about
I am a photographer who believes in magic: that which originates from unseen forces, connected with the cycles of time, the land, and mystery.
And it is magic that has led me to photography. In hindsight, the long and winding road of my life thus far has been a path of transmutation through creativity, an alchemical process of the spirit. That is what photography is for me; turning lead into gold, following the light and embracing the shadow, for that’s what gives life depth.
Working primarily with analog methods such as wet plate collodion/tintype, cyanotype, and film has changed my relationship with how I navigate this world. In a way, it has made the world sacred for me, as each photograph I create holds deep intention. I have been shaped by these methods of creation, and being able to serve my community by offering hand-made images that act as mirrors for each person's magic is deeply meaningful to me.
personal journey
When I was 14, photography captivated me as a means of self-expression, leading me to explore self-portraiture and collaborative projects with my siblings. Guided by my grandfather's film camera and later by my own DSLR, I embarked on a journey of discovery, experimenting with increasingly complex techniques and compositions.
At age 15, I found myself welcomed into the artistic community of Viewpoint Gallery as an exhibiting member. There, I participated in group exhibitions, facilitated a summer youth photography program, and curated my solo show, "A Year in a Life," a collection of 365 images documenting the passage of time. Subsequently, my studies at NSCC deepened my technical skills and understanding of photography, guiding me through the intricacies of post-production, studio work, and digital processes. My early work was included in notable events such as the opening ceremony for the Canadian Museum of Human Rights (Winnipeg) and Winterlude (Ottawa).
An affinity for analog processes has drawn me to explore traditional photography methods, particularly the captivating art of tintype. It was during my time on Cortes Island in 2022 that I crossed paths with Sydney Woodward, a tintype photographer based on Saltspring Island. Under his guidance, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the nuances of the tintype process. After months of preparation and gathering materials, I took my first tentative steps into the world of tintype photography in 2023. Today, I am grateful for the opportunity to create timeless portraits for the diverse communities of Mi’kma’ki, hosting pop-ups and working out of my studio in Lunenburg.
My creative projects explore collective and personal mythos. Life has led me towards deepening my connection to my Celtic ancestry, which informs and enriches my life with its profound symbolism and wisdom.
© Alanah Correia 2023 ~ All rights reserved.