Chamber Presents Local Photo Contest
Showcasing the Local Business Community Through Images
Put down that selfie stick and get ready to point your camera at your favourite local business person. The Trail & District Chamber of Commerce is encouraging all photographers – professional or amateur – to get creative with the inaugural This is Our Business photo contest.
South Kootenay residents have until December 12th to snap photos of their favourite local business person; pictures can be portraits, lifestyle or day-in-the-life-inspired, or product/flatlays.
Lisa Frisk, owner of The B-Side Record Shop, is a familiar face in downtown Trail. She and her husband Errol purchased the business in mid-May, and she’s eager to continue spinning tunes and excitement for music lovers and album collectors across the South Kootenay.
The contest, powered by Black Press, allows the public to vote through an online platform, where people will select the top image in each category. The winning photographers will each take home a curated gift package showcasing local experiences valued at $1,000.
“We love to talk about our businesses and share their stories, so why not tell them visually, too?” asks Executive Director Erika Krest. “After the contest closes and the winners are announced, all of the photos will be available through a link on the Chamber’s website; the business community will then be welcome to use any of the submitted photos.”
The photo contest was instigated, like most Chamber initiatives, at a grassroots level. Chamber member Sukhjinder Singh, managing partner of Shatti Esthetics, asked where he could find some imagery that simultaneously promoted the area’s natural beauty and business community.
“Images help us become involved. Photography is important because it freezes memories,” says Singh. “By supporting our neighbours, we can boost each other up and keep the vibrant life going in the city core. And using local photographers to capture the memories helps keep the city’s economy cycling.”
Charlotte Truant of Lota Love Photography couldn’t agree more. The wedding and family photographer is facilitating the contest and is excited for photographers of all skill levels to get involved, adding that your gear doesn’t matter as much as your creativity.
“Photographing your favourite businesses is a great way to give back and support them in a non-monetary way. But while you’re there and if you can, why not make a purchase too?” she says. “I think our local businesses are a huge part of what makes our community our community, so capturing them and putting them on a pedestal is important. Plus putting a face to your business encourages your customers to connect more, so why not partake in the fun?”
Photo: Larissa Simonetta, Photography by Larissa
Beyond composition, a steady hand with the subject in focus, and proper exposure (try not to shoot toward direct sunlight), Truant recommends taking lots of photos from different angles. She says it’s all about having a good time while pursuing the winning shot. She first picked up a camera six years ago when her former social media business required professional photos. Now fully invested in running her professional photography company, she finds joy working with beloved repeat clients and enjoys the flexibility her work affords her as a busy mom.
“I’m excited to get involved in this project because it signals that I’m starting to have more time to give back to my community,” she says. “It means a lot to contribute and help local business people. I appreciate the Chamber’s support and their role as a point of contact, where all businesses can connect and share their stories.”
To help encourage photographers to take part, a contest banner has been created for businesses to display. These posters are available for pick up at the Chamber’s office, or businesses are welcome to email membershipmanager@trailchamber.bc.ca for a digital copy.
Interested in participating? Simply get consent from your subject, snap some pictures, and submit your best photos. Click here for more contest details, including specific requirements.
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