One of the most rewarding and memorable assignments I had the privilege of working on last year was for Friesen’s Printing, a truly remarkable company based in Altona, Manitoba. Friesen’s has been a cornerstone of the printing industry for an incredible 117 years, earning a stellar reputation across North America for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Their dedication to excellence and their commitment to their craft have made them a trusted name in the world of printed materials, and it was an honor to collaborate with such a distinguished organization.

The project they approached me with was both unique and deeply meaningful. Friesen’s wanted to produce a series of portraits featuring some of their dedicated staff members, which would be showcased in their annual printed Journal. This Journal is a special publication they gift to their clients each year, serving as a testament to their values, their people, and their passion for printing. I was genuinely grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful project, and I was even more excited when I learned that they envisioned the portraits in black and white. This artistic direction added a timeless and elegant quality to the images, allowing the focus to remain on the individuals and their stories.

The assignment began with an on-location shoot at Friesen’s plant in Altona. Walking through the facility, I was struck by the sense of history and pride that permeated the space. It was inspiring to see the team in action, working with such precision and dedication. Over the course of the day, we captured a series of authentic and heartfelt moments with the majority of the staff members selected for the project. The atmosphere was collaborative and warm, and it was a joy to work alongside such a talented and passionate group of individuals.After the on-location sessions, we scheduled a few follow-up shoots at my studio to ensure we had captured everyone involved.

What made this project particularly special was the opportunity to delve into the personal stories of each staff member featured in the portraits. Friesen’s included these narratives alongside the images in their Journal, and reading them was nothing short of inspiring. Each story was a testament to the dedication, resilience, and passion of the individuals who make Friesen’s the incredible organization it is. From long-time employees who have spent decades honing their craft to newer team members bringing fresh perspectives, every story added depth and meaning to the project.

This assignment was more than just a photography job—it was a celebration of people, their stories, and the enduring legacy of a company that has stood the test of time. It reminded me of the power of visual storytelling and the importance of capturing the human element in every project. Working with Friesen’s Printing was an experience I will always cherish, and I’m proud to have been a part of something so meaningful.

You can read about the personal stories of each of the subject here. Each story is amazing! In the word of Friesen’s:

Within each of us lies a story, a personal journey that we keep close to our heart. Sharing that story with others, whether whole or in part, means sharing a piece of ourselves. The following stories reveal a candid look at those we may greet on a daily basis and yet we’re often unaware of who they are or the struggles they have faced. As you read the individual stories, note the common theme that threads its way through each one, making them unique yet universally appealing.