“Even though fixed in time, a photograph evokes as much feeling as that which comes from music or dance. Whatever the mode – from the snapshot to the decisive moment to multi-media montage – the intent and purpose of photography is to render in visual terms feelings and experiences that often elude the ability of words to describe. In any case, the eyes have it, and the imagination will always soar farther than was expected”- unknown author.
Like virtue, photography is its own reward, triggering memories of life’s greatest moments and relationships. In our First Annual Photography Contest, Seaside wishes to further reward some of these amazing artists, with some good old-fashioned ink in our local magazine. With over 350 submissions, this task wasn’t easy. You’ll find our choices in the four categories outlined below, and we couldn’t resist choosing a cover too!
Thank you to all of the winners, and to everyone who submitted such fine work.
Monica Reekie – Your West Coast Culture – “Fog Lifting Patricia Bay”
I have had a love for animals, nature and art since childhood. After many years in the nursing profession, and owning a successful award-winning B&B, I have met a multitude of fascinating people from all walks of life along my path. Some were famous, some wise, some funny, some had endured unspeakable horrors, most were ordinary, but all have inspired me to reawaken my childhood dreams for travel, art and photography. My photographic subjects vary widely from animals to architecture, floral details to expansive vistas, chandeliers to cars; the marvels of the world around me provide constant inspiration. My photography depicts the world and its beauty as I see it through the lens of my camera, often focusing on the details, shapes and colour contrasts that others may overlook. I produce my work without using digital manipulation to portray life as it is.
Erin Bosdet – Island Dish – “Untitled”
Erin Bosdet is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist, a vegan chef and a mom. She is passionate about nutrition, photography and raising her son. This photo was taken to capture the beauty of these tomatoes, grown by her Uncle Stu right here in Sidney, B.C. You can find more of Erin’s photos and recipes on her Simply Dish Facebook page.
Mike Lane – Wonderful Wildlife – “Untitled”
I live in Saanichton and photography is my hobby. I enter photo contests but I’m fairly particular, as I only enter a contest where I might have a winning photo submission. In the past, I’ve won everything from cash to calendars to camping equipment. It’s a fun hobby that is both rewarding and inexpensive. High quality digital photos are much easier to create than even 10 years ago, and as a result I never go anywhere without my camera. The photo of the blue heron was a stroke of luck, as the heron let me get quite close before I could tell that I was intruding and backed away.
Dee Woodhead – Your West Coast Culture – “Sun’s Up!”
Focusing on being more aware of the incredible beauty and magic of this amazing Island we call home keeps me grounded in the moment! My favourite shots are of nature – birds, landscapes and waterscapes. This shot, taken in April around 6 a.m., captures the mist rising off the water and the early morning light on the beautiful old wooden bridge. Can you spot the red-winged blackbird that I was “chasing” with the lens?
Janis Jean – Crazy Kids – “Wild Play”
I recently retired after nearly 25 years in public service. Early retirement has given me the ability to focus on what is most important to me: my family. It has also given me the time to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a professional photographer. Photographing people, especially children and families, is what I enjoy most. In “Wild Play,” I photographed the thrill of a young girl jumping into a swimming hole, capturing the essence of childhood freedoms, too soon forgotten.
