MOOSE JAW — To say that Michael St. Laurent’s ability to capture photography this year was challenging would be an understatement. The local photographer had to undergo 4 surgeries but despite health complications he still managed to create the 2022 Flatlanders calendar and hold onto his humour.
The photos taken for this edition were all taken in Saskatchewan, except the last two which were shot in Riding Mountain, Manitoba.
“The only thing I shoot is my cannon. I have a huge catalog of pictures that I have taken and this year I decided to go with a widescreen format,” St. Laurent said.
He started to showcase his love of nature in 2008 and soon started his business “Flatlanders Photography.”
“I love Saskatchewan and the name suits my business, as it is all about appreciating the beauty of nature within our province."
“When people take an interest in my photography, I aim to give them a close look at the world around us. I want them to appreciate and listen to what nature has to offer. Many people are wrapped up in their own little world with busy lives and neglect to notice what is going on around them,” he explained. “When a big storm comes through I find it humbling because it reminds me of how insignificant our existence is compared to nature in the world; we are small.”
In 2020, the local photographer was featured in The Cottager Magazine. The magazine profiles unique cottages, lakeside living, real estate to renovations, boating, fishing, and outdoor activities.
Aside from photography and spending time with his 2 dachshund dogs Butters and Dixie, St. Laurent’s other passion is storm chasing.
“It can either prove to be extremely rewarding or downright disappointing and frustrating. I probably have about six or seven weather apps on my phone that allow me to anticipate a storm’s location and strength. When I see a big storm cell on the radar heading a certain direction I will go there hoping the timing will allow me to get a good picture of it.
“Sometimes it’s [only] an hour after two hours of driving, and then the storm peters out or passes and heads in a separate direction. Other times you drive nearly 500 kilometres and get nothing, then the sun will come out and you will find a rewarding shot,”
In the last few years of his photography journey, St. Laurent has been inspired by photographer, Bob Schultz. He describes Shultz as being a good friend and mentor of his.
St. Laurent encourages the public to add him on Facebook and follow his photography journey.
This year’s beautiful 2022 Flatlanders Photography calendar can be purchased for $35 each. They are made of quality heavyweight paper and are 16” wide by 9” but when open are 18” long.
Prints of St. Laurent’s photography can also be purchased.
To purchase a calendar or prints, you can contact St. Laurent through his Facebook page and do an e-transfer to stlaurent66@hotmail.com .
