all donated from local businesses. The brides also got to work with each photographer for 20 minutes and were delivered 10 images from each photographer on USB. The first year was a huge hit and $3,600 was raised collectively.

The following year the group wanted to raise even more money so they asked each bride for a minimum donation of $600 which could be donated from them personally or given from their friends and family. Brides were asked to fundraise more, and in return for all their hard efforts, the bride who raised the most amount of money would win a grand prize. It consisted of a suite at the Sheraton Cavalier, plus dinner at a high-end restaurant, a spa package among many other gifts from local businesses. This was an excellent incentive to get the brides to spend a little more time on fundraising.

Over the years the photographers have gotten more local businesses on board with donating amazing swag bags to each bride as well as beefing up the grand prize. In 2018 a record was set with the top fundraising bride, Brittany Johnston, who raised over $16,000 for the CHF, making the total that year over $34,000 alone. This year is their 10th year putting on the event and they

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By Mandy Harding

hope to break $200,000 in 2020. To do this, each bride must set a fundraising goal of $4,500 and reach their goals, which is no easy feat.

How do brides raise that much money? Each bride has had success in different ways. Some of the events they put on included putting on a spaghetti supper for 200 people in their small town hall, while raffling off artwork that the elementary school students drew, to raffling off many high-end jewelry/clothing items on a Facebook online auction. Many of the brides put on online silent auctions, hosted steak nights or put on BBQs in the grocery store parking lot. Some brides have made and sold bracelets to support their efforts while others put a link to their fundraising page in the email signature. The possibilities are really endless when it comes to fundraising, and our brides have it down to an art.

Brides can often be a bit hesitant to participate as they don’t want their dresses ruined, so we’ve promised that their dresses are dry-cleanable at the end of the day. Over the last 10 years we have had two brides really trash their gowns, one by rolling around in the mud, and the other by bringing spray paint to paint her gown. Every other bride has taken her dress home and dry cleaned it to pass along to future generations.

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The photographers were asked what their favorite part of our event is. Here is what they said…

“I love seeing 14 people come together to raise money for such a worthwhile cause. Watching how each photographer works with the same brides in the same place, with the same light, and get completely different images is one of the best parts of the day.

One of my most humbling moments was seeing the event name on the wall in the new children’s hospital. I teared up seeing the hard work of so many women over ten years go into a legacy like Trash the Dress.”

- Danielle Stasiuk “I love being able to be creative without the pressure of an actual wedding. I also love the amount of money that’s raised for a great cause.”

- Alison Berk-Johnston “My favorite part of the event is at the end of the night, hearing the grand total, and seeing all the brides’ faces filled with excitement over what they accomplished individually and as a group. For me being able to stand there and be a part of something that will be helping so many families is just such an amazing feeling.” - Candace Sonmor “Seeing the whole community come together to support our event is so rewarding. Hearing the total at the end of the day gives me goosebumps every single time. Knowing we have raised so much money for such a worthy cause, is the icing on the cake.” - Mandy Harding

You can follow along with the trash the dress journey on Facebook: facebook.com/ TrashTheDressCharityEvent/ or on Instagram @trashthedressyxe.

Mandy Harding Mandy Harding was born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and started her photographic journey 13 years ago.

She first joined the PPOC as a student 14 years ago and hasn’t left since. Mandy lives with her husband and two children and works full time at her Saskatoon photography studio: Memories by Mandy Photography.

Trash the Dress Charity Event Community 220 20 th Street West, Saskatoon, SK S7M 0W9

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The amount of work that goes into putting on the event is huge, but the friendships that are made each year and that moment we drop off the cheque is well worth the reward. The photographers involved have changed over the years and this year the following photographers involved: Mandy Harding, Danielle Stasiuk, Alison Berk-Johnston, Grant Romancia, Candace Sonmor, Erin Lindbloom and Krista Crellin.

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CLASS AWARD IMAGES Architecture | Stata Center

by Louis-Philippe Provost (PPOC-QC)

Animals | Eyes of the Night

by Danielle Barabé-Bussières, cpa (PPOC-ON)

Group Portrait | All Boxed In

by Cheryl Webb, cpa (PPOC-AB)

Industrial | Metalhead

by Kim Downie, mpa (PPOC-MB)

Experimental/Unclassified | Approaching Vesta Four by Lee Sanger, mpa, spa (PPOC-BC)

Wedding Portrait | Come Away With Me

by Krista Crellin, mpa (PPOC-SK)

Editorial | Parlour En Pointe

by Nicole Noyce, mpa (PPOC-SK)

Fine Art | Drop In Time

by Dave Hutchison (PPOC-BC)

Portrait | Timeless Beauty

by Claude Brazeau, mpa (PPOC-ON)

Newborn | The Bear Collector

by Cassandra Jones (PPOC-AB)

Child Portrait | Little Red

by Ammara Sadiq (PPOC-AB)

Fashion | Sway

by Katherine Calnan (PPOC-AB)

Conceptual Illustration | Pressures and Resilience of a Woman in a Man’s World

by Jenny Gwynn, mpa (PPOC-AB)

Photojournalistic Wedding | Holy Book

by Adam Feldstain (PPOC-QC)

Pictorial/Floral | Primal

by Paul Wright, mpa (PPOC-BC)

Figure Study | Intertwined

by Nicole Noyce, mpa (PPOC-SK)

