Respect your elders.
I grew up hearing this phrase. Sometimes I think it meant, “Do what I say because I’m older and that makes me the boss!” But recently I witnessed a wonderful example of what this phrase really intends.
I had the immense honour of being asked to create a portrait for each of the 24 elders of the Kwantlen First Nation.
Just hearing the term elder brings to mind wisdom, experience, value. And to honour the elders with a set of portraits communicates such value.
Setting up our photo gear in their meeting hall, we looked carefully at the many portraits of elders on display, some of them no longer with us. The images spoke to us of pride and history.
Once we had the lighting ready, we met our first elder. Friendly conversation helped them to relax and we learned so much. Some of them had lived on the reserve in Fort Langley since birth, others lived nearby and some came from the eastern Fraser Valley. They spoke proudly of their historical family names and connections to pioneers. The Kwantlen First Nation has about 250 members.
Every one of the elders we met was busy, active and inspiring. We met a carver, fisherman and a chef. We were surprised how many of the elders are actively involved in teaching about their culture in schools. Their joy and passion shone through.
Here are a few of the images from our shoot.









About the Photography
I was thankful that my friend Mel offered to work with me on this shoot. While I concentrated on details like exposure and composition, Mel engaged our subjects which is so important to helping them relax. During the shoot, he helped direct their attention and made adjustments to the lighting when necessary. Teamwork in action.
The lighting came from three off camera flashes. A strobe in a 3×2 ft soft box was the main source while a speed light balanced that light by lightening the shadows. A third light was used as a hair light. The backdrop was a large sheet of black fabric and it remained black as long as our lights did not spill onto it.
After receiving 4-5 images of each elder, the response from the band office was “The photos are beautiful! This is going to be so hard to pick!” It’s a response I’m always happy to hear.
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Wonderful photos Dennis!
Thanks, Bob. It was definitely a highlight!
I loved reading this Dennis especially the lines describing a little of each elders history.
Thank you, Bea. Really appreciate your support and interest.
Wonderful story along with your quality portrait work Dennis!
…a good assistant does help and make a difference in the end result! Good work Mel !
detlef, thanks so much for all you support on this. I really appreciated the chance to review the images with you.
The eyes all have a story you can tell from your photographs, so much character and life in them. You are amazing at capturing unique and interesting faces. They all make you want to know more…
Thank you, Molly for having a look and your thoughtful comment.
Awesome shots, art, and memories, as usual, D.
Wonderful lighting.
Thanks, Buzz! Appreciate it!
Love this series the history and stories from the elders is so amazing. Glad you got to photograph these elders in all their glory. They hold great power within their culture and you have captured the look of great wisdom. Thanks for sharing
Thanks Kevin. It was indeed an honour to meet these people and make these photos.