Photography Blog | Insights from Belleville, Quinte West, Prince Edward County, and The Bay of Quinte Projects.
From vibrant community event features, to stunning local landscapes, join me as I explore the art of photography and the unique stories of our region. Visual Storytelling for Editorial and Commercial clients.
Behind the Assignment: How Crises Spark Renewal at a Sixth-Generation Family Lumber Firm
Peter and Jordan Chisholm stand in front of a stack of logs in the lumber yard at Chisholm Lumber, Roslin, Ontario, on October 27, 2025. / PHOTO DAVID LECLAIR / GLOBE CONTENT STUDIO
I recently photographed an editorial assignment for the business section of The Globe and Mail, telling the story of Chisholm Lumber, a sixth-generation family lumber firm based in Roslin, Ontario, just north of Belleville. The piece explores how this long-standing family business has navigated fires, transitions, and economic shifts — and how each moment of crisis has sparked renewal rather than decline.
Assignments like this are exactly why I love editorial and photojournalism work. They bring together real people, real locations, and stories that sit right at the intersection of heritage, industry, and community. From wide frames of the lumber yard and mill structures, to portraits of the current generation of leadership on site, the goal was to show both the scale of the operation and the human side of a 168-year-old company.
My approach on this shoot was to keep the coverage honest and grounded in the environment. That meant using the natural lines of stacked lumber, the movement of material through the yard, and the textures of the mill itself as part of the visual story. I focused on a balance of:
Environmental portraits of Chisholm family members
Contextual scenes that show how the yard operates day to day
Detail images that speak to the age, resilience, and ongoing investment in the site
As a photographer based in the Bay of Quinte region, it’s meaningful to document stories like this close to home. Roslin, Belleville, and the surrounding communities are full of businesses with deep roots and multi-generation histories. Projects like this one highlight the kind of editorial and business storytelling I provide for publications, content studios, and organizations across Quinte West, Belleville, Prince Edward County, and Eastern Ontario.
Special to The Globe and Mail
Story by: Emily Latimer
📎 Read the Published Article:
How crises spark renewal at this sixth-generation family lumber firm
Below is a gallery of selected images from the assignment.
A Multi-Generation Legacy — Captured for Globe Content Studio
(Left to right) Sol Korngold, Nicholas Sorbara, Greg Sorbara, and Lucas Sorbara stand in what began as the family garden, now expanded to supply fresh cut flowers for their vendor operations. October 9, 2025. PHOTO DAVID LECLAIR / GLOBE CONTENT STUDIO
I recently had the opportunity to photograph a powerful story for Globe Content Studio, highlighting how multiple generations of a family came together to build new opportunities from a long-standing real estate legacy.
Assignments like this are some of my favourites. They combine everything I love about editorial photography — genuine people, honest environments, and stories that reflect the heart of Canadian business. From wide environmental frames on the farm to portraits inside The Royal, this project was a perfect mix of heritage, land, and modern vision.
My approach on assignments like this is always the same: keep the storytelling honest, keep the light true to the scene, and let the people behind the story guide the narrative. This family’s connection to the land and commitment to building something lasting came through in every frame.
Special to The Globe and Mail
Story by: Andrew Seale
Below is a gallery of selected images from the assignment.
Case Study: Lighting a Logistics Corridor — Visual Storytelling in Industrial Spaces
A worker in a Belleville manufacturing facility works at his station in the automotive industry.
The Client Challenge: The Credibility Gap in Low Light
“Somebody hit the lights! No, all of them!”
Sound familiar? If your team is scrambling to make a dim facility look presentable for your website or social, you’re not alone.
Industrial and logistics environments cannot rely on natural light or an ad-hoc approach. These spaces run on precision and compliance, and your visuals need to communicate the same. When a potential client lands on your site and sees flat, dim, inconsistent images—the result of “desperation lighting”—you create an immediate credibility gap.
If the ambient light is too low, your brand looks dull. Shadows hide details. Clients are left guessing.
The solution isn’t “more light.” It’s controlled light—delivered with a system, not a scramble.
