Start a photography club for youth in your school or community. Explore practical resources and lessons from Dre Erwin and the Pinehouse Photography Club. Start a Club! I founded the Pinehouse Photography Club, but I no longer lead it. My current nursing work is in Sandy Bay. The club’s story helped shape these practical resources for educators and community hosts. I’ve turned those years of experience into a structured system designed specifically for rural and remote communities. I’m moving past the 'awareness' stage and into action. The Northern Lights Method is now available. This blueprint is designed for educators, healthcare workers, and community leaders who want to build something permanent. DOWNLOAD THE NORTHERN LIGHTS METHOD BLUEPRINT Global National News Play Video Therapeutic Photography Clubs Across Canada Explore the clubs above. To add your club or discuss starting one, use the contact form below. Start with five free photography activities using phones, shared cameras or drawings. Then message me below about facilitator support or adapting a club to your community. Dre Erwin 319 Sangster Boulavard Regina, Saskatchewan S4R 8V3 1-306-690-4554 dreerwinphotography@gmail.com First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting! "I find the definitions of therapeutic photography and photo therapy almost comical... You are doing so much more than 'therapeutic photography.' From 13 years in inpatient psych and low-income community house calls, hat tip." — Bizmuth, ATR-BC (Board Certified Art Therapist) Learn More

Explore therapeutic photography activities for youth and communities, with lessons from Pinehouse Photography Club founder Dre Erwin, RN(AAP). To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Therapeutic Photography Table of Contents: 1 What is Therapeutic Photography 2 Therapeutic Photography vs. Phototherapy 3 How to Use Therapeutic Photography 4 Benefits of Therapeutic Photography 5 Pinehouse Photography Club: A Case Study in Action 6 Lessons Learned and Impact 7 Evidence of Impact: Real-World Results 8 Collaborations and Future Initiatives Therapeutic photography offers a way to slow down, notice your surroundings and express what matters to you. Explore the story of the Pinehouse Photography Club, learn a simple photo-and-reflection process, and find activities to try on your own or with a community group. What is Therapeutic Photography What is Therapeutic Photography? Therapeutic photography uses taking, choosing and reflecting on photographs for personal expression and connection. It can be practised independently or with a group. In my own photography and nursing experience, I think of a meaningful image as a Visual Anchor —a reminder to pause, notice the moment and reflect on something that matters. You can explore these activities with a phone, a camera or photographs you already have. Technical skill is optional: the image’s meaning to you matters more than a perfect result. This page focuses on creative reflection and community participation. PhotoTherapy, described below, takes place within a professional therapeutic relationship. A Community Perspective The benefits of this practice extend far beyond the individual. Following the Socio-Ecological Model , photography activities can include peers, families, Elders and local educators. Participants choose the stories they want to tell, and local communities guide cultural context and how images are shared. Fosters Connections with Others Sharing photos and discussing them with others can foster connections and encourage communication, helping individuals build supportive relationships and reduce feelings of isolation. Provides a Sense of Control Taking and editing photos provides individuals with a sense of control over their creative output, which can be empowering and boost self-esteem. Helps Individuals Process Emotions Help individuals process emotions. Promotes Mindfulness and Focus By encouraging individuals to take time to observe and capture the world around them, therapeutic photography can promote mindfulness and focus, helping individuals stay present in the moment. SCROLL DOWN "We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars." — Oscar Wilde Therapeutic Photography vs. Phototherapy Therapeutic Photography Definition: A self-initiated or group-based practice used for self-exploration, resilience-building, and personal growth. The Approach: It is a flexible creative activity that can be done independently or with a community group. Role: It offers space to notice, create and reflect. Participation does not require a therapist or professional camera. Focus: Exploring what matters to you through images, captions and optional conversation. PhotoTherapy (Clinical) Definition: The use of photographs within therapy, guided by a suitably trained mental health professional. The Approach: The professional may use personal, family or newly created photographs as part of an agreed therapeutic process. Role: An approach used within a professional therapeutic relationship. Focus: Exploring personal meaning and experiences with appropriate therapeutic support. Understanding the Distinction The setting and the facilitator’s role help explain the difference. In a community photo activity, participants decide what to photograph, what an image means to them and whether to share. A