Exploring Western Canada, Land of Big Mountains and Turquoise Lakes
Having lived in eastern Canada for the majority of my life, the time had come to head west to see what all the hype was about. This 3.5-minute video proves that the hype is real!
The trip was 4 weeks long starting in British Columbia and ending in Alberta. I flew from Montreal to Vancouver and was greeted by great friends in Vancouver. Together we headed north to the Whistler region where we hike and camped in Geribaldi provincial park. Returning south we explored Squamish and the famous chief before flying to Alberta and getting straight to Banff national park. I was yet again greeted by good friends in Banff and we did some great hikes and camping at lake Minnewanka, lake Louise and Moraine lake. From there I bussed the most amazing drive along the icefields parkway to Jasper where I was lucky enough have yet another local friend. We explored the Jasper region by bike and car and was amazed but the abundance of wildlife in Jasper!
TRAVEL VIDEOGRAPHY
Below is a Q&A I did about travel videography with Ken Tai from Passion Passport.
In your opinion, what makes a great travel video?
I think a great travel video immerses the viewer into the journey and makes them feel the country. It gives them a sense of the people, places, smells, and tastes of a place and inspires them to venture there themselves. Strong narratives help keep the viewers’ attention; I often find myself turning away from videos that have a random mix of footage even if the clips are really beautiful. And good music is crucial.
When on location, do you have a specific narrative in mind that you try to capture or do you just go with the flow?
My narrative in travel videos is usually quite literally my chronological journey through the country. I just go the flow and shoot as much as possible.
What tips can you share about the video-making process?
The best camera is the one that’s on you! It can be annoying to carry around a bunch of heavy gear but when the sun dips and lights up just the tips of the mountains, you’re going to want your camera with you. Wake up early! The early morning light is well worth it.
What type of gear do you use to shoot your films?
I shot this particular video on a Canon 60D and used both the Sigma 17-50mm f2.8 lens and the Canon 50mm f1.4. The audio is a mix between samples taken from an online sound effect bank and recordings taken directly from the camera. I shoot time-lapses with a simple wired intervalometer and a Manfroto tripod.
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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