CELEBRATING ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES ON EARTH

Winter/Spring 2011 MAKING TRACKS The CELLIST and the LUTHIER SERENITY in NATURE Get outside and Chris and Beth Sandvoss on why Award-winning photographer embrace the season Bragg Creek is music to their hearts John E. Marriott shows respect 1 Winter/Spring 2011

Making Tracks 07 K-Country leaves a lasting impression on all who visit – the winter’s pristine snow allows you to temporarily return the favour

The Cellist, The Luthier and The Creek 19 In this exclusive interview, Chris and Beth Sandvoss explain how living in Bragg Creek helps inspire and fuel their passion for creating music

Serenity in Nature 33 Award-winning photographer John E. Marriott on the importance of respecting nature and wildlife

How to Avoid a Whiteout … and other winter photography tips 48 Regular contributor Dr. Robert Berdan provides a few pointers for enhancing your winter photography

“Contemplation” 36 x 48 inches oil on canvas by Merv Brandel

07 19 33

On the Cover A magnificent lynx surveys the wintery landscape – oblivious to the winter chill thanks to a dense, impermeable coat Photography by John E. Marriott

© Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. Printed in Calgary, Canada on FSC certified paper. Visit: www.fsccanada.org For information about including advertising rates and availability please visit: www.braggmag.com, Purveyors of fine original art since 1987 email: [email protected], or call: (403) 949 3400. Showcasing the wondrous beauty of nature as seen through the diverse eyes of Western Canada’s most talented artists.

Bragg Creek Village Centre, 16 White Ave. Bragg Creek, AB. Phone: (403) 949 3777 - www.alicatgallery.com BANDED PEAK Communications Cert no. SW-COC-000952 2 3 Award-winning magazine! Amateur A few months ago, I received a telephone governments in recognition of outstanding Winning this National Marketing Award call from a very excited David Kalinchuk, work in the marketing of a unique would not have been possible without the Photographer Economic Development Manager at Rocky geographic region of Canada – quickly hit valuable input from these key contributors: View County, who was eager to share some home. design editor Roy Anstey; copy editor good news: George Guidoni; my wife Kirsten Cook- Competition had just won a National Marketing Award! Zaba, who often does the arduous first edits on my resident profile feature articles; As it turned out, David was so proud of the Tristan Zaba, my son and video editor at magazine, which he has championed since www.braggcreek.tv (our internet-based its inception, that he took the initiative video network); publishing coordinators to submit an award entry on behalf of Megan Moon-Grant and Joan Zaba; and prize * . numerous professional and amateur photography contributors who consistently $ While it sounded very exciting, I wasn’t sure pool what to make of the news at first, having enable us to showcase our beautiful Bragg A little while later, Roy Anstey and myself Submission Deadline is 04/24/2011 never heard of the award until then. Creek in true world-class style. 500 were on our way to pick up the award – a national honour bestowed for our Lastly, a huge thank you to David CONGRATULATIONS But once I had done a little research, the to this issue’s first-place winner, full impact of being selected to receive magazine’s marketing of Bragg Creek and Kalinchuk for taking the initiative to the highly prestigious National Marketing its surroundings – at a gala ceremony held in submit Award – generally handed out to municipal Quebec City. for a National Marketing Award, as well Greg Romp as for his continued tireless support and and to the second and third-place winners, encouragement! This is your magazine – we want to see more of you! John Kearsley and Ken Johnson We always endeavour to make every fishing, hiking, canoeing, biking … FASHION + OUTLETS + DINING + ENTERTAINMENT issue of however you enjoy the great outdoors. Dwayne Zaba unique, but this issue has a specific Once we have sufficient imagery, Publisher In continuing partnership with Rocky View County and element that makes it special: it we’ll publish an article based around Visit us at www.braggmag.com CrossIron Mills, the $500 prize pool will be shared between contains more amateur photography it in an upcoming issue. or email [email protected] the first, second and third best amateur photography – submitted by the largest number contributions, as selected by our panel. The submission of photographers – than we have had As always, the photographs must be deadline for ’s Summer 2011 in any previous issue. It’s a tribute taken within the greater Bragg Creek Amateur Photographer Competition is 04/24/11. Contributing to your continuing support and your area or Kananaskis. Please also photographers retain full rights over their submissions. individual, personal perspective of confirm that you have permission To qualify, entries must be taken in the Bragg Creek or the land. Thank you. from any recognizable ‘model’ for us Kananaskis region. Full details below. to reproduce their image. See full versions of these photographs Based on the growing number of on pages 11 and 16. submissions, we’d like to take the Thanks once more to all our amateur Thank you to our competition’s guest panelist, human interaction with nature a step contributors, keep ’em coming … professional nature photographer John E. Marriott. further and encourage you to send in and smile! Read his article, Serenity in Nature, on page 33. candid photographs showcasing how *The total prize pool of $500 will be awarded to the contributors of the top three photographs submitted for inclusion in the Summer 2011 issue of , as selected by our panel: 1st Prize – you, your friends and family interact $250; 2nd Prize – $150; 3rd Prize – $100. Prizes will be awarded in the form of gift certificates to CrossIron Mills Outlet Mall. All photographs submitted for inclusion in the Summer 2011 issue will automatically be Additional thanks to our other amateur with the beautiful countryside entered into the Amateur Photograph Competition unless specifically requested otherwise by the contributor at the time of submission. Any photographs received after the submission deadline of 04/24/11 may not be photography contributors in this issue: right here on our doorstep. These Roy Anstey entered into the competition. The panel’s decision is final. The photography contribution, along with the contributor’s name, may be used by Rocky View County and for future Timothy Harder, Justin Howse, Sam Jack, can involve any season or activity: Design Editor promotional purposes, however full rights for all photographic submissions are completely retained by the respective contributing photographers. Photographs submitted by professional photographers, employees of Mary Nichols, Morgan Price, Kailie Sykes. , Rocky View County and CrossIron Mills Outlet Mall, as well as their affiliates 4 and partners, are ineligible for entry. 5 Featured Contributors

John E. Marriott is one of Canada’s most recognized professional wildlife A strong proponent of photographing only wild, free-roaming animals in and nature photographers, with images that have graced the covers of their natural habitat, in 2010 he was named the first wildlife photography Canadian Geographic, OWL, Reader’s Digest, and EXPLORE magazines. columnist for Outdoor Photography Canada magazine. John’s award-winning coffee table photography books are available online at www.wildernessprints.com and across Canada at Chapters, Indigo, and Coles bookstores. You can contact John directly for print, book and greeting card sales, or to license stock images at 1-877-774-3850 or via email at [email protected]. View his blog at blog.wildernessprints.com. John is renowned throughout the industry for his care and respect for the wildlife he photographs, and he brings this mindset into this issue’s photography article, Serenity in Nature, on page 33. He shares some personal experiences that illustrate how important and beneficial it is to be respectful when it comes to photographing wildlife, and provides some simple insights on doing so.

