• Home
  • BOOK SHOP
    • Kylie's Stories
    • Other books by Maria Jordan >
      • Mysterious & Miraculous Book I - News and Reviews
  • BLOGS
    • mar's Desk
    • Inspiration Station
    • Poetic Ponderings
    • marcoujor on Hubpages
  • I Recommend...
  • Contact Me
  marcoujor's musings

Inspiration Station


This blog publishes the third Sunday of each month. I look forward to your visits and appreciate your feedback.

Please enjoy your stay...

Gift Shop

Meet Wanda Keay: Passionate About Wildlife Photography

3/14/2015

22 Comments

 
Picturemarcoujor
Each month this year I squeal with delight as I turn the page of my beautiful British Columbia and the Sunshine Coast 2015 Calendar, which was gifted to me by a dear friend.
 
Each of the twelve months has an exquisite wildlife photograph showcasing the passion, talents and artistry of Bill, Wanda, Serena & Angela Keay.

Here is a sampling of some of what I'm talking about, so you can see for yourself.


The Keay family cares about the environment. Their calendars are printed in Canada on FSC certified paper, old, growth-free, harvested sustainable forest practices, processed chlorine free, vegetable based inks. 
 
Of course I was drawn to give as many of these calendars as I could as gifts myself as a portion of the proceeds went to the Gibsons Wildlife Rehab Centre.
 
Here's some feedback I got about this daily smile maker that causes a chain reaction of inspiration, serenity and a beauty infusion across the miles:
The calendar was such a beautiful gift. It really touched me as the pictures were so serene and beautiful offering a calm over my heart when I looked at them. It truly was a beautiful gift to receive. Kim Thompson
I was touched and honored to receive this gift.  The photos are beautiful.  Knowing it supports a small business is even better! Shauna L. Bowling
I was delighted to get such a beautiful calendar with quality photos of things I love to see. If I could pick a favorite from all those gorgeous months, it would be September with the little Polar bear crossing the log. Next would be April with the stunning picture of the symbol of our country. Of course, each month is special in its own right. This month's hummingbird is amazing.

This is one of the gifts we give to one another each year at Christmas and I was delighted to have that task taken care of for me at the busiest time of the year. It hangs in my kitchen where everyone can enjoy it. 
Peg Cole
I LOVEEE my Keay Calendar! The photos are so vivid and appealing I've no way of deciding which can be a favorite. If hemmed down ... hmm ... nope. It's impossible.

This is a calendar I'll save as a collector's piece long after the year is over. I especially love that a portion of the proceeds for these calendars are being donated to the Gibsons Wildlife and Rehab Center. I'm always more prone to buy and support products in which the producers are giving a portion of earnings to a worthy not-for-profit. Wildlife rescue and rehab always qualifies as worthy! Mine is hanging by a bit of twine (that has sentimental value) and threaded to a hook in my work station.  femmeflashpoint
I received a wonderful calendar as a gift this past holiday season. As I read through the information I see it is produced to serve a good cause. It is always appreciated when I see people going outside of the corporate world to add some good to the world. Michael Friedman
I was overawed by the beauty of this calendar the first time Wanda showed it to me, even prior to publishing it! I just knew I would have to share it with as many of my friends as possible, and as soon as possible. It was my joy to be able to do this after publication. 
    
I never get tired of looking at it, and about a month for each picture seems perfect. Really, these are but a small sampling from the genius photography of Bill, and now other family members. In some cases he waits years to get a particular shot, with a particular effect, and the correct lighting, as in the case of the humming bird. 
    
As well as the calendar, I greatly enjoy the Keays as our next door neighbors. One of the surprises in their home is to see that instead of featuring his own incredible photography on their walls, other friends and colleagues work is featured! That says a whole lot for the humble attitude of this lovely  and very talented family.

I'm so glad you enjoy this as much as I have, dear Maria. Thanks for allowing me to collaborate with you on the long distance interview. Victoria Warner

I was thrilled when Wanda agreed to participate in an interview for Inspiration Station.  I'm grateful to my friend (and Wanda's neighbor), Vicki Warner of Life Talks - I Write, who was able to meet Wanda for lunch and get her valuable perspectives on my questions.  I'd like to share them with you now...
Maria: Wanda, tell us about yourself.  What draws you to this passion of wildlife photography?

Wanda: Started 35 years ago, passionate about creation and the whole business of miracles. As you look at flowers, even dandelions are marvels of creation, and see the interplay between all forms of wildlife (not including man)?  

I wanted to make a home job to be with my girls. I think I was bitten by the adventure bug that comes with extreme wildlife photography. I loved the challenge of being tough in order to survive certain experiences. 

Some things stick in my mind, like the time I went for 22 days without a shower, or comforts. Like being a few feet from a polar bear as it charged me, and shaking my head at the Inuit man that wanted to shoot it.

Understanding the discipline of making your body smell of friendliness instead of fear. It's a calculated risk, not something everyone wants to do.
Maria: When did you first realize you had a talent for photography?  How did you learn the technical aspects?

Wanda: When I married Bill he was a press photographer, and I loved his artistic talent. I decided to sell his work as fine art. He went to College to be a photojournalist, and was head hunted by a newspaper, before he even finished his program there.

His home town Castor, in Alberta, was a place where even as a child, he would see the migratory birds. This always fascinated him, and he started his wildlife photography with a small Brownie camera. 

Maria: How awesome that three generations of the Keay family participate in the business. Can you tell us about your family and how long you've been working together?

Wanda: The girls when they were in their teens were allowed to come on adventures with us. They have natural talent, and learned through osmosis to observe and photograph. You have to have an artistic eye.
Maria: Your love of mother earth and wildlife  is evident in each of your exquisite photographs. This wonderful picture that I received as a gift fascinates me.  Would you be able to share a story or two of  how   you are able to capture such natural poses?

Wanda: That particular one, we were off shore, about a hundred feet away. For about 30 minutes we watched a big, black speck and two smaller specks getting closer and closer to us. We weren't a threat.The boat was moored.

She walked right in front, and one of the cubs started to slip on the moss,  so she reached out to save it. The light was perfect. 
Maria: I am thrilled that a portion of the proceeds of your British Columbia and the Sunshine Coast 2015 Calendar go to the Gibsons Wildlife Rehab Centre.  Why is this special to you and your family?

Wanda: I met them about 20 years ago, when I was fundraising for another group, and thought, "if I had a chance I would like to help them out." Now I have a chance, and they are very busy people, with no chance to fund-raise, yet they really need funds. They are the only rehab centre on the SC.
Maria: What's next?  Is something on the horizon for 2015 that is inspiring you that you are able to share with us?

Wanda: I'd love to photograph a Blue Bear. They feed off blue algae that grows on glaciers, and it makes them go blue, if the light is just right. That might not happen this year though. Bill is going to Washington State to photograph some particular landscapes that interest him. He wants to do it in an abstract way.
Maria: Do you have any words of wisdom or guidance for anyone who has a passion they yearn to develop into a business?

Wanda: You have to believe in yourself, and go into it with the thought that you've already succeeded. You cannot doubt, and even if you have to use tunnel vision to stay with your belief, it will make it happen. If you believe, it will happen.
 
Maria: Is there anything else you'd like to share? And, thank you ever so much for taking the time to tell us about Keay Wildlife!

Wanda: Every individual person can make a difference for our planet, which is our space ship to save us. If we all worked to do something, no matter how small, the earth would be a much better place. Things like Individual contributions, picking up litter, recycling, feeding hummingbirds etc, all make a difference. Everyone can do something.

Maria: Thank you for your time and the inspiration, Wanda. 

Until next time, appreciate the wonder that is around you,

Peace,

mar 
22 Comments
femmeflashpoint link
3/14/2015 08:24:53 am

Prof. Mahreer,

I sincerely love this article. Wanda's passion and desire to work in a field and method that incorporated her full-time jobs as wife and mama, and how she meshed them into her professional desires provide some beautiful incentive and inspiration for other families who desire similar situations.

