Dear Clients,
My name is Janet Ketonen and I am the photographer/owner of North of 55 Fine Art Photography. I graduated from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD) with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 2000. It was at NSCAD that I was given the opportunity to study both the technical, historical and stylistic elements of photography. While the merits of learning the technical and historical aspects of photography cannot be understated, my education also provided a continual opportunity for critique by both mentors and peers, which has proven to be invaluable in my evolution as an artist.
After graduation, my career path took me in an entirely different direction (aviation), and for a few years photography was relegated to the sidelines. While residing in Thompson, Manitoba (as a result of my aviation career) I decided that it was time to place my creative interests back into the spotlight. I relocated to Winnipeg in 2009 but because of the many wonderful memories from my time living in Thompson, the “North of 55” namesake remains. In fact, I still return to Thompson regularly for photo work, although my primary residence and residential studio are located in the St. James area of Winnipeg.
A little bit about my style or “vision”…
“Fine art photography”. According to Lynch-Johnt and Perkins [1], it is “the production of images to fulfill the creative vision of a photographer.” This definition holds true to my photography work, both personal and professional. My style is continually evolving, but with each commission my goal is to photograph my subjects in a way that they haven’t been captured previously.
Weddings in particular are an ideal way for me to execute my artistic vision – a typical wedding has an expected script, but I see it as my job to capture all the subtle nuances that make that particular event unique. While I recognize the value in capturing some traditional group portraits at these events, whenever possible I also try to incorporate some unexpected elements to the images I capture.
I describe my style as “illustrative” and I strive to tell your story from beginning to end in a cohesive manner. A lot of what I capture happens during the in-between moments, when you aren’t necessarily aware that I am there. However, we sometimes need a little help to create the “magic” moments and if necessary I will help set the stage for my subjects and then capture what unfolds afterwards.
My aesthetic speaks for itself; I create fun, fresh and real photos when I am behind the lens. The images that I capture will not be captured in the same way by someone else, and in turn when I pick up a camera I don’t spontaneously develop a whole new style that is different from what you see here! My style is well illustrated in my portfolio and while I know that I cannot be all things to all people, those of you who do love my work are the same people whom I wish to work for and to continually impress!
So far I have been extremely blessed to have photographed some amazing people and events. If what you see on these pages catches your eye, then perhaps I am the photographer for you!
I look forward to working with you!
Janet Ketonen
July 2009
Winnipeg, Manitoba