Dr. Robert Berdan has been published in numerous Samantha Chrysanthou and Darwin Wiggett magazines, including Photo Life, Outdoor Nature are professional photographers based in Cochrane, Photographer and Canadian Geographic. He is currently Alberta. Acclaimed for the quality of their an adjunct assistant professor at the University of instructional photo workshops, the powerhouse Calgary. Through his multimedia business, Science & couple are renowned for their accessible teaching Art, he offers royalty-free CDs, prints, photography style during these frequently sold-out events. and video services, computer training, workshops and website development. Visit their websites – www.darwinwiggett.com, Robert is the contributor of the article on page 48 of this issue, How to Avoid www.chrysalizz.smugmug.com – or email them a Whiteout. Read all of his articles, learn about his upcoming workshops, at [email protected] to learn more and view his online courses at www.canadiannaturephotographer.com about their exciting upcoming workshops. For more details, call (403) 247 2457 or email [email protected] Philippe Widling is a widely-published nature Chris Martin’s photography of the Bragg Creek wildlife photographer based in Calgary. His work has appeared and the majestic drama of the Rocky Mountains is in magazines, newspapers, calenders, postcards, Making Tracks found in personal collections, business establishments, books, and on web pages around the world. Philippe is and magazines throughout Canada. He is available available for assignments both locally and worldwide: for group or individual workshops, commissioned this year alone he has completed projects across For some, winter means more time indoors, cozying up by assignments and portraiture – casual and promotional. Alberta, as well as in France, Venice, Italy, and Argentina. the fireside or kicking back in front of the television, but See select prints and canvases at Things to Bragg About, #226 – 7 Balsam Ave., View Philippe’s galleries at www.pwidling-photography.com, email him at for many who live in Bragg Creek, winter’s arrival means in Bragg Creek’s main shopping mall. Image licensing and prints are available [email protected], or find stock images at www.designpics.com. Prints are also it’s time to get outside and make some tracks! at www.chrisphoto.ca where you can view all of his themed galleries. available at Swirl Fine Art & Design, #104, 100 - 7th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB. Contact him directly at [email protected] or (403) 880 2411, or read his blog ______at: www.chrismartinphotography.wordpress.com Rob McKay is a professional nature photographer Fresh tracks lead off to the Kananaskis Rockies in the distance. who practices his art in and around the Calgary area. Tom Nevesely is based in Calgary, Alberta, and covers In addition to spectacular avian photography, Rob is a variety of subject matter, but specializes in Canadian proficient in a multitude of other mainstream photography landscapes and nature photography. His work has services, including product and fashion; agricultural and been published in PhotoLife and exhibited in Europe architectural; commercial and environmental; personal and North America. As an avid outdoorsman, Tom and executive portraiture; weddings; and stock photography. combines his affinity for photography with his passion He also provides workshops and field trips year-round for DSLR camera for hiking, camping, skiing, and traveling. enthusiasts. Acquire new skills, learn new techniques and have fun doing To view Tom’s galleries, or to inquire about the purchase of prints for it! For more details visit his website, www.robmckayphotography.com or personal or commercial use, visit his website at www.tnphoto.ca. contact him directly: [email protected] or at (403) 700 1264. Philippe Widling 6 7 Tom NeveselyTom Philippe Widling Robert Berdan

With K-Country on the doorstep, winter is filled with a plethora of outdoor activities to pursue. From cross- country skiing on the many available trails to snowshoeing, Sam Jack snowmobiling and even ice-fishing – winter in Bragg Creek is truly an outdoor lover’s paradise.

This spread, clockwise from bottom left: If you’re keen to take the family out and are looking for a a peaceful ridge ride provides an safe place to sled or just experience the wintery outdoors, exhilarating valley view; approaching drive to Elbow Falls. The road is closed to cars just beyond Moose Mountain’s fire lookout; the Falls from October through May, but it is still accessible snowshoeing across the frozen Upper by foot, making it the perfect place for a meandering amble Kananaskis Lake; a couple of young where you can enjoy some beautiful scenery from a wide- White-tailed bucks pause on a snowy mound while foraging for food; an open hillside road. Kailie Sykes energized Alsatian excitedly surveys the 8 vast wintery playground that awaits it. 9 The drive to Elbow Falls is only ten minutes west of Bragg Creek, so should you feel more adventurous and

Rob McKay have more time to venture deeper into

Tom NeveselyTom

Ken Johnson

Kananaskis, try the fabulous trails out by Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes. The lakes are picture-perfect throughout the year, but during winter they exude an almost spiritual ambiance. Samantha Chrysanthou Not only is the cross-country skiing and snowshoeing world-class, but the animals are often out in full force. Bring some birdseed along, as some of the birds in the area will gratefully feed out of your hand. Chris Martin

This spread, clockwise from bottom left: a cow moose shows surprising agility just west of Bragg Creek; early sunrise kisses the top of Mount Lougheed near Dead Man’s Flats; the distinctive Snowy owl skims over the wintery landscape; the Downy woodpecker – a year-round resident of K-Country; an unforgettable view of Forget-Me-Not Pond; a thick ledge John Kearsley 10 of ice magically overhangs Elbow Falls. 11 Be sure you stay on the marked trails, as avalanches can be commonplace – especially following heavy periods of snowfall. It’s not unusual to hear the distinct roar of a distant avalanche launching itself down the mountainside. And be mindful of the time – darkness creeps up quickly when you’re in the woods. There is no ambient light in the evenings, which may provide spectacularly magical star-filled skies, but can also make navigating your way after sunset almost impossible.

Closer to Bragg Creek, the Maclean trails allow for use of motorized vehicles. Take your family there for a day of snowmobiling or quad- riding, surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery to be found anywhere. For the equestrian in us all, horseback riding is possible on multiple trails in and around Bragg Creek and K-Country. And with the assistance of local trail-riding companies that are open year-round, there’s no excuse not to saddle up and head on out.

Whichever mode of transport you favour, maps are available from ranger

Darwin Wiggett stations – along with knowledgeable local advice – to help you narrow down your trail choices.

This page, top: a unique view of the river through pine trees near Elbow Falls. Bottom: seasonal lights illuminate Bragg Creek’s main shopping mall.

Next spread, clockwise from top left: windswept ice on Upper Kananaskis Lake exposes some deep cracks; a small red barn in the foothills appears untouched by the surrounding wintery encasement. Bottom strip of photographs: the season shows its impact on the landscape in

John Kearsley many varied and wondrous ways. 12 13 Tom NeveselyTom Philippe Widling Kailie Sykes Chris Martin Justin Howse Mary Nichols Philippe Widling Timothy Harder 14 15 Greg Romp Chris Martin

While out exploring the wintery extravaganza, keep an eye out for all the other creatures also making tracks. Depending on the time of season, bears may be hibernating but the fox, deer, moose and birds are not. This is a tough time of year Chris Martin Where Work Meets for the majority of wildlife, so be respectful of the fact that you are in their backyard. Businesses, leaders and managers that leverage and stimulate learning have an edge in the marketplace and bring out the best in their people. Behold the beauty of winter during a day’s enjoyment in the At Inside Out Experience we utilize an array of original activities which crisp, clear air of the Kananaskis mountains, and then bask encourage experiential learning with powerful and lasting benefits that help you rejuvenate, relax and unwind with your employees or clients. in the gentle warmth of a crackling fire.