Image Restoration and Colourization | The Good Times by Jessica Bailey (PPOC-QC)

Feature Album | Moving On

by Claude Brazeau, mpa (PPOC-ON)

Wedding Group | #BRIDETRIBE

by Rabih Madi (PPOC-QC)

Product Illustration | Smoke & Mirrors

by Mike Wing (PPOC-ON)

Portrait | Girl in Gold by Parker Ruby (Merit, Student Portrait)

Terry Robertson Master Award | Miracle of Hope

by Gina Yesnik, mpa (PPOC-BC)

Fine Art | Vivid Matrix by Majid Jahanmiri (Merit, Student General and Overall)

Fashion | Walkway To Heavens by Rana Bader (Merit, Student Commercial)

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Press | Pier Pressure

by Trevor Pottelberg, cpa (PPOC-ON)

2020 PPOC DESIGNATION RECIPIENTS DESIGNATIONS PRESENTED IN A VIRTUAL GALA, APRIL 25th, 2020 CPA RECIPIENTS

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Danielle Barabé-Bussières / PPOC ON Steve Cain / PPOC ON Melanie Cervo / PPOC AB Liette Chamberland / PPOC QC Candice Daum / PPOC MB Gerald David / PPOC AB Karen Evans / PPOC BC Kathryn Gardner / PPOC BC

Jocelyne Hebert / PPOC MB Joanna Knorr / PPOC SK Nathalie Mathieu / PPOC QC Maurice Melanson / PPOC AT Tracy Munson / PPOC AT Michael Muraz / PPOC ON Catherine Petitclerc / PPOC QC Isabelle Potvin / PPOC QC

Pierre Robinson / PPOC QC Craig Sallenbach / PPOC AB Larry Scherban / PPOC BC JoEllen Sevcenko / PPOC MB Josée Talbot / PPOC QC Len Waddell / PPOC BC Cheryl Webb / PPOC AB Victoria West / PPOC AT

MPA RECIPIENTS Gerald David / PPOC AB Kim Downie / PPOC MB Iris Jackson / PPOC AB Jeff Noon / PPOC AB Tina Richardson / PPOC BC Linda Ryma / PPOC ON Tanya Sedore / PPOC AB

MPA 1 st BAR

MPA 2 nd BAR Alison Berk / PPOC SK Jillian Chateauneuf / PPOC BC Sébastien Lavallée / PPOC ON Anna Pelletier-Doble / PPOC ON Debbie Malm / PPOC BC Kelsey Qualman / PPOC SK

SUMMER 2020 | GALLERIE MAGAZINE | 21

Krista Crellin / PPOC SK Susan Dykstra / PPOC ON Gabor Gasztonyi / PPOC BC Louise Gingras / PPOC ON Jayson Hencheroff / PPOC BC Chelsea Jones / PPOC AB Nathalie Lamy / PPOC ON Lois Nuttall / PPOC ON Ross Outerbridge / PPOC BC

MPA 3 nd BAR Allan Bailey / PPOC AB Darwin Mulligan / PPOC AB

MPA 4 th BAR Gina Yesnik / PPOC BC

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MPA 8 th BAR Bruce Hendricks / PPOC MB MaryEllen Nealis / PPOC AT

Moira Neal / PPOC BC Jill Shantz / PPOC AB

MPA 5 th BAR Claude Brazeau / PPOC ON

MPA 10 th BAR Daphne Carlyle / PPOC BC

SERVICE OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS Wayne Inverarity / PPOC SK Chris Thombs / PPOC AB Berni Wood / PPOC AT

SPA 1 st BAR Jillian Chateauneuf / PPOC BC Marlene Fast / PPOC MB

Louise Vessey / PPOC AT Paul Wright / PPOC BC

MPA 7 th BAR Marlene Fast / PPOC MB

MPA 16 th BAR Don MacGregor / PPOC BC

2020 PPOC AWARD RECIPIENTS AWARDS PRESENTED IN A VIRTUAL GALA, APRIL 25th, 2020

PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTIST OF THE YEAR

COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

Danielle Barabé-Bussières, cpa

Nicole Noyce, mpa

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

Rabih Madi

Victoria West, cpa

Award sponsored by Sony of Canada

Award sponsored by Nikon Canada Inc.

Award sponsored by Technicare Premier Photo Lab

SUMMER 2020 | GALLERIE MAGAZINE | 23

Award sponsored by PPOC

INTRODUCING NICOLE NOYCE, MPA, PPOC’S 2020 COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

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By Raymond Bailey, HLM, MPA, SPA A PLEASANT FIFTEEN MINUTE DRIVE THROUGH THE SCENIC PARKLAND LANDSCAPE NORTH OF LLOYDMINSTER, SASKATCHEWAN BRINGS YOU TO NOYCE PHOTOGRAPHY. A WELL-MAINTAINED ROAD WINDS THROUGH A BLUFF OF NATIVE ASPEN TREES LEADING TO THE CONTEMPORARY AND SPACIOUS STUDIO. WITH PLENTY OF ROOM BOTH INDOORS AND OUT, THE LAKEFRONT HOME AND STUDIO LITERALLY BRIMS WITH PHOTOGRAPHIC OPPORTUNITIES. AN INDOOR STUDIO EXPERIENCE UTILIZING EITHER NATURAL LIGHT OR MORE DRAMATIC STUDIO STROBES IS AVAILABLE TO CLIENTS. A DOZEN OR MORE OUTDOOR NOOKS AND LANDSCAPES ARE AVAILABLE FOR FAMILIES OR INDIVIDUALS. AN EVENING LAKESHORE SITE IS ONLY A FEW STEPS AWAY. YOU CAN EVEN BRING ALONG YOUR OWN HORSE! I’ve known Nicole since the early 2000’s when she was starting along her photographic journey.

