10/21/2026
Kananaskis feels like my backyard, so when STÖK asked me to document their fall retreat, that was a pretty easy yes.
A huge crew, mountains, and a day of moving between candid moments, presentations, outdoor adventures and portraits. Very much my kind of workday.
One thing I kept noticing was how much thought had gone into how people would actually feel throughout the day. During the conference, groups headed outside for twenty-minute walks to talk through a topic together. Brainstorming sheets were taped to the windows, so even while everyone was working inside, they were facing those beautiful views. Such a small thing, but I loved that.
Then there was cycling, hiking and canoeing. I followed the canoe crew, obviously. And throughout the day, anyone who needed a fresh headshot could pop over during a few windows we’d set aside and have one taken out in this ridiculous setting. Pretty good upgrade to the office backdrop.
But what stayed with me most was the feeling between everyone. The ease, the humour, how much they seemed to enjoy being together. Walking into a group as the photographer, you spend a lot of time watching those little interactions. This was a really lovely crew to watch.
There’s a line on their website, “Our sincere investment in each other is worth it.” Having spent a day with them, I can see that.
Days like this also remind me how much photographing weddings has taught me. Reading a room, anticipating a moment, switching from quietly documenting to helping someone feel comfortable for a portrait. Moving between wildly different light and keeping up as the day unfolds. Years of doing that have made staying fluid feel pretty natural.
I’d happily have more workdays like this. Came home with a full camera and a lot of appreciation for the people I got to spend the day with. Thanks for inviting me into your world, Stok. 🤍
