Cheryl West values her solitude while operating drones, emphasizing her immersion in the activity. She and her husband, Kirk Lee, share captivating drone footage of Saskatchewan’s rural landscapes and small communities on their Facebook page, Cheryl’s Videos and Pics/Wild West Drones, which boasts a substantial following.
According to West, this hobby has evolved into a crucial pillar of support for her mental well-being. Living in Grenfell, located approximately 100 kilometers east of Regina, West gained a newfound appreciation for the scenic beauty of rural Saskatchewan from an aerial perspective, a sentiment she shared during an interview with CBC News.
Initially hesitant when her son proposed the idea of flying drones six years ago, West’s perception shifted as she delved into the activity. Over the years, she navigated challenging personal circumstances, including supporting her daughter through daily epilepsy seizures and coping with the loss of several family members.
The act of drone flying, coupled with the unwavering support of her husband, has been instrumental in aiding West’s emotional healing process. Despite never identifying as an artist, West found a profound connection with her late father, who had a passion for landscape photography. Through drone photography, she feels a spiritual connection with her father, fulfilling his wish to live through her artistic endeavors.
West and her husband dedicate extensive time each week to traveling and capturing drone footage. While both engage in drone operations, West focuses on recording audio from the ground camera, and the subsequent editing process, which includes selecting suitable music, typically spans three to five hours.
Reflecting on the intersection of photography and mental health, therapeutic photographer Dre Erwin shared insights with CBC News. Erwin, who is also a primary care nurse and the founder of the Pinehouse Photography Club, emphasized the positive impact of photography on mental well-being, citing personal experiences and interactions with youth in northern Saskatchewan.
After enduring personal hardships, including surviving a tornado, Erwin relocated to Pinehouse, 200 kilometers north of Prince Albert. Motivated by his experiences, he harnessed photography as a tool to support his own mental health and that of the local youth. Through sharing his captivating images, Erwin introduced the youth to the beauty of the northern lights, sparking a newfound appreciation for nature and photography among them.
Erwin emphasized that photography serves as a conduit for individuals to perceive the world’s beauty more deeply. By showcasing the diverse landscapes and natural wonders of Saskatchewan through various photographic techniques, including drone photography and night photography, Erwin aims to inspire others to seek out and appreciate the hidden beauty around them.