Wanda's mention of being dazzled with creation struck a chord with me, as I'm the same way. Although, as much as I'd love to romp with a bear or swim next to an orca, I feel much safer getting to see some exquisite moments with them via the Keay family's photos.

Before it took up residence near my desk, I carted my own Keay calendar around with me to show it to local kin and friends, but now that the year is on, it stays on my wall, providing me with some daily inspiration and beauty.

My thanks to Wanda for participating in the interview and also to Vicki for the teamwork.

Bravo, ladies!

femme

Reply
Maria link
3/15/2015 07:30:31 am

Dear femme,

This interview and my beautiful calendar both remind me how time flies...thanks for all you do. Love and hugs, mar

Reply
Vicki
3/22/2015 05:57:46 pm

femme - glad you enjoyed it. It's always an honor and a pleasure to work with Maria and you!

Reply
Martie link
3/14/2015 09:51:21 pm

Photography is a most fascinating and rewarding profession or hobby, and especially when focusing on nature. The British Columbia and the Sunshine Coast 2015 Calendar is beyond awesome. I take my hat off for Wanda and her family. Although I love nature, I would not sacrifice any comforts in order to enjoy what she and her family obviously enjoy. Those shots of the bears are breathtakingly beautiful!

Thanks for this awesome interview with Wanda Keay, dearest Mar. I am on my way to visit their website about wildlife photography :)



Reply
Maria link
3/15/2015 07:32:57 am

Dear Martie,

Hoping you enjoy the trip to this beautiful website. I wish the mail delivery to SA were more reliable - you know you would have been a recipient of this beautiful gift. Love and hugs, mar

Reply
Peg link
3/15/2015 02:35:03 am

Thanks for the chance to meet this talented photographer and to learn more about her. She is truly talented and dedicated to her work.

Reply
Maria link
3/15/2015 07:34:33 am

My pleasure, dear Peg. I am thrilled you are enjoying this beautiful work.

Reply
Ruby link
3/15/2015 03:05:46 am

The photos are beautiful, esp' the two white bears hugging and the mama bear holding her cub as he's slipping. It takes a dedicated person to endure the task of living in the wild to snap these amazing pictures. I applaud you Wanda and your family for your effort in preserving our environment. Thank you Mar...

Reply
Maria link
3/15/2015 07:36:49 am

Ruby,

You are describing my favorite picture called "Gotcha" and I'm delighted you found this interview and awesome photography to be so worthwhile.

Thanks for stopping by. Love and hugs, Mar

Reply
Shauna
3/15/2015 03:12:56 am

What a wonderful interview! The Keays certainly live an envious life. Imagine seeing Nature's creatures up close in their own habitat! I'm so thankful they share their passion with us through their amazing photography. Helping support a wildlife rehab center is an honorable thing to do.

Thanx for sharing this talented family with us and thanx again for the beautiful calendar, Mar!

Reply
Maria link
3/15/2015 07:39:22 am

Dear Sha,

I'm happy to see you here and so thrilled at our daily connection via this exquisite calendar. Hope you're having a peaceful Sunday.

Love and hugs to you, Mar

Reply
kimmie
3/15/2015 03:44:44 am

Thank you Mar for such a great interview with such a gifted photographer and humanitarian. I want to thank you again for the lovely calender...a gift I have treasured.
Hugs
Kimmie

Reply
Maria link
3/15/2015 07:41:32 am

Dear Kimmie,

So lovely to see you as well - also gratified that you are enjoying your beautiful calendar.

Take good care of yourself. Love you much, Mar

Reply
Bill
3/15/2015 04:23:30 am

If someone is passionate about their work it will always shine through. Love the photo and loved hearing from this photographer. Thank you for the introduction, Maria, and blessings to you both.

