Photographers in Residence

"A photo is worth a thousand words" which rings true in the images captured by our own local photographers. We have been conducting our Photographer in Residence program since April 2021 and have had no shortage of talent. Monthly, different photographers showcase their talent, keeping you in awe of the diversity across the Nelson and Kootenay Lake region: Kaslo, Balfour, East Shore, Nelson, North Kootenay Lake and Ainsworth Hot Springs.

Enjoy the kaleidoscope of colours and characteristics that make Our Place a magical destination.

Find Inspiration for your text trip

Click on the season below to find images that fit your travel plans or choose who's next? to see our upcoming photographers. Navigate through the list of photographers to view their incredible images by name. Use the ^ to go back to the top of the page.

SPRING SUMMER FALL WINTER WHO'S NEXT?

SPRING

Dylan Robinson - March 2024

For over a decade, Dylan was an Australia photojournalist working in mainstream media. Whilst storytelling and filmmaking are still a large part of his life, the pull of the mountains brings Dylan to the Kootenay’s, where his passion for skiing and climbing through white giants can thrive. Drawn to the endless shapes, textures and colours of mountain environments, there is always opportunity to create from magical moments.

Courtney Craig - March 2023

There is something to be said about pressing the button and freezing time. I am drawn to sport photography because I love capturing action that can be missed in a blink of an eye. The mountains are where I feel most at home, as skiing is how I have made a living for many years. So naturally I focus on sports that get me outside. Thankfully here in the Kootenays I am surrounded by the most outstanding mountain-scapes so going out to shoot is an endless joy.

Nadine Premont - March 2022

Expressing my love for the outdoors through photography is incredibly fulfilling and adds a creative element to the adventures I have here in the West Kootenays. Though I also specialize in wedding photography, capturing mountainscapes fuels my endless need to challenge and express myself.

Rosa Elvir - April 2023

I'm all about capturing the magic of the West Kootenays with my camera. I've been soaking up the beauty of Nelson for just a year now, but I've already fallen head over heels for this place. There's something special about life here, whether it's the stunning scenery or the friendly vibes. Through my photos, I want to share that special feeling with everyone, inviting them to see the world through my lens and maybe even fall in love with the Kootenays, just like I did.

Greg Rogers & Jesse Schpakowski - April 2023

Jackie Zelt - April 2022

Capturing photos in the Kootenays definitely fills my heart to the brim. The good vibes and beautiful dance between nature and humans in their element makes me lose track of time and I absolutely love it. There’s something magical about this place that always keeps me coming back for more.

Madeleine Guenette - April 2021

I have a keen interest in the nature surrounding me. Water has a special attraction in its calmness and its power. The beauty in the Kootenays is ever-changing. It is a delight to be able to be a photographer in West Kootenays.

Tom Wilson - May 2024

After spending over five years dividing his time between the French and Southern Alps, it’s not hard to figure out where his love for mountain towns and photography first developed. He moved to Nelson in 2020 with a vision to move into the film and photography industry and now works for Tamarack - a Nelson based creative agency - as a photographer and content creator. Tom loves sandwiches, the smell of a candle being blown out and riding his Kawasaki Super Sherpa. As for his photo and video work - he is just making it up as he goes along.

Thomas Nowaczynski - May 2023

Living in this area is an incredible gift: the everyday scenes and backcountry hideaways are akin in their breathtaking beauty. Photography is how I collect memories to form an integrated sense of the past, both for myself and my wedding & family clients. However, the true power of photography may lie in how photos can inspire one's future. I'm comforted by the thought that the well of inspiring experiences that the Kootenays offer runs profoundly deep.

Tammy White - May 2022

I am always mindful that photography is literally the art of painting with light. The beauty here is disarming at any time of day but I prefer to capture scenes in the quiet light of dawn and dusk. I am increasingly grateful to live in one of the most spectacular regions in this country.

Jesse Schpakowski - May 2021

There’s always been a camera in my hand and photography is my life. I live for the days when I’m out there to unearth and create another beautiful image or visual story. These are the moments when I feel truly alive.

SUMMER

Carlos Rubio - June 2024

Carlos Rubio, a photographer based in the scenic West Kootenays of British Columbia, Canada. With over 8 years of experience, Carlos specializes in landscape, cultural, social, and lifestyle photography. Recognized as one of Honduras' emerging photographers, Carlos has developed his unique style in night landscape photography. His work reflects a passion for storytelling through captivating visuals.

