Capturing Inclusion
As more travelers seek welcoming and inclusive experiences, the need for thoughtful, representation-forward media has never been more important. At Kirvan Photography + Film, we specialize in helping resorts and tourism operators tell authentic stories through visual content. This includes showcasing diversity and belonging.
Our recent project with Wilderness North Resorts, a remote fly-in fishing lodge in Northern Ontario, is a perfect example. It shows how 2SLGBTQ+ friendly northern travel photography can help a destination stand out as both adventurous and inclusive.
An Invitation to Showcase Inclusivity
Wilderness North invited us along with a romantic couple, Tyler and Trever, to spend three days at their off-grid fishing resort. The goal? To create a library of images that showed the resort’s stunning location and rugged adventure. Most importantly, it would showcase its welcoming environment for 2SLGBTQ+ guests.
Through thoughtful planning, natural storytelling, and a whole lot of outdoor magic, we captured a wide range of moments. As a result, the resort can now proudly and authentically market itself as inclusive.
Adventure is for Everyone
Our first creative objective was to showcase that this fly-in fishing experience is for everyone. From the moment Tyler and Trever stepped off the pontoon plane, we documented their journey into a wild and beautiful part of the province.
Images of the couple on fishing boats, exploring the lake, hiking the rugged shoreline, and standing among sweeping northern landscapes helped us portray the camp as more than a destination. Instead, it’s an open invitation to explore.
By placing two openly gay men at the center of this adventure, we sent a clear message: everyone is welcome here.
Romance in the Remote
Fishing might be the main attraction, but that doesn’t mean there’s no room for tenderness. One of our favorite parts of the shoot was highlighting the romantic potential of a northern retreat.
We captured quiet, beautiful moments. These included morning coffee on the cabin porch wrapped in sweaters, sunset picnics on a private beach, and long walks along forest trails. Additionally, we documented moments of connection under the stars.
With the right images, we helped redefine the idea of a “fishing trip.” We showed that it can be a romantic and rejuvenating escape for couples, too.
Comfort Meets the Outdoors
While remote, Wilderness North doesn’t skimp on comfort. A big part of this shoot was highlighting the modern amenities and fun on-site activities available to guests.
We documented everything from paddleboarding and swimming to volleyball games and campfire hangouts. Furthermore, we captured board games and late-night card matches, plus a well-stocked kitchen and reliable internet for those wanting to stay connected.
These lifestyle images made it clear that the resort offers comfort, convenience, and community, even in the heart of the wilderness.
Documenting the Complete Experience
From arrival to departure, we captured Tyler and Trever’s complete journey at Wilderness North. The pontoon plane landing marked the beginning of their adventure, while candid moments throughout their stay showed the natural flow of days spent in the wilderness: from active outdoor pursuits to quiet intimate moments, from group activities to peaceful solitude.
This comprehensive documentation created a complete visual story that potential guests could easily envision themselves experiencing.
A Reminder of What's in Our Backyard
One of the final goals was to promote Northern Ontario as a world-class travel destination. Too often, travelers overlook what’s close to home, looking abroad for beauty and adventure.
However, the truth is, places like Wilderness North offer jaw-dropping scenery, one-of-a-kind experiences, and true Canadian hospitality without crossing an ocean.
Creating Visual Identity Through Values
Through our lens, we helped Wilderness North showcase not just their location and amenities, but their commitment to creating an inclusive environment. The images captured during this three-day shoot now serve as authentic marketing materials that communicate the resort’s values while highlighting the natural beauty and adventure opportunities of Northern Ontario.
The Power of Inclusive Storytelling
In the end, our shoot wasn’t just about great fishing photos or pretty sunsets. It was about telling a story: one that welcomes all travelers, celebrates love and adventure, and invites people to see Northern Ontario with new eyes.
Through 2SLGBTQ+ friendly northern travel photography, we helped Wilderness North create a visual identity that reflects their values. As a result, they now speak to a wider, more inclusive audience. In doing so, we showed just how powerful thoughtful photography can be in transforming a brand.
