Meet Your Photographer: Scott Tanner
From Canada’s judo team to behind the camera in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Choosing a photographer is about more than finding images you like. It’s also about finding someone who understands what those photographs mean to you.
For an athlete, a portrait can represent years of practice and the pride of wearing a team uniform. For a graduating student, it marks the beginning of a new chapter. For a family, it becomes a reminder of a stage of life that passes quickly.
At Scott Tanner Photography, that personal connection matters. Scott brings his background as an athlete, his experience as a coach, and his love of portraiture to the people he photographs.
A Journey That Started with Judo
Before photography became his profession, Scott’s first passion was judo.
He spent eight years as a member of the Canadian team, travelling internationally, experiencing different cultures, and meeting people who helped shape his life. His connection to the sport goes well beyond competition. Scott credits judo with much of the good in his life and the person he has become.
Along the way, he adopted a simple philosophy:
Try. Learn. Grow. Succeed.
It’s a message that resonates with anyone learning a skill or working toward a goal. Progress takes practice, setbacks provide lessons, and confidence develops through experience.
That sporting background gives Scott a personal understanding of the commitment behind an athlete’s portrait. A uniform represents early practices, coaching, teamwork, and the determination to keep improving. The photograph becomes a way to remember that effort.
From Athlete to Photographer
Scott’s photography journey began with the kindness and support of his friend, Angus Borland. That opportunity grew into a passion for working with people through both coaching and photography.
Since then, Scott has photographed thousands of people and had the honour of photographing multiple World Judo Championships. Photographing judo at the Olympic Games remains an ambition.
His story brings together two lasting interests: sport and people.
An athlete’s season contains plenty of moments worth remembering beyond the final score. There are friendships, personal milestones, and the excitement of belonging to a team. Photographs give those experiences a place in the family’s story, long after the uniform has been outgrown.
Scott’s connection to sport provides a meaningful foundation for creating those keepsakes.
A Portrait Artist with a Personal Approach
Although athletes are a particular passion, