Viktor Birkus arrived in Weyburn just over five years ago and with that, he brought along a fresh perspective.
Viktor and his wife, Maryna, travelled from Odessa, Ukraine, where life looks a lot different than here in Weyburn. Birkus was pleasantly surprised when he first arrived in the city of Weyburn, stating that "It is just like they said it would be.聽 A very quiet and peaceful city. The people are very friendly here."
After settling in, Viktor began to explore the city, this time with camera in hand. He began taking photos in 2011 and his time and involvement in this art form has grown quickly. Over the years, Viktor has entered trades fairs, contests and began framing and selling much sought after prints.
One particular print that has caught the attention of many people, uses a technique that Birkus applies to the photo in post-processing. This particular technique is referred to as photo painting and gives the photograph an art-like "painting" type of finish.
Birkus uses Photoshop finishing in a majority of his photos as he feels that the photo is "just not quite done otherwise. Photoshop takes it to the next level." Viktor鈥檚 work in Photoshop gives his photographs a very original, colorful and distinctive finish.
Viktor has developed an eye for seeing things in a different light and a keen sense in the use of post-editing techniques.聽 One such light, is morning light. Birkus states that a lot of photographers use the sunset hours and that is one particular reason he decided to take a different approach and photograph sunrises.
Viktor鈥檚 talent for approaching his subjects from a different angle has enabled him to create a distinct and delightful portfolio. He has created a CD called 鈥淚 Live in Weyburn鈥�, which is a collection of 100 photos from the Weyburn area. Birkus created this CD for family and friends back home, as well as a memory for him.
Viktor and his wife are scheduled to leave Weyburn at the end of April. The couple are relocating to B.C. Viktor and Maryna plan to make stops in some of Canada's most beautiful and scenic areas such as the Canadian Rockies along the way.
Viktor is excited for his new venture and will be sure to capture some of the country鈥檚 most beautiful scenes on his camera.聽 He will be sure to take along with him the great memories he has made in Weyburn, along with the images he captured. To view these images visit www.viktorbirkus.blogspot.ca.