Energize, inspire & connect This spread, clockwise from bottom left: a late sunset illuminates We bring people from the inside out. the thick clouds above K-Country; this cow moose politely poses for the camera; a herd of Mule deer completely unaffected by the

Morgan Price heavy snowfall; early sun highlights hoar frost near Bragg Creek. Specializing in: Activities include: outdoor corporate excursions survival skills, fire & shelter building team-building activities map & compass work Next page: a Rough-legged hawk’s wings beat silently over the reward trips snowshoeing snow-covered land – eyes trained on the ground in search of some small motion indicating potential prey. [email protected] (403)949-3305 www.insideoutexperience.com 16 17 Rob McKay The Cellist, The Luthier REALIZE your VISION and The Creek Renowned cellist Beth Root-Sandvoss plays with philharmonic orchestras around the world and is a faculty member at the Mount Royal University Conservatory, as well as the University of Calgary. Her husband Christopher Sandvoss is a world-class luthier who has also enjoyed a career as a soloist, chamber musician, and teacher of the viola and violin. They recently met with our publisher Dwayne Zaba for this interview.

______Technically precise design, exquisitely From single rooms to entire homes, I crafted carpentry, high-end f inishing, over personally guarantee that we’ll turn your Photography by Peter Gold, www.goldphotography.com 100 years of combined industry expertise, (403) 519-5221 vision into something that you’ll cherish and our renowned personalized service all for years to come. combine seamlessly to enhance the value rwolff@timberwolffdesigns.ca of our clients’ homes from the inside out. www.timberwolffdesigns.ca Rod Wolff 18 19 the basic instincts sort of things. Without agriculture, we wouldn’t have a population; without the arts, we wouldn’t be able to feed our spirit.

Where did you two meet?

B: We met at the Banff Centre for Performing Arts. We were both doing short-term winter residencies there and we met playing the Trout quintet by Schubert.

C: We hit it off right away. I think we laughed the whole time we were there. We sort of conspired: We met on the 23rd of September and we got married on December 9. That was 15 years ago.

So you just recognized each other as kindred spirits right out of the gate?

C: Right out of the gate. There were a lot of similarities between us, like loving the outdoors, sharing an agrarian type of background and, of course, the love of culture and music. We had the Chris, when did you first become interested in music? highest respect for each other musically, artistically and, of course, as individuals. Everything just clicked. C: Music had been with me from my earliest memories. At four, I remember singing folk songs with my parents, and at the age of How is the passion that you had for each other when seven we were singing four-part madrigals. I started playing violin at you first met similar to the passion you have for your music? seven. I didn’t want to play the violin at first because my mom played B: I think the passion for music is very similar to when you find your violin, so I thought that only girls played it. But after my parents took soulmate and the person you want to spend your life with. Both me to an all-male string quartet concert, I decided I had to learn to have that intensity and great draw – it’s something you can’t let go. It play violin the very next day. I lived on a farm, and the outdoors and becomes so much a part of you that it starts to define you. music were both a big part of my life – the whole rural experience in the European tradition. C: And it’s a comfortable fit. There’s a sense that it’s the way it should be, and there’s a sense of calmness to that. We all choose our pursuits My parents were very cultural themselves. My mother played the – checking things out at various stages of our lives to see if there’s violin; my father played the cello; my sister played piano and the flute; something that arouses an interest. And when you don’t feel the I played piano and the violin, and a little bit of guitar. To me, music need to look further, you know you have found what you need. was the intellectual and emotional side of life, while the farm side provided the ‘bare earth’ kind of essence. Chris, you are a world-class musician who now spends most of his time making musical instruments. Can you explain what When did your passion for music emerge, Beth? pulled you in that direction? B: I was introduced to music as a nine-year-old student in Wisconsin’s C: My earliest experiences growing up on a farm were watching public school system. The U.S. has a unique approach to music in the my grandfather and uncle building houses, fences, sheds … public schools: they introduce instruments to the children and you can you name it. I was given a framing hammer when I was four choose to play one for only $45 a year. I chose the cello. years old, which I would take to bed with me at night. I loved Did you explore any other instruments? that hammer and I loved building things. I always had to do something with my hands. B: I didn’t have any other instruments at home. I begged for a piano and eventually got one in high-school, but cello was my focus from the When I was grown up, the first and most obvious thing for beginning. I was fortunate enough to have a good orchestra teacher me to build was a viola, because that was my instrument. So who suggested to my parents that they find me a private teacher when I made one, took it with me to play at festivals, and people I was eleven. offered to buy it. I think that made a big impression on me, so I decided to make another one. When did you first get a sense that music was your calling? So how old were you when you made your first instrument? C: When I was seven my mother asked me what I wanted to be, and I said I wanted to be a violinist or a farmer. There was always this dichotomy: the C: I was about 29 years old, working at a violin shop in intellectual academic pursuits versus the hands-on earthy, getting back to Vancouver. When the people running the shop went away 20 21 on holidays, they would ask me to mind the or engineering the instrument. If you use a router or some sort of place – requesting that I don’t go in the a CNC tool, you’re giving up a great opportunity to garner all the back of the shop to bother the workers. Of information this wood is trying to tell you. course, that was the first place I went when By the time I’m finished with my handwork and roughing it out, I the shop was empty. They were very nice already know the arching heights, the type of resistance this wood people who noticed my keen interest and can withstand, and the type of tone it will probably impart. curiosity, so they were fine enough to show me a few things. Some physicists and engineers have made it their life’s work to try to define what makes a good instrument. They have written books and I took to it right away, but I also never equations and it’s all pretty amazing stuff, but they can’t define or wanted to give up playing the music. At recreate it – there is no formula. some point though, I found myself struggling with a year’s worth waiting list for the Are there similarities in creating beautiful music and creating instruments, and the calls kept coming in. beautiful instruments? Talk about passion! I thought music was C. I think there is a fine balance. As with anything, you can always a passion, but this took it to a whole new overcompose or overanalyze, but there is a point where you say it’s level. I’d come home from a concert at about done, it’s complete. There is humanity in flaws: the little chisel marks 11:00 p.m., full tails and bow-tie, head here and there where the varnish can pool, which gives it a life. Just straight down to the workshop and work for as humans are asymmetrical by nature, it is the same for music. If it’s 24 hours straight. I have sometimes worked overproduced and made too perfect, it loses its essence. for 36 hours straight without batting an eye. I used to be on a schedule once where I But I must say that there’s nothing more difficult than performing worked for 36 hours and slept for eight hours music, and Beth is one of the finest cellists on the planet. I’ve played for about two or three weeks. I was not with great musicians my whole life and it is an incredible feeling to trying to work quicker; I just couldn’t stop. play at that level, when it’s in-the-moment, and it’s error-free. It’s not like you can glue a piece back on, or redo something from bar five Describe your overall philosophy as a luthier. one more time. From applause to applause, you have to be perfect, C: It all starts with the natural materials and you also have to impart real emotion. Beth plays with passion – picking the right wood. The tree that and intensity, and she has an incredible colour palette. What she does I recently purchased, for example, was with her bow is remarkable: it’s never strictly aggressive or strictly selected after I went through 80 trees to pick tender, but rather a whole range of all the human emotions that you out the best one, and these were 80 trees could possibly paint with sound. Most people spend their lives just of world-class tone-wood that are shipped to trying to get the physical aspect down, just coordinating the left hand places like Steinway or Marten guitars. Once and the right hand, and then adhering to the music. When Beth plays, you have the piece of wood in your hand you just watch and you go, ‘Yeah, this musician is really involved.’ and it’s dried correctly, it becomes about B: What I’ve observed from first knowing Chris as a highly skilled ‘feeling’ the wood. I don’t use power tools and beautiful violist, and working with him in that capacity because the power tools don’t give me any professionally for a number of years, then watching the transition information, but I can ‘feel’ with the hand take over as an artist with a powerful need to create, is that there tool. I can feel what type of wood it is, and is a similar ultimate challenge in both playing and building. When how it feels underneath the plane. You can you perform, you can always do something differently, and you can tell the grain growth, the crispness of it and change your mind about an infinite number of things because you’re the life within the wood. juggling so many parameters.

