Here are the biggest accolades that I have accomplished so far and where you can see some of my work in the media.

Advanced Drone Pilot Certification
Calgary, Alberta

December 2020

Wow that was not easy but glad I passed with flying colors and it's over and done with. Reading comprehension is my biggest weakness and I struggle horribly when interpreting questions because I have to break each one down into steps. So because of this, I unfortunately take much longer to complete exams than the majority of people. It only makes it worse when it's timed.

This is a worthy and much needed credential for me to have. I am now a 𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗱𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗽𝗶𝗹𝗼𝘁. It was nerve racking doing my in person review with a long time and experienced UAV pilot but I made it.

National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame Inductee
Saratoga Springs, New York

Summer 2020

I never would have guessed that the very first time that I photograph a farrier, one of the half dozen pictures that I took is going into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, NY. This was a completely new and unfamiliar experience to me but what a learning experience it was.

You may have heard me say before that a big part of photography is being in the right place at the right time but there is more to it than just that. Well this couldn't have been a better example.

I was cutting through the back barns at Breeders' Cup, walking back to the car to get something and if it wasn't for me taking a slight detour because I was alert and saw this farrier from a distance, I never would have gotten this picture and obviously I would not be having my name in the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame from this specific subject. What an incredible honor this is and a defining moment in my career.

To add to that (I've had some people ask), no this is not the same career defining moment that I briefly mentioned a few weeks ago, there is another one! But it's way too early to share that one right now.

This piece of framed work will be going into the museum later this year and I will do another reveal when it's in there. Can't wait!

3rd International Invite
Cairo, Egypt

March 2020

Here's another big announcement that I was hoping to make. 5 weeks ago I 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗺𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲, 𝗖𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗼 𝗘𝗴𝘆𝗽𝘁.

If it still happens, it looks like it will have to be pushed to next year because of the CV and me still not being healed from my Dubai trip exactly a year ago from today. So even though my doctors (who I have been seeing) have recently given me clearance to travel again, I am more at risk especially in a dessert setting that is practically the same as Dubai. Even next year will be determined by my health and of course the current world situation on this virus.

Deal Made on my 114th Millarville Races Video
Millarville, Alberta

February, 2020

The Committee board of Directors at Millarville Agricultural Society has purchased rights to parts of this video to be used for advertising and promoting their 2020 and future events.

Meeting Buck Brannaman
Stavely, Alberta

November, 2019

I am very grateful for meeting Buck yesterday after photographing his 3 day clinic and we had a pleasant discussion. Looking back, this will be one of the moments and experiences that I will never forget.

If he didn't have to fly out after the show tonight, I would love nothing more than to shoot a sit down interview with him. You never know, maybe one day we meet up again.

Alberta Bits by Alberta Equestrian Federation
Calgary, Alberta

September, 2019

Thank you to Alberta Equestrian Federation for requesting this specific image to be used for their September cover. Also, thank you for sending me copies of the Summer Edition of your Alberta Bits magazine, it looks fantastic!

Honored to Photograph Buck’s Alberta Clinic
Stavely, Alberta

September, 2019

Buck Brannaman is coming to my portfolio and what an asset he is going to be in my current works! I have been given the green light to photograph Buck in his November Alberta clinic. I am just not allowed in the ring with him (which would have been even better), since I've been informed that there is a show photographer for this clinic.

This will be a tough arena to photograph in, but regardless with what limitations I have, I still always find a way to get those moments.

I am looking forward to capturing the dedication and passion that this man has for horses and what he does.

Thank you to Dave Gamble and Karen Megert for making this happen.

Click HERE to view my photos from Buck’s Alberta Clinic.

114th Millarville Races Video Shown at the Millarville Ag Society AGM
Millarville, Alberta

September, 2019

Anna De Paoli (member of the committee board) were so in love with this piece that I created for my portfolio from their 114th Millarville Races this past July, that the board has requested to play this specific video at the Millarville Agriciultural Society’s AGM in November.

CBC is Interested and Listening to my Story
Toronto, Canada

September, 2019

CBC is interested in learning more about me and what I have to say.

Not too long ago I submitted my pitch for a short documentary idea that I have in mind and would one day love to put it into action. And what I mean by putting it into action is, sharing my pitch with one of the largest public television and radio broadcasters in Canada, in hopes of having my production funded by them and aired on their network. Yes, a very similar business practice to something you would see on the Apprentice TV show (when it was on).

Remember my post from a few weeks back inquiring about any parents out there, who have children that speak English as a second language? Well here is where you can start to connect the dots.

I have (what I believe to be) a remarkable and impactful story in mind, that I have no doubt that it would deeply connect with thousands (if not millions) of Canadians across Canada. Not just with horse lovers and owners, but well outside the horse world appealing to any animal lovers in general and people from all generations and walks of life, with a strong presence on multiculturalism.