facilitator supports the activity without diagnosing or interpreting someone’s photograph. In PhotoTherapy, a trained professional uses photographs within therapy and takes responsibility for that therapeutic process. The resources on this website are creative activities for individuals, educators and community groups. They do not provide a therapy qualification. How to Use Therapeutic Photography How to Use Therapeutic Photography: The Visual Anchor Method Try this simple process: notice something, make a photograph, reflect on it and decide what to do with it. A phone, a camera or a drawing can be your starting point. Step 1: The Act of Mindful Observation Start by selecting your tool—a professional camera or simply your smartphone. As you move through your environment, look for subjects or scenes that resonate with your current emotions. Instead of rushing, practice Mindful Observation. Focus on the light, the textures, and the details. The Goal: Spend a few unhurried minutes noticing one subject, such as light on a leaf, a familiar object or a place you enjoy. Step 2: Intentional Capture Choose a subject you are comfortable photographing. Try a wide view and a closer detail, then choose a frame you like. You can photograph ordinary objects or places; you do not need to share a personal experience or make a technically perfect image. Step 3: Reflection and Interpretation Later, set aside time to review your photos in a quiet space. Ask yourself: What was I feeling the moment I pressed the shutter? What caught my attention, and what title would I give this image? What would I like to remember when I look at it again? Step 4: Keep or Share Keep the image, add a caption or share it with someone you trust. Sharing is always optional. In a group, ask each creator what their image means to them, and get permission before displaying or posting identifiable photographs. Benefits of Therapeutic Photography 01 Enhanced Well-being: Daily photography has shown to improve well-being by fostering self-care, community interaction, and opportunities for mindful engagement. 03 Mental Health Recovery: Narrative reconstruction through photography aids in mental health recovery, bridging gaps between professionals and those seeking care while positively impacting individual and community well-being. 05 Focus on Positivity: Through capturing positive life experiences, therapeutic photography helps alleviate preoccupation with illness, bringing attention to moments of joy and accomplishment. 07 Stress Reduction: Immersion in photography serves as a temporary escape from stressors, allowing individuals to momentarily distance themselves from intense emotions associated with illness. 02 Empowerment and Expression: Photography, particularly through mediums like selfies, holds inherent potential for empowerment and adaptable expression across diverse social contexts and platforms. 04 Symbolic Emotional Expression: Photography enables symbolic expression of emotions, providing a means to articulate feelings artistically and explore personal narratives. 06 Boost to Self-worth: Engagement in photography activities offers opportunities for continuity, challenge, and achievement, contributing to enhanced self-worth and identity. 08 A Practice to Return To: A regular photo practice gives you a reason to revisit favourite places, try a new skill and keep a record of everyday experiences. Choose a pace and activity that works for you. Pinehouse Photography Club: A Case Study in Action The Pinehouse Photography Club: A Case Study in Community Resilience While working as a nurse in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan, I brought my nursing experience and love of photography together to establish the Pinehouse Photography Club (PPC). I no longer lead the club or manage its day-to-day activities. The photographs and stories here reflect my time as its founder and the work of participating youth, families and community supporters. The Impact: Youth Voices: Members described the club as a lifeline and a place to express themselves, form friendships and share photographs they were proud of. National Recognition: Featured in the CBC documentary "A New Lens on Life ," the club’s story shows young people exploring photography, cultural connection and life in their community. Sharing Their Perspective: Kids Help Phone used photographs by club members in Finding Hope, bringing northern youth perspectives to a wider audience. Learn More "Expressing oneself without even Saying a word" A photograph can offer another starting point when words are difficult to find. You might capture a place, an object or a small detail that matters to you. A caption or conversation can follow if you choose; keeping the image private is equally valid. During my time in Pinehouse, photography created reasons to spend time together, explore the land and learn from one another. A photo outing could begin with a simple camera skill and grow into a conversation, a shared laugh or an image someone was proud to show. A phone or a basic camera was enough to get started. The moments I remember include reviewing photographs, gathering around a campfire and seeing youth help each other with their cameras. These are personal observations from a community photography project.Coverage by CBC, Global News and the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses