Portaging and wedding photography are so similar to me. Both are physically and mentally demanding. You’re carrying lots of heavy gear for a long period of time in both experiences. And of course, things don’t always go according to plan but you have to problem-solve on the spot.

When I portage, not only am I carrying the canoe, my pack, the paddle, and all of my food, but I’m also carrying several kilograms of metal and glass. That would be my camera gear. I’m very dedicated to my work and there’s no way I’m leaving my favourite lenses behind.

The following photos were all taken in Killarney Provincial Park this past Labour Day weekend. I carried 2 Canon 5D Mark 2’s for this trip. Each camera had its own lens: 16-35mm f/2.8 L II and 100mm f/2.8 Macro (All Canon). I like this combination of lenses because it allows me to capture everything from macro closeups of lichen to super wide angles of the Canadian Shield landscape.

We stayed for four nights on Threenarrows Lake. You can check out the route below. The map graphic is used under the Creative Commons license, I owe Jeff from Jeff’s Map credit for his beautiful Killarney Map. Enjoy some classic Canadian scenery!

Share this story