Reply
Maria link
3/15/2015 07:44:11 am

I totally agree, dear Bill ... our passion pushes our creativity and you should know ...:))

Love you and hope you are having a great weekend, Maria

Reply
Sannel link
3/15/2015 08:45:34 am

Maria, what a stunningly beautiful calendar, and it's to such a good cause too! Thank you for introducing me to this gifted photographer. Reading about Wanda, she struck me as a most adventurous woman, quite extraordinary, and very, very brave. Wow, Vicki you're so blessed to have such an amazing neighbor. Gosh, just imagine having a conversation with this lady over a cup of coffee. . . What a treat! :)
Love and lots of hugs,
Sannel

Reply
Maria link
3/16/2015 01:04:56 am

Dear Sannel,
You have highlighted Wanda's strengths - her sense of bravery, adventure and commitment to the environment. Thanks for your visit and lovely comments.
Have a peaceful week and sending love and hugs to Sweden, Maria

Reply
Vicki
3/18/2015 02:36:32 am

Hi Sannel.
Wanda and Bill are amazing neighbors. They both have really big hearts, and although they have huge time commitments, they have an annual pool party in their back yard, for about 30 of us in this neighborhood, which is greatly enjoyed.
Wanda takes a little gift to any new neighbors as well, and seizes any opportunity to help in our area of the Sunshine Coast. She is really a super dynamic and lovely neighbor.
Lovey to hear from you, dear friend.

Maria link
3/18/2015 03:49:26 am

Dear Vicki,
Thanks for this additional information about Wanda and Bill...what a warm and beautiful neighbors, oh my goodness, such big hearts.

Gail Sobotkin
3/18/2015 03:00:27 am

Dear Maria, Wanda & Vicki,

I was blessed to receive this stunning wildlife calendar as a gift and now that I've read the fascinating story behind it, I appreciate it even more.
As your "teaser photos" prove, the images alone are breathtaking and special, but knowing the care and love that went into creating the calendar, and how the proceeds from it are used makes this a most special gift that keeps on giving even after it's purchased.
Thanks for sending it to me, and also for sharing this background info.

To Wanda,
Keep up the great work. You are surely making a difference.

Sending Blessings & Love,
Gail

Reply
Maria link
3/18/2015 03:53:03 am

Dear Gail,
With your keen eye for beautiful photographic opportunities, I'm not surprised but I certainly am delighted that you are enjoying your calendar as well.
Always love when you stop by and I'm sure Vicki and Wanda will be as well. Love and hugs to you, Maria

Reply
Vicki
3/22/2015 06:01:02 pm

Gail - so pleased to read how much you enjoy the calendar, and I know Wanda will be too!




Leave a Reply.

    RSS Feed

    For a free subscription, enter your email address:

    Delivered by FeedBurner

    marcoujor

    Something awaits us all.

    Know your possibilities.

    There is inspiration all around us--in those people and situations we encounter along life's way.

    Share your wonder with me as well.

    I treasure your comments.

    mar


    Archives

    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013


    Popular Posts

    Catching Up With femmeflashpoint

    Interview with Kim Thompson

    Gail Sobotkin: Walking a Sand Labyrinth

    "Tell Skinny I Said Hi."

    Introducing Shadows by Bill Holland

    A Few Of My Favorite Things

    Sannel Larson: The Total Picture

    Meet Wanda Keay: Passionate About Wildlife Photography

    Meet Michael Friedman: The Man Behind the Talent

    Fine Art America

    Meet Shauna Bowling: The Inside Story

    By The Grace of God "Still Alice"

    HOME
    GIFT SHOP
    AD SERVICES & SPONSORS
    BLOGS
    CONTACT ME
    I Recommend...
Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.
  • Home
  • BOOK SHOP
    • Kylie's Stories
    • Other books by Maria Jordan >
      • Mysterious & Miraculous Book I - News and Reviews
  • BLOGS
    • mar's Desk
    • Inspiration Station
    • Poetic Ponderings
    • marcoujor on Hubpages
  • I Recommend...
  • Contact Me