helped share the club’s story. Media coverage and members’ own words offer different ways to learn about that experience. Resilience Through the Lens: Pinehouse Youth's Transformative Journey Watch this video about youth photography and the Pinehouse Photography Club. Learn More Capturing Resilience: Pinehouse Photography Club Exploring Life's Brighter Moments - A Journey Through Therapeutic Photography in British Columbia Discover further insights about the Pinehouse Lake photography club and its young members here. Learn More "Photography saved my life" Keirra Tinker, Sask "I love taking pictures because it helps me express myself when words aren't enough. It's like a visual diary that helps me see things in a different way and feel better about myself." Louis Iron, Sask "Photography helps me express myself without using words." Tyson Ratt, Sask Lessons Learned and Impact Through the evolution of the Pinehouse Photography Club, several foundational truths have emerged that define our approach to community wellness. 1. Democratizing Mental Wellness A phone or camera can make creative activities easier to try at home, at school or with a local group. During my involvement in Pinehouse, simple photo prompts gave youth a starting point for making images and sharing what interested them. Participants could choose their subject, title and whether to share. 2. The Necessity of Sustainable Advocacy My experience with the club taught me the importance of sharing the work. Regular activities need local organizers, trusted adults, practical supplies and time. Parents, educators and Elders can help shape a project that fits the community. I no longer lead the Pinehouse Photography Club; new groups should build their own local support. 3. Reciprocal Healing and Altruism I learned alongside the youth. Their photographs, curiosity and willingness to help one another changed the way I saw familiar places. Contributing to a shared activity gave me a sense of purpose as well. Those personal lessons continue to shape the resources and stories I share today. From the Frontlines: A Nurse's Reflection. When you look through a camera lens, you block out the rest of the world, including misery, agony, and grief. It's just you and what you're seeing right now. Practice focusing on taking the perfect shot, and you'll find that even without the camera in front of your face, you'll be seeing the good in life a lot more clearly." - Dre Erwin Evidence of Impact: Real-World Results The photographs, personal accounts and media stories below document creative expression and community connection in northern Saskatchewan. They reflect the club’s history and my involvement as its founder. Youth Voices: Some Pinehouse club members described photography as a lifeline and a way to express what was difficult to put into words. Their accounts are an important part of the club’s story. National Recognition: CBC’s A New Lens on Life followed Pinehouse youth and the photography club, sharing their photographs, relationships and experiences with a national audience. Kids Help Phone Partnership: Kids Help Phone purchased 12 photographs by Pinehouse Photography Club members for Finding Hope, its action plan supporting Indigenous youth. These images brought youth perspectives from Pinehouse to a wider audience. Boosting Self-Esteem: During my time with the club, youth joined photo outings, portrait sessions and community events. Learning a camera skill, choosing a favourite image and sharing it on their own terms gave members opportunities to build confidence and connect with peers, families and Elders. View Impact & Testimonials Nursing Perspective: As the club’s founder, I brought my experience as a primary care RN(AAP) to a community photography setting. I no longer lead the club. This history reflects a creative community project, rather than a clinical treatment program or a service I currently provide through the club. Multi-Disciplinary Approach: During my time with the club, we worked with social work professionals to connect youth with photography. Trusted adults and local relationships helped make these activities possible. Explore Collaborations View Clinical Evidence & FAQs Collaborations and Future Initiatives I founded the Pinehouse Photography Club, but I no longer lead it or manage its operations. This page shares experiences from my time with the club. For information about its current activities, please contact the club or local organizers directly. Expanding the Reach My current focus is sharing photography, stories and practical activity resources with educators, families and community groups. I welcome conversations about how local hosts might adapt these ideas, with community members guiding cultural suitability, language, permissions and participation. Strategic Partnerships Useful connections for community projects include: Local Educators and Community Leaders: To choose activities that fit their learners, culture and community. Equipment Supporters: To help local groups access cameras and other practical supplies. Storytelling and Media: To share youth perspectives with permission and encourage creative opportunities in northern communities. "Therapeutic photography doesn't require immediate verbal articulation, effectively reducing the stigma and barriers to formal mental health