Adrienna Elcome - June 2023

Mountains and vast landscapes have always been backdrops that call to me. The Kootenay region is a special place that offers so many amazing experiences, it’s hard not to be in a constant state of observation. I often find myself looking for the way the light comes through windows, or mountain passes; I see direct comparisons between these big and small observations in every day life, that translate into the way I naturally photograph people. Different lighting can evoke many different emotions, from nostalgia, joy, love, sadness, or hope - whatever it may be, it sparks inspiration and energy to create.

Lucas Jmieff - June 2022

The landscape is a constant subject for me. I am always searching for that elusive moment when nature and intuitive expression unite to form a living picture.

Tom Weager - June 2021

I’m a Nelson based photographer and through my work I strive to communicate my appreciation of the beauty, peace and power of our natural surroundings. The Kootenays are truly special and not a day goes by that I’m not inspired or grateful.

Samantha Alvarado - July 2024

After spending some time away, Sam came back to the Kootenays with a newfound appreciation for this beautiful mountain town. With a fresh perspective, she delights in exploring its hidden treasures and natural wonders. Whether she's meandering along the lakeshores, strolling with her faithful companion, Lucy, on scenic trails, or scaling the breathtaking peaks that surround her, Sam's camera is always at the ready, capturing every enchanting moment.

Joseph Johns - July 2023

Beautiful & peaceful, from lines carved in snow, the music through my speakers, landscapes I'm immersed in to photos I produce. It is this mindset that has sculpted the way I approach an objective or creative endeavour.

Alex Botton - July 2022

The Kootenays has that special, intangible ‘something’ that one can’t put their finger on - much like the qualities of analogue film. After working his day job as a cinematographer, Alex takes out his film cameras as a way to keep his tools sharp and his eye keen. The Kootenays is a place that oozes with texture, and what better way to capture that than on film?

Joy McAdams - July 2021

Truly blessed to be a resident of the Kootenay area for over forty years where I continue to be in awe of the regions incredible beauty, abundant wildlife, and amazing diversity. Through my camera lens I strive to capture images that will transport the viewer to the experience, spirit and magic of the moment.

Cody Scheffelmaier - August 2024

I started my journey into content creation when I picked up a camera from my brother Jesse, just a month or so after I got back to Nelson in June of 2020. I was on the tail end of a 3 year consecutive winter life, between Australia and Japan, and I wanted a sustainable way to stay in that mountain world. It took months and months of learning, taking photos almost every day, but with practice, photography became a way I could express myself, and more importantly, freeze memories for myself to look back on fondly. I've been making videos and taking photos for almost 4 years now: It's become a way of life, and Nelson is the perfect place to draw inspiration.

Carlo Alcos - August 2023

Although I work as a videographer and documentary filmmaker in Nelson, photography was my first love in the visual arts. An argument can be made that looking through a lens robs you of the “real” experience, but I find that it enhances it by forcing me to look at the little details and seeing things from different perspectives than I normally would. You can discover a lot of pleasant surprises that way!

Nelson & Kootenay Lake Team - August 2022

We are a diverse group (Dianna, Janelle and Danica) working at Nelson & Kootenay Lake Tourism, experiencing the region through varying activities and perspectives. We love the region: working, playing and discovering all there is to see and do, and sharing this with you. Here are a few of our personal experiences in August.

Al McLeod - August 2021

I’ve drawn and painted most of my life but just a few years back I bought a camera. I am so grateful and fortunate to live in a place that beams with beauty and sharing it, is a gift.

FALL

Adrian Wagner - September 2024

Adrian Wagner has been capturing moments through photography for over 20 years, starting with a Nikon film camera in 1996. His journey from black and white film to professional digital formats reflects his dedication to evolving his craft. Passionate about working with like-minded individuals, Adrian continuously pushes the boundaries of his art. 

Nicholas Lampard - September 2023

Nicholas Lampard is a Nelson, BC based photojournalist and experimental photographer. He covers stories in the Kootenays as a freelance correspondent for the Nelson Star, and explores the intersection of historical photography processes and modern technology.

Elaine Balestra - September 2022

The Kootenays are a nature lovers dream and a photographers delight. I feel so privileged to live in such an incredible place and have certainly found my happy place.  I enjoy playing with light, colour and patterns to tell my story. Whether I’m in the mountains, on a lake or just hanging out in my garden, a camera is never too far away. Lately I am working on slowing down and looking down.  Through that I have discovered much more patience…  just sitting, watching and waiting for something small and interesting to come my way.

Dustin Lalik - September 2021

After moving to Nelson for "one winter", Dustin has now spent close to 10 years exploring the vast network of backcountry that surrounds Kootenay Lake. The stimulus for his photos are the landscapes and mountains that change daily depending on the season and light, providing unlimited photographic opportunities.

