Earlier this spring we received a phone call from the editors of Northwest Territories magazine Up Here. They wanted to do a feature on wilderness tour guide Wendy Grater who was going to be in Parry Sound, Ontario for a while preparing for her next tour. They asked us if we would photograph her for a feature in the magazine. We were beyond ecstatic; the chance to photograph a true voyageur. Wendy is modern day adventurer, and owner of Black Feather The Wilderness Adventure Company; guiding groups through the Canadian Arctic and Greenland just to name a few. We love the meaning behind the name “Black Feather” here it is from Wendy’s site.
In bygone days, the Voyageurs ventured by birch bark canoe and back-breaking portage across Canada’s vast northland in search of furs and trade with the First Nations peoples. When a Voyageur returned from his first foray beyond the Arctic divide, he was awarded a black feather, or plume noire to proudly wear in his hat. The traditions of wilderness travel foster an appreciation of nature, respect for our environment and develop co-operation and teamwork.
Wendy guides tours for people of all skill levels and ages. After visiting her site and checking out the Nahanni River Trips in the Northwest Territories we were hooked! A trip with Wendy and her team has definitely made our travel wish list. For her Up Here Magazine photo shoot we chose to shoot at Killbear Provincial park in Ontario because of its cliffs and clear views where sky and water meet. Wendy brought along her dog Tika for a few photos, both Tika and Wendy were recently featured in a 1 page image/2 page article in Up Here Magazine and on their website.
Thank you for a wonderful photo shoot!
& Ryan
