“It is photography that keeps my heart open.” – Paul Zizka

As I sit in my cozy little apartment in Cochrane, watching the fluffy blanket of snow gradually thicken outside, I can’t help but think warm thoughts of my day of adventure yesterday at The Banff Mountain Festival. This day has long been in my calendar as “the day” that I could meet one of my favourite Canadian Rockies photographers, Paul Zizka. Since moving to the Alberta foothills this past winter I have been eagerly studying the local photographers who, like me, feel the pull of the mountains and desire to draw them closer, if only through the lens of a camera. Yet, unlike my snaps often captured along the roadside as I gasp and drive by, Paul owns the adventurous spirit of a true Alpinist, able to climb high into the mountains to share breathtaking, astounding shots not often witnessed by passersby. So I hopped in my Jeep and took the scenic drive along The Bow Valley Trail up into the mountains to meet my muse and hopefully come away with a signed book to remind me of my time spent here in awesome Alberta.

I did not leave disappointed! I am the proud owner of Summits & Starlight: The Canadian Rockies, graciously signed by author, photographer Paul Zizka. It is a stunning collection of Paul’s best work high in the mountains, from rugged, striking back country snaps to heart expanding night shots of the sweeping aurora borealis. Each page is a feast for the eyes. Yet, what I appreciate the most is the introduction to this collection where Paul talks about what inspires him to photograph, and live in, the Canadian Rockies, which he feels are “divinely orchestrated.” As the title to today’s post hints, Paul gains inspiration from the natural surroundings, using photography to “document the magic of our wild places” that satiate the spirit, feed the soul, and expand the heart. It is Paul’s sense of gratitude for this experience, so easily recognizable in every carefully realized photograph, that prompted me to try to meet him. And I must say, the personal experience was fantastic! Paul graciously signed my book, and much to my delight, also introduced me to Glen Boles. fellow Alpinist and photographer – a legend here in Cochrane. At 80 years young, Glen is an inspiration to many who seek to capture the wild spirit of the Rockies. I cannot wait to pick up Glen’s book My Mountain Album and perhaps pay him a visit some day soon to have it signed (he charmed me by saying “look me up; I’m in the phone book you know.”)

Thanks to both Paul and Glen for bringing the magical, mystical Rockies closer to all of us who merely pass by in wonder. Your love and respect for the beauty that surrounds us is an inspiration!

If you would like to pick up a copy of Paul or Glen’s books, please visit Rocky Mountain Books or your local book store! If you would like to see a few of my snaps (including the one above of mighty Mount Yamnuska) from my Banff adventure, please visit me over at my website, with thanks!