It was evident early on that Nicole was going to be a force in fine portrait photography provincially and nationally. Every year one can see her work improving as she tests out new techniques and ideas. Being from a small mostly rural area has been absolutely no hindrance as she now stands amongst the heavy hitters of our association. Winning the Commercial Photographer of the Year award is a natural progression of her drive to succeed and how she challenges herself to push boundaries.

Nicole Noyce and her team have been operating a full-service studio for the past 15 years. Nicole has been a PPOC member for most of that time, earning 12 Accreditations and the honour of PPOC SK Photographer Of The Year in 2012, 2014, 2017, and 2019. In 2014 she received her CPA designation and her MPA quickly followed in 2016.

Nicole is currently working toward her second bar on her Master Of Photographic Arts and is thankful for the mentorship, education, and competition opportunities provided by PPOC. Noyce Photography specializes in fine portrait photography, commercial imagery, and high volume dance photography. This diversity allows for a great balance in business with the high volume photography supporting the time needed to develop her skills in the art of fine portraiture and commercial photography. Most of the commercial photography Nicole produces are corporate headshots, images for musicians, and editorial style images. Photographing dancers is one of her favourite assignments as it presents the opportunity to explore shape using form, shadow, and light. She has been awarded two PPOC national Best in Class Figure Study awards using her light-shaping techniques.

Always generous with her thanks, Nicole says: “Thank you to my staff, customers, family and friends who have supported my business these past many years. Thank you to my PPOC mentor, Raymond Bailey, for his wisdom and guidance over the years.

Thank you to the PPOC National judges and Image Salon organizers for the opportunity to compete every year. Without all of your hard work, we would miss out on the amazing educational opportunity competition provides.

I feel very honoured to be included in the company of the other talented photographers who qualified for the Commercial Photographer Of The Year nomination. It’s sometimes difficult to feel celebratory during this unprecedented time and it makes a person question the importance and impact of a career as a photographer. While being labeled as a non-essential service I am posed with the question if our work as an artist is a worthy contribution to society. What we offer as photographers is the archiving of memories for future generations, the building of professional images for commercial clients and the celebration of the beauty around us through our images…. bringing joy to others through our art. I believe joy is essential and it’s a privilege to work with my portrait and commercial clients!” Nicole Noyce, MPA

Nicole Noyce, MPA Nicole Noyce has been a PPOC member for the past ten years, earning twelve accreditations, being awarded PPOC SK Photographer of The Year four times and receiving the first bar on her Masters Of Photographic Arts in 2018. Nicole is primarily a portrait photographer and an expert in many categories of photography. This broad expertise has served her commercial clients well as she is able to produce the images they are looking for to promote their business and tell their story. Nicole was the proud recipient of the Commercial Photographer Of The Year award in the spring of 2020.

Photo credit: Grace Noyce

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“Triple Threat” - Fashion - received a merit score and is demonstrative of Nicole’s high-key lighting.

This image was one of many taken for Featherlight Lashes. “Glorious Colour” - Architecture - received a merit score and was created at the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal. “Parlour En Pointe” - Best in Class Editorial - was created in a wonderful cafe in Montreal with her daughter, Grace Noyce, as her model. “Intertwined” - Best in Class Figure Study received an Excellence score and is a great example of shaping with light in dance photography.

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR RABIH MADI: EMBRACING THE UNPREDICTABLE TO CREATE BEAUTY

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By Chelsea Jones, MPA WHEN ASKED HOW IT FEELS TO BE THE 2020 PPOC WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR, RABIH STATED, IT FELT “WEIRD.” WHEN ONE VIEWS THE COLLECTION OF HIS DYNAMIC, IMPACTFUL, PHOTOJOURNALISTIC STYLE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY, THEY REALIZE THAT THE VICTORY IS NOT WEIRD OR UNEXPECTED AT ALL; TO THE CONTRARY, IT IS OBVIOUSLY WELL DESERVED. Rabih first received a camera from his father 10 years ago while traveling to Dubai. Initially learning through creating images of architecture such as buildings and mosques during his travels, he has refined his craft in multiple photography genres, most notably wedding photography. These architectural origins are apparent in the technical proficiency and handling of the environments that support the composition of his impactful wedding creations. Rabih recalls bringing his camera to a friend’s baptism, providing a few photographs of the event, and then being asked to photograph other weddings and events. He learned through being a second shooter at weddings but only took his business and craft to the next level 6 years ago. Changing course from a background in finance, Rabih realized the importance of investing in photography education as well as mentorship, practice, and passion. He attends the World Portrait Photographers International (WPPI) Tradeshow on an annual basis and notes that the best photographers in the world continually embrace educational opportunities and are excited to learn and improve. Through this dedication, perseverance, and commitment to continual learning and growth, Rabih Photography is now a Montreal-based company that creates stunning images that provoke emotions to an international clientele. Rabih generally photographs large weddings with over 100 people. He services 25 to 30 weddings of multiple types a year and is most attracted to those where “the party is insane”.