You stroke it, you listen to the sound that I find that very similar to violin-making, especially in the fact that your hand makes against the wood, and you no two instruments are the same. There is nothing that is really get a feeling of what that wood is telling consistent because there are so many variables – just like in executing you as you’re working with the gouge a live performance. There’s this naturalness and passion in the and the chisels. Then I make my arching making of the instrument, and at the same time there is this really selections, my arching heights, the widths high level of skill required to make it. So you’re always honing your 22 and the lengths … essentially modeling skills, trying to do it better the next time. 23 Beth, how does it feel to play an instrument that Chris made for you? you can leave all that behind. There is definitely a sense of a retreat to Bragg Creek: We have deer, moose, coyotes, wolves, cougars, owls B: It is really very special. The birth of my cello is an interesting … you name it, it’s all here. story. I was once preparing to play a Haydn D major concerto with an orchestra in Ontario and I had given him a deadline, saying B: From my perspective, I need to be close to the universities and the I wanted to have the cello for a little while before the concert. He airport, and Bragg Creek is very close to both. It’s a nice combination didn’t actually make the deadline: he was a little bit late. But it didn’t because it is so wild and so beautiful, but at the same time I can run matter. When the cello was done, he brought it home and I left with it to my urban existence. And culture is also important to us – not just so I could be by myself to try it out. I loved it from the very moment what we do, but also the art galleries, plays, theatre, opera, and things that I put the bow on the string: it was everything I wanted! It had on the fringe like indie film festivals. For us, it’s really important to all the range of sounds and colours that you could want, no matter be able to partake in that, and also to have it for our children. what kinds of things you’re playing. If I’m playing something that’s C: We can go to the Glenbow Museum or the Telus Science Centre aggressive and really intense, it has that; if it’s something that’s very and be back home in our beautiful setting in 35 minutes. I grew up sweet and intimate, it has that; and everything in between. I was well in Vancouver, but when I first moved to Calgary and discovered the into my career when he made the cello, so I knew what I was looking Bragg Creek area, I fell in love with the fact that there’s a big city for. It was an intense situation, to have this instrument and to try it nearby, with all that we need, but there is also a sense of calm to out as my voice, but it was somehow just right. it, the proximity of Banff and Lake Louise, the ski hills … you can’t C: We were living on an island in Ontario, really get that in Vancouver: You can look having taken a one-year sabbatical, when at the mountains, but getting there is I thought it was the right time to make troublesome. her a new cello. I had made eight or nine How does Bragg Creek inspire what you do? cellos prior to that, with good success, but I thought that Beth had to have something C: I feel a sense of calm. I have deadlines, extraordinary. So I worked 84-hour weeks but there isn’t the overwhelming sense for her deadline. It was very intense work, of urgency in the whole life experience. but it made for a great cello. It was meant Truthfully, I could work in any for her; I built it for her. I didn’t build it environment with violin-making because and crannies under the trees. They sled, they any differently than I would build any it is my passion. I could work with the build, and they have a great respect for wild other instrument, but everything just subway train roaring by, but would I animals because they’re so fortunate to see came together perfectly, just one of those be happy? No. Here I have happiness, them up close. We have moose that traipse magical things. The cello’s premiere was timed to coincide with the peace and calm. I look out my window and see wildlife and Moose through the yard, so we see the babies, twins concert, and five days later we arrived at our new home in Bragg Mountain. I can hike, visit my friends, or just hop over to the hamlet if sometimes, when they still have that beautiful, Creek. About a month after that, the cello won the highest award I need a break. I’m not constantly surrounded by noise, traffic lights, fuzzy red fur. possible for tone at an international violin-making competition. The light pollution and all those other things that can cause anxiety in C: They birth right across the street, and come best of the world were competing with their instruments, and it was one’s life. Here I have balance. up around the back of the house every summer, her cello that won it! Beth, at times you lead a fairly hectic existence. Does Bragg Creek like clockwork, a few days after their birth. What inspired you to come to Bragg Creek? provide you with the same sort of balance that Chris is talking about? B: We love it too, of course. When I drive back B: Since we got married, we would often drive out here from Calgary B: Absolutely. I do lead a very urban and contemporary lifestyle, from the city, I’m facing west and looking at a few times a year. It’s year-round evergreen, which is not very whereby I often find myself in the city or going off to a concert. the mountains, and as I get closer to Bragg common in this particular region. It’s a visual pleasure. Coming home to Bragg Creek daily, or coming back from a tour, is Creek, it’s just so beautiful. You leave the other very serene and calm. I cherish the beauty of the place and being able things behind and you’re able to start fresh C: It’s paradise. I moved to Calgary in 1990, five years before Beth, to experience it by walking in it, smelling it, and touching it. with your creativity and music-making: onto and I remember coming out here back then. There was such an the next project, the concert’s over, the next intensity the first time coming out that I can remember thinking, Also, it’s very important for our two children and how we want them one’s on the horizon, there’s other music to ‘Yeah, they can bury me up here somewhere.’ You drive from the city, to see and experience life. It was a major factor in our decision to learn. And it just feels good. you see the mountains, and you just leave the city behind. Life is busy move out here. We both grew up in the country and, in a way, I think enough as it is, with so many stresses and the whole electronic age it creates a kind of ruggedness, beauty and heartiness. And there’s Watch the video interview at imposing its immediacy on us all the time. And here’s a place where plenty of creativity in that. Our kids have forts, and all sorts of nooks www.braggcreek.tv

