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A Newfoundland and Labrador photographer has been named Canadian Geographic’s wildlife photographer of the year for his work in what he calls an “ecological Disneyland.”
David Sturge of Paradise was one of more than 10,000 entrants for the prize. His win was announced on Aug. 27.
“There was a lot of excitement, to say the least,” Sturge told CBC Radio’s On the Go.
Sturge photographed this baby seal on Newfoundland’s Northern Peninsula. (David Sturge)
“It’s a dream. And for me as growing up with Canadian Geographic, [it’s] one of those icons and pretty much an influence around my life as someone who had a deep heart for conservation … So it’s been a journey, and I’m over the moon.”
Part of the package of photos Sturge placed in his submission included photos of baby seals being born in the area of Port aux Choix and Port Saunders.
He said it was a rare opportunity to showcase both the beauty and tragedy of nature that some in Newfoundland and Labrador might take for granted. He spent four days on pack ice to get the shots.
He recalled a time when he encountered a seal that looked noticeably smaller than the others upon inspection.
“This seal pup was kind of left on its own, and its mother had likely passed for whatever reason. So that was a little bit of a heartbreak. A lot of times these stories are really, really encouraging. They’re really positive, but there’s times such as this one that they tend to get quite emotional and hard,” Sturge said.
Sturge said he sees his work as much more than just photography. He’s been focused on photography for the purpose of conservation and showcasing the world around him.
Sturge said he’s been focused on photography for the purpose of conservation over the last few years. (David Sturge)
That connection came in part from growing up in Labrador City, he said.
“My heart was always in the wilderness, and that’s where I’ve always connected the most,” Sturge added.
“I look back [at it] as an ecological Disneyland. I was amazed at the life that existed out there… I’ve been a lifelong photographer. It’s kind of merged with my career as a park ranger. And inevitably, it merged quite organically to the point where I’ve been just photographing exclusively wildlife for the purpose of conservation for the last few years.”
As part of his win, Sturge was also named an Audain Emerging Photographer in Residence. He’ll get the opportunity to work with Canadian Geographic in British Columbia to participate in events that showcase visual storytelling.
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