Try not to gasp, smile, chuckle, or appear awestruck at the sight of Rabih’s wedding images. It’s impossible not to feel the pure emotion from the story that is conveyed through the expressions of the subjects with strong support from deliberate compositional aspects and technical proficiency.

Interestingly, the key to the success of Rabih Madi as a photographer may be the exact thing most photographers fear; unpredictability: “I like when things don’t happen as planned and there is stress involved. When people get too comfortable, (it can become) mundane, and the inspiration goes away.”

Throughout the wedding, “there are emotions and moments that you can predict.” For example, during the ceremony, there is a pattern or script and one can predict when moments with elevated emotional intensity will transpire. When events defy the schedule or plan, this is where

Rabih’s wedding photography style is very much photojournalistic, however, the technical aspects do not appear secondary to the emotion and story with every image appearing as a piece of art. For a photojournalistic style, Rabih’s favourite part of the wedding is the reception as the party is when couples and wedding guests “unleash themselves without being aware of the camera.”

The reception is when the party starts and where that unpredictability that Rabih craves comes back to inspire creativity and facilitate storytelling.

During the reception, the wedding guests and the couple act with a sense of authenticity when they are not focused on being watched or captured on a camera.

When it comes to entering competition, such as the 2020 PPOC Image Competition, Rabih states “choosing the image is the most difficult part.”

Rabih’s selection process starts with an evaluation of the impact and storytelling. Does the image have a story? Does the viewer understand what is happening? Does the image make a connection with the viewer? Does it evoke emotions? After this, the more technical aspects of the image are evaluated. Rabih also tries to select images from separate weddings. It is clear the final 4 images Rabih chose for the 2020 PPOC National Image

Competition were the right choices; covering multiple different components of a wedding but still managing to engage the viewer and evoke an emotional response. Rabih demonstrated his versatility and ability to capture authentic happiness and emotion that is unscripted in timeless images any family would be eternally grateful to have in their possession.

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Rabih draws his inspiration. Instead of viewing unexpected rain as a wedding guest that no one invited, Rabih thinks, “How do I make something beautiful and adapt?” Deviating from the ordinary and embracing stressful situations provides Rabih with an adrenaline rush that leads to unique, inspired images with the subjects being captured in candid moments with emotions and expressions one cannot predict. This is what drives Rabih, and feeds his passion for wedding photography. This is how his creativity is sparked and leads to the delivery of exquisite wedding images.

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Rabih’s advice for other photographers centers around flexibility and surpassing the client’s expectations. Rabih noted that many photographers today have rigidity in their structure, with products, delivery, client types, etc.

Rabih attributes part of his success in the photography business to being more flexible which includes staying a little extra at a wedding, going the extra mile, and making sure to deliver a service that is more than expected by the client.

Rabih feels that this extra time spent photographing after the contracted time is also where photographers can practice with new techniques and further their learning and development. Although he strongly values investment in education, he stressed that experience and practice are paramount to inspiration, creativity, and improvement: “You need to shoot. You can learn and go to school, but you need to shoot.

You can’t learn everything from books or online. I can give you the settings on my camera but it is useless unless you practice.”

Rabih Madi Born in Saudia Arabia, then immigrated to Canada after stopping around a few countries along the way, travel was in my blood, but from the moment I picked up a camera for the first time on my trip to see my family abroad and captured these amazing faces & sceneries, I knew I was onto something special. Seeing those bright faces, looking forward to the future, was the perfect precursor to my career today. I knew that photography of “people” was where I was heading, but just didn’t know which avenue yet… until now!

It is evident from speaking with Rabih that photography is his passion; and it’s contagious.

Rabih wishes to give back to the industry by teaching other photographers. He feels being a mentor and instructor is a way for him to stay inspired and keep an open mind. He is open to having photographers shadow him during weddings, and/or discuss techniques with other photographers. Although Rabih primarily photographs weddings, he also provides product, fashion, corporate, and event photography as well as provides photobooth services.

In addition to being the PPOC 2020 Wedding Photographer of the Year, Rabih also was awarded the Best in Class Award-Wedding Group and a spot in the 2020 Loan Collection for the image, #BRIDETRIBE. Rabih’s passion, dedication, flexibility, technical proficiency, openness to spontaneity, and willingness to provide the client with more than expected is what has set him apart from other photographers nationally and internationally. This is what it takes to be the best.

Congratulations Rabih Madi on being the recipient of the prestigious Wedding Photographer of the Year award!

2020 ACCREDITATION DEADLINES Even though Covid-19 is preventing in-person accreditation judging from happening at this point, please remember that PPOC is still continuing to judge accreditations four times per year.

Next accreditation deadline is:

- October 5th, 5pm EDT

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VICTORIA WEST

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

By Victoria West, CPA AFTER MY SECOND CONSECUTIVE WIN OF PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR, I WAS INTERVIEWED BY OUR LOCAL PAPER. IT WAS A BRIEF INTERVIEW, DEFINITELY NOT ENOUGH TIME TO EXPLAIN THE PROCESS OF IMAGE SALON. THEN, TO MY SURPRISE, AND EMBARRASSMENT, THE RESULTING NEWSPAPER HEADLINE WAS “THE BEST PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER IN CANADA LIVES IN OROMOCTO”.

