How I got into Landscape Photography
I grew up in a military family in Canada and we relocated a few times when I was younger. Having lived in various parts of the country, I was fortunate to witness the beauty of Canada's landscape. Even though the outdoors played a significant role in my upbringing, photography was not yet part of my interests.
It was during a 4-day high school course in the Canadian Rockies, focused on kayaking and canoeing, where I was first introduced to photography. We had a 1-hour session on photography and composition where I learned about the "rules" of composition. I was fascinated and eager to apply what I had learned. The teacher lent us some point-and-shoot cameras and we took one outdoor image. Afterward, the teacher provided feedback, and I was thrilled with the positive response I received. From then on, I had the idea of photography as a hobby lingering in my head. However, it would take me another seven years to pursue this interest.
During that time, I completed high school, joined the military as a firefighter, moved to Saguenay (where I currently reside), and met my fiancé. We planned a big trip to Africa, and I wanted a quality camera to capture good pictures. The trip was phenomenal, and I took some incredible photos. However, I feared that my camera investment would be wasted now that I was not going on another trip anytime soon.
After the trip, I had an urge to take more photos, but I had no idea where to begin. I discovered that Saguenay was a hidden scenic gem with mountains and fjords, which inspired me to start chasing sunrises and sunsets. I ventured out on a -25C morning to capture a sunrise at the Saguenay Fjord. Despite the freezing temperature, the experience and photography hooked me. Being there before everyone else, watching the first light of day illuminate the darkness, and standing in this magnificent creation was an extraordinary feeling.
That was my first attempt at landscape photography, and it has been a great 5 years since then. I hope to grow as a photographer and as a person. I am grateful for everything I have, and I want to give thanks to God, who is my salvation through faith in Christ, for letting me be a part of His beautiful creation. The heavens indeed declare His glory.