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The DLV Approach: Mastering Light and Scale
The challenge isn’t “making it brighter”—it’s shaping light for uniformity across distance.
In logistics corridors and manufacturing floors, ceiling fluorescents and window spill are inconsistent. Our standard is non-negotiable: bring high-output professional strobes on site and build a controlled lighting plan. That’s how every surface, every machine, and every portrait reads clean, sharp, and confident.
Why strobes matter here:
• Eliminate Guesswork
Controlled shadows, crisp detail, and a frame that signals capability—not ambiguity.
• Achieve Uniformity
Consistent colour and exposure from one end of the corridor to the other—critical for internal decks and annual reports.
• Deliver Masterpieces
Images that go beyond “good enough marketing” and become visual assets—the kind you print, frame, and hang with pride.
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What We Deliver: Tangible Results, Real Confidence
Professionalism shows up in the planning, the lighting, and the final feel of the photograph.
A successful commercial assignment isn’t judged only by pixel quality—it’s judged by the confidence and opportunity your visuals unlock. With a DLV gallery, you receive:
• Environmental facility images (scale, clarity, operational flow)
• Clean, branded office scenes (polished, people-first)
• Environmental portraits that feel genuine and attract the talent you need in 2026
The reaction you want (and get):
• “They’re professionals—I want to work with them.”
• “Look how clean that fleet is at the docks—this operation is dialled in.”
This is the power of a systemized visual strategy: it frames your operational excellence with uncompromising professionalism, builds trust fast, and drives high-value inquiries.
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Sample Lighting Plan (Industrial Corridor)
• Key: 2× strobes feathered down the corridor, high stands, 1–2 soft modifiers
• Fill: low-power bounce to lift shadow values without flattening texture
• Accent: narrow grid or bare strobe for edge highlights on machinery/racking
• Colour: custom WB set from grey card; maintain consistent Kelvin across the set
• Safety: taped cable runs; flagged spill to prevent worker distraction
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Gallery Structure (What Clients Receive)
1. Wide scale: long-line corridor with leading lines and clarity at distance
2. Operational mid-shots: loading, scanning, sorting, docking—clear hands/eyes/tools
3. Environmental portraits: team members in context, confident and approachable
4. Detail studies: inventory systems, fleet identifiers, instrumentation, textures
5. Brand plates: signage, uniforms, branded assets for design teams
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Ready to Master Your Visual Narrative?
If your facility demands precision, your visuals should too.
Book a Strategy Call to plan your next industrial, logistics, or corporate photography project.
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Not sure where to start? Share your site and a few reference photos—we’ll propose a lighting plan and a shot list aligned to your goals and timelines.
Available for commercial work across Quinte West, Belleville, Bay of Quinte, and Prince Edward County.
Quinte West Remembers: A Morning of Reflection
Each year on November 11, the community of Quinte West gathers at the Trenton Cenotaph to honour Canada’s fallen heroes.
This year’s ceremony carried a quiet power — the kind that comes from stillness, shared respect, and tradition continuing through generations.
Local cadet squadrons maintained a 24-hour vigil at the cenotaph, standing post through the cold November air. Veterans, dignitaries, and residents lined Dundas Street West as the morning parade made its way from Branch 110 of the Royal Canadian Legion to Fraser Park.
The moment the crowd fell silent at 11 a.m. — broken only by the sound of The Last Post — was one of those pauses that speaks louder than words.
Below are a selection of photographs captured from this year’s ceremony — moments of reflection, unity, and remembrance.
(Photo series by David LeClair — published coverage in The Belleville Intelligencer: Read the full story here)
Serving editorial and commercial clients in Belleville, Quinte West, Prince Edward County, and the Bay of Quinte Region.
View my Editorial Portfolio
© 2025 David LeClair. All Rights Reserved. — contact for image usage.
Firelight Lantern Festival 2025: Picton Glows with Community Spirit
Under a cool November sky, Benson Park in Picton came alive with colour and creativity as hundreds gathered for the 13th annual Firelight Lantern Festival. From glowing costumes and handcrafted lanterns to a lively procession leading to the Crystal Palace, the County once again celebrated light, imagination, and community connection.
