The Cumberland forest is filled with recreation trails for running and biking, amazing trees and streams, heritage landmarks and lots of critters.
Which makes it an ideal location for the photo enthusiast to find inspiration.
Photographers Boomer Jerritt and Karen McKinnon, of Illuminate Photo Education, invite you for a Shoot-Out in the forest. A Shoot-Out is an opportunity to photograph outdoors, surrounded by other creative individuals with the support of two photography professionals.
Boomer and Karen will provide an introduction, with tips and inspiration and then set you loose with your camera, while they walk around providing one on one support.
The event, March 29 from 1 to 3 p.m., is open to all ages, all cameras, and all levels of creatives.
"We really hope to see a great variety of people join us, from experienced shooters to families with young children," said McKinnon.
McKinnon and Boomer are asking for a suggested donation of $10 to benefit the Cumberland Community Forest Society, which will wrap up its massive fundraising efforts at the end of March. The society is working to raise $1.2 million to purchase this forest and return it to the community.
"This is an incredible example of of talented local professionals stepping up and sharing their gifts in support of our campaign. This opportunity to be part of a Shoot-out with Boomer and Karen is a huge opportunity for photographers to sharpen their skills and gain new insights from two of the top photographers on Vancouver Island," said Andrew Nicoll, chair of the Cumberland Community Forest Society.
For McKinnon and Jerritt, the area is important to them professionally and recreationally.
"We want to bring awareness to this incredible rich area that is of use by all ages groups, from kids fishing, to people jogging. I personally hike, mountain bike and of course photograph in the area. It is a really worthwhile cause," said Jerritt, adding " It is important to the vibrancy and identity of Cumberland, but really it is about green space for our future."
McKinnon explained, "This is an opportunity for us to have some fun, and inspire others to get their camera out of their bag. The atmosphere will be relaxed and informative. What a fabulous way to spend a Saturday afternoon."
Meet in the Cumberland Recreation Centre Parking lots at 1 p.m. Rain or Shine. FMI: www.illuminateeducation.com or 250-871-4125.
— Boomer Jerritt/Karen McKinnon