Chair’s Message to Members From Jennifer Gilbert
Finding Purpose Through the Lens Dive into your mental health
Featured Interview with a member Meet Jayme Dunn
Why are digital files so expensive Deborah Explains
Hot Shoe Diaries
Book Review What’s on your walll Jenn’s Machu Picchu
G.O.Y.A. Alberta Inspiration Who’s out there Online recommendations On the cover Featured Artist
I was very intrigued by Kari Carter’s article about finding purpose through her lens. I relate very well to her words, having gone through serious injuries myself and using my camera to help me through it I think back to how photographers were required to put their cameras down through the pandemic and the loss many of us felt because of that Thank goodness we got through it!
Creating images is in our soul We all have our own personal reasons for picking up a camera at some point in our lives, but I think that we can all attest that at some point, making an image has fed a need and filled our hearts with happiness. It’s the one thing that brings us together as a community, and we are stronger together for it
Our Fall Image Competitions and Conferences are in full swing. Use this time to create and connect with each other. Celebrate each other’s achievements and enjoy each other’s company I hope to see many of you at Canadian Imaging in Ottawa at the end of April 2025!
With much gratitude,
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In a world where everyone has a camera in their hand, and the internet is flooded with low resolution image captures, how do you stand out from the crowd?
How can you assure potential clients that the work they see on your social media post can be turned into a billboard, a wall mural, a fine art print or an incredible enlargement to be cherished for year's to come?
We encourage professional photographers across Canada to join PPOC. Share your expertise, learn from peers, compete in image salons, earn specialty accreditations and lift your business to a higher standard of credibility
True professionals belong to industry associations in order to continually refine their craft, stay up to date on the latest industry trends and technology and offer an extra level of credibility to their client base. Engineers, Marketers, Event Planners, Lawyers, Medical Professionals and yes, Photographers
Mental health challenges are a universal experience. Whether it's due to personal loss, illness, trauma, or disabilities, many people struggle to find their place in the world and cope with overwhelming emotions. After facing significant challenges, I am one of those individuals who found solace and purpose through an unexpected source: photography.
Photography offers a unique way to engage with the world, providing a sense of control and creativity that can be incredibly healing. For me, it started as a hobby and soon became a lifeline. Initially, it was just a way to pass the time, a distraction from the overwhelming thoughts and emotions. But as I immersed myself in capturing moments and scenes, I discovered a profound therapeutic power in the art of photography.
Through my camera, I could focus on the present moment, losing my thoughts in the here and now. This mindfulness, an integral part of the photographic process, helped quiet my mind and ease the anxiety and depression that had plagued me for years after leaving the military. The act of composing a shot, waiting for the right light, and capturing the perfect moment brought a sense of accomplishment and joy that I hadn't felt in a long time
Realizing the profound impact photography had on my mental health, I decided to take it a step further. I enrolled in a photography school to hone my skills and deepen my understanding of the art. This decision was not just about improving my technical abilities; it was about reclaiming my sense of purpose and direction
In school, I connected with like-minded individuals who shared my passion for photography. This new community provided support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that I had sorely missed The structure of classes and assignments gave me goals to work towards, helping to restore a sense of routine and discipline to my life that I continued after leaving school and joining the PPOC.
Photography is also a powerful tool for individuals with other disabilities, physical challenges, and even learning disabilities It provides an alternative way to communicate and express oneself, breaking down barriers that traditional methods might present. For those who struggle with verbal or written communication, a photograph can convey emotions and stories that words cannot capture .
The visual nature of photography can be particularly beneficial for individuals with learning disabilities. It encourages exploration, creativity, and problem-solving, fostering a sense of achievement and confidence. Through photography, individuals can discover new abilities and perspectives, finding joy and fulfillment. While my journey with photography began as a means to cope with my own struggles, it has since evolved into a mission to advocate for mental health. It's essential to recognize that mental health issues can stem from various sources People face challenges due to illness, personal loss, trauma, and countless other reasons. Photography can be a powerful tool for anyone grappling with mental health issues, offering a way to process emotions, reduce stress, and find meaning. I've had the privilege of sharing my story with others, encouraging them to pick up a camera and see the world differently. Photography workshops, community projects, and exhibitions have become platforms where I can promote mental health awareness and support. Seeing others find solace and joy through photography is incredibly rewarding, reinforcing the belief that this art form can change lives.
I was dealing with injuries and mental health issues from my time in the military. Everyone's story is different, and we all handle trauma in our own way. For me, photography became a lifeline. It gave me a new sense of purpose and helped me navigate the complexities of life and gave me a supportive peer group I could lean on Photography is more than just taking pictures; it's about connecting with the world, finding beauty in everyday moments, and reclaiming a sense of self.