Highlights from the 13th Annual Firelight Lantern Festival in Picton, captured by David LeClair.
Participants gather in Benson Park during the 13th annual Firelight Lantern Festival in Picton.
Handcrafted lanterns glow against the November night as residents and visitors celebrate creativity and community.
Musicians lead the parade toward the Crystal Palace during the Firelight Lantern Festival.
A Northfire Circus performer spins illuminated batons during an evening performance.
Northfire Circus performers light up the night with fiery hoop choreography in Picton.
A performer captivates the crowd with a flame-eating act outside the Crystal Palace.
Families explore a tunnel of light inside the Crystal Palace, where the festival concluded with music and displays.
Festival committee president Ryan Henderson, dressed in blue and white, smiles during the Firelight Lantern Festival in Picton.
Spectators wearing glowing jackets and hats enjoy the illuminated celebration under the night sky.
Photos by David LeClair © 2025 David LeClair Visuals. All Rights Reserved.
Read the full story on The Belleville Intelligencer:
Light and Community Togetherness Shine Bright at Firelight Lantern Festival
Captured on assignment in Picton, Ontario for the Belleville Intelligencer and Community Press — celebrating creativity, light, and the spirit of community.
Want to work with me?
7 Creative Ways to Make Money as a Freelance Photographer | David LeClair Visuals
7 Creative Ways to Make Money as a Freelance Photographer (Even Without Client Bookings
Freelance photography is rewarding, but it can take creativity to keep income flowing during slower months. Just because your calendar isn’t full doesn’t mean your camera should sit idle.
With the right strategy, you can turn your skills into steady profit and build long-term value for your brand.
Here are seven creative ways to make money as a freelance photographer—even when you’re not booked.
1. Capture Unbooked Events for Marketing and Tourism Agencies
If there’s a community event, festival, or parade happening nearby, it’s a storytelling opportunity waiting to be captured.
High-quality images from local happenings can be valuable for tourism agencies, marketing firms, or local businesses that need visuals for their campaigns.
✅ Tourism Agencies: Reach out to organizations across Belleville, Quinte West, and Prince Edward County. They’re always looking for vibrant, authentic images that showcase the region.
✅ Local Businesses: If you photograph an event they sponsor, offer to license the photos for their social media or website.
💡 Pro Tip: Always confirm permissions or release agreements before selling or licensing event images featuring recognizable people or private venues.
2. Sell Stock Photography
Stock photography remains one of the easiest ways to earn passive income with your existing portfolio. Platforms like Adobe Stock, Shutterstock, and Getty Images allow you to upload and sell your work worldwide.
✅ Event Photos: Vendors, crowds, and performers can appeal to brands looking for lifestyle imagery.
✅ Local Landscapes: Scenic shots of Brighton, Prince Edward County, or the Bay of Quinte can sell well for tourism and real estate use.
💡 Pro Tip: Focus on clean, timeless content. Avoid trends that age quickly and instead build a catalogue of versatile, evergreen images.
3. License Your Images to Publications
Many media outlets rely on freelancers for visuals. If you’ve covered local events, send your best selects to newspapers, magazines, or online outlets in your area.
✅ Local Outlets: The Belleville Intelligencer and The Trentonian frequently use regional coverage.
✅ Specialty Magazines: Food, travel, or lifestyle publications often buy strong standalone visuals that fit their themes.
💡 Pro Tip: Read submission guidelines first—each publication has unique requirements for size, captions, and delivery.
4. Offer Prints and Wall Art
Print sales are a great way to showcase your artistry and earn income between client sessions.
✅ Fine Art Prints: Sell framed or digital prints of landscapes, architecture, or wildlife. Partner with local galleries or offer limited editions online.
✅ Event Keepsakes: Offer print sales for local festivals, concerts, or community gatherings.
💡 Pro Tip: Promote prints through your social media and blog. People love to support local artists when they see your work displayed beautifully.
