Canadian Finalists in PHOTONews

Publishing date: February 20, 2024

In the realm of pixels and light, Canada really delivers with seven images being named Top 10 finalists at the World Photographic Cup (WPC) competition.

WPC Team Canada members gathered virtually to watch the announcement live from Louisville, KY. The enthusiasm was infectious as team members were rewarded for their artistry. For these seven photographers there’s more than skill at stake, it’s a podium finish that they dream of, not just for personal glory but to hoist the Canadian flag high. Come April, Canada’s Top 10 images will take center stage in Dallas, Texas, USA. The vibrant cultural hub will play host as photographers from across the globe gather to celebrate the finest visual narratives. The Canadian entries, each a masterpiece in its own right, will be in contention for medals, with the ultimate goal of bringing home the prestigious World Photographic Cup.

Even with nerves strained as they announced one category after another revealing the Top 10 finalists in each category, Team Canada cheered, laughed and cried, as one. The evening started with the Commercial Category. Alph Leydon, from Ontario, whose architectural image captures the uniqueness and magnificence of Santiago Calatrava’s Oculus in New York City, was Canada’s first Top 10 finalist. “The stakes are high in the commercial category, so this was very unexpected. I am blown away and very happy,” said Leydon. “It is a unique opportunity to work as a team for our country and awesome to finally support Team Canada with a Top 10 finish. I am proud of this, I am proud of us.”

Hailing from Quebec, Louis-Philippe Provost’s was Canada’s second Top 10 in the Commercial category with an image that showcases Montreal’s suspended sculpture “The Ring”. In response to his third time as a finalist Provost said, “I am extremely humbled and grateful to be in the Top 10 once again and congratulations to Team Canada’s other six talented photographers for their incredible images.”

In the Illustration/Digital Art category, Kari Carter from Alberta, was a Top 10 finalist for her creative image that symbolizes the intricate layers of expectations placed upon women. When they announced she was in the Top 10 Carter was speechless, “probably because I was crying, and so was my husband,” she explained. “Having previously served in the Canadian Forces it is truly an honour to represent my country again but this time through my love of photographic art. Keep the flag waving.”

When they announced the Reportage/Photojournalism category Vancouver’s Craig Minielly earned Top 10 honours with a photojournalistic image of an intense action scene taken on the set of a feature film. It’s a split second of huge emotional impact in one of those unplanned moments that can happen during a live filming. “Working at what you love, being honest to the event, and then seeing your work go on to represent Canada and become an International Top 10 finalist is wild,” said Minielly. “This is a wonderful team representing an amazing country.”

In the brand-new category of Sports, we saw another finalist from Alberta, Kristian Bogner’s remarkable image of pro surfer Kai Lenny launching off a gigantic wave holds a lot of energy. “It was the right place at the right moment,” said Bogner who admits a Top 10 finish in Sports is very meaningful after having photographed the Olympic games and sporting events for years. “It is always an honour to be a part of Team Canada, which was stacked full of stunning images this year. To be recognized in this category feels amazing,” said Bogner.

For Jacquie Matechuk, also from Alberta, the World Photographic Cup always has been about camaraderie. Marking her second time as a Top 10 finalist, Matechuk says “WPC is unlike any other photographic competition, the foundation is built on teamwork and the pride of representing your nation with your fellow creatives.” Matechuk’s remarkable Wildlife image of a great grey owl moving silently through the air and looking right at her mid-flight also earned a Best of Nation Award as Canada’s top scoring image. “I am so grateful for the tremendous wisdom and support of our Team Captains, Jillian Chateauneuf and Gerry David. As well as the vision and guidance of our curators, who went above and beyond to craft a world-class team! One team, one goal, one nation and proud of it,” she remarked.

Canada’s final Top 10 was in the Wedding Open category. From Quebec, Rabi Madi’s image on a windy wedding day, showcases a sense of movement as the bride’s flowing veil fills the entire frame. “I was shocked, surprised and happy. In a category of such strong images this is truly humbling. I have been on Team Canada four times and this is my first Top 10 placement. I am deeply grateful for this remarkable recognition – it’s such an amazing moment,” exclaimed Madi.

WPC Team Canada submitted 30 images into the 2024 World Photographic Cup. “What sets our Canadian team apart isn’t just the pictures—it’s the infectious camaraderie that turns this competition into a celebration of shared passion. Having a record number of images in the finals is a thrill; not just in the competition but in the anticipation of a nation cheering us on with a goal of etching Canada’s name on the World Photographic Cup in April,” said Jillian Chateauneuf, Co-Captain of WPC Team Canada.

A unique Olympic-style competition, the World Photographic Cup is not only about shutter speeds and composition, it’s about the spirit of friendship with 31 countries participating this year. The photographers, diverse in style and background, find a common ground in their shared love for the art of capturing moments. For Team Canada, it’s the volunteer curators, the collaborative brainstorming, and the collective heartbeat of a team bound by a shared vision—to bring Canadian photographic excellence to the forefront.