Digital Image Cafe Photographer Profile
Annette Pierce - Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

"Remain open, something beautiful is happening" - That's the motto of photographer Annette Pierce. In just four short years, this Canadian mother of 3 has gone from photo novice to being named the 2005 Photographer of the Year in her home country.

Annette began taking photos because she wanted to send her mother pictures of her daughters. But, she soon realized that when she got behind the camera, "amazing, spiritual, and magical" things began to happen. She started handing out business cards at the grocery store when she saw a subject that intrigued her. From there, doors just opened. She worked for a local photographer doing school pictures and perfected her skills. Somehow a top Canadian photographer became aware of her work and offered to mentor her and enter her photos in the Canada Photo Association yearly contest. After shooting for less than a year, she was named Photographer of the Year in British Columbia. She was asked to be the inspirational speaker at the Association's next convention, and last year she took home the top prize.

People, especially women and children, are Annette's favorite subjects. She likes to connect with another person and to capture their soul or essence in a photo. She is particularly inspired by the creations of Ann Geddes, Lisa J. Murphy, and Thomas Kincaid.

Annette has been a member of the Cafe for two years and is currently tied for 8th place on the leader board with 20 pictures of the day/theme wins in the last year. She finds the other members positive and encouraging and very patient with her many questions. She very much admires the talents of David Harvey and Susi Lawson and really appreciates their answers every time she asks, "How did you do that?" Bob Jones, a real photo Superman, sent her a copy of Photoshop all the way from Wales.

"Most people are unconscious and unaware that they were born to do amazing things and to touch the lives of others," says Annette. "Through my work as a photographer, I want to encourage and inspire people to let go of their fears," she adds. Inspirational greeting cards and posters is the niche Annette would like to enter next. And her vision - "creating imagery to bring people closer to their source - to oneness with God."

June, 2006