5. Collaborate with Local Businesses
Small businesses constantly need fresh photography for their websites and social media.
If you’ve already captured relevant shots—like storefronts, local scenes, or products—reach out and offer them at a fair licensing rate.
✅ Example: A food truck might want professional images you took at a community event.
✅ Idea: Partner with local cafes or retailers to display your prints on commission.
💡 Pro Tip: Building ongoing partnerships with local businesses creates repeat opportunities and valuable word-of-mouth marketing.
6. Create and Sell Digital Products
Digital products let you earn income from your expertise, not just your time.
✅ Educational Guides: Teach beginner photographers about lighting, composition, or editing.
✅ Presets and Filters: Sell Lightroom or Photoshop presets reflecting your unique editing style.
✅ Event Packages: Bundle unbooked event galleries and sell image sets to local tourism boards or sponsors.
💡 Pro Tip: Promote these products on your website and Instagram using short demo clips or before-and-after comparisons.
7. Build Passive Income Through Blogging or YouTube
Your experience behind the lens can also become a source of revenue.
Sharing knowledge builds credibility and generates long-term income through ads, affiliate links, and sponsored content.
✅ Use your blog or YouTube to teach photography, share behind-the-scenes tips, or discuss industry challenges.
✅ Embed links to purchase prints, book sessions, or download resources.
💡 Pro Tip: Create content that answers real questions, like “How to Photograph Live Events” or “What Gear Do I Really Need as a Beginner?”
Conclusion: Make the Most of Every Opportunity
Being a freelancer means learning to think like both an artist and a business owner. Every image you create has value—and with a smart approach, that value can multiply.
Whether it’s selling stock, licensing images, or building partnerships, the opportunities are endless when you stay proactive and creative.
At David LeClair Visuals, I understand the realities of freelancing and the constant drive to create something meaningful. If you’re a photographer looking to grow, or a business in need of authentic imagery, let’s connect.
Ready to Elevate Your Photography Career?
📩 Email: dleclair.visuals@gmail.com
🌐 Website: www.davidleclairvisuals.com
📸 Instagram: @dleclair.visuals
📘 Facebook: D. LeClair Visuals
A Fresh Chapter for David LeClair Visuals
Shooting for The Globe Content Studio was a true blessing. My first assignment with Edwin County Farms and The Royal Hotel in Prince Edward County brought a real sense of accomplishment — and a renewed excitement for where my editorial work is heading.
I’m excited to officially launch the rebrand of my website — a project focused on creating a cleaner, more engaging experience for my clients. The new site features a refreshed design, smoother navigation, and an expanded gallery showcasing a variety of past projects. It’s a space that truly reflects where my work has evolved and where it’s headed.
Over the past month, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with The Globe and Mail and complete assignments with Globe Content Studio. These experiences have been both inspiring and humbling, bringing a renewed sense of confidence and energy to my editorial photography. Expanding beyond local coverage to a national platform has been an exciting step forward — one that has allowed my work to reach a wider audience across Canada.
As 2025 winds down, I’m looking forward to connecting with new clients and continuing to grow creatively into 2026. This year hasn’t been without challenges — I’m currently in the process of recovering a downed hard drive that holds a significant body of work. It’s been a difficult setback, but also a valuable reminder of the importance of strong backup systems.
Moving forward, I’ve doubled my storage redundancy to ensure my work — and my clients’ — is always protected. Losing creative work is something no photographer ever wants to experience, and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone in this field. But every obstacle brings a lesson, and this one has made me even more dedicated to building a resilient workflow for the years ahead.
Explore the New Site
The rebrand represents more than just a new look — it’s a reflection of growth, resilience, and a renewed vision for the future of David LeClair Visuals. I invite you to explore the new website, browse recent editorial and commercial projects, and see how your next story can come to life through authentic, professional imagery.
If you’re a new client looking to collaborate, I’d love to connect.
Serving Belleville, Quinte West, Prince Edward County, and the Bay of Quinte region.
Why Landscape Photography is the Secret to Stunning Professional Photos
Learn how my experience in landscape photography enhances every professional shoot, from mastering light to creating a powerful composition.