If you're struggling with mental health, consider grabbing your camera and just take a walk Whether you're dealing with illness, disabilities, personal challenges, or any other mental health issues, the act of capturing images can offer a therapeutic outlet and a path to healing. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step (Lao Tzu) or in this case, a single click of the shutter.
Embrace the power of photography and let it guide you towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Kari Carter
P P O C F e a t u r e M e m b e r S p o t l i g h t
Jayme Dunn
Jayme Dunn is a nationally accredited commercial and advertising photographer based in Vancouver, British Columbia With accreditations in commercial, fashion, food, product illustration and travel illustration, her photography specializes in fashion, beauty and beauty product work Jayme has collaborated with companies both large and small, including Urban Barn, Viktoria Marchev, London Drugs and the Abbotsford International Airshow helping to bring their creative visions to life Her work earned her the student photographer of the Year for PPOC-BC in 2014 and more recently was a finalist for the PPOC Commercial Photographer of the year in 2021. In 2022, Jayme was the recipient of the Master of Photographic Arts (MPA) designation by the PPOC
GM – Could you explain where and when did you get your start in photography?
Jayme Dunn (JD) – I have been in and around the photography world my whole life, more or less My grandparents were both photographers and my mom worked for the PPABC as the executive director, so I kind of grew up around PPOC going to Salon competitions and conferences as a tag along with her So, I have kind of always been around it When I was in high school, I joined the yearbook team and really got into it I was able to shoot a little bit of everything for yearbook – sports, spirit day, portraits – and I kind of decided that I wanted to do photography for my job After graduating from high school, I attended Langara Colleges twoyear program in Professional Photography and now here I am
GM - How do you describe your photographic style to someone who’s not familiar with it?
JD – So, I do commercial photography, as well as fashion and product work, as well as some event photography If I am describing it to someone, I would say its clean, colourful and dynamic. I love working with colour – bright colour - and try to bring that into all my work I think this helps me stand out because many brands these days are focused on a more of a neutral or muted colour palette
I have heard it called a ‘millennial’ beige, but this is not definitely not me. I really like bright colours, so I just lean into that as a design focus in my vision for my images and I think that sets my work apart from many of the other images out there.
GM - In your opinion, what are the qualities of a good photograph?
JD - I think it kind of depends on the context with which you are viewing the photo, and I am of two minds with this question. Obviously, we have rules and guidelines in the PPOC for that – whether its vision, impact, composition or technique and as judges we use these to distinguish between an ‘excellence’ or ‘merit’ image in a salon competition But in the commercial photography world, it really depends on what the client brief is and how well you can execute the vision of the client So, for me its a lot about being super clean and detail oriented, in addition to all the normal technical and composition guidelines for photography. So, it is my job to create a really strong photograph that makes my client happy
I have lots of images I have created for clients that they are super happy with, but they are not what I would enter as a salon image, because the context of the final image is different.
Alternatively, there is also an artistic side to photography, like fine art, and I think this can be a very personal experience for the viewer and also very subjective because it will really depend on what the person – the viewer - likes or loves in their art or if that photograph makes them feel something
GM – Could you describe your process for creating an image. Could you give us an idea of your workflow for a shoot.
I will speak to my creative or portfolio shoots first. For me, there is a ton of planning. I will have an idea and then begin to pull my own stuff together to begin the planning One of the first things I do is to create a mood board of images drawn from fashion magazines or online sources like Pinterest I am looking for what is trending or what is the relevant style, right now I might draw an idea on a style from one or two images and then maybe inspirational colours from another two or three images I am trying to create a board that describes the general vibe of the shoot that I want to create After that there is a lot of planning that goes into physically producing the shoot –backgrounds, lighting, etc.
But, in this process, I like to work with a team - to work collaboratively to create an image, so once I have an idea sort of formulated, I will search out a model that will work with the vibe I have a couple of agencies that I am connected with in Vancouver and elsewhere which is helpful in finding the right model to fit the vibe – the dream. After that, I will find a make-up artist that again, will fit the vibe and once we are all up to speed, I will ask for their input about the shoot I have one makeup artist that I regularly work with who has awesome creative ideas and she's always chiming in and doing some very cool stuff If I bring a stylist on, then it's talking to them as well about the mood and the vibe of the shoot So, then we have discussions about background and wardrobes, to figure things out and how we can make it all come together into one thing – one vision.As long as everyone is on board, it should go really smoothly because everyone knows their role and what we are trying to do. Obviously, there’s some tweaking or improvisation along the way but I do my best keep to the original idea of what I am going to do or try for that shoot
GM – What has been one of the coolest shoots you have been done?
