Check our Events page for Upcoming Specials
About Us
Cranbrook's Premier Photographic Studio
We love what we do! As full time professional photographers, this is our passion, not just a hobby. Our love of people and attention to detail has earned us a sterling reputation. We take great pride not only in the innovative images we create but also in the high level of customer service we provide.
Our images have been nationally Accredited by the Professional Photographers of Canada and we are the recipients of numerous Salon Awards from the Professional Photographers of British Columbia, Alberta and Canada. We have received our Craftsman degrees and awarded the tiles of Master of the Photographic Arts.
Cheryl also received an Excellence score and Best in Class at the PPOC National print competition for a portrait created for a Cranbrook family;
the image is now part of the National Photography Loan Collection.
Our History
In 1949, Wells Studios captured their very first image and a photographic legacy was born. The studio started in Regina and then moved to Edmonton two years later. At that time images were created with black and white 4x5 sheet film, then developed and printed in the darkroom. Cameras were enormous and flashes were produced with hot lights or single use bulbs!
Wells has always been at the forefront of photography including being one of the first studios to change to color images and embraced digital technology at the beginning.
We continue to provide innovative and creative photographic designs. We are honoured to have made images for thousands of clients; we have served many commercial clients for decades and are proud that countless portrait clients call us their family photographer.
Our Portrait Park and Studio
Images can be created at our incredible 5 acre portrait park located at the edge of Cranbrook and features a creek and reflecting pond overlooking the majestic Steeples. European wrought iron gates, fountain, pergolas, rustic scenes and natural forest views plus many other outdoor settings.
Indoors we offer a fabulous selection of scenes ranging from formal Rembrandt backgrounds with marbled pillars, garden settings and stone walls to fun and funky set designs. We offer the most extensive range of sets and backgrounds in the East Kootenays together with hundreds of props to accentuate your images.
Our 2200 sq.ft. Studio is equipped with state of the art digital systems, viewing gallery, private dressing rooms complete with amenities, production areas and framing services. It is here that we have poured our souls into creating a space that is welcoming and allows us the opportunity to offer an unforgettable experience every time you walk through our door.
Cheryl & Len - Your Photographic Artists
Cheryl began her career as an apprentice working under the direction of Master Photographers learning the art of posing and lighting; for over 40 years she has continued to hone her craft. Len’s career began in Vancouver creating modeling portfolios, publicity photos and CD covers for his clients who were involved in the TV, movie and fashion industry.
Now a husband and wife team, their individual styles complement each other and they work together to create incredible portraits. In 2006, we selected Cranbrook as our new home base and have continued our level of excellence in the Kootenays.
Professional Affiliations
Belonging to professional associations is an integral part of our business; we are proud members of these organizations:
Professional Photographers of Canada - we are long standing members of this diversified group of creative artists dedicated to the highest standards in professional imaging in Canada. Members have their images reviewed by a panel of judges to be accepted into the organization.
In addition, photographers can further their photographic skills by submitting their images into two categories - Accreditation and Image Salon. Accreditation is a standard of excellence in a specific field of photography (we are proud to have received Accreditation in nine categories - more on this on our FAQ's page). Image Salon is a juried competition of the best photography in Canada; we have received many Salon awards including having an image selected into the National Loan Collection.
Professional Photographers of America - An International fellowship of professional image creators with an exceptional standard of excellence. Members agree to follow these standards and maintain the Code of Conduct of the organization.
Kodak Promise of Excellence - This warranty is offered only from a select group of photography studios. If for any reason you are unsatisfied with your portrait due to Kodak's product performance your images will be replaced free of charge anytime during your lifetime. Full details are in our FAQ's page.
Giving Back
We are honoured to have supported
many local charities that are close to our heart:
Royal Canadian Legion - We are remembering those who gave so much. Portraits are created of all veterans in the East Kootenays and given at no charge to the veteran and to the Legion's permanent archives. It has been our honour to photograph over 65 veterans.
Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep - We provide the gift of remembrance portraits to parents who have experienced the loss of an infant.
Lion's Guide Dog Assistance Program - The funds raised help train Dog Guides for Canadians with visual, hearing, medical or physical disabilities.
Mount Baker Secondary - We volunteer our time with the photography class to encourage and guide the students toward improving their art.
Go Wild!
The Heart & Stroke Foundation - Heart Disease affects so many families and we have loved being able to donate to this very deserving charity.
Rotary International - Rotary Park is such an integral part of our community and is used by everyone! We have provided portraiture toward the fund raising of this charity.
"We make a living by what we get but we make a life by what we give"
Why Choose Wells
Are you considering a professional photographer to capture treasured family memories, record important events, or represent your corporate image?
We are an award winning, full service photography studio that specializes in creating amazing images with exquisite lighting, posing and composition. We pride ourselves on providing beautiful, museum quality print products designed to be handed down from generation to generation.