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I never said that (and I don’t even live in Oromocto, although my studio is there).

As much as I would love it to be true, I’m not even close. But I am a very hard worker. I put a ton of time and energy into my submission each year. I take it seriously because I want to win. I set that goal, I met that goal. So I should be happy right? Never, because the first thing that goes through my mind after I get the good news is, “how am I going to top this next year?”

Overachiever issues clearly. A blessing and a curse.

So let’s get into my submission….

Micheal - Figure Study - Merit Like my image Exsanguinate from 2019, this is also a composite starring my husband. Both of them are him. My inspiration came from Ancient Greek sculptures and classical paintings, although not one in particular.

I shot it in the studio with a two-light setup, one for fill and one for direction. The background was from a ceiling in the Alhambra palace that I photographed in Spain, and the frame came from a photo from that trip as well.

The wings, I photographed and added after that fact. I felt like he looked about ready to take off once I had pieced it all together, and since he’s basically an angel to nude model for me, I went with it.

Humane Meat - Conceptual Illustration - Excellence When I showed this image to my father, he said “do you think that one day you’ll make something that I can actually hang on the wall? Your mind is a scary place.”

Technically, my Facebook feed is the scary place, with post after post from the many animal rights activist pages that I follow. I didn’t have to think too hard to come up with this idea. The human race enslaves, confines, and kills 70 billion land animals every year. Human supremacy justifies this for many, so what happens if we weren’t the most powerful/intelligent species anymore?

That’s what I wanted the viewer to consider. If we were in their place, the animals’ place, how would we feel?

This was a very complicated composite. I photographed every piece of it myself (I never use stock images). I had 7 models, 4 bars, a photograph of a delivery truck, a homemade alien, and a lot of time. If you’d like to see all the details head over to the PPOC National Blog (https://www.ppoc.ca/news_ articles/article_122.php?thread=1) where you can find my post showing the behind-the-scenes.

So that’s it! In closing, I’d like to thank everyone involved in putting together image salons, the virtual awards gala, and keeping us all well entertained with so many great webinars during these social distancing times. I can’t wait till we can all party together in Saskatoon, 2021!

Spanish Rose - Child Portrait - Excellence Another Spanish backdrop, this was also shot in studio on a two-light setup.

My model was an actual client, who I asked to come back and model for me because she looked like she stepped out of a renaissance painting. I had the outfit waiting for the right person, and she was the one.

So this was really straight-forward, just a two image composite. I think her expression is renaissance perfection.

I made this image in early January. Australia was burning and at that time it seemed like that was the greatest threat facing us in the immediate future….if only.

So, this was one of those rare times when I knew exactly what this image would look like before I made it. A clear vision. Australia was burning because of our appetites, literally and figuratively... but most literally. We are eating ourselves to extinction. So I ordered an earth balloon, found a model/friend who had a Jesus-like resemblance, and got to work.

Victoria West, CPA

This was a 3 light setup. A gelled backlight, fill light, and sidelight for direction. There were a few separate takes involved to get the details right (wine splashing, hair blowing). I wanted to create a strong sense of movement. The windows and background scene were from my trip to Spain again. Like The Last Supper painting, I wanted there to be a similar vibe, although modern-day, so wardrobe kept it current even in the midst of the gothic style architecture.

Victoria West is a full-time portrait photographer. She’s built a strong reputation and business in Oromocto, NB, by creating portraits for people who hate being photographed (just like her).

I also learned that Photoshop makes fire. Thank you Adobe!

Victoria is also a passionate animal rights activist and lives with her husband, 5 dogs, and 1 unlucky cat.

She’s a proud PPOC member and serves on the Board of the Atlantic Region. She is also an internationally awarded photographer having top 3 finishes at WPPI, WPE, and World Photographic Cup in 2019. She’s also 2020 & 2019 Portrait Photographer of the Year for PPOC.

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The Last Supper - Portrait - Excellence

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LUMIX was first to announce a mirrorless camera to the world, setting standards that define digital cameras today. As global pioneers, LUMIX continues to lead through product innovation and to drive the market globally. Now we introduce our first Full-Frame Digital Single Lens Mirrorless system, the LUMIX S series – crafted to become an extension of yourself, empowering your full creative vision. The LUMIX S features the ‘L-Mount’ which allows for connectivity to a wider range of interchangeable lenses including the L-Mount alliance of Leica, Panasonic and Sigma. The portal to a bold new frontier of image culture is now open.

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THE IMPORTANCE

OF FINDING A NICHE

By Sébastien Arbour IN PHOTOGRAPHY, AS IN VIDEO, A GENERALIST WILL HAVE GREAT DIFFICULTY IN OBTAINING A COMFORTABLE SALARY ALLOWING HIM TO LIVE FROM HIS ART. BUT YOU DESERVE IT!