Though I must say that this is just one conversation that I've had with CBC, and perhaps it's the ice breaker to get my foot in the door as an Independent Producer for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. All I know is, having worked in live TV before, it is often a very lengthy process to get your ideas listened to, in an attempt to have it supported, bought, and your production aired on a national network.

No matter how I spin this, it's a pleasing start. :)

2nd International Invite
Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

August, 2019

I received this invitation in mid August and would have gone but unfortunately, I was unable to accept this invitation due to health concerns from a previous trip.

Invitation to the 2019 Breeders’ Cup
Arcadia, California

July, 2019

This is a very touchy subject for many including myself but I'm still putting myself out there. I received an invitation to this years Breeders' Cup at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California and I could not accept it. Why? I just can't at a track that has lost 27+ thoroughbreds since last December. What's the count at now? I lost track but it doesn't matter how you look at it, that is 27+ horse casualties and yet this year's event is still being held at this track.

For me, it's not all about the money - it never has and it never will. I do what I do because I love what I do and that all stems from my love for horses. I appreciate these animals for who they are and everything that they bring to people's lives. It's just really unfortunate that for many it's all about the money, regardless of the circumstances.

Jours de Cheval - Spring Edition
Paris, France

May, 2019

Thank you to 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗹 for reaching out to me this past winter wanting to put me in the Spring 2019 edition of their publication. Anne Deram it's been my pleasure working with you over the months getting this publication prepped and all finalized. Thank you for all you have done to get it all completed.

The magazine looks superb! As a photographer one has to be very analytical on how their work looks in physical media. It's no different if it's my Equine Wall Art or a 2x3" in a magazine article, it's all full representation of your work. Everyone has their own print supplier which can obviously vary in quality and this one turned out perfect - exact replica's of my original images, right down to the contrast, shadows, colors and saturation.:)

𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗹
https://www.facebook.com/JoursdeChevalOfficiel/

If you are interested in ordering a copy of this magazine, please visit.
http://k-equestriancommunity.com/ec-s…/…/6-presse-literature

𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗵, 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵 (𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝘄) 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗵𝗼𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀.
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His friends define him, above all, as sincere. This is probably the reason why Steven Quon's equestrian photos radiate freshness and spontaneity. Self-taught, he is very passionate about technology and, more specifically, about video. The photograph crosses his path when he is only 20 years old, but the absence of sufficiently captivating subjects in his eyes pushes him to give up. At the chance of a meeting, in 2013, he discovered a real fascination for horses. He then finds a taste for photography and enjoys, therefore, to cross disciplines and equestrian events around the world to satisfy his new passion. Owner of a Paint Horse in Calgary (Canada), Steven explores the equine universe in all its diversity and immortalizes it in pastel colors, thanks to his Nikon D500's and D750, through deeply harmonious shots.

"In the manner of making a film, the preparations are essential. I calmly observe a scene to immerse myself in it and I anticipate the photographic result. Very often, improvisation takes over and I adjust what I had planned. It is, in fact, what makes all the charm of equine photography."

"Through my photos, I want to transcribe with authenticity the natural beauty of these unusual animals. Their way of moving, of communicating with each other and with human beings fascinates me. The horse is an extraordinary creature to photograph that I'll never get tired of."

Invitation for a Podcast Interview (second invite)
CKMS 102.7 FM Radio Waterloo (Blue Sky Radio)

April 2019

It is my pleasure to be invited back onto CKMS 102.7 FM Radio Waterloo with Yenny Ekstrom for another podcast interview to discuss my adventure in Dubai.

Invitation to the 2019 Kentucky Derby
Louisville, Kentucky

April, 2019

When I got back home from Dubai on April 1st, I received an invite to this year's Kentucky Derby taking place next Saturday May 3rd at Churchill Downs. I wasn't well then but I wanted to give it time, in case I did happen to get well enough to accept the invitation. At the time, I was confident that I would be recovered enough, if not fully recovered to head on yet another adventure.

I wanted to make my official decision no later than today and unfortunately I had to decline because I am just not well enough. Until I am back to 100% and have my immune system back to normal, getting on another plane and going through more airports would not be a wise decision. The Dubai trip took A LOT out of me and it's going to take time to get back to 100%. But trust me, there's nothing else that I want to do more right now besides work.

At such an event drawing 150,000 to 170,000 people every year, this would have been a total blast and a familiar experience heading back to Kentucky, back to Churchill Downs and I also would have visited Keeneland, as well as other famous landmarks down there that I missed during my first visit there, but we all know that HEALTH ALWAYS COMES FIRST.