support." Learn More Frequently Asked Questions What is the difference between Therapeutic Photography and Phototherapy? Therapeutic photography is a personal or group photography activity for expression and reflection. PhotoTherapy uses photographs within therapy led by a suitably trained mental health professional. The Pinehouse examples here describe my past involvement as the club’s founder. How does photography help with mental health and "Static"? I use “Visual Anchor” to describe a photograph that reminds me to pause and notice something meaningful. Taking or choosing an image gives the activity a focus. What that image means is for its creator to decide. Do I need a professional camera to practice this? Not at all. In fact, a smartphone is often the best tool because it is always with you. The "therapeutic" part is about the process of seeing, not the quality of the gear. We teach youth and adults alike that the most important part of the camera is the person standing behind it. How does the Pinehouse Photography Club model work? During my involvement, the club combined photography skills, outings and opportunities to share images. Youth connected with peers, families and Elders through these activities. I founded the club and no longer lead its operations. Is therapeutic photography evidence-based? This page shares my community experience, participants’ personal accounts and links for further reading. Those stories matter, while questions about treatment effectiveness need research on the specific activity and outcome. Explore the Science & Resilience overview and the PhotoTherapy Centre for more context. About Dre Erwin I’m Dre Erwin, a primary care RN(AAP), photographer and author in Saskatchewan. I founded the Pinehouse Photography Club and no longer lead it or manage its operations. My work with the club was featured in CBC’s A New Lens on Life. Today, I share northern photographs, stories and practical resources for creative reflection in schools, families and community groups. About The Science of the Lens My nursing experience shapes the questions I ask about photography, reflection and community connection. I continue to learn from participants, educators and published research. Personal stories and research each add a different perspective to this work. View the Science & Resilience Overview Where to Go from Here: Taking Your Therapeutic Photography Journey Further Where to Go from Here: Taking the Journey Further Start with a short activity that fits your interests and setting. You can try it independently or invite an educator, family member or local facilitator to join you. No specialist camera is needed, and participants choose whether to share. Connect with the Community Join our Facebook community, Inspiritography , to connect with a like-minded network of photographers and wellness advocates. Stay Inspired Subscribe to the newsletter for creative prompts, northern photographs and stories from my work. Try an Existing Resource These resources offer practical next steps for individuals, schools and community groups. Free Photo Activities : Five simple prompts with photography skills, optional reflection and accessible alternatives. Start a Club : Explore the original club framework and ideas that a local host can adapt. Teachers & Students : Find school and community activity ideas, book information and session enquiries. Start Now Beyond Pictures: Therapeutic Photography Insights (Blog) Under the Northern Lights: More Than Just a Photograph Discover the story behind the Pinehouse Photography Club, where youth in northern Saskatchewan explored photography, built friendships, and created lasting memories beneath the northern lights. A personal reflection on creativity, community, and the power When a Community Steps Up: 150 Pairs of Shoes, Cameras, and a Very Full Truck Heading North What started as a simple idea for a youth pickleball league in Sandy Bay quickly grew into a massive donation drive! Thanks to incredible community generosity, we collected over 150 pairs of shoes, DSLR cameras, and tons of gear to support northern youth mental and physical health programs. Now, the only challenge is fitting it all into the truck for the 740km drive north! The Art of the Crop: Why It’s Time to Stop Framing the Garbage Sometimes, protecting your peace isn't about setting the world on fire; it’s about adjusting your focus. In my latest piece, I explore a simple, powerful lesson I’ve learned from behind the lens: the transformative power of the intentional crop, and how you can apply it to your own life and mental health, especially when facing old challenges. Share Ready to Start Your Healing Journey? I developed this exact three-step method to overcome my own digital burnout and find peace. Download our Therapeutic Photography Burnout Guide now: DOWNLOAD Learn the exact method I use to find focus, attract a peaceful life, and turn my camera into a self-care tool. Learn from Judy Weiser Judy Weiser, a seasoned Psychologist, Art Therapist, and global authority on PhotoTherapy, has spent over 25 years using her innovative techniques to assist marginalized clients. As the Founder of the PhotoTherapy Centre in Vancouver, Canada, she's renowned for decoding the emotional depth of personal photographs. Judy's expertise spans consulting, lecturing, and training worldwide, impacting mental health professionals in over 50 cities. She's a registered practitioner in Psychology and Art Therapy, sharing her knowledge through workshops and academic courses, advocating for the use of Therapeutic Photography and Film-Making to enhance individual and community well-being. Annually conducting the intensive Judy Weiser’s PhotoTherapy Techniques Certificate Program, she's pioneering online courses and intends to preserve her substantial archive for future generations' access. Judy Weiser About Her Judy Weiser - PhotoTherapy. The Healing Power of Photographs Love this conversation ❤ Judy is a legend :) Have more questions? Read our full FAQ here. Therapeutic Photography Clubs Across Canada To have your own club added to the map, please email us at @dreerwinphotography@gmail.com