One of the coolest shoots I have ever done was shooting with Coco Rocha. Rocha is a high-end fashion supermodel, who is actually from the Vancouver area, and she hosts a model camp in up-state New York. At her camp she trains young models and a few years ago, she opened her camp to female photographers. So, I got to go there for a week and talked to them about fashion, photography and the whole industry. And the coolest part was that I got to photograph her, which was definitely on my bucket list as a fashion photographer. It was just very cool and fun to work with her She's obviously a Top Model but she was also just so nice, and I was really happy with how the images turned out It was a super great experience
GM – Whose work has influenced you the most – what other artists, photographers or individuals would you list as influencers or inspirations of your photographic journey?
This is a really difficult question as there are so many people, and it is really hard to narrow them down. One of the people I really keep going back to is Lindsay Adler, a New York fashion photographer I did my practicum wit her when I was in school and it was so cool to learn from her I went to New York and worked with her which was really fun and interesting She would also be a strong contender for the coolest shoot question, she’s awesome. I worked with her in her studio of course but we also went out to this mansion, this castle out on Long Island to shoot a wedding fashion campaign It was very cool And Peter Lindbergh always been one of my favorites. I love, love, love his work
Lara Jade is another one because she does beautiful beauty work which is just so inspiring – it is soft and really nice Another would be Joel Robinson He's been one of my favorites forever. He is really cool and he’s Canadian. He does some very cool composites and fine art stuff. I do composites in my work but not like his He does these really whimsical – fairy tale kind of images, and his work is just very cool.
GM – What has been the best advice you ever received?
Again, there are a lot of people I thought about for this question One of them was an instructor of mine I was upset about a school project I was working on, and he just sort of calmed me down, stopped me and pointed to his diploma on the wall of his office He said, ‘I don’t have a single one of my assignments, but I have that’ He explained to me that all the little things along the journey are not as important as completing the journey He said that I should focus on finishing the journey – finishing school - finishing your degree and you will be fine
Another piece of advice I remember is that ‘you can’t fill from an empty cup’, so it’s important to take care of yourself, both mentally and physically. You have to try not to let yourself get to the point of burning out If you are not feeling well, feeling tired – you need to take some time because you need to take a step back if you need to take a step back There is a lot more focus on mental health now in the creative industries I think in the past, it was work, work, work – glorifying the grind and working 60-hour weeks if you were going to make it or succeed in the industry. But that is not the reality anymore, which I am really appreciative of, because its not realistic – you just can’t do it It's not sustainable at all You have to build in time for you – personal time - into your schedule. Like my schedule for a week has about 8000 different colours for all my commitments and within that rainbow, my personal time is ‘blue’. So, if I look at my calendar for a certain week and there’s not enough blue, I kind of have to look at the schedule and be like, OK, how do I even this out a little bit? How do I take an evening to just read a book or stay off the computer for a day, go for a walk? Where do I make some time to just do something to sort of bring myself back and not working all the time I know in the past I was in the mindset of ‘I don’t have time for a break’ but with reflection, you always have time for 10 or 15 minutes to do a little stretching, sit down and breathe It’s only 10 minutes out of your day. I mean, we scroll on our phones for like 40 minutes without realizing it, so you can definitely afford to go on a 10-minute walk or something.
GM – What would be your dream assignment or photoshoot? Passion project?
Yes, my experience with Coco Rocha was definitely one of those dream photoshoots, as well as working with Lindsay in New York but I would love to shoot for a bigger fashion brand. I would like to work with a big company like Chanel or Dior. It would be a big, grand - on location, glamourous shoot somewhere in the world, like Paris. A shoot like that would be an absolute dream. I don’t have a specific ‘dream’ location because those changes depending on what is inspiring me at the moment For awhile, it was someplace warm and tropical, but I actually got to shoot something in Barbados in February of this year, so I have satisfied that location dream. Right now, I would have to say its more European, maybe a place like a historical villa or castle with the models in contrasting modern fashion or something similar.
GM – What photo are you most proud of? What’s your favouritebut maybe no one really pays attention to?
This is a such a hard question because I feel like I'm lucky to be proud of a lot of the work that I've done, which is a really nice feeling. I don't know if I would have always said that, but it's cool to feel like that now. But it's funny, the one photo that always comes to mind to me is a shot that I did in school. It is a hand with pink nail polish splashing into a tray of paint, but it was it was actually milk with food coloring, that looks like paint. I met the hand model on a practicum shoot that I was doing in Vancouver. She was the fashion stylist on the shoot, and I noticed that she had really nice hands and fingernails, and I asked her if she would be the hand model, and she was super into the idea. The whole shoot was just a lot of fun It was one of those awesome shoots that just come together - the vision, the people, everything – it all just came together to create the image It was also one of my first big composites too I think it's about 25 images put together.I always love that one.
