we are so honoured and fortunate to have photography as our method of connection with people

We are very aware of our privilege of having the unique learning opportunity through our work. Being in front of the camera, more often than not, is an awkward experience and we very seldom get to photograph people who are naturally enthusiastic and charismatic in front of the camera (ourselves included lol) so our way of easing the tension is usually through talking. Since we’re a team of two and typically rotate between shooting set ups one of us is usually the key photographer while the other is the assistant and/or art director. And in that role we usually will chit chat to loosen people up, get their focus off of the big camera and lens in front of them, and sort of give them a little reprieve.

We photographed Andrew at one of the Na-Me-Res off-site residences where Andrew holds the position as building manager. The building being fairly new, and having recently moved in, there wasn’t really a ‘best room’ to shoot in so in addition to some standard white backdrop photos Andrew brought in some of his own paintings to use! They are so beautiful and really complimented the scene.

While shooting/chatting with Andrew we got to learn about his life story; from residential school to homelessness, overcoming addiction, and the new path he is now on with his roll in the building and his art. We’re always grateful to learn, and even more so to photograph someone at this new chapter in their lives.

Click the photos below to enlarge and browse through