< Back More Than a Megapixel: The Power of the "Reset Button" Apr 24, 2026 I’m often asked what gear I use or what settings I recommend, but for me, photography has always been about something deeper. I call it the 'Reset Button.' Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

Are you eager to sell your photos online? < Back Share Your Inspiratography on PhotoVibe! Jan 4, 2024 Dre Erwin Are you eager to sell your photos online? At PhotoVibe, we're excited to announce that soon all Inspiratorgraphy members will have the opportunity to showcase and sell their artwork and digital prints on our website. Initially, this will be offered at no cost to you, and you'll retain 100% of the profits! Stay tuned for further updates. Join our vibrant community, introduce yourself on the forum, and keep an eye out in the coming days for more details. Visit https://www.joinphotovibe.com/shop to become a member and say hello – all without any cost to you!" Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

We are currently witnessing the most intense auroral activity in over two decades < Back "Stay grounded. Keep looking up." Dec 23, 2025 We are currently witnessing the most intense auroral activity in over two decades (that's what they are saying anyways) According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, Solar Cycle 25 is peaking right now, with high sunspot numbers and frequent X-class solar flares expected to continue through 2026. This "Solar Maximum" is a rare window where the Aurora Borealis is visible at mid-latitudes, including the northern United States, the UK, and Central Europe. No matter what, just another excuse to go outside and spend your time looking into the sky - not a bad way to spend an evening! https://www.dreerwinphoto.com/post/northern-lights-guide-2025-2026-the-ultimate-solar-maximum-viewing-photography-manual Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

Every purchase makes a difference. Shop for merchandise that not only showcases Dre Erwin's inspirational photography but also directly supports therapeutic photography initiatives. < Back Shop with Purpose Every purchase makes a difference. Shop for merchandise that not only showcases Dre Erwin's inspirational photography but also directly supports therapeutic photography initiatives. Welcome to our 'Shop with Purpose ,' where your choices have a meaningful impact. With every purchase, you're not only acquiring beautifully crafted merchandise featuring Dre Erwin's inspiring photography but also contributing to the transformative world of therapeutic photography. We dedicate the proceeds, though often limited, to support these vital initiatives. Our latest endeavor takes us to Sandy Bay, where we are working closely with First Nations youth in northern Saskatchewan. By shopping here, you are joining us in our commitment to positive change and empowering youth through the lens. Every item you choose becomes a symbol of support and a step towards making a real difference in the lives of those who benefit from therapeutic photography. Thank you for being a part of this journey and for helping us in our mission to create a positive impact on mental health and well-being through the art of photography. Previous Next Donate 01 Pinehouse Photography Club Online Gallery 02 Dre Erwin Photography Online Gallery 03 Therapeutic Photography Online Gallery

Community Connect: Dive into Diverse Galleries, Share Your Story, and Engage! < Back Revamped Shared Galleries for All Members Dec 30, 2023 Community Connect: Dive into Diverse Galleries, Share Your Story, and Engage! Exciting news! Our shared galleries have received a fantastic makeover, offering multiple diverse spaces for every member to share their unique stories through photos and more. Explore, share, and engage across a variety of galleries tailored for your interests. Have questions or ideas? Jump in, participate, and let your voice be heard! Stay tuned for upcoming giveaways and contests as we celebrate our vibrant community of creators. https://www.dreerwinphoto.com/membergalleries Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