Naasko Wripple - October 2023

I’ve had a camera most of my life but it’s only been in the last few years that I really started learning about photography. It’s been the perfect accompaniment to adventure and always encourages the eye to see things from a new vantage point. Out in the wild is where most inspiration is drawn - from wide open vistas and chanced-upon scenes to wildlife encounters, the abstract and into the up-close world of macro. Nature is nurturing.

Louis Bockner - October 2022

Louis Bockner was born, raised and continues to live in Argenta, BC, a small community at the western edge of the unceded, traditional territory of the Sinixt Peoples. When not working as a journalist and photographer he can be found homesteading with his wife Danielle and their dog Nori. 

Ryan Dury - October 2021

Photography is a chance to capture the magic of our planet, how things like light and landscape combine to create unique, fleeting moments. Through my photos, my hope is to inspire the conservation of our wild places.

Amanda Mary Creative - November 2023

When I was a little girl, I made a game of spinning the globe in my room. I spun it as fast as I could, closed my eyes, and wherever my finger landed was where I would live when I grew up…. it landed smack-dab on Nelson! Since that moment, the West Kootenays have called my name. I am ever in awe of the incredible beauty of this place and its people.

Cierra & Mike Dowie - November 2022

Originally from the east coast, we are so grateful to be able to work, live and play in the Kootenays. We love visiting all the waterfalls, hiking in the alpine, trying all the incredible food in the area and raising our son here. When we are not adventuring, we are creating content for tourism and lifestyle brands.

Greg Rogers - November 2021

The West Kootenays stole my heart 10 years ago in my first weeks in Canada. This place is a playground for the active action-seekers, creative artists of all kinds and inspires healthy conscious living. I moved to Nelson two years ago and never looked back.

WINTER

Justin Randolph Joffe - December 2023

I'm passionate about capturing nature's essence through the lens of my camera. In the dance of light and shadow, I find solace capturing the raw beauty of nature and refining my artistry with every frame. Each photo is a glimpse into the profound connection I feel with the world around us.

Douglas Noblet - December 2022

I have spent many years exploring the remote edges of the Kootenays and beyond, both on the ground and by air. Bringing a camera allows me to capture images and share the views with the world.

Kari Medig - December 2021

There’s no shortage of natural beauty here. But it’s the character, charm and complexities of this place that have kept my camera engaged for almost two decades. I never tire of exploring the edges and in-betweens of the Kootenays.

Lauren Powers - January 2024

Lauren Powers is a freelance photographer from Nelson BC, who’s coming into her 23rd season of snowboarding. She’s established herself as a multi-faceted professional with roles ranging from photographer and tail guide, to published articles. While ever changing, Lauren's current photography aims to showcase our region's unique backcountry terrain, local street features, highlight women(xn) in snowboarding, and to support those who drive positive change in the world.

Wies van Wetten - January 2023

My exploration of the Kootenays has only just begun and I totally love the surroundings and everything there is to do in it. In my photography I like to catch the quirky things around us and the beauty this world has to offer in everyday life.

Alex Balcer - January 2022

Photography is a big part of my life. It empowers me to do better and be better and connect with the people and place. Shooting in Nelson and area is such an honour, which I hope shows in my imagery. 

Steven Thomas - February 2024

Steven Thomas is a transient photographer, filmmaker and writer originally from the UK who now calls the Kootenays' his home. Documenting the outdoors particularly board sports, is a subject he is passionate about. It is through this lens that he has explored wider issues. Having established a career in storytelling, Steven has written for print media, worked for established action sport venues as well as collaborated on a wide range of artistic explorations. 

Sabine Burns - February 2023

I sort of think of myself like the locally found packrat (also known as the woodrat); They are often found searching for small treasures and shiny things, hoarding them in their nests to occasionally make unique sculptures out of them. Moving to Sinixt territory, among Kootenay Lake and its various enchanting valleys and waterways and even more enchanting people, has shifted the way I see and feel things. I seek small moments of magic and the fleeting pieces of light illuminating the small beauty of a big thing that maybe we wouldn't otherwise notice. These moments and the people in them are my shiny pieces of treasure in my pack rat nest of a mind.

Aeden Morrell - February 2022

I've been drawn to the mountains for as long as I can remember.  I landed in the Kootenays by chance and instantly fell in love.  The vibe of the towns and the beauty of the nature surrounding them leaves me speechless everyday.  It's a blessing to be able to capture and share some of that through images.

Coming up next...

Get inspiration for your next Nelson and Kootenay Lake adventure with stories from our region, trip ideas, cultural attractions, shopping and dining, and places to rest your head.