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A GENERAL PRACTITIONER DOES A LITTLE BIT OF EVERYTHING CORRECTLY. A SPECIALIST DOES PRECISELY CERTAIN WORK BUT WITH A RECOGNIZED COMPETENCE, A VERY SHARP EXPERTISE AND THEREFORE, THE PERCEPTION OF A HIGHER VALUE. FEW PEOPLE ARE SURPRISED AT THE HIGH RATES OF REPUTABLE SPECIALISTS. THEY EXPECT IT. I WOULD EVEN SAY THAT A SPECIALIST OFFERING AN AFFORDABLE RATE WILL CONFUSE POTENTIAL CLIENTS. In photography, many make the mistake of doing a little bit of everything in the hope of financial success. It is VERY difficult. You can’t be on your own a specialist in portrait, wedding, commercial, aerial, industrial, school, baby, press photography, animal photographer, exceptional landscape, astrophotographer, expert in video and special effects and so on...

In photography, think of Anne Geddes for baby pictures. Think of Bradford Rowley or Marc Bailey for very high-quality portraits that mix pixels and paint.

Peter Lik for landscapes. Laforest & Sabourin for large murals of family photos always presented in unique framed montages, often mixing paint and various materials on fine art papers. When you walked into their studio, you could immediately perceive their difference and their value.

They are all associated with a particular niche and their main appeal is NOT their low price. They produce very precise images in limited quantities. More importantly, they have a branding and promotion team that make sure to give value to the products.

For my part, my main niche is industrial photography, particularly construction sites across Canada. I get calls from all over for specific work. Not only do I deliver images that are published worldwide, but I also deliver wall enlargements on metallized paper with either acrylic or aluminum.

What reassures my clients is that I have my safety certifications, which confirm my status as an experienced specialist. I have all my safety equipment and travel very often between provinces. I manage hotel, car and airplane reservations very well with an agency specializing in corporate travel (it also has its own niche!) and I own the transport boxes for the equipment. The client gets peace of mind.

Don’t look for the most expensive photographer in my niche in my region. It’s me. But I don’t lack work. I get called when a Canadian company has just completed one of its most important projects and wants the best possible images to impress the head office and their potential clients.

I’m often asked to take pictures of completed buildings after construction. I ask for the name of the architect and contact him. If you only knew how surprised they are when I ask about the details of

their work! No one else does it. They tell me about their choice of materials, the context of their creation.

They give me lots of tips on what’s important to see.

Not only will my original client be happy with the work... but the architect will be happy with the work... and will in turn become a client... the same for all the subcontractors who worked on the project. I can sell and resell rights to the same image many times.

- Do not sell your images. License the rights to use them. If possible, to a large number of companies involved. Get signed written contracts.

ALWAYS. Offer wall enlargements or other derivative products. Have a very good graphic designer around when a client plans to produce promotional material with your images. They appreciate turnkey services and you make sure the right people will do a good job with your creations.

- Are you a member of PPOC? Let them know in your service offering.

- Introduce yourself and explain how you’re different, but very briefly. Just a few lines. Keep to the point. Your life and your passions, your way of seeing art do not interest your clients at all. What can you bring to them?

- Did you win awards (you should!)? Let them know too.

- Try several niches, you will find your main niche. If that niche is too narrow or seasonal, find a secondary niche.

- Illustrate your proposal with your top five images directly related to the potential client’s niche. If possible, avoid their main local competitor: it won’t inspire them. I use images from Quebec for my clients in British Columbia and vice versa. This adds a “national” touch to your career.

- If necessary, have two brands for two niches that are too different.

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- Present yourself in a way related to your status as an expert: website, social media, business cards and documents. If you serve the public, have items such as bags, USB keys, boxes for enlargements that are not only pretty but personalized. Find albums and wall products sold exclusively to professionals. Don’t offer what your competitors already have.

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- Be imaginative. Think. My clients are often general contractors who do million-dollar projects for their own clients. Why wouldn’t my client offer a wall enlargement or a beautiful scrapbook that shows the various stages of the work to his client? Go far beyond the simple photo service.

Photo 1

- Go far beyond the basic products offered to the public. For stone quarries, I have delivered wall enlargements on fine art paper, hand-signed and embossed with my logo, presented on a floating “shadow box” frame with polarized glass, a mounting that allows you to glue stones collected on-site at the bottom of the inside of the frame, as relics linked to the image. For other types of mounts, you can use epoxy and insert image-related pieces when drying.

One can think of grains of sand for a sandpit, water in a small elegant bottle for a water purification company, etc. Name it! As a rule of thumb, your customers will be delighted and excited about your idea.

Few customers will buy your idea without seeing it in person.

- Get informed, get trained and become an expert in the subject matter you photograph. Do you want to get serious about architectural images?

Meet with architects. Talk to them.

Read books. Discover their problems, their constraints. Make connections and create a network. Discreetly develop your offer and ask a small group of potential customers for advice. They will guide you towards which products they prefer and at what price. Their answers are often very different from your initial idea. Once the process is complete, launch your services on a large scale and publicly.

- If you offer the same thing as the competition, your only distinction in the eyes of the customer will be the lowest price.

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- Attend trade shows that are relevant to your niche. Your customers are there.

- In commercial and industrial images, present yourself to the best communication agencies. Yes, it will require a financial contribution, but it is well deserved because they will bring you golden customers in addition to managing all the sales and administration. Most specialists are represented by agencies.

- Don’t try to do everything alone. You can’t do it alone. A graphic designer helps with your presentation. A social media specialist advises you. A retoucher helps with the finish of your images.

A part-time assistant contacts potential customers, creates and shares your online image galleries, follows up to generate sales. They ask for the contact information of other companies related to the project and contact them either to take photo requests on your next visit or to share work already done and available for them in an online gallery accepting payments. Surround yourself!