GM – What was your first camera? Do you still use that brand? What’s your favourite lens and why?
I am a Canon shooter, but I am also ambidextrous when it comes to cameras because I’ve shot with Nikon in the studio, and I’ve also shot with Hasselblad as well I think overall, its a lot about how the camera feels in your hands. However, Canon is my system of choice. My first DSLR was a Canon T3i which I actually bought at a conference that I went to with my mom in Richmond, BC I currently shoot with a Canon 5D Mark IV I really like this camera I like the colour of the images from the camera, its low light capabilities and it works really well for the range of my subject matter My most used lens is my 24-105mm because it is super versatile, and it works for me and allows me to do a lot of different things. My favourite lens is probably the 100mm macro f2.8 and I use it for tons of stuff I do a lot of beauty photography, and I usually use it just to shoot beauty It's great because you can pull back to shoot head and shoulders and then you can also get into details of the makeup like the lipstick or the eyeshadow I don't have to bother with switching lenses when I'm going close up or shooting farther away It is especially beneficial if I'm shooting on a condensed timeline. If you have to take the time to switch the lens, it breaks up the flow or connection you and the model have at that time, and this lens allows me to stay engaged with them and keep creating images, and all I have to do is move around a little bit.
GM – What do you do to stimulate your creativity?
I love going for walks, like I said earlier but traveling is one of the main ways I recharge If I'm taking a break, and honestly when I travel, sometimes I don't even take a camera or maybe just a small camera. I can't not take photos, but my phone just doesn't quite cut it Recently, on a trip to Chile, I only took a little Fuji X100 with a little fixed lens and it was great. It takes nice images and fits in my purse I think that's it's funny for photographers on vacation. Some photographers would be like ‘No, I'm bringing the whole kit’ and then some other photographers are like, ‘No, I need a break’.
But when I travel, I am looking at the art, the architecture and other stuff like that from wherever I am exploring I have a big list for travel destinations. Mexico is coming up in the fall and I know that will be beautiful, but I also want to go back to Europe, and I have never been anywhere in Asia so that would be a great area to explore
If I am home, I am hanging out with friends, both photography friends and non-photography friends I'm an extrovert, so I really get energy from other people It is always a good time to, unwind, turn your brain off and just have fun.
GM – Who from the PPOC should we interview next? Why?
Oh, there are so many talented people to choose from, but I think I would choose two other members from PPOC-BC I am sure she is on your radar, but one of my choices would be Diane Hanna, specifically because of her creative composite images. I think some questions about her creative process regarding developing her images as well as the mind-bending amount of time it must take to create her images would be a fantastic for other members to know about For my second choice, I would suggest Paul Wright because he does the most beautiful landscapes –these fantastic black and white from the mountains I have talked to him at some PPOC-BC events, and he has photos from heli-skiing and Snocat tours from these untouched landscapes in the mountains And he is a really interesting guy that has tons and tons of stories
You can find Jayme at: https://jaymedunnphoto com/
Why Are Digital Files So Expensive? This is a common question that many professional photographers are asked In a digital world, digital images are plentiful and likely take up the bulk of the memory on your smartphone. But if you're considering hiring a professional photographer, you're looking for more than adding pictures to your camera roll or sharing them on social media.
It's a milestone moment, like adding a new pet to the family, celebrating your senior dog or finally getting some print-worthy photographs of you and your furry friend that weren't taken using a selfie stick. Whatever the reason, you've decided to hire a professional photographer You envision some beautiful wall art, a gorgeous keepsake album or a folio box to commemorate your experience and preserve your memories The uniquely personal touches that make your house a home
So, you spend more time than you care to admit googling photographers in your area and narrowing your list down to a few. You love their work; they seem the perfect fit to work with you and your pet But the photographer charges a lot for their products, so you ask about digital files to save a few bucks. They're how much?? Say what now? But I don't need to get prints or an album I just want some digitals.
Let me shed some light on this
The image above represents a digital file It's a versatile thing. You can make prints from it, albums, books, cards, pillows, and mugs - endless options You can also use it online, share it on social media, email it to friends and family and show it off on your smartphone's camera roll.
