From time to time on the blog, I like to share about people who inspire me in unique ways. Photography is an area that I’d really like to develop as a hobby, so I follow a lot of photographers and study a lot of their photos to see what it is that captures a moment or space in time in a magical and special way. While anyone can take a photo, it takes someone with a very particular gift to see things distinctively and personally in a way that inspires those who view their work.
One of those special people is Kerry James. I was introduced to Kerry through his work in acting on the Canadian television production, “Heartland” where he has played the character of Caleb O’Dell for 15 seasons. But Kerry and I got to know each other in a more personal way due to some difficult health issues in his family and I happened to know a little about that sort of thing. We compared notes from time to time about caregiving and all the ups and downs that come with a family member being ill. When the hard stuff hits the fan, being someone well known falls away. Kerry shared the real, the raw, the roller coaster ride. I have so much respect for the heart and courage he displayed through it all. I appreciate so many things about his big heart, his awesome sense of humor, his huge brain and ability to dissect life with it, and his kind yet candid approach to how he lives his life.
Photo Credit: Graham Wardle
I recently read the quote, “Photographers don’t just take pictures, they tell stories.” The photos Kerry shares on his Instagram account definitely capture scenes that tell stories. Much of the year he lives on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, and many of his photos come from the forests and waterfront of his home. He sees nature in ways that most of us take for granted. He says he’s not a great photographer, but a great editor. I believe he’s both. I could tell you more about his photography, much of which is taken on his cell phone, but I think the best way for you to experience the distinctiveness and beauty is to see it for yourself. Thanks, Kerry, for giving me permission to share some of your amazing work. Some of Kerry’s photos are available to purchase in digital format on Etsy (see link to his Etsy account at the bottom of this post). I can attest that the images are high quality and enlarge beautifully. Please note that all photos are Kerry’s property and are not to be reprinted or posted without permission.
Kerry will be releasing his first book of original photography and writing in the very near future. Information for where to purchase his new book will be in his Instagram link-in bio. In the meantime, I encourage you to follow Kerry on Instagram (see link below) and check out the photos he shares on his profile there. You will see that his book will be pretty special as he not only shares photos, but also writes about the feelings behind capturing them. He’s also starting a new podcast! Info on where to listen in will also be on Instagram. Kerry also films, edits, and produces Graham Wardle’s “Time Has Come” podcast (link below). You can definitely see how his creative eye helps to capture the vision of Graham’s podcast.
I’m delighted to have gotten to know this creative, warm, kind, and humble human who displays his expertise, gifts and talents in so many ways. Thanks again, Kerry, for allowing me to share this small piece of the magic you create.
Cathey thanks for celebrating Kerry James and giving such a warm depiction of what makes him so special. I also think he has come out of his shell and is reveling in his art, his creativity and his sensitivity not to mention his tongue in cheek comedy. He is truly one of a kind!
Kerry's photography is amazing. So varied, and amazingly beautiful!