Landscape photography was where my photographic journey began. It taught me patience, how to wait for the perfect light, and the skill to compose compelling scenes. These foundational lessons have become integral to how I approach every professional photoshoot today. Whether I’m documenting an event in Quinte West or crafting editorial imagery in Prince Edward County, my experience with landscapes has shaped my ability to create stunning, authentic photos for my clients.
How does landscape photography translate to professional shoots? Let’s explore the connection and how it can elevate your own photoshoots.
How Landscape Photography Influences My Professional Work
Landscape photography teaches essential skills that every professional photographer can apply, regardless of the subject. Here are some key lessons I’ve carried over into my professional work:
Mastering Light In landscape photography, light is everything. This understanding of natural light carries over to client sessions. Whether I’m capturing a couple during their engagement shoot or covering a corporate event, I ensure the lighting enhances the mood and flatters the subject.
Composition for Impact Landscape photography relies on techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and foreground elements to create balance and draw attention to the focal point. These same principles guide my approach to framing subjects in event and editorial photography, making every image more engaging.
Storytelling Through Imagery An incredible landscape photo doesn’t just show a scene—it evokes a feeling. This storytelling approach informs how I frame my professional shoots, ensuring the backdrop aligns with the client’s vision. Every photo becomes part of a narrative, not just a standalone image.
Why Landscapes Matter in Professional Photography
The right landscape or location can transform a photoshoot from ordinary to extraordinary. For clients, landscapes are more than just backdrops—they set the tone and emotion of the image.
Imagine an engagement session framed by the rolling hills of Prince Edward County or a branding shoot with the dramatic dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park. These settings add authenticity and depth, making your photos stand out and feel uniquely personal.
Local Landscape Gems That Inspire My Work
Living and working in Belleville, Quinte West, and Prince Edward County gives me access to incredible landscapes that inspire my work. Some of my favorite local gems include:
Sandbanks Provincial Park: The soft light, dramatic dunes, and serene beaches make this a go-to spot for engagement sessions.
Belleville Waterfront: The interplay of water and sky provides endless opportunities for capturing dynamic, intimate moments.
Rural Quinte West: Rustic barns, winding roads, and open fields create timeless backdrops, perfect for family or editorial photography.
How This Benefits My Clients
My landscape photography background directly enhances the services I provide for my clients. Here’s how:
Framing Subjects: I know how to position clients within a scene to balance them with the environment while keeping the focus on them.
Incorporating Natural Elements: From soft golden light to the movement of wind or water, I bring out the beauty of natural surroundings to enhance the atmosphere.
Scouting Ideal Locations: With extensive local knowledge, I recommend or scout locations that align perfectly with your vision, ensuring every detail supports your story.
Tips for Photographers: Improve Your Work
If you’re a photographer, incorporating lessons from landscapes can take your work to the next level. Here’s how:
Practice Patience with Light: Spend time studying how light changes throughout the day.
Focus on Composition: Experiment with framing techniques like the rule of thirds and leading lines.
Scout Locations in Advance: Have a list of versatile locations that suit different moods and styles.
Let’s Create Something Stunning Together
Whether you’re planning an engagement shoot or need bold, creative imagery for an editorial campaign, I can help bring your vision to life. My expertise in landscape photography ensures harmony between subject and setting, resulting in images that are as stunning as they are meaningful.
Ready to plan your next session? Contact me today to discuss how we can use the beauty of local landscapes to tell your unique story.
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Professional Photography vs. Smartphones & AI: Why it Matters
A powerful moment captured at the Traditional Pow Wow in Tyendinega. Lead dancer Victor Tabobandung of Wasauksing Nation performs for a captivated crowd. Photo by David LeClair.
Are you debating between a professional photographer and relying on your smartphone or AI tools? In a tech-driven world, DIY options may seem accessible and easy. However, when it comes to creating truly impactful, high-quality images, nothing compares to a professional photographer's expertise, creativity, and storytelling ability.
