The most important thing any artist can have is the desire and hunger to create. This motivation gets you out the door, challenges you to learn new things, to go outside at ungodly hours of the day (or night) in all sorts of weather, to edit behind a computer for hours, and then to repeat it all over again. This month we travel to the West Coast of Canada through the lens of a person whose desire to create has seen him develop a stable of photography skills, and an impressive portfolio, through a few years of dedicated work. It is our pleasure this month to introduce you to the words and work of Daniel Burdett!

Light on the Lake

Burial of the Ancients

How did you get interested in photography?

I first picked up a camera in 2007 out of curiousity, and subsequently started taking pictures of anything and everything. I ended up having to put the camera down after a serious accident had me bedridden for some time. It wasn't until 2014 that I picked it up again, this time with a renewed desire to create art.

Crescent Beach sunset

A Lion's View of the City

How long have you been a photographer?

While I have a strong understanding of the fundamentals of photography, I still consider myself to be an amateur on many levels. It's only been over the last year that I have started to take this craft seriously.

Beacon of Hope

Ebb and Flow

What is your favorite place to photograph? Or subject?

Living near the Canadian west coast for most of my life, the sea has always drawn me in.  I'm hoping 2015 will be a year filled with more alpine adventures!

Gold Creek

Halo of the Setting Sun

How can photographers help change/impact the world, while they are traveling?

By sharing the beauty that can be found outside any door!

Jewel of the Coast

Light Storm

Are there rules in other countries people need to be aware of about who or what you can or cannot shoot?

Quite a few countries have rules or laws regarding public photography, with some countries in recent years adapting stiffer laws aimed at those who photograph people without their permission. As a landscape photographer, your biggest concern is usually property rights, with some locations requiring permits to shoot. As photographers, we should always be mindful of cultural differences when traveling abroad. While something might be perfectly legal, it might not always be culturally acceptable.

Skyline

Sunset at Lighthouse Park

Any photography tips you want to share?

Get out and shoot! Photography can only be mastered through persistent creative evolution.

Sunset over Seymour Mountain

Taking it all in

Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?

The thing that I truly love about long exposure photography is that it gives you a chance to sit, reflect, and be at peace with the moment. Ansel Adams once said someting that resonates deep within my spirit, "When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence."

The Fisherman

The Mists of Golden Ears

Learn more: FraserPhoto.ca