A Little About Me...
When I say I've been a photographer all my life, I'm not far off, as the photo below clearly demonstrates. It was taken by my father, Lucien Guilbault, circa 1960, and captures an early glimpse of the calling that would shape my life.
Photo by Lucien Guilbault
While it was my Dad who first sparked my interest in photography, it was Budd Watson who truly paved the way for my career. The link provides more information, but Budd was one of the most prominent landscape photographers in Canada during the 1970s and 1980s until his passing in 1988. He was both an inspiration and a mentor, generously teaching me many of the techniques and ways of seeing that I still rely on today when crafting a fine photograph.
Trends come and go, but I endeavour to create a masterful photograph that can be considered contemporary, while at the same time remaining inherently timeless. In other words, I take a classic approach to contemporary styling—melding modern sensibilities with enduring composition and craftsmanship. Classic doesn't mean old or outdated; it reflects a time‑honoured attention to detail, thoughtful lighting, and careful presentation that allow an image to speak across years.
Many of you may not know that I also do commercial photography. Over the years I’ve handled catalogue shoots, industrial assignments, aerial imagery, and a wide range of Hotel & Resort projects, but my specialty is architectural photography. I love the technical challenges and the subtle beauty of architecture, whether shooting interiors or capturing exteriors in natural light.
If you’ve enjoyed my photography, please consider leaving a review or testimonial. You can do so at this link.
Awards & Accolades
In 2013, I had the distinct honour of being accepted into the Master Photographers International Organization, and in 2015 I earned the "Master Photographer in Fine Art" designation (MPF). In 2016 I was awarded the title "International Nature Photographer of the Year" in MPI's International Image Competition. Shortly after receiving this recognition, MPIO interviewed me about my photographic approach, the award itself, and my plans and aspirations for the future.
In 2008, I earned the prestigious Master of Photographic Arts award (MPA) from the Professional Photographers of Canada and preceding that, in 2003, the Craftsman of Photographic Arts (CPA).
Through the PPOC, I also received National Accreditation for:
Commercial Photography
Fine Art / Photo Decor
Environmental Portraiture
Children's Portraiture
Couples Portraiture
Environmental Wedding
Here's and excerpt from a published review:
"Versed in portrait, fine art, commercial and wedding photography, combined with advanced digital imaging, Mike has been able to transfer and combine techniques from these very different fields to compliment and expand the creative process. His sense of lighting, composition and creativity are evident in his work.
His photographs have hung in the National Print Salon and the Permanent Loan Collection of the Professional Photographers of Canada and featured in publications both locally and internationally. His Fine Art prints hang in the homes of clients in Canada as well as the USA, Germany, Australia and New Zealand."
Thank you for listening.
Mike Guilbault, MPF