Lethbridge Wedding Photography Photographer» Michael Warf

Their moment to shine

admin — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 17:37:29 +0000

I spent a fantastic day with the staff and ownership of Brio Salon (101-1211 3 Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta) documenting “It’s Your Day” – a local project aimed at bringing the salon experience to underprivileged kids in Lethbridge communities. Teams of stylists and estheticians throughout the city cleared their schedules and volunteered their time for kids who heard about the event through local organization “Streets Alive“.

I was approached by local stylist Tanya Yancie early in the planning stages and helped corral a portion of the 15 photographers who donated their time to document the day via the Alberta Strobist group. Brio salon is beautifully modern, family owned and operated. I was pleasantly surprised at how such a visually stimulating place could lay inside an unassuming retail storefront on one of the busiest streets in Lethbridge.

Rather than take portraits for the kids, I took a documentary approach so Brio could have an album to share their contribution with the community. 200 kids were affected by the movement this year, and were sent home with many grooming supplies donated from local businesses. I feel strongly that this will be an annual event, and I can’t wait to help out next Summer to help kids feel great about themselves, and give them a fresh start for the coming school year.

Chad Vangaalen at the Zoo, Lethbridge Alberta

admin — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 16:40:33 +0000

Residents of Lethbridge, Alberta have no shortage of live music, arts and culture thanks to the efforts of the student’s union at the University of Lethbridge. After shooting a few previous live shows at the Zoo, I was fortunate enough to gain an all-access media pass for the “Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll” show held this past Thursday.

Shooting at the Zoo is a challenge, but one I was completely ready for. Knowing available light would be at a premium, I decided to go back to “roots photography” and leave my flashes, zooms, and other gear behind. Armed with only my 50mm 1.8 prime lens, I was ready to take on the Zoo with full force.

Represented by Flemish Eye records in Canada, and Sub Pop in the USA – Chad Vangaalen is a true artist with work crossing multiple mediums (he’s an accomplished illustrator and animator, as seen in his self-produced video work). Promoting his third full length album, Soft Airplane – Chad armed himself with a Gibson, a banjo, percussionist and Cellist who also played a modified Casio SK-1 for a truly unique sound.

Sample shots from the show:

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New Wedding Photography

admin — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 19:31:23 +0000

Steph’s Engagement Session

Stephenie is a graphic designer for the University of Lethbridge, and recently agreed to her long-time boyfriend Brad’s proposal to move things along nicely. Having an art background, Steph was great to work with and had an appreciation for my approach. This couple was so open to new suggestions – it makes my job a breeze!

I look forward to shooting their wedding in August at Brad’s family farm in the Coalhurst area (near Lethbridge, Alberta).

I leave you with this sneak peek from their session.

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