It was four years ago today that I went live on Facebook, starting out with the name “The Valley Eye.”
It was quite touching to see the page surpass 40,000 followers yesterday.
Since I’ve created this platform, many people rely on it, whether that’s because of creative photos through my camera lense, daily traffic advisories, breaking news or, from time to time, a feel-good story.
I’ve come a long way since I began picking up a camera back in 2018 just chasing breaking news. There have been lots of speed bumps and learning curves thrown my way and I’m still here.
It was in 2021 when I began covering breaking news on this page. Later moving up the ladder and covering so much more about what is taking place in our communities and writing along the way.
This page has been a blessing in disguise with many positive connections and relationships, ultimately consuming my everyday life.
I officially registered as a business through Nova Scotia Registry of Joint Stocks a year ago in July. This allowed me to establish the name now known as “The Valley Eye Photography.”
This has also helped with some contract work, allowing me to make some income while being able to provide the content and information on this page free for the public to use as a tool.
A lot of those who follow the page assume I have a team and there’s more than one person out covering events. Many also think I get paid for what I post on Facebook. I can assure you this page is 100% all organic and from time to time I have sold prints or done some contact work to help offset costs.
I have some assistance with administrative support, but the basis of this page is crafted and documented by myself around my full-time work schedule.
I self-taught myself photography and began writing as a way to express the different things I’ve seen and covered.
Every day I have to question what I post, being very careful with the way I publish my content locally.
Each year I spend approximately $12,000 on gas, traveling across the valley, covering feel-good stories, breaking news and all of the above, which I truly enjoy.
Many others have expensive hobbies. I guess mine is burning gas and spending it on camera gear!
This will also be the third year (2026) that I will have my calendar project. The calendars have helped immensely by offsetting some mileage costs and providing those with a nice calendar for the year.
I personally wouldn’t have it any other way. I really enjoy connecting with the public, being a source of reliable and up-to-date information, while continuing my late grandfather Stuart’s legacy.
Over the past four years, I’ve managed to have a handful of great people who have been in my corner supporting me, editing my posts and helping me make tough decisions.
Every day I meet someone new, connect with old school friends or someone I haven’t seen in a while as a result of running this page. It truly keeps me at the heart of the valley and allows those away from home to stay close.
To everyone who has been there for me throughout this journey, continues to follow, provide positive feedback, thank you!
It truly means a lot!
Adrian J.
