Who: Dean Coté
What: Point and Shoot Photo Exhibit
Where: MY Place
When: through December
Walking around Whistler one would notice this place is perfect for filling the photo album. Even the most amateur snappers among us have been caught capturing Kodak moments. The mountains, the lakes, the bears, the bikes, boarders and skiers – it’s a constant source of inspiration. But if you’re anything like me, the end result of your instant camera clicks turns into a negative nightmare when you get your photos back.
It’s time us unsuccessful hacks learned from the "professionals" and local photographer, Dean Coté, is here to help. In his first gallery exhibit, titled Point and Shoot , the Farmers Market stall regular has brought his best and rarest images to the walls of Millennium Place during December.
Coté proves there is hope for us all, when it comes to taking top quality shots. He is a photographer with no formal training, but as a hobbyist has taken the time to cultivate his craft through trial and error. He has tapped into a natural talent for knowing when to click.
"I’m just a guy who carries my camera constantly and I am very conscious of what’s going on around me. I’m essentially a scout who knows the area well, and that’s the best advice I can offer," said Coté.
The Point and Shoot exhibit is unique because the photos are not touched up in any way.
"I have not used filters, there’s no digital enhancement, no hydro lines, and none of my models are professional," Coté said. "My rationale was to show that good photos could be taken with just a little preparation."
One of Coté’s favourite images was taken while riding his bike home from work.
"I saw a bank of low cloud rolling across the valley and I just knew it was going to be incredible. So I thought of a great vantage point to go to, which was Rick’s Roost, and when I got there, the clouds had rolled in a little more and the moment was captured beautifully."
Coté’s exhibit offers a different take on Whistler’s landmarks.
"I’ve tried to add a little emotional and spiritual context to the postcard pictures we’ve all seen," he said. "People don’t want to see the standard snap anymore, they want the alternative view. The nice, alpine summer scene is out. Everyone wants the cold, wintery mountain shot that is a little moody but makes you think about what you’re seeing," he said.
The Point and Shoot exhibit is free. Coté will be on-hand one night a week to give a personalised tour of his works. Consult his Web site www.whistlervalley.com or drop in to MY Place for more details.