Youth in northern Saskatchewan discover healing through photography—a powerful tool for expressing emotions, overcoming trauma, and fostering connection. CBC captures their inspiring journeys, showcasing the profound impact of this innovative therapeutic approach on their mental well-being. < Back A New Lens on Life: The CBC Award-Winning Documentary Youth in northern Saskatchewan discover healing through photography—a powerful tool for expressing emotions, overcoming trauma, and fostering connection. CBC captures their inspiring journeys, showcasing the profound impact of this innovative therapeutic approach on their mental well-being. How Photography Saved Lives in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan Skylar Lariviere faced despair in the vast forests of northern Saskatchewan, contemplating ending her life. But she found hope and purpose through therapeutic photography, which transformed her perspective. She dropped her weapon, ran towards life, and sought help. In Pinehouse Lake, a community grappling with high youth suicide rates, the Pinehouse Photography Club, founded by primary care nurse Dre Erwin, emerged as a beacon of healing. Photography offered a creative outlet that not only captured the Northern Lights but also ignited a sense of wonder and purpose among its members. As they captured the beauty of Pinehouse through their lenses, they found solace and a way to cope with depression, addiction, and the challenges of remote living. This powerful transformation through therapeutic photography inspired others to follow suit. Teens like Louis Iron discovered the healing power of the camera, using it to navigate the darkness and find light in their lives. As Pinehouse's photography community blossomed, it became clear that this approach was more than a hobby—it was a lifeline. Photography became a bridge to self-esteem and self-worth, allowing these young individuals to communicate their feelings and experiences without words. As Pinehouse's story unfolded, the Pinehouse Photography Club received recognition and grants, setting up a studio space and inspiring similar initiatives nationwide. Today, Pinehouse's photographers continue to capture the beauty of the Northern Lights and their community. Their journey from darkness to light serves as a testament to the transformative power of photography and resilience in the face of adversity. This is the story of hope, healing, and belief—a story that reminds us all that, no matter how low we feel, we can always rise to the top. But the story doesn't end here. The Pinehouse Photography Club is on a mission to extend these opportunities to all Métis and First Nations youth, especially those in the northern and rural parts of the country. Their vision is to offer the same lifeline of creativity, healing, and hope to those who need it most, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of a brighter future. Learn more about the aware winning documentary here . Learn about the Pinehouse Photography Club here , that uses therapeutic photography in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada. Learn about therapeutic photography here . Previous Next Donate Explore the critically acclaimed documentary 'A New Lens on Life,' honored by CBC and produced by Madeline Kotzer 01 Pinehouse Photography Club Online Gallery 02 Dre Erwin Photography Online Gallery 03 Therapeutic Photography Online Gallery

Back to the Roots: Returning to Sandy Bay this June Bridging the gap between primary care and visual storytelling. < Back Return to the North: Sandy Bay 2026 May 2, 2026 Dre Erwin Back to the Roots: Returning to Sandy Bay this June Bridging the gap between primary care and visual storytelling. This June, I am heading back to Sandy Bay, Saskatchewan , to resume my dual mission as a Primary Care Nurse (RN-AAP) and a photographer. For me, returning to the North is about more than just a rotation; it’s about 'thinking outside the box' to find new ways to support community wellness. While I’ll be focused on the clinical needs of the community, I am also preparing for a significant milestone this fall: a series of speaking engagements at the Sandy Bay School . I’ll be sharing the ' Pinehouse Protocol ' and the concept of Visual Anchors —using the lens to help youth find focus and resilience amidst life's challenges. Stay tuned for new images and stories from the field as we continue to build a 'Diagnostic Bridge' between healthcare and the arts. Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

The Inspiring Journey of a Pinehouse Boy from Grief to Hope < Back Finding Happiness Through the Lens Jun 7, 2022 The Inspiring Journey of a Pinehouse Boy from Grief to Hope With the collaboration of young individuals in the community, Dre Erwin, a primary care nurse, crafted a book that serves as a beacon for raising awareness about mental health and suicide in northern Saskatchewan, while highlighting the therapeutic potential of photography. "The Little Boy who Found Happiness, in the Most Unusual Place" soared to the number one spot on Amazon shortly after its release on September 3. Erwin, who has witnessed the profound effects of depression in his role as a nurse in an isolated community, was spurred by the widespread issue and the limited resources available in northern areas. He was inspired to take action, stating, "I felt it was my duty to do more, to find ways to prevent it, and help the youth in other communities." In 2016, Erwin initiated a therapeutic photography club, which proved to be highly beneficial. The positive impact of the club prompted him to embark on writing a book. It was only natural to involve the youth in this project. "The youth wanted something engaging, something like an anime," Erwin said. He collaborated with a ten-year-old