In today's world, photography is so often judged by how many likes a photo can accumulate.
Many photographers snap a pic in seconds, post it in moments and wait for the praise to roll in via comments and likes.
To learn of a photographer who considers themselves an artist is rare, but also exciting.
Kelowna resident Nikki Harrison is undoubtedly an artist and her work has made some big waves in the world photography scene lately.
"The Canadian rep for the World Cup of Photography called asking if I would like to have my work in the Canadian portion of the World Cup," recalls Harrison, who was excited to just be recognized within Canada.
"The three categories I submitted my photos in for Canada were all accepted to the World Cup of Photography's worldwide competition."
Harrison, who has been living in Kelowna for two years, thought that would be the end of it considering photography from all over the world is submitted into the competition.
"I then received another call from the Canadian rep who was ecstatic," said Harrison fondly.
"He told me my photo had been selected as one of the top three in the world for the portrait category."
The recognition is exciting and also means big things for Harrison's career.
"More positive press means more business," laughed Harrison. "The more your known globally the more doors that open."
In Kelowna, Harrison works closely with local model agency DeJa Vu, who she says provides her with world class models necessary to take her art to the next level.
Harrison's work cannot be achieved with an iPhone though.
"I consider myself more of a digital artist as opposed to just being a photographer," said Harrison.
"That means I do a lot of the styling, make the costumes my models wear and create what I call versions of people."
These versions often involve going against the grain of traditional photography, especially when working with female models.
"I love to put women in power positions," noted Harrison.
"Even when women want something that's 'sexy' I make it so they're sensual and not sexual."
Harrison credits staying true to herself and following her creative passion for her global recognition.
"I would encourage other photographers to not forget about the creativity and what brought you into the genre in the first place."
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