At David LeClair Visuals, I proudly serve Belleville, Quinte West, Prince Edward County, Brighton, Napanee, and Southeastern Ontario with professional photography services. Whether you need commercial photography, event coverage, or editorial images, hiring a professional is more than a choice—it’s an investment in authenticity, quality, and impact.
The Human Touch: Why Professional Photography Matters
1. Storytelling that Connects Professional photography is about more than just taking a picture; it's about telling a story that resonates. Whether it’s covering a corporate event or showcasing a brand’s identity, I know how to turn moments into compelling imagery that reflects your vision and engages your audience.
2. Precision and Expertise You Can Trust AI tools and smartphones are great for quick snapshots, but they can’t replace the technical skill of a professional. High-contrast product shots or dynamic outdoor festivals require more than automation. With professional-grade equipment, advanced lighting techniques, and years of experience, I deliver polished, consistent, and visually stunning images.
3. Creativity that Stands Out AI and smartphone filters may create attractive images, but they lack the human touch. A professional photographer brings artistry, a unique perspective, and creativity to every project. Whether it’s capturing a live concert or creating a mood-rich editorial spread, I ensure your visuals stand out.
Industries That Rely on Professional Photography
While DIY photography has its place, certain industries demand the precision and storytelling only a professional can provide.
Commercial & Editorial: I deliver high-impact visuals tailored to your business, from product shoots to branded content.
Event Coverage: I capture corporate gatherings, music festivals, and community events with consistency and quality.
Documentary & Photojournalism: I provide authentic storytelling for local festivals and significant events across the Quinte region.
The Bottom Line
While smartphones and AI tools may be convenient, they can't match a professional photographer's expertise and storytelling power. I bring your vision to life with precision and artistry, ensuring your images make a lasting impression. My local expertise, tailored approach, and commitment to quality are what make me different.
Ready to Elevate Your Story?
View my portfolios or contact me today to discuss your vision and book your session. Book your FREE no obligation consultation now!
Why Professional Event Photography Matters More Than Ever
Move beyond blurry phone photos. Capture the emotion and story of your event with high-quality, authentic visuals that build your brand's legacy.
Whether you’re organizing a community festival in Quinte West, corporate event in Belleville,, or live performance, your event is a reflection of your brand, your team, and your audience. It’s also a significant financial investment. Even though phone cameras are better than ever, why trust something so important to shaky videos or a few blurry snapshots?
The Truth About Phone Media
It’s tempting to rely on phones—everyone has one, right? Sure, the quality has improved immensely. But even the best smartphone can’t replace what a professional photographer brings: storytelling, intention, and a deep understanding of light, timing, and emotion.
A professional creates powerful images daily and studies photography even when they’re not out shooting. Trust me, it’s not just about clicking a button.
Cellphone photos capture moments.
Professional photography captures the full experience—with depth.
You Only Get One Chance to Document It Right
Events are live, fast, and unscripted. There are no do-overs. A professional photographer is trained to anticipate moments as they unfold—whether it’s a candid laugh between guests, a quiet reaction in the crowd, or a perfectly lit keynote speaker on stage.
When the lighting isn’t ideal, that’s where experience with flash and problem-solving comes in. We make it work—beautifully. These are the images people remember. They’re also the ones you’ll want to use to promote future events, making your investment back through high-quality marketing materials.
Professional Imagery Builds a Legacy
Event photography is about more than just quick social posts. It’s about building a visual legacy that reflects your brand, connects with your audience, and creates long-term value.
Professional event photography helps you:
Elevate your marketing materials
Impress sponsors and stakeholders
Build anticipation for future events
Create a lasting emotional impact
At David LeClair Visuals, I approach every event with a photojournalist’s eye and a storyteller’s mindset. I don’t just show what happened—I capture what it felt like to be there.
Let’s Tell the Story Together
If you’re organizing an upcoming event in Belleville, Quinte West, Prince Edward County, the Bay of Quinte, and beyond, let’s talk about how to capture it with purpose and impact. I’d be happy to walk you through how we can bring your vision to life.
Ready to get started?
View my full event portfolio
Contact me today to discuss your project.