That's a lot of VALUE Digital files are a luxury item
And once a photographer sells the digital file to a client, they won't make one more cent on that image Therefore, digital files are luxury items priced based on VALUE, not cost
Next, consider that the image above didn't come from the camera looking that way. When your photographer shows you the images from your session, each image has been backed up, colourcorrected, and hand-retouched. The photographer has already invested in creating the photographs, usually with minimal upfront investment from you. After all, you don't want to pay for something before you know if you'll even like it.
Geekspeak: RAW files contain more data than JPGs and give the photographer much leeway in creativity. Like film must be developed, the RAW digital file needs to be processed by the photographer during the editing process to create the final image you see.
This is the straight-out-of-the-camera RAW file. It's just ok Am I right? It appears lower in contrast and not quite as sharp So Why Shoot RAW Files?
So why do most professional photographers shoot in RAW? Because we're creatives. Not only do we want to create a one-of-a-kind image, but we also want to express our artistic style through the editing process as well.
You likely base your decision to hire a specific photographer based on their portfolio You like their work style, and you can envision that photographer creating meaningful images like that for you
So I know what you're thinking. "But I can get all the digital files from photographer A cheaper."
Awesome! If you love their work, you should hire them ASAP!
Look a Little Closer - Professional vs. The Hobbyist
But ask yourself this Is this their livelihood, or is it just a hobby to help cover the cost of some nice camera gear?
I can't speak to what other photographers charge. I am still waiting to learn of their business cost, client experience, processes, or whether they'll be in business next year. A good camera and a few lenses are only a tiny fraction of the expenses of operating a photography business
LAs a solopreneur and small business owner, I contribute to my local community and support other small businesses I put my heart and soul into creating the perfect pictures of your pet for you, examining every whisker and detail before showing you the images from our session. I've invested time, money, and effort in education and learning to be a good photographer and to produce high-quality images. I'm grateful every day that it's my passion AND it's my livelihood
As consumers, we always have choices. We can buy the white t-shirt that will look like a shapeless, grey rag after a few washes or invest more in something that will last. Each serves a purpose; only you can decide what is worth the investment.
So, to answer the question, "Why are digital files so expensive?" it comes down to what you value. I offer a custom photography experience where you can purchase beautiful finished products or a la carte digital files to preserve your most precious memories. Regardless of the medium, a photograph is presented in, the price reflects the creation of the image, not the cost of the file that is sent to you or the canvas it's printed on.
As outdoor enthusiasts, we can immerse ourselves in some spectacular landscapes. With this opportunity comes a responsibility to ensure that our goal of capturing the 'moment’ doesn’t impact the environment we are working to celebrate Our local and global ecosystems experience a great deal of stress, and our profession or hobby should not be an additional stressor.
Photography is an amazing tool to help you slow down, take a step back, and really experience the natural world. The intricate patterns of a spider’s web or the colourful beauty of sunset or eerie call of the loon through the low fog at sunrise. In our desire to tell the story of our environment, we need to interact responsibly with the landscape in a way that supports and conserves the environment, as opposed to ways that degrade the system
If you have heard the phrase or seen the t-shirt, “Take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints,” you are aware of the guiding intent behind ‘Leave No Trace’ So, whether you are a landscape photographer or an engagement photographer, the principles of Leave No Trace can help guide your interactions with the natural world to minimize the impact on the environment we love
Leave No Trace (LNT) is an organization that began in the US in the 1990’s and formed a presence in Canada in the early 2000s The organization provides research, training, education, and inspiration for people to minimize their ecological and social impacts on the outdoors during all seasons through a set of seven principles or best practices
People who enjoy the outdoors, whether that is a national or provincial park, a regional conservation area, the park at the end of your street, or your backyard, are asked to follow these ideas as they enjoy the natural space, all in an effort to reduce our impact
There are seven essential guidelines to ‘Leave No Trace’ that are intended to help everyone—hikers, campers, and photographers use their best judgment and adjust their behaviour while enjoying natural spaces to minimize harm to the environment. By understanding the principles of LNT, we can design best practices for our photography and make responsible decisions that will contribute to keeping all our natural spaces beautiful
Plan and Prepare – Photographers do a LOT of planning, so incorporating LNT is a natural extension.
Whether you are going solo or with clients, once you select a location, make sure everyone understand the situation.
Proper planning and preparation will help everyone accomplish their goals safely and enjoyably, while ensuring minimal disruption to the environment
Stay on the trail – Regulated trails are designed to move people with the lowest possible impact on the ecosystem t can be tempting to move off the trail to get a photo, but it is rarely just a single person leaving the trail Don’t ignore, climb over or go around signs or fences, they are there for visitor safety and environmental protection
Pack it in / Pack it out. Make sure whatever you carry into a location, you take it out again so that it can be disposed of or recycled properly including packaging or wrapping, apple cores or orange peels, flowers from bouquets, tissues or toilet paper, cigarette or cigar butts. Even organics need to be removed to limit the impact to wildlife or other people’s experiences Don’t forget our four-legged companions, make sure to bring waste bags to put up after your pet
Leave what You Find – While it can be tempting to take something away from a particular location – a rock or a flower – as a memento, it is important to leave the location as you found it so you are allowing everyone to share in the same sense of discovery and awe.
