Bringing his subjects to light

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This article was published 02/03/2018 (2770 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Ten years ago, Robert Dearden decided to make his passion his profession.

“I’ve been doing photography since about Grade 9 or so. It was just a hobby,” said Dearden, who is the photographer and proprietor of Avenue Photography Studio (224 Henderson Hwy.). “But I took four evening courses (at Red River College) and got the certificate. That opened my eye to a lot of possibilities.”

In September 2014, Dearden decided to take the next step and move out of his home studio and get out into the community.

“I do, as far as I know, just about everything,” he said. “I don’t hold any prejudices to any kind of theme.”

While Dearden said he’s still developing his own style, for him a photograph is all about the lighting.

“People ask what I like to shoot the most, and I say, ‘Wherever I can shed some light.’”

“This one girl brought her girlfriend for a shoot,” Dearden added. “When they came back, she said, ‘You made me look so beautiful!’ Like, what better compliment is there than that? It’s more than money could ever give you!”

A member of the Professional Photographers of Canada, Dearden said he’s always working towards improving his craft, with the goal of becoming an accredited craftsman of photographic arts, and eventually a master.

“By pursuing these little projects, it’s just further growth,” he said. “It’s a learning process to improve your skills. I’m always dabbling in a lot of areas, trying to learn what I can.”

Since opening the studio on Henderson, Dearden, who lives in the North End, has been making inroads to the Elmwood and East Kildonan community. He’s volunteered his services to events held by the Glenelm Neighbourhood Association and the Chalmers Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation. He’s also open to helping develop skills for budding photographers.

“If someone is an amateur, I encourage them to get up to the professional level, as something to aim for,” he said. “I’m willing to teach people who are willing to learn.”

With spring around the corner, Dearden is preparing for a busy portrait season.

“Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, Easter, that’s a great time for family portraits,” he said. “And I do graduation photos. Whatever you want to do, let’s talk about it.”

To book an appointment or to learn more, call 204-667-1458 or visit www.avenuephotostudio.com