Pros for Lowepro
Michelle Valberg
An
award-winning photographic artist, Michelle Valberg is a study of instinct in motion. After studying Fine Art at
the University of Ottawa and moving through the dark rooms of Algonquin College, Michelle emerged, armed with the
technical skills to compliment her intuitive approach to photography. She is a member of the Professional Photographers
of Canada and Ontario, accredited in seven stylistic categories and shares her experience as a guest speaker at photography
organization events across Canada.
To this day, Michelle embraces the evolution of her industry, boasting Ottawa’s only combined studio and gallery and the first to go all-digital. Nestled in the heart of Ottawa’s eclectic Westboro Village, Valberg Imaging remains on the cutting edge, creatively merging art and science with breathtaking results!
For more on Michelle please visit www.valbergimaging.com
Photo Gallery
All images © Michelle Valberg. May not be reproduced without permission.
Q&A:
What would be your media of choice (digital or film)?
Digital
What would you consider your first big break in the business?
The launch of my first book, 'Look Beyond… The Faces & Stories of People with HIV/AIDS', and a close second – a
2 month solo exhibition called 'Arctic Kaleidoscope… The People, Wildlife and Ever-Changing
Landscape' at the Canadian Museum of Nature (beginning March 2011).
What was your most challenging assignment?
When I was photographing in the high Arctic near Sam Ford
Fjord, Nunavut. Just minutes after being confronted by a polar bear and her two cubs, our guide's ski-doo and our
komatik (Inuit sled) fell through the melting snow and into the icy water below. It's a long story but I will say
- it was the longest day of my life, I was scared and I was very cold, but I survived (and so did my equipment).
What is your funniest photo experience?
Shooting the firefighter calendar! Okay, it isn't the funniest photo experience, but it certainly is the most fun
photo experience!
What is the most exotic location you've shot in?
Camping on the Floe-Edge, Pond Inlet, Nunavut (north-eastern side of Baffin Island). This is where the ice meets the
open water. You spend your time at the edge of the ice, waiting for critters to come to you. Whales, walrus, seals,
birds and polar bears, they are all there in the most peaceful tranquil setting imaginable. Purely magical!
What was your biggest photo mistake?
Losing an external drive with no real back-up. It will never happen again!
Your idea of the "dream assignment"?
Shooting with a big budget for National Geographic.
What three photographers do you most admire:
Yousef Karsh, Malek Karsh and Ansel Adams.
Your top three photo tips:
1. SHOOT SHOOT SHOOT, stay on top of the trends and give back to your community. There are a lot of charities
that need photography services, by donating your time you gain experience and contacts. It is good for you and good
for your community.
If you could change your profession what would it be?
Professional Golfer
Your advise to aspiring photographers:
Work hard, believe in yourself and never give up!
All images © Michelle Valberg. May not be reproduced without permission.