about

My inspiration comes from curios + collections; the old, discarded + forgotten; the normalcy of life which inevitably sparks conversation on the interpretation of 'normal'; and the passions of others.
Whether animate or inanimate - puppets, old tools, humans, animals, little things - I always get more immersed in the subject than I intend to which paves the way for long term projects and photo books.

As an adoptee myself, I continue along the inspirational lines of the old, discarded + forgotten by featuring the animal kingdom. Since 2005 I have worked at promoting the adoption of animals from shelters and rescues, and the last 10+ focussing my camera on my subjects. Taking the deep breaths, quiet time and spending hours and days awaiting the birth of puppies, travelling to foster homes, and spending countless hours in the presence of people who work tirelessly to help better the lives of our animal companions. In 2011 I began documenting the retirements of over 180 former sled dogs - an often overlooked group - which has so far culminated in the production of three photo books, various articles, a comprehensive archive, and most recently as the cover feature in Issue #2 of Wunderdog Magazine out of the UK (April 2020).
Please visit I Was A Sled Dog to view this ongoing series.

Balancing commercial work, volunteerism and personal projects means I use a variety of processes and ways to capture my subject and tell its story. Most of my work is currently digital, however, I embrace my lo-fi roots by utilizing a variety of film SLRs, a Canon point and shoot and a twin-lens Rolleiflex.

Whether my photographs happen out in the world or in my studio. Whether they're au naturel, or utilize full props, make up and backdrops, it's all done with intention, exploration and observation.

My photographs have been featured in Wunderdog Magazine, Issue #2 (April 2020), Sled Dogs Film, Somewhere to Go: Punk Victoria (documentary film), BC SPCA Animal Sense magazine, Pique News, Whistler BC.

Commercial collaborations include Shampoo Hair Bar, CTV Vancouver Island, Cartier Farms, Breadner Veterinary Services, The Dahlia Society, Legends Comics + Books, Pic-A-Flic Video, The Torch: UVic's Alumni Magazine, Outlooks for Men - Man & His Dog Fashion Show, Rite Self Storage.

Current + past photography volunteer collaborations:
Victoria Humane Society
Rosier Days Dog Rescue
Man & His Dog Fashion Show Fundraiser
Whistler Sled Dog Co.
WAG, Whistler Animals Galore Animal Shelter

Please contact me for print sales, commissions and inquiries: hello[at]wendynesbitt[dot]com