24 25 SOUTH BRAGG CREEK ESTATE

Perfectly situated on 9.5 acres in built-in antique Chinese screen in the cherry flooring extends throughout Discover the pure essence of fine living South Bragg Creek, this spectacular, foyer hinting at the thoughtful design the main level – creating a delightful in the grand master suite, which features energy-efficient custom home blends expression and the outstanding details balance to the bold, imposing fir incredible mountain views and a lovely, the timeless spirit of the Rocky found throughout this truly stunning, timber-frame. double-sided gas fireplace that can also Mountain foothills with the innovative 8,000-square-foot home. be enjoyed from the soaker tub in the architectural style of Frank Lloyd The magnificent gourmet kitchen en-suite. The spa-like, 11-piece en-suite Wright. The elegant living room features is the unmistakable heart of this features heated limestone flooring, picture windows facing to the south, extraordinary home, where traditional double sinks, a relaxing six-foot bubble Stepping into the front foyer east and west, along with a lovely, hand craftsmanship meets lavish tub, a towel-warming drawer, a double immediately immerses one in stylish limestone double-sided gas fireplace contemporary convenience in an steam shower, and access to a huge character and quiet luxury, with a to the north. The rich glow of Japanese inspired blend of limestone floors, walk-in closet with a convenient Miele granite countertops, custom maple washer and dryer. The master suite cabinetry and high-end appliances. The also houses an extraordinary library, kitchen’s stunning granite island offers with pocket doors leading out to the a terrific place for casual dining, while bedroom area and the front foyer. its comfortable sitting area provides a perfect setting to relax with a An impressive staircase of Indonesian soothing cup of tea. The open-concept mahogany leads to the upper level dining room provides an elegant loft, containing a terrific meditation space for guests to fully appreciate spot with a beautiful gas fireplace and the mahogany deck and the alluring 360-degree views of the spectacular outdoor living space. surrounding landscape.

26 Tel: 403 949 3400 - [email protected] - www.braggcreek.net 27 As with the upper floors, the luxurious lower level boasts exemplary finishing, high ceilings and superb views, with the striking, open-concept living space containing a fantastic game room and a bright family room beyond. A terrific space for entertaining guests, the lower level boasts a deluxe wet- bar and a stunning home theatre, with overnight visitors guaranteed to enjoy a restful stay in one of the three spacious bedrooms nearby.

The beautifully anointed guest wing boasts an exceptional home office and a fully self-contained suite with a full kitchen and two spacious bedrooms – each boasting its own four-piece en-suite bathroom. Guests are sure to enjoy the breathtaking mountain views, along with the convenience of a washer, dryer, and their own private access.

This impeccable property is further enhanced by an 880-square-foot workshop, and it is well-equipped for horses, complete with a barn and outdoor riding arena.

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28 29 11 ECHLIN COURT 22 ELK WILLOW ROAD

Discover this charming log cabin set charm is exquisitely balanced by a full while offering its own private access Situated on two picturesque acres in West Featuring an island, stainless-steel each with its own large closet, sharing on a sun-filled, half-acre property in range of modern-day conveniences to the outdoors. Likewise, the two Bragg Creek and bordering environmental appliances and a large pantry, the sunny a nearby four-piece bathroom with an the beautiful hamlet of Bragg Creek. subtly integrated throughout the home. large guest bedrooms radiate warm reserves on two sides, this sunny home kitchen seamlessly integrates into a integrated tub and shower. country hospitality with their smooth offers the perfect country setting on a bright dining area, which features a big Nestled at the end of a quiet cul- The cozy living room boasts bright logs and big, bright windows. remarkably pristine property. bay window to offer terrific views of the Surrounded by environmental reserves de-sac next to a wooded municipal windows and a floor-to-ceiling wood- surrounding natural beauty outdoors. and overlooking the Elk Valley – a reserve, this rustic heritage cabin burning fireplace accentuating the A walk through this exceptional The inviting entrance is flooded with wildlife corridor that is home to is celebrated in local folklore as a original country feel of this charming property – situated a stone’s throw natural light to provide a perfect welcome Just off the kitchen, additional storage numerous species of animals, birds former home to a high-ranking officer living space, with beautiful log beams away from the Bragg Creek and the to this cheerful family home, whose space, a well-designed home office, and flora – this park-like property is a of a Fort Calgary outpost in the days punctuating the vaulted cedar ceiling. Elbow River – is a beautiful, naturally beautiful hardwood extends throughout and a two-piece powder room perfectly fantastic retreat in the woods. gone by. rejuvenating experience that is greatly the main level. The charming living room round out the main floor with easy The bright and airy country kitchen enhanced by its close, walking- features bright windows, with great access to the attached, two-car garage. With close proximity to all the prime Full of country warmth and unique features hardwood floors, along with distance proximity to the quaint views overlooking the Elk Valley, and a hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails, character, the cabin provides a generous cupboard and countertop shops, gourmet restaurants, and other big sliding glass door leading out to the The bright flow continues throughout the this property offers a unique opportunity peaceful throwback to simpler times, space. Vaulted ceilings extend many amenities located within the back deck and the enchanting woodlands upper level to reveal a luxurious master to enjoy the area’s natural splendour and as well as a beautiful complement to throughout the bedrooms, including hamlet. beyond. This delightful room is further bedroom featuring large windows, a a peaceful lifestyle a mere 30-minute the surrounding natural landscape. the comfortable, rustic master enhanced by the beautiful, brick wood- spacious closet and a four-piece en-suite drive from Calgary. With striking logs, hardwood floors bedroom beautifully illuminated by a Offered at $430,000 burning fireplace that fills the entire space bathroom. The upper level also contains Offered at $665,000 and vaulted ceilings, the cabin’s rustic large window and a massive skylight, www.braggcreek.net with lively country character and warmth. two nicely appointed guest bedrooms, www.braggcreek.net

30 31 This gorgeous, custom-built Douglas-fir log home is nestled on two beautiful acres in the prestigious Wild Rose Estates of West Bragg Creek. Warm and inviting, this spacious well-designed home fits perfectly into the spectacular natural landscape surrounding it.

Full of country charm and character, the relaxed, open design features soaring vaulted ceilings and huge windows, bringing the full splendour of the surroundings indoors. Perfectly complementing the natural beauty of the logs, the stunning stone fireplace Serenity in provides a magical focal point for the living room and the fire can also be enjoyed from the adjacent formal dining room.

The heart of this remarkable country home is its large, open kitchen boasting beautiful pine cabinetry, a big walk-in pantry, and Corian Nature countertops with seamless sinks. Just off the kitchen, direct access to the sunny, southfacing by John E. Marriott back deck provides for endless barbecuing and outdoor entertaining possibilities. It’s 6 a.m. and I’ve found my first subject of the day. An aura of peace and tranquility fills the Perched atop a grassy ridge in front of me is a coyote, 127 WILD ROSE home’s large master bedroom, where a basking in the early rays of sunlight. I check him out beautiful bay window streams morning through my binoculars, trying to decide if I should creep sunshine onto the hand-hewn log walls, in closer for some portrait shots or stay back and take CLOSE photographs with a longer lens. In the end, it’s an easy bathing the whole room with a majestic golden glow. This beautiful room also features decision. Rather than disturb the coyote from its morning ‘His’ and ‘Her’ closets, along with a spacious, revelry, I set up my 500-mm telephoto lens and snap a four-piece en-suite bathroom. series of shots of the coyote laying comfortably in the sun, framed by the faded Opal Range in the background. The bright upper-level loft can serve as a home office, an artist studio, or simply a relaxing retreat. A wonderful place for rest and recreation, the lower level consists of a large family room with a wood-burning stove and two large guest bedrooms, each with its own four-piece en-suite.