Earning Media Accreditation at the 2019 Dubai World Cup
Dubai, UAE

March, 2019

We are just finishing up the travel arrangements with me going into my second hotel next week. Earlier this month I received my answer from Dubai Racing Club, to notify me on my acceptance earning full Media Accreditation. I am officially in the 2019 Dubai World Cup!

This was not an easy feat. As an applicant in my shoes, one would rarely receive any rights since I am not on assignment working for an editorial or publication - I am working for myself. Thankfully the committee still reviewed my application, viewed my work and then concluded to bring me on board.

It's always been my motto to never give up in accomplishing what you truly want in life. To never take your foot off the gas and to keep pushing forward, no matter what barriers stand in your way. If it wasn't for the airline agent telling me a few weeks ago about the Travel Alert for India, there was a very likely chance that this all could have been called off due to me not finding out before it was too late to do anything. That would have been a very tough pill to swallow. This Travel Alert allowed me to extend my flight by three days to attend this event.

I know that I am still new, however, I truly feel with this achievement that I have just turned the page to a new chapter in my career.

Click HERE to view my photos from the 2019 Dubai World Cup.

2019 Dubai World Cup Media Accreditation

Invitation from Dubai Arabian Horse Stud
Dubai, UAE

March, 2019

It’s my honor to announce a new invitation that I have received from Ficus Mora at Dubai Arabian Horse Stud to take part of their big social event on March 29 where they will be showcasing their foals. I can’t wait to take part of this experience!

Click HERE to view my photos from Dubai Arabian Horse Stud.

Invitation from Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club
Dubai, UAE

March, 2019

It’s my honor to announce a new invitation that I have received from Waseem Dahhan at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club to take part of their annual Polo Competition on March 30. Unfortunately I will not be able to make it to their big show as I will be attending the 2019 Dubai World Cup at the Meydan Racecourse. I hope to re-connect and take part of your future events if I make it back to Dubai in the future!

First International Invite
Dubai, UAE

February, 2019

Ever since getting into the Equestrian world, one thing that I've had on my list to do, is to capture the beauty of horses from another culture. Well, I am about to do that, as last week I received my first invite and opportunity on the table on the international stage, in which I gladly accepted. So this March I will be heading to Dubai, for the leading and finest Equestrian Business Event of the Middle East - the Dubai International Horse Fair.

On a few different occasions, I've talked about how learning from past mistakes is a vital and absolute necessary component to getting better - not only as a commercial artist but also as a business professional. I loved my trip down to Kentucky last Fall but with my biggest regrets, deep down I knew that I wasn't there long enough. I wanted to visit Keeneland and so many other well known landmarks that this state is known for but I just didn't have enough time and I wasn't able to extend my stay due to other commitments. Heading back to Calgary that Sunday morning, I felt like I was just getting started in Kentucky.

With that being said, I am not making that same mistake again.

Invitation from Dubai International Horse Fair
Dubai, UAE

February, 2019

This is essentially what got me to Dubai and where it all started.

I have received full media accreditation from the Dubai International Horse Fair, taking place from March 21-23 held at the World Trade Centre. This will be a perfect opportunity for me to network, check out the stunning work from the exhibitors and of course take pictures throughout the show. It will be a spectacular display showcasing the UAE horse culture.

I have been given the rights to take both pictures and video, so if there are specific things that you would love to see, just let me know, I will try my absolute best to get it.

After all, my objective is to share more about the UAE culture with Albertan's, Canadians, and North American's when I look at the grand scale of things, and to share more about the Alberta horse culture with the UAE. Bringing exposure across the two nations is my ultimate goal.

I look forward to capturing more of this in the desert and throughout the city as I tour.

Click HERE to view my photos from the Dubai International Horse Fair.

Accepted Vendor into the 2019 Calgary Stampede
Calgary, Alberta

February, 2019

The Calgary Stampede has ACCEPTED me on the list of exhibitors for the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. It is wonderful to know that my brand qualifies at such a large and well known event.

However, I have decided that I want to concentrate on my clients and due to booking conflicts and horse shows that week, I feel that it's better to support my current clients.

Also, after much thinking over the past few weeks, I am a believer that by starting off at smaller shows, it will help get me organized for the larger ones and it will also allow me to see what ultimately attracts people into my booth. As much as I love envisioning the big picture, I just can't look too far ahead too soon.

So I'm going to continue to build my brand to another level before I reach a show in the magnitude of the Calgary Stampede, as I want to go in making the most impact imaginable.

Decision making will always be one of the most difficult tasks in entrepreneurship and I am just going with my gut feeling. Short term sacrifice, long term reward.

StandardBred Canada Featured Article & Calendar
Mississauga, Ontario

February, 2019

It’s my honor to have a featured article and one of my pictures from my first visit to a race track this past winter make the February month of the 2019 StandardBred Canada calendar.

