Tell Us Your Story. What motivated you to start your business? Why are you passionate about what you do?

My journey into photography began with a deep-rooted love for nature that started in Ontario, where I grew up. After years of working for corporations and putting my own mental health on the line, I realized I needed to reconnect with nature to restore balance in my life. This led me to visit and then move to Vancouver Island, where I fell in love with its breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. The island’s rugged beauty and rich biodiversity inspired me to pursue photography more seriously, transforming a passion into a purpose-driven business. What motivated me to start my photography business was realizing that the stunning moments I captured could inspire others to see and appreciate the natural world as I do. My passion lies in revealing the hidden patterns and rhythms of the wild, particularly on Vancouver Island, and sharing these insights through my art. For me, photography is a way to connect people with nature, evoke a sense of wonder, and encourage a deeper appreciation for the environment. I believe that through my work, I can inspire others to recognize the importance of preserving the delicate ecosystems that sustain us all.

Describe and demonstrate, including metrics, your community support. How do you support and uplift your community, and how do they show that support in return? Minimum 25 words, maximum 2500 characters.

I support and uplift my community by using my art to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. Through my photography, I capture the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, inspiring a deeper connection to the environment among residents and visitors alike. By telling the stories of local wildlife, I create heartfelt connections, explain my ethical practices, and emphasize the importance of protecting wildlife. My work often serves as a visual reminder of the region's unique ecosystems, encouraging others to appreciate and safeguard the natural world around them. I engage with the community by participating in local art fairs and environmental events, where I share my photography and the stories behind each piece. These events provide opportunities for meaningful conversations about the importance of preserving the island's natural beauty, helping to foster a collective sense of responsibility toward the environment. I believe that even small conversations and interactions have the potential to make a large impact. Art is powerful because, in times of joy, uncertainty, and discovery, we seek art to give meaning to our experiences. The community shows its support for my work through the growing number of collectors who purchase my limited-edition prints, each accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. This support not only validates my efforts but also strengthens the bond between my art and the community I love. Through my dedication to showcasing the natural wonders of Vancouver Island and advocating for wildlife protection, Bri Vandyke Photography plays a vital role in promoting environmental awareness and appreciation within the community.

Why do you deserve to win the Business Impact award?

I deserve to win the Business Impact Award because of my unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and the unique role my photography plays in promoting a deeper connection to nature through art. As a solo entrepreneur, I have made significant strides in using my photography to raise awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and preserving natural landscapes. Environmental Impact: My dedication to sustainable practices in both art creation and packaging demonstrates my commitment to reducing my environmental footprint. By incorporating eco-friendly materials and promoting conservation through my work, I contribute positively to the environment and encourage others to do the same. Community Engagement: My work goes beyond creating beautiful art; it serves as a catalyst for environmental awareness and appreciation. Through storytelling and ethical practices, I foster a greater understanding of local wildlife and the need for conservation, making a meaningful impact on the community. Leadership and Integrity: I exemplify leadership through professionalism and an ethical approach to business. My transparent communication with clients and partners, combined with my dedication to delivering high-quality, meaningful art, reflects my commitment to excellence and integrity. Unique Contribution: My ability to capture and showcase the hidden beauty of the Pacific West Coast, while emphasizing the importance of protecting its ecosystems, sets me apart. My art not only celebrates nature but also serves as a powerful reminder of the need to preserve it. Expanding Impact: Winning the Business Impact Award would allow me to tell more stories and share them with a growing global audience. It would show that one person, driven by passion alone, can make a difference. With increased recognition, I can amplify the message that art has the power to inspire change and connect people to the natural world. Winning the Business Impact Award would not only recognize the significant contributions of Bri Vandyke Photography to environmental conservation and community engagement but also highlight the positive influence of art in fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

Tell Us About Your Culture. How are you creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome? Provide examples of leadership you show in interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, staff and others.

At Bri Vandyke Photography, I operate independently and am committed to creating a sustainable and respectful work environment as an entrepreneur. Sustainability and Health: I incorporate eco-friendly practices into my business operations, including using recyclable materials for packaging and opting for sustainable options whenever possible. My dedication to environmental responsibility extends to my art creation process, ensuring that my impact on the environment is minimized. Inclusivity and Respect: Although I operate alone, I uphold principles of inclusivity and respect in all my interactions. I maintain transparent and respectful communication with clients, vendors, and other partners. By providing clear information about my processes and ethical practices, I foster trust and create a positive experience for everyone involved. Leave No Trace and Ethical Photography Practices: I adhere to Leave No Trace principles and prioritize ethical photography practices in all my work. This means respecting wildlife, natural habitats, and minimizing my impact on the environment. I aim to capture the beauty of nature without disturbing it, ensuring that my presence leaves no lasting trace on the ecosystems I photograph. Leadership in Practice: I exemplify leadership through my commitment to ethical practices and professionalism. I lead by example, ensuring that all my interactions are conducted with integrity and respect. My approach to client relationships is marked by a high level of personalization and care, as I strive to exceed expectations and deliver exceptional results. Client and Vendor Relations: My dedication to high-quality work and ethical practices ensures that my clients receive outstanding service and a product they can truly value. I also build positive relationships with vendors and partners through fair and transparent dealings, reflecting my commitment to professionalism and respect in every interaction. Through these practices, Bri Vandyke Photography exemplifies a strong commitment to sustainability, ethical conduct, and respect, creating a positive impact.

Why do you think you should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award?

Bri Vandyke Photography should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award because it exemplifies the power of art to inspire and connect people with the natural world. Here’s why Bri’s work stands out: Artistic Excellence: Bri's photography captures the unique and often hidden beauty of Vancouver Island’s wildlife and landscapes. Her ability to reveal the intricate patterns and rhythms of nature through her lens showcases a high level of artistic skill and vision. Each piece resonates with viewers, creating a deep emotional connection and appreciation for the natural world. Community Connection: Bri’s work has garnered widespread admiration from the local community and beyond. Her art serves as a visual celebration of the region’s natural beauty, fostering a sense of pride and connection among residents and visitors. The positive reception and support from the community are a testament to the impact and relevance of her work. Environmental Advocacy: Bri’s commitment to environmental conservation is integral to her photography. By emphasizing the importance of protecting wildlife and ecosystems, she uses her platform to advocate for a cause that resonates with many people. Her ethical practices and dedication to sustainability enhance the value and impact of her art. Personal Impact: Bri’s unique approach to photography, combined with her personal dedication to conservation and community engagement, makes her a deserving candidate for the Premier’s People’s Choice Award. Her work not only enriches the cultural landscape but also inspires individuals to appreciate and protect the natural world. Winning this award would recognize the significant and positive influence Bri Vandyke Photography has had on both the artistic community and environmental awareness, celebrating the meaningful contributions of her work to the broader public.