What would happen if everyone took a ‘souvenir’ of their visit, scratched a name into a rock or tree, deface or left a stack of rocks?
Respect Wildlife – Avoid doing anything to disrupt the natural behaviours or cause wildlife undo stress, including not feeding them (on purpose or accidentally), observing from a respectful distance, not approaching, following or chasing an animal to get a photo.
This is a critical component of species conservation because human activity impacts their overall health, feeding habits and reproduction.
If you or a client truly must have something to remember the day, support the park gift shop, a friend’s group or a local artisan
Be Considerate – Natural spaces have to potential to bring diverse groups of people together and improve our understanding and appreciation natural spaces. They are places to be shared and enjoyed by everyone Be considerate and mindful of others so everyone can have the opportunity to enjoy the space ·It is important for clients to understand that just because its their special moment, does not mean they can disturb the special moments of others To avoid the crowds shoot away from peak season or at a different location
– The use of ‘fire’ by should be carefully considered (e g weather, fire bans, etc.) and fire can include a campfire, candles, sparklers, smoke bombs, cigars, etc
·If a fire is used, never leave them unattended and extinguish them completely using the ‘soak, stir and soak method’ until the coals are cool to the touch.
atter? – Our passion for taking exist with the landscapes if we ge of the space, are considerate pe, and are committed to doing s The application and sharing of ples with people who may be d about how to minimize their nefit wild spaces around the world. Trace principles work best if we to follow them and to help others They also work because they are aightforward, and there are only . mation, please see the following: ce Canadaotrace.ca/
ce - https://lnt org/
While going through some old family papers in a box, I found a little piece of photographic history - the 'Wellcome Photographic Yearbook 1947'.
The earliest publication of these little photography field books was in 1900 and they continued to be published under a similar name until about 1955 The foreword indicates that 'the purpose of the publication to provide a comprehensive and practical reference manual of fomulae and methods, readable and informative to the beginner and the advanced photographer' A bit of research shows that there were a few different styles published in the early 20th Century including a bound wallet style (with fold over snap) with a red leather or fabric covering, a bound wallet style with green fabric and one like the volume I found, a bound book with green fabric covering. In the 1947 edition, the publication assumed a new name - the 'Wellcome Photographic Yearbook' as it had previously been called –‘Wellcome Photographic Exposure Record and Diary’ – and/or – ‘Wellcome's Photographic Exposure Calculator Handbook and Diary’.
The bound small, green phonesized handbook includes a treasure trove of information for photographers within its one hundred pages The book is divided into several sections and is well referenced with a detailed index. The first is a section includes information on the photographic process including negative exposure & processing, after treatment, printing papers, printing methods, toning and exposure calculation.
There are three pages with twelve black and white photos illustrating the 'Typical Subjects - A guide to classification' including an 'Open snow scene with light foreground', 'a distant landscape', 'close animal study' and 'Medium artificial light subject'. The second section is where the photographer could record 'Exposure records or memoranda' including the 'No. of slide or film', the 'light', the 'stop' and 'subject notes' At the beginning of this section, the guide states that "The recording of data relating to exposure and lighting conditions is very strongly advised. It will enable photographers to profit from their accumulated experience and thus improve their technique It will also enable them to repeat successful effects and avoid faults which may have detracted from the success of earlier attempts'
This is followed by a section of blank pages for general 'memoranda' which is followed by a daily calendar with a week to page for the year 1947. A price list for 'Tabloid' (brand) and 'Wellcome' (brand) Photographic Products' is included as well as filter information, exposure factors and monthly light tables for the Northern Hemisphere at a latitude of 52o north, as well as a light table suitable for use in the Tropics (ie between about 20oN and 20oS latitude).
The tables for the Northern Hemisphere are indicated to be appropriate for several countries including England, Belgium, France, Southern Canada and Newfoundland. A quick search indicated that similar books were also published for the Southern Hemisphere with light tables for countries including Australia, South Africa and the Argentine Republic Included within the light tables section are several advertisements for 'Tabloid' brand products including wetting solution, reducers, developers as well as toners and tints The last page of the little book features an exposure calculator for 'daylight and artificial light' on one side and a 'Wellcome Depth of Field calculator' on the opposite side For both calculators, the user simply turns the disc to align to their current conditions.