This enchanting property includes a detached two-car garage and a nice mix of landscaping and natural woodland. A superb residential location, the Wild Rose Estates development also includes a private lake, tennis courts and picnic areas. Offered at $825,000 Watch property video at www.braggcreek.tv 32 Properties continue on page 42 33 In Kananaskis Country, where we’re blessed to have an incredible array of animals living in a spectacular and wild mountain environment, binoculars and big lenses are invaluable tools for anyone wanting to view or photograph wildlife. They allow you to keep your distance while watching and photographing dangerous animals like moose, mountain lions and grizzly bears, while also ensuring you do not disrupt those animals from their daily routines.

Several winters ago, I set up near a moose carcass in the dead of winter hoping to photograph something coming to feed on it. Because of my long lens, I was able to camouflage myself quite far back from the moose, keeping myself and my scent away from the kill and well-hidden from any potential visitors. After several hours, I was fortunate enough to have a lynx walk in – as shown on the front cover – and feed on the moose for half an hour, never once suspecting that a human was sitting in the bush 70 metres away.

This spread, clockwise from left: a bull moose stands its ground in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park; a family of Grizzly bears ambles through Highwood Pass; a Pine marten peeks out from below the snow; a White-tailed buck stands proudly in Spray Valley Provincial Park.

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Bathrooms • Floors • Fireplaces • Kitchens • Patios • Infloor Heating 34 35 This spread, clockwise from bottom left: Keeping your distance and using long lenses can even be valuable in late October. I drove right up to her and stopped the car, only a cautious Snowshoe hare near for roadside wildlife viewing. Much like a three-year-old who knows to be surprised to see the three bears promptly march off into Upper Kananaskis Lake; a bull and cow it’s being watched, a roadside animal simply won’t act naturally if the bush and out of sight. Half an hour later the bears were out moose stroll casually by Mount Shark; you pull up right beside it and leap out of the car with a camera in again, foraging in the deep snow at roadside. Again I drove right up, White-tailed deer pause from grazing tow. In fact, it’s most likely to run like the wind if you don’t give it causing the bears to take off and leave me and my camera in their beside Highway 40; a Pika squats a bit of space. By contrast, staying back and watching from afar can rearview mirror. Finally getting smart to the situation, I spotted motionless in Highwood Pass; a chilly provide you with some memorable wildlife viewing encounters. them pop out of the bush up ahead, and rather than race up there, Mud Lake in Peter Lougheed Provincial I got out my camera and a telephoto zoom lens to photograph them Park perfectly reflects the cloud-kissed mountains beyond. When I was starting out in professional photography more than as they walked across the snow-covered landscape in the distance. 15 years ago, I ran into a mother grizzly and her two cubs high in My change in tactics was rewarded with an hour-long encounter, the alpine along Highway 40 in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park rather than a fleeting five-second one.

36 37 A telephoto lens and some patience are particularly handy in the I often photograph an animal with several different lenses, using the winter, when most wildlife is under a certain degree of food-related big telephoto to show more detail, while using smaller zooms to stress. Deer, elk, and moose find it harder to move about in the valley place the animals in their spectacular Kananaskis habitat, or even just bottoms and get the forage they need, so they’re often conserving to photograph the scenery on its own. This enables you to tell a more their energy to try to find food. If we get too close to them trying to complete story with your photographs, rather than going home with take pictures, we can often force them into expending a lot of energy a series of animal head shots that could have been taken at the zoo. by trying to get away from us in the deep snow, which can make the If all you have is a small point-and-shoot camera, try photographing difference between them surviving a winter or not. animals within their beautiful mountain setting, rather than forcing yourself close enough that you’re likely going to disturb them. For smaller animals, a large lens lets you zoom in on the action, whether it’s a pika posing on a rock or a Pine marten popping out of In the end, keeping your distance from wildlife by using longer lenses the snow as if to ask, “Is that photographer guy still around?” and binoculars will not only let you enjoy longer and more natural encounters with the animals, but it will also provide you with greater But taking great photos of wildlife and nature is not necessarily photo opportunities, as well as leave you with a better appreciation always about having to use a big lens. Sometimes a wide-angle for the amazing mountain backyard we have here in Alberta. scenic shot of a set of moose tracks going through the landscape can tell as good a story as a picture of the moose itself. Similarly, Watch a video interview with John E. Marriott on location in the using a smaller zoom lens for your photos, while still maintaining a wilderness at www.braggcreek.tv Available mid-February, 2011. respectable distance from the animal you’re photographing, often leads to images that do a wonderful job of showing the animal in its natural environment. This page: moose tracks in the Smith-Dorrien Valley indicate a recent visitor. Next page: Mount Lorette and the Kananaskis River.

38 39 john e. marriott ______J.E.M. PHOTOGRAPHY

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Canadian Wildlife Photography Tours offers photography tours and workshops for all skill levels. Choose from tours and expeditions for more advanced wildlife photographers, or take a wildlife photography workshop geared towards beginners and intermediate photographers.

Join John in Churchill, Nunavut, Jasper, the Great Bear Rainforest and beyond for your opportunity to photograph Polar bears, Grizzly bears, muskox, caribou, “With over 20 years of time-served journeyman experience, orcas, elk, Bighorn sheep, Spirit bears and more. we provide craftmanship guaranteed to protect your home ______against the elements for years to come. Andy Scott - Owner ” Contact John today and start your • Roofing, Siding, Soffits, Fascia, Eavestroughs Canadian Wildlife Photography Tour! • Five year Installation Warranty • Residential & Commercial • Fully Licensed & Insured WEBSITE • Senior and Military www.canwildphototours.com Discounts C O N T A C T [email protected] – 1-877-774-3850 Contact us today to reserve a complimentary Roof Inspection and Consultation BLOG blog.wildernessprints.com (403) 932-1216 • www.caledonianexteriors.com

