Why did you choose Langara to study?
My interest in photography sparked during a class in Grade 8 that included graphic design and film photography. (It was 1981 and all photography was film-based.) I was living in Winnipeg when I graduated from high school and hoped to build a career in advertising photography. An applied program would be the direct route to this goal. The two programs with strong reputations in Canada were Ryerson and Langara. The opportunity to return to the West Coast was too tempting and I set my sights on Langara.
How did your time at the College contribute to your career?
My cohort in the photography program (which was called the Photography Technician program at the time) was comprised of a mix of people from different cities, stages in their educational path, and interests. This meant it was crucial to consider different perspectives and working styles. In addition to the technical knowledge that our instructors imparted, we learned how to be determined and organized while juggling a seemingly overwhelming number of assignments. Completing the program supported a rewarding career in photography and I have many fond memories of the times we shared.
What’s your favourite memory of Langara?
Early in our adventure at Langara, we discovered the meeting room located across from the department was often booked for catered early morning meetings. We appreciated the energy boost that came from devouring the leftovers after the meetings concluded.
One morning we did our usual visual check up and down the hall before entering the meeting room to “assist with clean up”, as had become our typical fashion. The coast was clear, and we marveled at our good fortune with the discovery of well-stocked trays of breakfast goodies. As we made ourselves comfortable, the bell announced the start of 9:30 classes…and the beginning of the meeting with the arrival of the attendees. It was an awkward introduction to the Dean of Instruction.
What is a fun fact that you would like to share with us?
Since 1997 my wife and I have always had at least one hound in our house. Our daughter’s first day at home started with the support of four miniature Dachshunds. There’s nothing quite like a newborn and four dogs.
Thanks for sitting down with us, Darren!