You may read the full article by clicking HERE.

Millarville Agricultural Society Sponsorship Marketing Package
Millarville, Alberta

October, 2018

You may recall that I was taking pictures of Thoroughbred Racing for the first time at the 113th Annual Millarville Races on Canada Day this past July. Well here is the just released Sponsorship Marketing package for the 114th Annual 2019 Show next July, in which 9 of my photos have been selected and put in for this advertisement (on pages 1, 2, 3 and 6).

The committee wants me back for next year, so I am very happy to say that I will be back for the 2019 Millarville Races. Expect bigger and better things this time around (hello V.I.P tent), though some of the photos I took are going to be pretty difficult to top - if I can't beat them this November at the Breeders' Cup in Kentucky.

I can't believe it's already been three and a half months since the Millarville Races have passed, time flies.

Big Announcement with Jonathan Field
Fort MacLeod, Alberta

September, 2018

Enjoy the new announcement with Jonathan Field and I. Here is a prime example of two opposites on camera - Jonathan being a magnificent speaker on camera and myself...well obviously I shine much more BEHIND the camera than on it. :)

I've worked with several professional speakers in my life and they all make it look so easy. Speaking on camera is a valuable (but very challenging) skill to gain. I can proudly say that Jonathan Field is another stellar speaker on camera added to the list that I've worked with.

I couldn't have asked for a better and more genuine individual in the equine industry to work with. Thanks again Jonathan and I look forward to what we have planned - this is going to be magical.

Invitation to the 2018 Breeders’ Cup
Louisville, Kentucky

June, 2018

WELL IT IS OFFICIAL!!!

I am heading to the 𝟮𝟬𝟭𝟴 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗗𝗘𝗥𝗦' 𝗖𝗨𝗣 in Louisville Kentucky taking place on Friday November 2nd and Saturday November 3rd at the Churchill Downs race track. I will be staying in Lexington.

This was an opportunity that I could not pass up.

I will mostly be shooting candid including some back end stuff. Security is going to be extremely tight behind the scenes and there are very specific rules that I must follow.

The great news is that because I am formally announcing this 5+ months prior to the event, it gives me plenty of time to research and take on individual assignments from small legitimate sources whether it is media, news, associations or publication blogs who will be at the Breeders' Cup on assignment and in need of a photographer. If anyone happens to know of any, feel free to have them contact me and I will tell them what I can do for them. TIA.

I do not have permission or the rights to shoot from the inner circle (an extremely highly conveted spot), but I will be right on the track to get my action shots. I will have my share of action shots but I also plan on capturing this event from another angle putting a heavy emphasis on candid.

This is going to be one heck of an experience and I will soak in every second of it. There is no denying that I will be high on adrenaline upon arrival but after some minutes have passed, I should be able to settle in nicely.

Click HERE to view my photos from the 2018 Breeders’ Cup.

Atlantic Post Calls Article
PEI, Canada

April, 2018

I am very honored to announce that one of my very first photos from the Century Downs Race Track from a few weeks ago has made the publication for Atlantic Post Calls. Post Atlantic Calls specifically requested this picture to be used in their publication.

Atlantic Post Calls is a Racing publication newspaper (online distribution as well) from Eastern Canada (based out of PEI, Canada).

Thank you to Shannon Sugar Doyle for reaching out to me and thank you to Nathan Sobey for being such a great subject to photograph. Awesome work you guys!

High Praise From One of Spruce Meadows Competition Judges
Spruce Meadows

March, 2018

Spruce Meadows competition Judge Jorge Aros, formally introduced himself as he recognized my talent from some of the photos that I took of him while judging the recent February Classic I Tournaments at Spruce Meadows.

“You are one of the best photographers in the equestrian world.” - Jorge Aros

Thank you Jorge for your very kind comments.

Winning Photo Shown at Alberta Equestrian Federation’s AGM
Olds, Alberta

March, 2018

This photo that I took of Fenella Murphy during one of her OktoberFest Competitions at Spruce Meadows in October of 2017 was shown during the Alberta Equestrian Federation Annual General Meeting and Award Ceremony.

"Congratulations Fenella on receiving your Alberta Equestrian Federation Sportsmanship Excellence award. So very, very proud of you, your kindness and work ethic. Love you so very much you are an awesome, awesome athlete and young lady."

The next jumping star in the making! How incredibly exciting for Fenella! Wish you all the best and many more awards from here on in.

Invitation for a Podcast Interview (first invite)
CKMS 102.7 FM Radio Waterloo (Blue Sky Radio)

February 2018

It’s my honor to be invited to my first podcast interview.

Click HERE to watch the interview.

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