vanessa dewson » Nature

Ottawa Photographer + Lensbaby @ Winterlude

Vanessa — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:11:32 +0000

Last Saturday I went to see the ice sculptures in Confederation Park. The sun was shining and most sculptures were still being chiseled and carved to life. I’ve been to Winterlude just about every year since I moved here in 1998 but don’t remember seeing the early stages of the competition. It takes such craftsmanship and a toughness against the cold to make these works of art. I had photographed many an ice sculpture throughout the years so I thought I’d try to spice things up this time and only brought my Lensbaby along. What fun! It gave my images such a dreamy effect. This year they had a special exhibit of sculptures made of recycled plastic. Really creative stuff (see the snake image). Although I didn’t go for a skate on the canal this time, I did make sure to grab a Beaver Tail pastry. Mmm!

I hope you have a chance to go to Winterlude – another great free event to enjoy with your loved ones.

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Ottawa Nature Photographer @ the Ottawa Butterfly Show

Vanessa — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 18:55:09 +0000

Don’t you love free activities for your family? The Ottawa Butterfly Show is an annual event that runs in early October in the greenhouses of Carleton University’s biology department. On Sunday it was packed, warm and humid but there were lots of beautiful butterflies to admire and photograph. Kids were walking around with orange slices hoping to give some a special treat. Some butterflies loved to land on colourful clothing or you could just put your hand underneath and they would climb on. My son was a little young to handle them but he sure was fascinated by their beauty. So bring your kids or your camera or both and enjoy this exhibit! But hurry, it’s only on as long as the butterflies’ lifespan!

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Ottawa Pet Photographer

Vanessa — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 02:16:30 +0000

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For many of us, our pets are a big part of our family. For one of my friends, her dog has truly been her best friend for over 11 years. I was so sad to hear that he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. I lost my own dog while I was pregnant with my son 2 years ago and it was really hard. They give you unconditional love like no person ever could and it is so tough when that wagging tail is no longer there to greet you. As a gift to her, I asked if she would like me to take some photos of her beautiful Rhodesian ridgeback cross. I was thrilled to see he was still full of life and I’m happy to report that he’s lived longer than expected now. I wish them many more happy days together and am honoured that I could give her something to cherish his memory.