40 A female wild wolf pads casually across the heavy snow. 41 This beautiful cedar hillside bungalow This remarkable, 3,600-square-foot-plus is nestled on two beautiful acres in the structural timber-frame home crowns over prestigious Wild Rose Estates of West three beautiful acres in west Bragg Creek. Bragg Creek, which includes a private lake The exceptional property features stunning for fishing, canoeing and swimming, plus views of the foothills and the majestic tennis courts and picnic areas. It is close to Rocky Mountains. Nestled in a lovely mixed the amenities in the hamlet and only five forest on a sunny ridge, this estate-quality minutes from Kananaskis Country. home provides a perfect complement to the surrounding natural splendour. Oak hardwood flooring and vaulted ceilings are enhanced by a marble-faced, wood- Hardwood floors, soaring vaulted ceilings, burning fireplace in the living room, giving glowing timber beams, and a floor-to-ceiling the whole room a relaxed elegance. The main rundle-rock, wood-burning fireplace give the level has oversized windows and skylights living room an impressive rustic elegance that not only brilliantly illuminate the home, that spreads throughout the entire home, but also help bring the peaceful beauty of with huge windows providing generous the natural landscape indoors. natural light and breathtaking mountain views. Great for entertaining, the dining The large, well laid-out kitchen has a walk- room boasts access onto the expansive in pantry, offers lots of cupboard and cedar deck for guests to indulge in the countertop space, and opens up to the magnificent vistas and fresh country air. beautiful bright eat-in atrium. Entertain in the adjacent formal dining room, where guests The kitchen is a gourmet chef’s delight can enjoy lovely views of the surrounding with granite countertops, under-mount forest and direct access to the terraced deck. sinks and stainless-steel appliances, including a top-of-the-line gas range. A 48 FAWN HILLS The entire home has a comfortable flow that large, bright main-floor laundry room, extends through to the master and guest equipped with new front-loading machines, 321 WILD ROSE bedrooms. The main level also boasts a affords lots of storage and workspace DRIVE bright laundry/mudroom with direct access room. The main level also has two large to the two-car garage. guest bedrooms, each featuring beautiful timber beams, big bright windows, and an Delightfully enhancing this home, the adjacent four-piece bathroom. lower walk-out level provides an additional 1,800 square feet of living space. A huge Gentle elegance extends upstairs into the family room boasts oversized windows, gorgeous family library and the luxurious an impressive rock-faced gas fireplace, and master suite that features grand vaulted built-in cabinetry. French doors lead to a ceilings, large windows, and a spa-like, soundproof guest suite with an adjacent seven-piece en-suite bathroom. sitting room and a four-piece bathroom. Perfect for rest or recreation, the naturally- The property backs onto an environmental bright lower level features a rundle-rock reserve with lovely walking paths that gas fireplace, a wet bar and oversized greatly enhance the property, making it feel windows offering terrific views. The lower much larger. An amazing forest hideaway, level also has a big guest bedroom, a this property offers an extraordinary chance four-piece bathroom, direct access to the to enjoy a peaceful resort lifestyle just 30 sunny patio and an attached, oversized minutes from Calgary. two-car garage. Offered at $700,000 Offered at $1,250,000 Watch property video at www.braggcreek.tv Watch property video at www.braggcreek.tv 42 43 OVER 320 ACRES ON KANANASKIS

These two contiguous quarter sections of Backing directly onto the famed land in South Bragg Creek offer some of Kananaskis Country – a stunning forestry the most extraordinary panoramic vistas reserve that extends directly into Banff imaginable, but this is just the beginning, National Park – the property is blessed with as the property provides direct access to an abundance of natural marvels, such as a 4,200 square kilometres of Crown land. meandering mountain stream and an old- growth forest, underpinned with ancient

The expansive views to the east reach well rock outcroppings. beyond the Calgary city skyline, while looking westward provides a majestic Offering tremendous investment and scene of pristine rolling sunny meadows development potential, this breathtaking 164 Acres at Aspen Creek – Offered at $2,500,000 and dramatic valleys – all set against the property – bridging the adjacent 160 Acres at Pine Ridge – Offered at $2,000,000 glorious backdrop of the majestic Rocky communities of Pine Ridge Estates and Mountains. Aspen Creek Estates – is conveniently Watch property videos at www.braggcreek.tv located a mere half-hour drive from Calgary.

44 45 This spectacular country estate with a one-of-kind custom log home, is perfectly situated on eight peaceful and private acres in South Bragg Creek.

The open-concept main level features soaring vaulted ceilings, pine plank floors, huge windows and a remarkable floor-to-ceiling, stone wood-burning fireplace.

The classic country kitchen boasts pine cabinetry, stone floors, and an island with an eat-in bar. The kitchen extends seamlessly into the dining room, which boasts a terrific wood-burning stove with a beautiful stone surround. Enjoy wonderful views of the scenic landscape through the sliding glass doors, which SUNNY HILLSIDE HOME also provide access to the expansive wraparound deck and a covered veranda. The main floor also contains two large This beautiful, highly energy-efficient The large gourmet kitchen is every chef’s with extensive built-in shelving, which bedrooms and a four-piece bathroom home is perfectly situated on 4.82 delight, featuring granite countertops, overlooks the living room below. with an antique claw-foot soaker tub. extraordinary acres in the stunning custom cabinets and stainless-steel South Bragg Creek countryside. Nicely appliances. Great for entertaining, the The grand master bedroom features WEST LEISURE A custom-made log staircase leads treed and private, this terrific location kitchen, dining and living rooms all offer bright windows, a private covered deck, upstairs to the luxurious master suite, offers spectacular vistas of the Rocky access to the spectacular wraparound deck a six-piece en-suite bathroom with a featuring a quiet sitting area with a Mountain foothills. – perfect for treating guests to breathtaking jetted tub, a glass shower and a walk- LAKE parlor stove, a six-piece ensuite and a views of the rolling valleys. The main floor in closet. The upper level also houses private deck. The home itself is an impressive also contains a lovely guest bedroom, a another large bedroom and an adjacent extension of the surrounding natural bathroom, and a bright laundry/mudroom four-piece bathroom. There is an additional 1,700 square feet of magnificence – offering a luxurious that leads out both to the deck and an living space on the lower walkout level. country haven filled with all the modern oversized, three-car garage. The lower walkout level features nine-foot With in-floor heating throughout, this comforts. The elegant living room ceilings, huge windows, a large family room, is a great place for friends and family boasts soaring vaulted ceilings, plenty of Gleaming, recycled fir plank flooring two additional guest bedrooms and a to rest and relax in comfort. The family windows and a double-sided, floor-to- extends throughout the main and bathroom – all boasting the same high- room has a fantastic Chicago-brick ceiling custom stone fireplace that can upper levels to enhance the home’s quality finishing. wood-burning fireplace, wonderfully also be enjoyed from the open-concept warm, country character. The custom Offered at $938,500 complemented by gorgeous Mexican-tile kitchen and dining rooms. staircase leads to a large library loft Watch property video at www.braggcreek.tv flooring. This level also houses two large bedrooms, an office, and a beautifully- designed three-piece bathroom.

This gorgeous property features a three- car detached garage with an integrated workshop, a log gazebo and swing, and a studio-sized cabin in the woods.

