London Photographer to Cycle Across Canada for the Alzheimer’s Society
London Ontario – Professional photographer Don Martel of London Ontario will cycle from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean this summer to teach photography, share stories, and encouraged Canadians to donate to the Alzheimer’s Society as he makes new memories for lost memories. Starting in Vancouver on June 5, 2015 Don with start his journey of over 8000 kms, ride through 10 provinces, conducting one-day photography workshops wherever he can.
The workshops will help keep food on the campfire as he journeys across Canada making new images and memories. Don plans to be in Nova Scotia by the end of August. This trip was inspired by April Erickson and Marcel Pennington of B.C. who embarked on a four-month bike ride across Canada to raise money for the Alzheimer Society of B.C. in 2012. Don met them at a grocery store in Temagami in Northern Ontario and hearing their story, invited them to stay with his photography workshop group for the night, giving the couple a comfortable night’s rest. In the summer of 2014, April and Marcel were married in the Okanagan Valley of B.C. Don photographed the wedding with payment being a custom build bike by Marcel.
That bike got the wheels turning. Don was increasingly aware that the memories held by his mother-in-law, Marjorie Symons were slipping away due to Alzheimer’s. And so, the bike ride will be repeated with new stories, new images, and new donations to the Alzheimer’s Society.
Testimonials
“First of all I would like to say how much I enjoyed the workshop. I shudder to think that I almost didn’t take part in it. The experience was well worth it. The weekend was just what we needed to get over the winter blahs”.
Phyllis, Hampton New Brunswick
Don is a amazing photographer and mentor who loves people, life and has a curiosity for knowledge , He spreads a joie de vivre and is loved by all who has the opportunity to cross his path. Ps I feel blessed to be one of those individuals who has has the chance to know him
Jacinthe Sam LeBlanc, NB
THANK YOU Don Martel for another fun filled, information packed 2 days. Thanks to the BEAUTIFUL Models and the location of Milestone Studio! Now to Practice, Practice, Practice!!!
Nelly Antic Nabuurs, Windsor
I had a great time- you did a terrific job. Looking forward to going on another one of your workshops some time so please keep in touch.
Marsha Toronto Ontario
Of course, we had fun besides learning ! You are a great Teacher everyone has very Good comments of your Workshops.
Lupita , Windsor
Thanks again for the weekend – I very much enjoyed the trip and learnt a lot. I promise to buy a tripod at some point…
Lynne, Toronto Ontario
Today I worked with the one and only Don Martel. Thanks for doing this window light workshop I loved it and thank you
Stan Kolasa, Windsor
A BIG THANK YOU to the BEAUTIFUL Models whoms names i forgot to write down and of course Don Martel for his wealth of tips, tricks and wit!!! SUCH FUN TO LEARN!!!
Thank you
Nelly Antic Nabuurs, Windsor
Just wanted to say thanks for the great weekend. I think I’m still on a workshop high!
Mo, Fredricton New Brunswick
You gave us so many lessons and teaching points – it was awesome!
Big take-away for me – commit to your subject; exposure – set once, use many times; think about what you are trying to do with each photo – don’t just point and click – plan ahead. Oh yeah – Depth of Field and focus!
