Paul Zizka
Canadian National Parks Photographer
Mediaplanet spoke with Canadian National Parks photographer Paul Zizka on his passion for photography and love for Canada’s natural beauty and forests.
What was your inspiration behind getting into photography?
Photography, for me, started as a way of simply documenting the places I was visiting. But as I spent more time in the wilderness, it became increasingly apparent that humans have become disconnected from the natural environment. What inspires me to continue with photography is the opportunity to invite people to go back to the wilderness through my images and to be reminded of what the natural world adds to one’s life.
Which forest is your personal favourite to take photography of?
I’m continually drawn to revisit the larch forests of the Canadian Rockies during “larch season” — a brief window when the needles of these deciduous conifers turn from green to gold. The phenomenon adds a fiery splash of colour to the landscape and provides a stunning contrast to our turquoise lakes. Capturing this fleeting phenomenon before the trees drop their needles adds an element of excitement and reminds me to appreciate nature’s rhythms.
Why do you believe the concept of sustainable tourism is so important to follow?
I want my children and future generations to experience and be inspired by these
landscapes. For instance, I want them to grow up seeing hanging glaciers on the Icefields Parkway here in the Rockies rather than bearing the consequences of the inaction of those who came before them. So I think sustainable tourism is crucial for fostering a deeper connection to nature, which motivates people to protect it in return.
What time of the year do you prefer best to capture outdoor photography?
Each season has something magical, but I’ve always been drawn to winter photography. Between ice formations, frozen lakes, methane bubbles, ice caves, and more frequent northern lights displays, there’s a lot that captures the imagination. I also find winter photography rewarding, given the unique set of challenges that it presents.
Where can we go to learn more about your work?
I invite those who wish to learn more about my work to visit my website zizka.ca or connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