from the community who created the lead character, and a dozen more young contributors provided illustrations and photographs used as backgrounds in the book. Erwin's commitment to inclusivity extended to the translation of the story into Cree, thanks to Cree teacher Alfred Tinker from Pinehouse. This addition not only elevates the book's cultural significance but also provides an opportunity for language learning. Erwin's photography page on Facebook caught the attention of a professional editor who generously offered their expertise in editing the book for free. Moreover, Dre Erwin established the Canadian Photo Health Authority, an umbrella organization that has now forged connections across Canada. His vision is to foster better communication and share positive messages through this platform. Erwin is a strong advocate for therapeutic photography, emphasizing that anyone with a cell phone can partake in this therapeutic activity. Through the book, he aims to illustrate how this can be achieved in any community, encouraging individuals to contemplate the emotions and thoughts associated with their photographs and the impact they want to convey to others. Learn more here . Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

Discover the inspiring journey of the Pinehouse Photography Club (PPC), where therapeutic photography empowers the youth of Pinehouse and beyond. < Back The Pinehouse Photography Club (PPC): Empowering Youth Through Creativity Discover the inspiring journey of the Pinehouse Photography Club (PPC), where therapeutic photography empowers the youth of Pinehouse and beyond. Welcome to the remarkable story of the Pinehouse Photography Club (PPC), a beacon of hope and creative expression founded by Primary Care Nurse Dre Erwin RN(AAP) and teenager Jonah Natomagan. This unique initiative emerged from a shared vision to address the urgent mental health concerns affecting the adolescents in our local community. In 2018, the PPC garnered national recognition when it was featured on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's program, 'New Lens on Life.' This spotlight not only illuminated the extraordinary work of the club but also underscored the critical need for creative pathways to address mental wellness issues among young people. Since then, the PPC has blossomed into a vital resource for Pinehouse's emerging photographers. It provides a space where young individuals discover solace, inspiration, and a supportive community. Through the camera lens, club members have unearthed the therapeutic benefits of photography, using it as a tool to manage stress, express emotions, and find beauty in everyday life. Pinehouse Photography Club Online Photo Gallery As the Pinehouse Photography Club continues to thrive, it generously donates equipment to Pinehouse primary school, igniting the spark of creativity in even more young minds. The club's mission is simple yet profound: to inspire creativity and promote mental wellness among the youth in our community. By offering therapeutic photography as a tool for self-discovery and healing, the PPC is helping young individuals build resilience and unlock their potential. We invite you to join us in empowering the next generation through the transformative power of therapeutic photography. Together, we nurture creativity, build resilience, and foster mental wellness among our youth—a promise that extends far beyond the borders of Pinehouse, with similar clubs and initiatives emerging all across the world. Learn more about the PPC here . Online Pinehouse Photography Club gallery here . Previous Next Donate 01 Pinehouse Photography Club Online Gallery 02 Dre Erwin Photography Online Gallery 03 Therapeutic Photography Online Gallery

Join us in our upcoming blog as we delve deeper into how these mindful photography walks in nature can serve as catalysts for healing, gratitude, and rediscovering the beauty that life has to offer < Back Mindful Photography Walks: Healing Amidst Loss and Rediscovering Gratitude Jan 6, 2024 Dre Erwin Join us in our upcoming blog as we delve deeper into how these mindful photography walks in nature can serve as catalysts for healing, gratitude, and rediscovering the beauty that life has to offer Loss and sadness can cloud our perception, making it challenging to see the beauty that still surrounds us. However, there's a profound healing power in venturing out for a mindful photography walk, especially amidst nature's embrace. As we stroll through the forest, our smartphones transform into tools for focusing on the good in life. Engaging with our camera lenses prompts us to seek moments of beauty, allowing us to capture snippets of the world that resonate positively within us. In these moments of mindfulness, we pivot our attention toward the subtle wonders: the sunlight filtering through the canopy, the vibrant hues of flora, or the intricate details of the forest floor. It's a practice that transcends mere photography—it's a journey towards gratitude and appreciation. The law of attraction whispers that we attract what we focus on. When we use our phones' cameras to capture the goodness around us, we're actively requesting more of it. Through this intentional focus on gratitude, we invite more positivity into our lives. Check out the Blog. Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter