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Moments-of-Wonder-at-the Water’s-Edge”

Moments-of-Wonder-at-the Water’s-Edge”

A mother and her young son play in the sand at Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park. This authentic motherhood photography session captures their deep connection.”

A Mother’s Love – You Are a Mother 24/7, 365 Days a Year – You Deserve More Than a Mini-Session on a Single Day

 

“A mother’s love isn’t just for one day—it’s a lifetime of moments. Let’s capture the real, raw, and beautiful journey of motherhood beyond a mini-session. #MothersLove” #MothersLove #AuthenticMotherhood #EverydayMoments #MotherhoodPhotography #UnscriptedMotherhood #YearRoundLove #CapturingMotherhood #MoreThanAMiniSession #MomLife365

Introduction

Motherhood is not a role that begins at sunrise and ends at sunset. It’s a lifelong, never-ending commitment—a journey filled with moments of joy, sacrifice, and unconditional love. A mother’s love does not peak only on Mother’s Day, nor should her appreciation be confined to just one annual celebration. The reality is that mothers give their all 24/7, 365 days a year, and they deserve to be cherished, celebrated, and remembered in ways that go beyond a single day or a fleeting mini-session photoshoot.

👉 Don’t settle for a single posed picture—let’s create a collection of moments that truly reflect your motherhood journey. Book your session today!

The Reality of Motherhood

From the moment a woman becomes a mother, she steps into a role that is both beautiful and demanding. She is there for the first cry, the sleepless nights, the scraped knees, and the whispered fears at bedtime. She wears many hats—caregiver, teacher, nurse, cheerleader, problem solver, and guide.

Unlike many other roles in life, motherhood does not come with scheduled breaks or defined working hours. It’s an all-encompassing, around-the-clock commitment, requiring patience, resilience, and deep love. Every day, mothers give their energy to nurturing, protecting, and raising their children, often at the expense of their own rest and personal time.

More Than a Mini-Session – Capturing the Fullness of a Mother’s Love

Photography has long been a way to capture special moments, but the modern trend of mini-sessions—short, condensed photoshoots often scheduled around special occasions—fails to do justice to the depth of motherhood.

A mother’s love is not a single snapshot; it’s a series of moments woven together into a lifetime of memories. While mini-sessions are convenient, they often lack the depth and storytelling needed to truly capture the heart of a mother’s love. Instead, mothers deserve ongoing recognition and intentional documentation of their journey throughout the year, not just in a rushed 15-minute session in May.

👉 Imagine looking back on a series of images that tell the full story of your love and devotion. Let’s start documenting your motherhood journey now—Book Your Session.

A Celebration That Goes Beyond One Day

1. Monthly or Seasonal Motherhood Sessions

Instead of a single mini-session, mothers should have the opportunity to book seasonal or milestone sessions throughout the year. Imagine a year-long photo project documenting motherhood in all its forms—laughing in the summer sun, baking cookies in the fall, reading bedtime stories in the winter.

2. Everyday Moments Are Worth Capturing

Photography should shift its focus from occasional portraits to everyday storytelling. A mother’s love is present in the smallest moments: the way she instinctively reaches for her child’s hand, the tenderness in her embrace, the way she crouches down to play by the river. These moments tell a story that words cannot.

👉 Our half-day sessions allow you to relax and truly enjoy the experience—capturing authentic, heartfelt moments with your child. Ready to create something special? Reserve Your Session.

3. Personalized Photo Experiences

Every mother’s journey is unique, and her photography experience should reflect that. A mother playing with her son at the edge of the river, sharing a moment of laughter and discovery, is far more precious than a forced smile in a studio setting.

Our sessions are a minimum of half a day and can include multiple locations, allowing for a deeper, more meaningful storytelling experience. This ensures that the full depth of a mother’s love and connection with her child is beautifully documented in a way that feels natural and true to her journey.

👉 Motherhood is a lifetime of love—let’s capture it together. Click below to schedule your personalized photography session and preserve these moments forever. Book Now.

Pricing & Products

We believe in capturing the full depth of motherhood, which is why our sessions are designed to provide a relaxed, immersive experience. Our focus is on creating timeless, tangible heirlooms that you and your family can cherish for generations.

  • Half-Day Session (4-5 hours, 1-2 locations) – $800 – $1,500 (includes wall portraits or a custom photo album)
  • Full-Day Session (6-8 hours, multiple locations) – $1,500 – $3,000 (includes a handcrafted custom photo album or a series of wall portraits)
  • Year-Long Package (Multiple Sessions Throughout the Year) – $3,500 – $6,000 (seasonal or milestone-based sessions with a complete storytelling album and a collection of wall portraits)

👉 We do not offer digital files or online galleries—your memories deserve to be displayed and cherished, not lost in a hard drive. Let’s create stunning wall portraits and custom albums that truly honor your motherhood journey. Schedule Your Consultation.

Let’s create something truly meaningful—because your love deserves more than just a moment.

 


 

The Art of Food Photography: A Croissant Milestone

The Art of Food Photography: A Croissant Milestone

This week, I’m thrilled to celebrate another of my images reaching over 1,000 sales. My croissant photo, has joined the ranks of my most successful work. As a Lethbridge food photographer, milestones like these remind me of the power of visual storytelling and the impact great photography can have on businesses.

The Croissant That Stole the Show

This croissant image is particularly special to me because it showcases everything I love about food photography. The buttery layers, the golden-brown crust, the delicate texture—it’s all there, inviting viewers to take a bite with their eyes first. It’s no wonder this photo has become so popular among bakeries and food brands looking for high-quality visuals to represent their products.

Every time one of my images reaches 1,000 sales, it feels like a reminder of why I started this journey in the first place: to capture beauty and share it with the world.

 Reflecting on My Journey

Over the past 40 years as a commercial photographer in Lethbridge, I’ve had the opportunity to work on countless projects—from industrial photography to intricate food compositions. But food photography holds a special place in my heart because it combines artistry with storytelling. Each dish tells its own story, and my job is to bring that story to life through my lens.

Milestones like this one remind me how far I’ve come and how much I’ve grown as an artist. From that first grilled cheese sandwich photo to this croissant image and beyond, every success motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and creating visuals that inspire and connect with people.

 Looking Ahead

While I’m celebrating this milestone, I’m also looking forward to what’s next. Whether it’s capturing another iconic dish or helping more businesses elevate their branding through professional photography, I’m excited for the opportunities ahead.

 To all the restaurants, bakeries, and brands who have trusted me with their vision—thank you for being part of this journey. Your support means everything to me, and I look forward to continuing to create images that help your businesses thrive.

 If you’re looking for high-quality food photography that makes an impact, let’s connect! Whether it’s your signature dish or your entire menu, I’d love to help bring your culinary creations to life. Here’s to more milestones—and maybe even another grilled cheese-level success!

 

grilled cheese sandwich on grill pan

A Legacy of Food Photography Success

While this croissant image has reached an impressive milestone, it’s not my first to do so. My best-selling image—a grilled cheese sandwich—has surpassed 25,000 sales over the last four years.

 

 

Reflecting on my Journey

As of today my images have been used 53,442 times, a number that still amazes me every time I think about it. Each sale represents a connection—whether it’s a bakery using my photos to showcase their pastries or a restaurant elevating their menu with professional imagery. Knowing that my work plays a small part in helping businesses succeed is what makes these milestones so meaningful.

Pump Jack in the middle of a canola field just coming into bloom.

The Art of Food Photography

I’ve always believed that food photography is about more than just taking pictures—it’s about creating an emotional connection. Whether it’s the buttery layers of a croissant or the gooey perfection of a grilled cheese sandwich, every detail matters. As a Lethbridge food photographer, I focus on capturing textures, colors, and lighting that make food irresistible.

These images don’t just look good; they work hard for my clients. High-quality visuals are essential for attracting customers and driving sales in today’s competitive culinary market.

What This Milestone Means to Me

Reaching these milestones isn’t just about numbers—it’s about trust. Clients from Lethbridge and beyond continue to rely on my photography to showcase their products and tell their stories. Knowing that my work helps businesses succeed is incredibly fulfilling.

As I celebrate this achievement, I’m also looking ahead to what’s next. Whether it’s capturing another iconic dish or helping a local business stand out online, I’m excited to keep creating images that make an impact.

If you’re looking for professional food photography in Lethbridge that elevates your brand, let’s connect! Together, we can create visuals that leave a lasting impression—just like my croissant and grilled cheese images have done for so many others.

If you’re looking for professional food photography in Lethbridge that elevates your brand, let’s connect! Together, we can create visuals that leave a lasting impression—just like my croissant and grilled cheese images have done for so many others.

Home for the Holidays Family Photography Special

Home for the Holidays Family Photography Special

Capture the Magic of the Holidays: In-Home Photography Sessions

As the holiday season approaches, families everywhere are preparing to reunite and celebrate together. Whether it’s the laughter of children returning home from school, the warmth of shared meals, or the joy of opening gifts, these moments are precious and fleeting. This December and January, I’m excited to offer exclusive in-home photography sessions designed to capture the essence of your family’s holiday spirit!

Why Choose In-Home Sessions?

Comfort and Familiarity

In-home sessions provide a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can feel at ease. Your home is filled with personal touches, making it the perfect backdrop for authentic family portraits. Whether it’s cozying up by the fireplace or playing games in the living room, these settings create a warm and inviting environment that reflects your family’s unique personality.

Family Photographer
Lethbridge Family Photographer
Raymond Family Photographer

Celebrate Togetherness

The holidays are all about connection. With children returning home for the break, now is the ideal time to capture those fleeting moments of joy and laughter. From candid shots of family activities to posed portraits by the tree, these images will become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

Alternatively

, if you prefer a more traditional setting, studio sessions are also available. Please inquire for details!

What to Expect

Limited Availability

To ensure a personalized experience, I’m offering only a select number of sessions during December and January. Don’t miss your chance to book a spot for your family!

Session Details

  • Duration: Each session lasts approximately 1 hour.
  • Price: Just $250 for a complete experience that includes:
  • Pre-session consultation to discuss your vision
  • Professional photography in the comfort of your home
  • A curated gallery of high-resolution images for you to choose from

How to Prepare

To make the most of your in-home session:

  • Choose Your Space: Think about where in your home you’d like to take photos. Consider areas with good natural light or meaningful spots that represent your family.
  • Dress Comfortably: Outfits that reflect your family’s style are encouraged! Coordinating colors can add a beautiful touch without being overly formal.
  • Plan Activities: Incorporate fun activities that your family enjoys—whether it’s baking cookies, reading stories, or playing games—these will help create genuine moments.

Book Your Session Today!

The holiday season is a time for creating memories that last a lifetime. Don’t wait too long—availability is limited! To secure your in-home photography session this December or January, contact me today. Let’s create stunning images that capture the spirit of your family during this special time of year.

Wishing you all a joyful holiday season filled with love and laughter!


For inquiries and bookings, please reach out via call/text 403-795-8677 or visit www.djtphotoart.ca. I look forward to capturing your family’s holiday magic!

contrary to popular opinion You do not need to learn manual

contrary to popular opinion You do not need to learn manual

Crown Graphic Manual Camera

In 1970 this is the camera that I used to learn photography, and used at my first job as a photojournalist.

You don’t get much more manual than this.
Manual focus – by either using the range finder, or getting out the dark cloth and using a magnifying lass on the ground glass.

Manually using a separte light meter to pick the exposure.

Manually transfering those settings to the lens.

So when I say that you do not need to learn manual to create great photographs, I speak from a point of real experience with manual.

For the first 20 years manual exposure and manual focus is all I used.

But here’s the thing that nobody mentions: Manual cameras were designed to used manually. For example when I switched to my Nikon FTN I could change shutter and aperture without ever taking my eye from the viewfinder and the screens where large and bright.

Today’s digital cameras while they may have a manual mode are not really designed to be used manually. And why should they because

Besides a heavy tripod, you also need to use a separate hand held light meter, and if you followed Ansel Adams, you would meter

Using manual mode in photography can often create more challenges than it resolves, especially for beginners. Here are several reasons why relying solely on manual mode may not be the best approach:

Overwhelming Complexity for Beginners

Manual mode requires a comprehensive understanding of various settings, including ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. For those new to photography, this can be overwhelming and lead to frustration. Beginners might find themselves struggling to make quick adjustments while trying to capture spontaneous moments, resulting in missed opportunities or poorly exposed images[1][2].

Time-Consuming Adjustments

When shooting in manual mode, photographers must adjust settings for every shot, which can slow down the process significantly. This is particularly problematic in dynamic environments where lighting conditions change rapidly, such as outdoor scenes with varying sunlight. In these situations, using automatic or semi-automatic modes (like Aperture Priority) allows for quicker adjustments and more successful captures[2][4].

Risk of Poor Exposure

Without experience, photographers may frequently encounter issues with exposure. Manual mode does not automatically compensate for changing light conditions; thus, users may end up with a series of overexposed or underexposed images. In contrast, other modes can help manage exposure more effectively by allowing the camera to make adjustments based on real-time conditions[3][4].

Lack of Creative Control

While manual mode offers complete control over settings, this doesn’t necessarily translate to better creative outcomes. Many photographers find that using modes like Aperture Priority or Shutter Priority provides sufficient control while allowing them to focus on composition and creativity rather than technical adjustments. For instance, if a photographer is trying to capture fast-moving subjects, using Shutter Priority can ensure sharp images without the hassle of constant adjustments[2][4].

Conclusion

While manual mode has its place—particularly in controlled environments or specific types of photography like long exposures or astrophotography—it is not always the best choice for every situation. For many photographers, especially those still developing their skills, using automatic or semi-automatic modes can provide a more manageable and effective way to capture high-quality images without the stress of constant technical adjustments[1][5].

Citations:
[1] https://www.digitalphotomentor.com/real-photographers-only-shoot-manual-mode/
[2] https://www.mikesmithphotography.com/blogindex/camera-modes-why-manual-mode-isnt-the-best-option-for-you
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZC3NWJGnE9U
[4] https://digital-photography-school.com/myth-reality-shooting-manual-mode/
[5] https://www.lightroompresets.com/blogs/pretty-presets-blog/17796936-7-days-to-mastering-manual-mode-why-shoot-in-manual-mode
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/photography/comments/19c2n5f/i_just_cant_use_manual_mode_am_i_missing/
[7] https://www.athomewithkids.com/common-manual-mode-mistakes-most-photographers-make/
[8] https://www.photo.net/forums/topic/467691-manual-mode-problems/

Why aperture priority is better than manual

Aperture priority mode (often denoted as “A” or “Av” on cameras) offers several advantages over manual mode, making it a preferred choice for many photographers. Here are the key reasons why aperture priority is often considered better:

1. Speed and Efficiency

Aperture priority mode allows photographers to set their desired aperture while the camera automatically adjusts the shutter speed for optimal exposure. This significantly speeds up the shooting process, especially in changing light conditions, as photographers can focus on composition rather than constantly adjusting settings[1][2]. In contrast, manual mode requires adjustments to both aperture and shutter speed, which can slow down shooting.

2. Consistent Exposure

In situations with fluctuating light, aperture priority helps maintain consistent exposure across a series of shots. The camera automatically compensates for changes in light, reducing the risk of over- or under-exposure that can occur when manually adjusting settings[2][3]. This is particularly useful in dynamic environments like weddings or wildlife photography.

3. Creative Control

While providing automatic shutter speed adjustments, aperture priority still grants full control over the aperture setting, which is crucial for achieving desired depth of field effects. Photographers can easily create a blurred background or ensure sharpness throughout the image without worrying about shutter speed adjustments[1][4]. This balance allows for creative experimentation while maintaining technical accuracy.

4. Learning Tool for Beginners

Aperture priority serves as an excellent bridge between automatic and manual modes for beginners. It allows them to learn how different apertures affect exposure and depth of field without the overwhelming complexity of managing all settings manually[4][5]. This hands-on experience can build confidence before transitioning to full manual control.

5. Simplified Adjustments

With aperture priority, exposure compensation can be easily adjusted with a single dial if needed. This flexibility allows photographers to quickly adapt to specific lighting conditions without losing focus on their subject[2][3]. In manual mode, adjusting exposure typically involves more steps and can distract from the creative process.

In summary, aperture priority mode combines speed, consistency, and creative control, making it a versatile option for photographers at all skill levels. It simplifies the shooting process while still allowing for significant artistic expression, which is often why it is favored over manual mode in many scenarios.

Citations:
[1] https://photographylife.com/aperture-priority-mode
[2] https://digital-photography-school.com/aperture-priority-over-manual-mode/
[3] https://www.lightstalking.com/aperture-priority-most-preferred-shooting-mode-by-photographers/
[4] https://expertphotography.com/how-when-to-use-aperture-priority-mode/
[5] https://fstoppers.com/education/benefits-aperture-priority-mode-602663
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLIsDjx553M
[7] https://www.mikesmithphotography.com/blogindex/camera-modes-why-manual-mode-isnt-the-best-option-for-you
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/AskPhotography/comments/pz6e20/help_me_understand_when_to_use_shutter_vs/