Christophe Ledent is one of the most inspiring – and talented – photographers in the National Capital Region. In early 2012, after rediscovering his passion for photography after almost 10 years, he launched the beautiful photo-blog Ottawa Seen 365 Ways in 365 Days.
“The idea behind [the photo-blog] is simple: set out to explore, photograph and share a new Ottawa discovery everyday for a year,” Ledent tells Apartment613. “From tourist spots to local street art, festivals, culture and food, I wanted to discover everything Ottawa had to offer.”
Having completed his full-year project, Ledent has now started a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds to publish two photo books, one based on his photo-blog work, and the other on his 2013 Ottawa Christmas light photos.
The Ottawa Seen 365 Ways in 365 Days photo book is set to be an 8×10 softcover book containing approximately 70 pages with 80 of his best pictures. It will feature many of Ottawa’s best known attractions (e.g. Parliament, the Rideau Canal) but also many unique locations that are often overlooked.
Photo by Christophe Ledent (copyright)
“From the start of my 365 day photo project, I had always envisioned the final result would be a photo book containing my best pictures showcasing what Ottawa is really all about,” says Ledent. “Outside of Ottawa, there is a perception that this city is a pretty boring place in which to live, and so a book seemed like the best way to showcase Ottawa’s true colours to all those back home.”
A look at his work reveals not only impressive skills behind the camera, but also reminds us how beautiful the National Capital Region truly is. From the splendour of the Gatineau Park, to the beauty of Parliament Hill, to the thoughtful and gentle wonder that can be captured in the downtown core or the ByWard Market.
Through his impressive photography work, Ledent has discovered the hidden treasures that our region has to offer, be they interesting people or hidden gems in our natural landscape or urban architecture.
“Blogging about this city has provided me the opportunity to meet some amazing people in Ottawa,” he says. “I am a firm believer that a city is only as good as the people who live in it, and as a result of this project I have had a chance to meet and interact with people from all across town. These people, many of whom I would now consider friends, helped me discover places in Ottawa I don’t think I would have ever had a chance to learn about on my own.”
Looking forward, Ledent plans to continue photo-blogging, although he does not have plans to start another year-long project. However, he does see himself posting photographs of Ottawa on his site on a regular basis.
Photo by Christophe Ledent (copyright)
“I also plan to do a number of smaller projects like my recently completed 24 days of Ottawa Christmas Lights over the course of the next year,” he adds. “I get my inspiration for new photo projects over time, so you can expect more from me in the future.”
In regard to producing the books, once the campaign finishes, the next step is to put the final touches on the two photo books and then send them to the publisher. Ledent then plans to order all the books and prints, and if everything goes according to plan will have the books ready to send out in May.
“I also expect the month of May to be a big one for me, as I am already committed to meeting over 20 people for coffee as part of the Kickstarter campaign,” he says. “I’m looking forward to meeting these people and saying thank you face-to-face.
.gif)