- Your passion may have a few components, what we call secondary niches. But the same principle applies when the time comes to develop them.

- Don’t hesitate to register for example with PhotoCoach or other business development programs BEFORE you start in a niche. Consult, ask questions and listen to the answers. Adjust your project accordingly.

Enjoy your discovery!

Photo 1: a detail of a wall enlargement where stones shown in the image are inserted at the bottom. Propose original murals, rather than offering exactly what consumer finishing services already have in their catalogue.

Photo 2: an enlargement on metallic paper, mounted on aluminum plate and laminated with a glossy finish. The three parts form a large 10-foot-wide image.

Photo 3: A computer graphic designer did the visual finishing of this huge 12-foot-wide wall canvas. This aerial image shows a complete view of an environmental site to visitors. Mural products are a very important source of revenue for a commercial studio.

PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS OF CANADA (PPOC) is a diversified group of creative artists dedicated to the highest standards in professional imaging. We welcome photographers of all genres to join our community of dedicated professionals.

PPOC offers photographers a way to rise to professional status. Educational opportunities, networking, direct member benefits and the ability to earn awards and designations will assist in your potential for growth and economic improvement.

Did you know you can become a member of Canada’s oldest and most recognized professional photography association for as little as $26 monthly (plus tax)?

Observer membership will entitle you to discounted pricing on educational events, access to a peer network upon whose knowledge you can draw, preferred rates with many of our industry partners, critiques of your imagery, and will open the door for you to submit for Accreditation in your chosen photographic field(s). You can even sign up for a Mentor to help you get the most out of your PPOC membership!

Once you’ve achieved your Accreditation, you’ll be able to upgrade to full “PPOC Accredited Photographer” membership status, and will be listed on our “Search for a Photographer” feature on our website. You can promote yourself using the PPOC Logo and will also be eligible to vie for prestigious awards in National Image Competition, and to work toward earning the designations of Craftsman of Photographic Arts (CPA), Master of Photographic Arts (MPA), and Service of Photographic Arts (SPA).

Are you ready to take your photographic career to the next level? Become recognized as a member of PPOC, stand out from the crowd, and take advantage of the benefits of membership!

Create an Observer membership profile by following the links to join at www.ppoc.ca, and activate that membership with payment in full online, or by contacting us by phone at (888) 643-PPOC (7762) to set up a convenient monthly payment plan using your VISA or MasterCard.

Sébastien Arbour

Apply TODAY!

Sébastien Arbour is an accredited photographer and filmmaker for the last 29 years.

He is one of the founding members of PPOC-QC and been awarded several prizes such as Nikon Canada Top 100, three International Spider Awards and a Summit Creative Award. His local chamber of commerce gave him the Business of the Year (service) award in 2014. He is also been a judge at the World Photographic Cup and speaker for Photocoach International. He is specialized in industrial imaging everywhere in Canada.

CONTACT 1-888-643-PPOC (7762) Phone: 519-537-2555 Info@ppoc.ca | www.ppoc.ca

Photo credit: Emmanuel Speciale

https://ppoc.formstack.com/forms/ membership_application_web

MAILING ADDRESS: 209 Light St. Woodstock, ON N4S 6H6 Canada

MY PPOC MY EXPERIENCE

AS A PPOC MEMBER

By Cheryl Struss, MPA EVERY DAY WAS TEDIUM AND ALL I COULD THINK ABOUT WAS MAKING IT TO THE END OF THE DAY AND TO THE END OF THE WEEK. THIS IS HOW I FELT IN MY PREVIOUS CAREER. I WAS LOOKING FOR A WAY OUT AND PHOTOGRAPHY GAVE ME THAT HOPE.

I was fortunate that the career I was in gave me the ability to reduce my time and hours as need be and I was able to leave my job completely within about 3 years I believe.

I had often had friends and family compliment me on photos that I had taken and of course, I was grateful. Inside, however, there was a longing to have an established photographer comment that my work was good. I had heard about the Professional Photographers of Canada and I had decided that when I felt that I was ready when my work was ready I would look into joining, and in the meantime, I continued to learn on my own. I happened to meet a PPOC Member at a Trade Show and the ensuing conversation brought an invitation to go over some of my photos. Well of course I jumped at the opportunity. I can still remember it... he had pretty much nothing good to say about any of the photos I shared with him! LOL Lots of suggestions for growth though which was great and very much appreciated. I took his words as a great opportunity to learn a few things.

What he did tell me was that I could join PPOC now as an Observer Member and when I was ready I could become a full member. I joined right away and it was the best decision I could have made. That was back in 2007 and at that time online learning and connection with other photographers was not the thing it is today. I went to pretty much every meeting learning and gleaning what I could. Being a tad on the shyer side it took me quite a while to form friendships and I often came and went without speaking to anyone but I kept going and I kept listening and I kept learning.

When I was able, I entered every salon I could...and trust me it was brutal – Not Accepted, Not Accepted, Not Accepted...yeah I get the point.

You would think that would damage my psyche and make me run away...however, just the opposite...I worked harder, asked more questions, and had others critique my work (probably the hardest for me). My desire was and still is, to learn and to grow.

Learning is in the doing. I also have a pretty thick skin so that helped...oh and add in a bit of stubbornness and competitiveness and yeah, that’s why.

