Photographers Who Capture Vancouver Island’s Wonders

Imagine standing on a windswept beach, the salty air filled with the scent of evergreens, or trekking through ancient forests where sunlight dances through towering cedars. Vancouver Island offers endless inspiration—and its best moments are captured through the lenses of local photographers. Here, we’ve curated a list of the top photographers whose work reveals the island’s dramatic coastlines, hidden waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife. Get ready to explore the creative side of Vancouver Island!

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Why Vancouver Island is a Photographer’s Paradise

Vancouver Island is a visual feast that draws photographers from around the world. Its diverse landscapes—from rugged coastlines and pristine beaches to misty forests and dramatic mountain vistas—offer a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. The interplay of natural light during sunrise and sunset, the constant presence of wildlife, and the ever-changing weather patterns create perfect conditions for capturing awe-inspiring images.

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Exploring Vancouver Island Through a Photographer’s Lens

Beyond the galleries and websites, exploring Vancouver Island means experiencing the very locations that inspire these artists. Whether you’re wandering through ancient rainforests, exploring hidden coves, or watching orcas breach against a dramatic sunset, the island’s landscape is a living canvas. Guided photography tours and workshops led by local experts offer travellers the chance to see these secret spots firsthand, turning every journey into an immersive adventure. For more inspiration and practical tips, guides like the Wildlife Photographers Guide to Vancouver Island provide invaluable insights into where to go and what to capture .

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Featured Photographers and Their Works

1. Catherine Babault – A Wildlife Storyteller

• Specialties: Wildlife & Landscape Photography
• Highlight: Award-winning images and inspiring workshops, with celebrated works like Wild Vancouver Island.
• Discover More: www.catherinebabault.com

Red-winged Blackbird

2. Karen Cooper – Master of Dramatic Landscapes

• Specialties: Fine Art & Nature Photography
• Highlight: Capturing the raw intensity of Vancouver Island’s West Coast, her gallery brings dramatic storms and serene scenes to life.
• Discover More: www.karencoopergallery.com

Strait of Juan de Fuca

3. TJ Watt – Champion of Conservation

• Specialties: Conservation & Old-Growth Forest Photography
• Highlight: As co-founder of the Ancient Forest Alliance, his striking images of ancient forests have graced pages like National Geographic.
• Discover More: www.tjwatt.com

Hiking the Nootka Trail

4. Glenn Bartley – The Avian Eye

• Specialties: Bird Photography
• Highlight: With a focus on Vancouver Island’s birdlife, his book Birds of Vancouver Island offers intimate portraits of the island’s feathered residents.
• Discover More: www.glennbartley.com

5. Sara Kempner – Where Adventure Meets Art

• Specialties: Outdoor Sports & Landscape Photography
• Highlight: Fusing action with nature, her award-winning images capture everything from mountain biking adventures to serene coastal moments. She is the winners of the 2024 Canadian Photos of the Year competition.
• Discover More: www.sarakempnerphotography.ca

6. Todd Ross – Fine Art Through the Lens

• Specialties: Seascapes, Landscapes & Wildlife Photography
• Highlight: Known for his large-format prints that bring the island’s essence to life, Todd’s work transforms everyday scenes into fine art.
• Discover More: www.imagesbytoddross.com

Fall in Colliery Dam Park

7. Dave Ingram – Capturing Nature’s Details

• Specialties: Nature & Landscape Photography
• Highlight: His keen eye reveals Vancouver Island’s hidden natural treasures—from secluded waterfalls to intimate regional parks.
• Discover More: www.islandnature.ca

Niagara Falls

8. Shane Gross – Emerging Wildlife Visionary

• Specialties: Wildlife & Landscape Photography
• Highlight: Recognised by competitions like Wildlife Photographer of the Year, Shane’s images capture the untamed spirit of Vancouver Island.
• Discover More: www.shanegross.com

Browning Pass

9. Dave Hutchison – Master of West Coast Light

• Specialties: Landscape & Seascape Photography
• Highlight: Known for breathtaking fine art prints that capture the dramatic light and textures of Vancouver Island’s coastline.
• Discover More: www.davehutchisonphotography.com

10. Rolf Hicker – Veteran Wildlife and Nature Photographer

• Specialties: Travel, Nature & Wildlife Photography
• Highlight: With over 40 years of experience, Rolf offers intimate wildlife photo tours in Northern Vancouver Island, capturing the region's diverse landscapes and wildlife.
• Discover More: www.hickerphoto.com

Cape Scott

Every photographer on this list offers a unique window into the soul of Vancouver Island. Their work not only captures the island’s breathtaking vistas but also inspires travellers to seek out these moments for themselves. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply an admirer of nature’s beauty, let this list be your starting point for exploring the island through a creative lens.

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