Joel Clements
Photographs have the ability to communicate a story in a precise and moving way that transcends the barriers of written and spoken language. I am intrigued by the storytelling role of the photographer — recording moments that are often overlooked and lost to time.
I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts, Specialized Honours, from York University in Toronto, Canada. During my time at York University I immersed myself in the study of photography and graphic design. Since graduating I have been employed as a graphic designer, art director, and assignment photographer. I have operated my own business since 2006, providing creative services to a variety of clients.
I have been on assignment with NGO’s throughout the world documenting their projects in both urban and rural communities. I teach photography at the college level, as well as photography courses and workshops through art galleries and community programs. Teaching encourages me to continue learning, challenge myself creatively, and look at each new day with open eyes and an open mind.
“You need to have an inquiring mind. You have to ask questions … not accept what is given, but say: “Why is it so?” And it is in that kind of asking that you begin to get behind some of the issues that allow the world appear the way it does. So if you just accept the world the way it is, and don’t question it, I can’t see how you can go far creatively.” – Edward Burtynsky, Photographer
Documentary Photography
Photographs have the ability to communicate a story in a precise and moving way that transcends the barriers of written and spoken language.
I am intrigued by the storytelling role of the photographer, and recording moments that are often overlooked and lost to time. I have been on assignment with NGO’s in Central and South America documenting their work in both urban and remote communities, and have experience shooting events for both NGO’s and corporate clients.
You can preview additional samples of my work in my documentary portfolio.
Fine Art Photography
My fine art photography focuses on landscape and still life, embracing my love for nature and the out-of-doors.
I am often told that my work captures a unique view of the world that is overlooked or unnoticed by others. My photographs capture deliberate moments of silence and solace in a world that is so often noisy and frenetic. I want to encourage pause for quiet contemplation, and focus on the beauty of all that surrounds us.
Please contact me for print purchases.