Do you have a favourite photography book about a certain photographer or type of photography that you refer back to for inspiration? I do, and for me, one of those books is the “Hotshoe Diaries: Big Light from Small flashes” (2009) by Joe McNally. I have to thank my brother because he recommended the book to me some time ago He lent me his copy because he said it was a fun read and would really help me to get around my hesitancy to utilize off camera flash I read the book cover to cover, and it was very cool to see photos that were created with the same little speedlights I had at the time
Joe McNally is an internationally renowned, award-winning photographer who has worked in over 70 countries for clients such as National Geographic, Time Magazine, Sport Illustrated and Life Magazine His over 40 years of experience and expertise come together to create a very readable and insightful book in the world of photographic education Joe has also written other books including, ‘The moment it clicks’ (2008), ‘Sketching Light’ (2012), and most recently “The Real Deal: Field Notes from the Life of a Working Photographer” (2022)
“Hot Shoe Diaries” is not simply another cookie-cutter type, instructional photographic manual but rather a fun, practical and entertaining ‘dialogue’ that is truly informative and meets it objective to demystify the use of off-camera flash Joe’s writing style mean’s that the book literally reads like a ‘diary’ and the text is an account of his thoughts and thought process regarding the different photographic situations he relates to the reader. Through the text, the reader may actually feel like they are at the shoot as they are provided with insight into how ‘Joe’ is working, thinking, adapting and improvising, but he also answers the question of ‘why?’, why he has chosen to work like that or do what he did to solve the problem.
The book is divided into four parts with the first discussing the ‘Nuts and Bolts’ of photography including flash concepts, terminology, equipment and gear. The remaining parts of the book focus on Joe’s use of ‘One light’ (Part 1), then ‘Two or more’ lights (Part 3) and finally ‘Lotsa Lights’ (Part 4). The ‘instructional’ part of the book occurs as short (1-3 page) scenarios or stories of shoots, where Joe describes the situation, the problem and his lighting solution The examples have been chosen to illustrate the potential, often more than most people would expect, of the little speedlights in creating a beautiful environmental portrait. Joe demonstrates how effective speedlights can be in a range of situations and how with some modification, the light can be shaped to create beautiful and wonderous effects.
Some of the scenarios described in the book include a hand drawn picture outlining the ‘behind the scenes’ set up for the photo – another insight into Joe’s working process The length of each photographic story means that you can read one or two, put the book down and then come back later to continue with the stories but because they are short, interesting and very entertaining, you may find yourself saying ‘Just one more’ because you want to keep reading Scattered throughout the stories are photographic tips and tricks, guidelines for shaping light, insights into the wider photographic industry as well as how to work with your clients
So, although the book was published about 15 years ago (2009), and you might think it would be dated, the principles, lessons and concepts are still very relevant and stand the test of time, even though the technology has changed From my perspective, the book is still very much worth the read or a re-read, as the case may be.
If you would like to read Joe’s description of the “The Hot Shoe Diaries”, you can find it on his website: Joe McNally
Do you have a favourite photography book? Do you want to write a review to share with the PPOC community? Considering writing a brief review of why you like the book and what it has meant to you and your artform
We asked a PPOC member to tell us about a favourite print that hangs on their wall How did they create it? What’s the story or special meaning it holds for them.
In this article, Jenn Grachow of Jenn Grachow Photography in Burlington, ON tells the story of one of her prints
“This was honestly such a hard question because I have so many wonderful images and pieces of art on my walls that have come from the places I’ve been and so many more that I want to put up but just don’t have the wall space!
This image from Machu Picchu hangs on my wall as a 16”x22” canvas wrap and is probably my favourite It hangs in a spot that I see every day, and it transports me back to the mystique of that place and the adventures we had getting there. It also serves as a reminder of the magic and wonder that the world holds To capture this angle, I had to climb to one of the higher terraces When photographing such iconic places I’m always looking for a different angle or take on it I love how the fog hovered over the cliffside, yet you could see the ingenuity of the architecture so clearly This was truly a place that made you wonder how they did that and the fact that we’re really small in that place is one of those things that I’ll always remember.”
