P
hotographing nature and
wildlife is an extension
of my lifelong passion for
spending time outside in the
natural world; it inspired me to
pursue a career photographing
the beauty I encounter during
my hikes.
I began taking photographs
professionally around two and a
half years ago, and when I held
my camera for the first time, I
knew there was nothing else I’d
rather do—I had found my true
calling in life.
My primary focus as a photog-
rapher is the wildlife I find duringmy exploration of trails and con-
servation areas, mostly in south-
western Ontario. I often go out in
search of a particular animal, but
end up encountering something I
have never seen before. I love this
element of surprise. The photo-
graph shown above was taken
this past fall in a local cemetery,
which a healthy population of
white-tail deer frequently visits.
I was able to capture this unique
moment when a mature buck was
approached by a juvenile male
whose antlers had barely begun
to break through.
It is observing interactionslike this one that brings me so
much joy as a photographer. I am
truly grateful for each and every
moment I spend out in nature.
When you are in the presence of
wildlife, and get the opportunity
to glimpse animals’ daily lives up
close, it truly is a privilege.
My work allows me to share
these experiences with my
followers on social media and on
my website. Many people may
never have the chance to view
these animals in person and it is
nice to know that I can connect
with them by sharing a piece of
the natural world. ■CRITTERSA Quiet Place
Discovering the perfect spot to snap pics of these
gentle creatures by Cheryl Dumoulin, London, Ont.
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