Offered at $997,000 Watch property video at www.braggcreek.tv 46 47 Unfortunately, when it comes to taking photos a tightly-sealed plastic garbage bag before As with all seasons, the quality and during winter, modern cameras can’t do it all bringing it indoors, allowing your equipment direction of light during winter can help for you. Most cameras underexpose scenes to warm up gradually. Condensation may be create effective photographs, while side- that are predominantly white, resulting in allowed to occur on the bag, but not on your lighting can enhance the dimensionality and How to Avoid a Whiteout snow that appears gray. To capture winter equipment. If you are traveling by car you texture of snow or ice to create interesting scenes correctly you’ll often need to increase shouldn’t need to do this, as the air inside shapes, especially among snow mounds. Crystallized snow and ice create a floating “pancake” the exposure, but be careful: overexposing the car is usually dry. Most digital cameras … and other winter photography tips your image will create an image “whiteout.” can handle the wintery cold almost as well I rarely use lens filters in the winter, but I as film-based cameras, so feel free to take sometimes use a 2 F-stop hard-edge neutral The exact amount of exposure varies for each your digital camera outside. density graduated filter to darken the sky on by Dr. Robert Berdan composition and depends on what other white-sky days to make them look ominous. tones may be present. If the scene is mostly For pristine winter landscapes, especially A polarizer can help deepen the sky’s colour white, increasing exposure about 1.5 F-stops after a fresh snowfall, look for interesting on blue-sky days, as well as darken the tone works well. If it contains dark tones such as shapes, tones, textures and contrasts. On when photographing ice and water. If it is trees, water or blue sky, then try increasing overcast winter days, the usually soft and snowing heavily, you may have to turn your exposure by only 0.5 to 1 F-stop. Your camera diffused light is ideal for portraits and camera’s autofocus off to prevent if from manual should have exact instructions on sweeping landscapes, and the absence of focusing on the snow, instead of the scene how to alter exposure: just don’t forget to colour can create some great black-and-white or your subject. The stark contrast of an old red barn against a snowy backdrop reset it back to zero after you’re finished. The images. When processing photos with digital correct exposure is critical when shooting image editing software, shoot in colour Hoar frost and rime form an opaque coating JPG files, but if you’re shooting RAW files, and then convert your images to black-and- of tiny, white, granular ice particles caused as many professional photographers do, you white, as it provides more control over the by the rapid freezing of super-cooled water can finetune the exposure afterwards in tones. On blue-sky days the angle of the sun droplets on impact with a cold object. This Adobe Photoshop. In general, to obtain better can create a variety of interesting shapes and beautiful type of ice usually forms after exposures in winter, if it’s bright, add light. designs on the snow, with shadows tending an evening fog to encrust trees, grass and to have a blue cast. To capture some colour fences, while snowflakes themselves are a Most digital cameras function quite well in the in winter landscapes you will need to get form of frozen water with six-fold symmetry. cold, so long as you take a few precautions. out at sunrise or sunset. Alternatively, look If you are outside with your compact camera, for coloured barns, wooden fences, roads To sum it up, the main points you need to Spectacular rime formation keep it inside your coat pocket to keep the vanishing off in the distance, or other such remember in order to capture spectacular batteries warm. If you have a large SLR subject matter to add colour. photos this winter are: camera, keep it in an insulated camera bag • Overexpose winter scenes by 0.5 to 1.5 wrapped in a small blanket or scarf and, to I particularly like taking pictures when it’s F-stops by using your camera’s exposure prolong battery power, store a chemical hand snowing: it just feels “wintery,” and spotting compensation button; warmer next to the camera. Remember, always wildlife in winter can be easier against • If possible, keep your camera and a spare keep a spare set of warm batteries inside your the white snow. Deer, moose, coyotes and set of batteries warm; coat pocket – lithium ion batteries should foxes are often found beside country roads. • To prevent condensation, place your cold function for a couple of hours at -20 C. When Keep an eye out for commonly found birds camera inside a sealed plastic bag before bringing a cold camera into a warm moist – eagles, owls, Snow buntings, Blue jays, bringing it into a warm, moist room; room, condensation can occur on the sensitive dippers, sparrows, crows, ravens, ptarmigan • Search for interesting shapes formed by A Snow bunting nestled in some ground snow electronic components and even inside the and magpies – as well as the Rough-legged the snow and ice; lens. If you take it back into the cold, the hawks, Northern Hawk owls and Snowy • Look for wildlife along rural roads and condensation could freeze and permanently owls who visit our area between the end of around unfrozen water; damage your camera. To prevent that, keep October and March. • If it is snowing, consider using manual your camera, or the entire camera bag, inside focus instead of autofocus. ______

Robert Berdan offers regular photography workshops and private training in Adobe Photoshop. For more information visit his web site and subscribe to his free newsletter. A mule deer and her fawn stand out against the stark, frost-covered landscape www.canadiannaturephotographer.com – (403) 247 2457 – [email protected] 48 Morning side-lighting adds vibrant colour to 49a dirt-track Back of the Book Have you checked out www.braggcreek.tv yet? You have to be in it, to win it!

If you haven’t already done so, be sure to We regularly update www.braggcreek.tv Congratulations to check out www.braggcreek.tv for some with relevant and engaging video content Ken Johnson, the Fall awesome video showcasing the beauty and – the countryside; documentaries; resident 2010 winner of our splendour of Bragg Creek and K-Country, interviews; property tours – to bring the ever- Amateur Photography as well as a feature video on Chris and changing seasonal beauty of Bragg Creek into Competition, (shown Beth Sandvoss – the subjects of this issue’s the comfort of your home. here with his winning resident article on page 19. If you enjoy the submission). written article, be sure to watch the online Heat things up… video showcasing the live interview. The prize pool for the Summer 2011 www.braggcreek.tv is also where issue continues to be $500 and the deadline you can find exclusive footage is 04/24/11. Full details are on page 5 or visit of some of the most spectacular www.braggmag.com. homes in the Bragg Creek region, including most of those We are currently interested in images featured throughout the pages of showing how you experience Bragg Creek this issue. and K-Country, whether you’re with family or friends, skiing, hiking, or simply out enjoying a picnic in the glorious setting of K-Country.

Worth bragging about. We want to thank all the incredible amateur and professional photographers for continuing to contribute their images: especially John E. Marriott and Robert Berdan for this issue’s photography articles. Without all of your generosity and skill, this magazine wouldn’t be what it is! Additional thanks goes to our advertisers, White Elephant Marketing, and George Guidoni.

“Take only pictures, steal only time, leave only footprints.” Anonymous

A solitary coyote treads lightly through the deep snow. Photograph by John E. Marriott in the coolest place. Just west of Calgary, the enchanting Hamlet of Bragg Creek is the perfect outdoor escape for an adventure- filled outing with the kids. Watch their faces glow with excitement as they go tobogganing down the hill. Make snow angels in the fresh white powder. And warm up by a cozy fire with some hot chocolate and marshmallows. Looking for a near-perfect getaway that’s not too far from home? Look no further than beautiful Bragg Creek. www.rockyview.ca

50 51 “Dwayne is by far the most impressive real estate agent we have ever dealt with”

September 8, 2010 To whom it may concern: On August 31 we closed on real estate in Bragg Creek. Dwayne Zaba was the listing agent. We contacted his office initially to view three properties that we had identified in the Bragg Creek area via an internet search. None of these properties met our needs; however, upon returning to his office and after discussing our needs, an additional listing was suggested. It was clear that Dwayne and his team are experts on real estate in the Bragg Creek area. Dwayne was very accommodating to our timetable for the initial viewing and a subsequent visit. He was very knowledgeable about the property and was able to answer all our questions. In no way did he ever push the sale and always left the next step to us. When we decided to make an offer, Dwayne was extremely professional in fairly representing both the seller and buyer in the transaction. We were quickly able to arrive at an agreed-upon purchase price with the seller. The offer was conditional on the inspection of the dwelling and flow/chemical analysis tests of the water wells. Dwayne coordinated all of this for us and had everything completed in an expedited fashion. When we requested a one-day change to the possession date, it was immediately taken care of with no issues. Dwayne also arranged for a session with the sellers to explain the various workings of the utility systems on the property. At close, Dwayne was again accommodating of our timetable and was at the property to do a walk-through. He has since followed up to ensure there are no unresolved issues with the property. Dwayne was most professional, helpful and courteous. He is by far the most impressive real estate agent we have dealt with in our history of buying and selling properties. We would highly recommend him to both buyers and sellers.

Ron and Margaret Wilkinson

52