Since my first photography class, taken as a journalism student in 2000, I have enjoyed both the quiet comfort and intense creativity of seeing the world through the lens of a camera. A focus on nature and wildlife photography over the past decade or so has inspired me to reconnect to the child-like joy of observing the miracle of our natural world.
I consider myself very fortunate to live in Lethbridge, Alberta, close to some of the most diversified environments in the world. From the stark, desert-like climate of the east to the lush forests of the west, the landscape of Alberta is as varied and unique as its animal (and human) inhabitants.
I have taught wildlife photography for Mount Royal University’s Continuing Education Program, presented for World Animal Day events and various Camera Clubs and had photo exhibitions at the Human 360 Clinic and Essentia Organic Mattress Store.
A passionate animal-lover, writer and photographer, my goal is to inspire people to connect to our natural world from a place of deep respect and appreciation. I believe grounding ourselves within the intricate yet simplistic beauty of our non-human counterparts allows us to see our true place within the larger structure of biodiversity. I believe connecting to our natural environment encourages more compassionate human behaviour.
I earned a Master’s Degree in Photography – Visual Communications in June 2020.
Presentations, Media Appearances and Photo Exhibitions
NEW! Presented Consciously Exploring your Natural Habitat for The Walrus, Canada’s Conversation on March 5, 2020
- Presented The Magic of Winged Wonders for World Animal Day in Calgary, Oct 2018
- Interviewed on City TV’s Breakfast Television on September 27, 2018.
- Photos featured in Canadian Affair article Wildlife of the Canadian Rockies
- Interviewed on City TV’s Breakfast Television on June 5, 2018.
- Conducted a Webinar entitled Bear Jams and Beyond: An Exploration of Conscious & Respectful Wildlife Viewing for The Fur-Bearers in October 2017
- Presented Celebrating Creatures Great and Small for World Animal Day in Calgary, Oct 2017
- Photography was on display at Human Potential 360 in Calgary from September 2016 to October 2017
- Presented for the Cochrane Camera Club, May 2017
- Presented for the Group of Ten Photography Club in Assiniboia, SK in April, 2017
- Conducted a Webinar entitled Confessions of a Wildlife Photographer for The Fur-Bearers in February 2016
- Celebrating Mother Nature exhibit was on display at Essentia Mattress store in Calgary from May to July 2015
- Won the top award in Mount Royal University’s annual travel photography contest for my image from Peru: Sparkling Violetear in 2014
- Article: Safety in Wildlife Photography, published for the The Fur-Bearers in May 2015
- Article: Creativity and Wildlife Photography, published for Life as a Human in June 2014
- Presented for The Fur-Bearers annual Living with Wildlife conference in April 2014
My Wildlife Photography Ethics
I believe there is a fine balance between appreciation and disturbance when it comes to wildlife. When photographing and observing wildlife, it is always my goal to have as little impact as possible. This means not interfering with an animal’s natural behaviour – I do not practice baiting and try not to scare or stress out the animal by prompting it to look up/run/fly, etc. Keeping a safe distance and being aware of signs of stress is important.
It is easy to slip up, to let the excitement of seeing beautiful creatures over-ride my common sense. I suspect even the most seasoned photographers would admit to making mistakes on occasion. But the key is to be vigilant – to always evaluate my actions in every encounter. If I can leave an animal knowing I had as little impact as possible, I am a one happy camper. If I make a mistake, I need to strive do better next time.
I hope you enjoy my site and feel free to contact me with any comments or questions.
Here’s to loving life and everything wild! 🙂
Kerri Martin