About Us and Our Creative Home
Explore. Create. Inspire. We are the Essex County Nature Photographers.
Lake Erie Fishing Tugs - Wheatley - Owen Kane
We Explore, Create and Inspire. We are the Essex County Nature Photographers.
Situated in one of the most biologically diverse regions in Canada, we are a community dedicated to documenting the natural world right outside our doors. From the migration paths of Point Pelee to the quiet tallgrass prairies of Ojibway, Essex County is a landscape of stories—and we are here to tell them.
Our Mission and goal is simple: To build a living, visual archive of Essex County nature.
We believe that photography is for everyone. Whether you are a professional tracking rare birds with a telephoto lens or a casual explorer capturing a sunset with your smartphone, your perspective is valuable. We bridge the gap between the technical craft of photography and the joy of nature appreciation.
What Makes Us Different? We are not just a social feed; we are a resource.
- Structured for Discovery: Unlike standard groups, where photos disappear into a timeline, our community is built on 8 Founding Pillars. This unique structure allows us to organise our content by Subject (like Wildlife or Macro) and by Location (our “Haunts” and “Crown Jewels”).
- A Place to Learn: We believe in growth. Through our “Tips and Tricks” and the collaborative atmosphere of our “Whispers” Lounge, we help every member move from “taking pictures” to “creating art.”
- A Community Asset: We actively collaborate with local municipalities and conservation groups to showcase the beauty of our region to the world.
Our Values
- Inclusivity: The best camera is the one you have with you. All gear and skill levels are welcome here.
- Respect: We put nature first. We practice ethical photography, ensuring that our presence never harms the wildlife or environments we capture.
- Connection: We use photography to connect with nature, with our neighbours, and with the hidden gems of our county.
- One Rule For All: “The Adult Standard”, Respect, Integrity, Emphaty, and Assume Good Faith