Taken on: Oct 17th 2026
Taken On: Oct 23 2026
There is something about black and white photography that changes the way we see nature and wildlife. Without colour drawing our attention, we begin to notice things we might otherwise overlook. The textures of an animal's fur, the expression in its eyes, the shadows of the surrounding forest, and the quiet presence of wildlife in its natural environment all become more noticeable.
These two photographs were taken in the backwoods of Zealand, New Brunswick, during October 2026. Both photographs were later given a black and white artistic interpretation, using darkness, contrast, and selective lighting to bring attention to the animals themselves.
For me, photography has always been about more than simply taking a picture. It is about capturing a moment in nature, understanding what we are looking at, and appreciating the wildlife that shares the world around us.
The White-Tailed Deer — October 17, 2026
The first photograph was taken on October 17, 2026, and captures a white-tailed deer walking toward the camera through the forest.
In this black and white interpretation, I wanted the deer to become the centre of attention. By allowing the surrounding forest to gradually disappear into darkness, the animal appears to emerge from the shadows.
The detail in its face, the position of its ears, and the movement of its legs create a sense of presence. There is something peaceful about the image, yet at the same time, there is a feeling of curiosity and awareness.
This is one of the things I appreciate most about wildlife photography. Not every photograph needs to capture something extraordinary. Sometimes an animal simply walking through the woods can tell a story of its own.
The deer is going about its life, moving through an environment it knows far better than we ever will. We are simply being given a glimpse into that world.
The Eastern Coyote — October 23, 2026
The second photograph was taken on October 23, 2026, in the same backwoods of Zealand, New Brunswick.
This photograph captures an eastern coyote looking back as it moves through the forest.
What caught my attention about this image was the expression on the coyote's face. There is a sense of alertness and awareness in its eyes, almost as though it is taking one last look before continuing on its way.
In the black and white interpretation, I wanted to bring attention to that expression and the beautiful natural textures of its coat. By allowing the surrounding forest to fade into darkness, the coyote becomes the main focus of the photograph.
Coyotes are often misunderstood animals. Many people see them as something to fear rather than as an important part of our natural environment.
Yet coyotes have their place in New Brunswick's ecosystems. They help regulate certain animal populations and are part of the natural balance that exists within our forests and surrounding landscapes.
For me, this photograph is not about fear or danger. It is about recognizing the presence of an animal that belongs in the natural world just as much as any other species.
Why I Chose Black and White
I have always believed that photography is not just about what we see, but also about how we choose to present it.
With these two photographs, I wanted to create something different while still respecting the natural appearance and character of the animals.
Black and white photography removes the distractions that colour can sometimes create. It allows us to concentrate on shapes, textures, expressions, light, and shadow.
The deep black backgrounds in these photographs were an artistic choice. I wanted the surrounding forest to slowly disappear, leaving the animals standing out against the darkness.
In the photograph of the deer, the darkness creates a sense of quietness and simplicity. The animal appears to be walking out of the shadows, almost stepping into the light.
With the coyote, the same approach creates a different feeling. Its eyes, fur, and posture become more noticeable, giving the photograph a stronger sense of awareness and presence.
Although both photographs were taken in the same general area, each tells a different story.
One represents the quiet movement of a deer through the woods. The other captures the watchful nature of a coyote as it looks back toward the camera.
The black and white editing, enhanced contrast, and darkened backgrounds are artistic interpretations of the original wildlife photographs.
More Than Just Photographs
Living in New Brunswick has given me a deep appreciation for the nature and wildlife that surrounds us.
Our forests are home to animals that many people may never see up close. Deer, coyotes, foxes, birds, and countless other species continue their daily lives whether we are there to witness them or not.
I believe that wildlife photography gives us an opportunity to connect with that world, even if only for a brief moment.
These photographs are not simply about a deer or a coyote. They are about the presence of wildlife in our forests and the importance of remembering that these animals are part of something much larger than ourselves.
As a nature and wildlife photographer and advocate, I want my photographs to encourage people to look a little closer at the natural world around them.
We often become so caught up in our daily lives that we forget how much is happening just beyond our roads, homes, and communities.
There is an entire world out there, living, moving, and surviving, often without us ever noticing.
To me, black and white photography is another way of telling that story. It takes away the colour but leaves behind something just as important: the presence, character, and beauty of the wildlife itself.
And perhaps, by seeing these animals in a different light, we can develop a greater understanding of why their presence matters and why protecting the natural places they call home is so important.