Once Upon an Island: Images of Vancouver Island

Hans B. Neumann is a history lecturer at Scarborough College, University
of Toronto.

West Coast photographer Michael Orton’s exquisite book contains some
of the most evocative and compelling images of the natural beauty of
Vancouver Island that anyone could ever hope to see. Orton’s
photographic homage to “his” island reflects a highly personalized
vision, which is evident not only in his approach to photography (stated
in a brief introduction) but also in his choice of chapter headings and
in the informative and often lengthy captions to his photographs. Text
and photos are very well integrated to reflect his vision.

The photos are almost without exception a veritable feast for the eyes.
Orton favors rich, deep, saturated colors, as is indicated here by the
many pictures of sunrises or sunsets. His photos also reflect a fondness
for the details and patterns of nature. Many of them look like
impressionistic paintings of flowers, landscapes, and water scenes.
While Orton clearly displays the influence of one of his mentors,
Freeman Patterson, he is no servile imitator of that master of the
craft.

This book is not for those who simply want a “picture book” of
Vancouver Island. It is rather for those more discriminating types who
appreciate the mystery and soul of nature as manifested in one of
Canada’s most beautiful natural settings. The book will also find a
welcome reception among those who understand and appreciate what
inspired, professional nature photography is all about.