Let me explain what I mean by Learning is in the Doing.

Before I had my driver’s license I would ride with my parents. We would drive along a route and I figured I knew the way because I was there while we drove it – numerous times. Once I had my license and was the one behind the wheel all of a sudden those routes I was accustomed to taking seemed different – there were nuances and variables I hadn’t expected. I found that it wasn’t until I was behind the wheel that I really started to learn where I was going and how to navigate and react to challenges. I think the same could be said for entering Salons, preparing, and participating leads to a different level of commitment and level of understanding.

When I was receiving all of those Not Accepteds, I didn’t think it possible that one day I would actually have my own little corner with a few awards, including Manitoba Photographer of the Year. I have also earned my MPA for which I am very proud.

While I began my journey mainly photographing weddings I currently focus on Children’s Thematic Portraits while also photographing a few families throughout the year. I enjoy having a 1200 sq ft studio space but have a dream of bringing it back home and creating a home-based studio.

I greatly enjoy the flexibility in my days that photography has brought me but I will be the first to say that I work harder and longer than I ever did before but the difference is that I enjoy what I am doing. I have many dreams and goals of where I want to take my business and even now feel like I am finally starting to figure it out.

Running a business is hard, I am very grateful for the colleagues I have found through PPOC as they have challenged and encouraged me throughout the years. I value their friendship and the words they have spoken to me. They have definitely made the journey more enjoyable.

Cheryl Struss, MPA Cheryl is a portrait photographer in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Her focus is primarily Children’s Thematic Portraiture while also photographing a few families throughout the year as well. Cheryl has been a member of PPOC since 2007. She was honoured to win Manitoba’s Photographer of the year in 2017. Nationally she has won Best in Class Wedding Group twice. She holds Accreditations in the following categories: Newborn, Child and Infant, Couple, Wedding Environmental, Portraiture.

SUMMER 2020 | GALLERIE MAGAZINE | 37

One day I came to the realization that I could be a photographer.

I had always been the person with a camera at parties and events (that’s before our phones made it the expected norm).

I decided to give myself 5 years to become full-time.

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SUMMER 2020 | GALLERIE MAGAZINE | 38

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SUMMER 2020 | GALLERIE MAGAZINE | 39

CANADIAN PHOTOGRAPHY IN A BRAND NEW LIGHT.

PHOTOED.CA

ABOUT THE COVER SAHARA SUNSET

By Vanessa Dewson, MPA WHAT I LOVE MOST ABOUT TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY IS THE HUNT FOR THE UNEXPECTED. THERE ARE ALWAYS THOSE POSTCARD SHOTS WE DREAM OF TAKING BUT MY FAVOURITE IMAGES HAVE OFTEN BEEN THE UNPLANNED, HAPPY DISCOVERIES. THIS ONE ENCOMPASSES THE MAGIC OF MOROCCO FOR ME. I COULD NOT HAVE HOPED FOR SUCH AN IMAGE BUT THE KEY WAS BEING READY TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF THE RIGHT TIME, RIGHT PLACE.

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Once we caught our breath from the climb, we sat in awe on the tallest dune in the area to watch the sunset in the Sahara Desert. The sun is slowly dropping behind a carpet of dunes that stretches beyond the horizon and all the way to Timbuktu. When we fall silent, I’m struck by just how quiet it is. Everywhere else on the planet, there is some form of noise. With no trees, there is nothing for the wind to rustle and there are no birds or crickets to serenade us, there is just silence. Small tracks left in the sand and some tufts of vegetation are the only proof that life exists here.

After the sun disappears, my group heads back down to our awaiting camels and drivers and I’m about to follow when I spot a great image taking shape. I hang back, watching the young family we’d just met get on their camels. They are staying at a different camp and went down the west side of the dune while we are on the east. I’m conscious that the longer I take, I’ll be holding everyone up so as soon as I get this shot, I quickly run down the dune and catch up to my group.

As someone who leads photo tours and teaches photography at the Ottawa School of Art, I love to be in the same place with other photographers and see completely

different results. It’s what makes photography an art form - we each have our own vision. Seeing how someone has a different perspective or approach is so inspiring and pushes me to try to see in a new way.

I typically shoot RAW so my images always need a little bit of tweaking. I use Adobe Lightroom to sort and do some basic corrections and then will pop into Photoshop for any finer retouching if needed. I like to stay true to what I saw while trying to Sahara Sunset push it beyond a snapshot. In this case, the original was a lot cooler than what I remember so I warmed it up and also cropped out most of the sky that was so washed out.

In the critique from the Regional Image Salon, some judges felt I should have cropped out the sky completely since your eye is drawn to the lightest area but another judge defended it and said they liked to see how far the desert stretched. Since photography is subjective, I understand both arguments but agree with the latter and hope you enjoy the final result and it makes you dream of when we can start exploring the world again.

Vanessa Dewson, MPA Vanessa Dewson has been a member of the PPOC since 2008 and received her Masters of Photographic Arts designation in 2017. She is based in Ottawa and specializes in portrait, event, and travel photography. She teaches photography at the Ottawa School of Art and founded Focus on Photography Tours in 2015 to combine her passions of travel, photography, and teaching. You can see more of her work on her Website and on Instagram. Links below. focusonphototours.com | vanessadewson.com | instagram.com/vanessadewson

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