“partake in an enriching experience”
Get Off Your Ass Photography Session
Join us for a unique experience at our monthly Get Off Your Ass (GOYA) photography session. This exclusive gathering goes beyond just capturing images in our studio; it's a chance to engage with fellow PPOC Alberta members in a welcoming environment centred around photography. Each session features a carefully curated theme along with a model adorned in various studio wardrobe selections and props. With guidance available if needed, you have the freedom to unleash your creativity and direct the shoot to your preferred style while utilizing the provided lighting equipment and triggers. In addition to a wide range of light modifiers, we occasionally use coloured gels and our optical snoot. We are open to your creative suggestions. Moreover, there may be special challenges set forth, such as recreating images focusing on specific
lighting techniques or themed backdrops like our memorable Peaky Blinders shoot. These activities offer a platform for skill enhancement and artistic exploration. In between capturing captivating shots, you can unwind in our comfortable seating area, savouring coffee, tea, and snacks while engaging in conversations with peers who share your passion for photography. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life and professional commitments, it's essential to nurture connections and socialize with fellow photographers. We cordially invite you to seize the opportunity to Get Off Your Ass and partake in an enriching experience filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the possibility of gaining new insights and skills. Embark on this journey with us and discover the joy of creating art in good company.
Heather Fryer VOH Photography
VOHPhotography.ca
Alberta Members Event
Do you follow someone on social media that you think that our community should know about? Do you have a webpage or social media account you follow that helps your art or your business? If so, let us know by sending us the name, the link to the page and a short write up as to why you find that person helpful. Why do you follow them? How does their artistic vision, post processing techniques, philosophy, humour, creativity, business sense, etc help you?
Here are three recommendations for you to check out
Our first recommendation is that you check out the YouTube channel of Thomas Hopkins of Thomas Hopkins Photography (https://www.thomashopkinsphoto.com/). He is a PPOC accredited portrait photographer based in Fort McMurray Alberta and his YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@thomashopkinsphotography ) has over thirty videos with over 24000 views that highlight his studios work with his clients in the region as well as several videos where he hosts a “PPOC YYM Photo Battle”. During “PPOC YYM Photo Battle” videos, several photographers ‘compete’ against each other using at a particular location and with a five-minute time frame to create a series of images The videos’ show the workflow or ‘BTS’ of the photographer with the model as they create a series of images from which each photographer selects their favourite image from their shoot to show the viewer. The “PPOC YYM Photo Battle” videos offer a fun view into the camaraderie and friendships that can develop between the members of the Professional Photographers of Canada
Our second recommendation is Matt Shannon of Matt Shannon Photography (https://www mattshannon ca/), a PPOC accredited photographer, originally from Atlantic Canada but who now makes his home in British Columbia. Matt is a photographer and educator who regular leads nature and landscape photography workshops throughout the year He also hosts a YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@MattShannonPhoto/videos) with over one hundred videos that have more than one million views The topics of his videos range from advice and tips for photographing different types of wildlife from birds to bears, editing your images in lightroom or photoshop as well as the topics
The final recommendation for someone to check out online is Kevin Patrick Robbins, an advertising, editorial and commercial photographer (https://kevinpatrickrobbins com/ or https://iamkpr.com/), as well as an educator and past chair of the Hamilton-Niagara Branch of the PPOC, who has his studio in Hamilton, Ontario Kevin or KPR’s website - Studio Builder (https://studiobuilder co/) offers a host of resources to help you grow your photography business The Studio Builder page is linked to his YouTube channel by the same name - Studio Builder(https://www.youtube.com/@StudioBuilder/vide os) where he offers a range of videos designed to help you develop all aspects of your professional photography business including social media, editing techniques, educational resources, website information, photography equipment and artificial intelligence He has posted over 100 videos that have garnered over two hundred and thirty thousand views and almost 5500 subscribers
Laurie Brown, an acclaimed photographer known for her emotive and evocative portraiture, graces our cover with a stunning image that captures the essence of raw, unfiltered beauty
Specializing in intimate, expressive photography, Laurie's work transcends the ordinary, inviting viewers into a world where every detail tells a story. This cover photo, titled "Windswept," showcases her mastery of light and shadow, creating a powerful visual narrative that draws you in
Laurie's unique approach is not just about capturing a moment but about revealing the soul behind the subject. An accredited Professional Photographer (CPA) distinction, she blends technical precision with a deeply artistic vision Her website, lauriemacbrownphotography.com offers a closer look at her portfolio, featuring a diverse range of work that highlights her talent for connecting with her subjects in a way that feels both personal and profound. Laurie's photography is not just seen—it's felt, leaving a lasting impression that lingers long after the image fades from view
Experience the artistry of Laurie Brown on our cover, where every image is a testament to her passion for capturing the intricacies of human emotion and the beauty of the world around us
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS OF CANADA
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 on either an annual or monthly payment plan?
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 and help you work towards your first Accreditation as well as your professional designation!
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!
Join today at https://www ppoc ca/membership/join php
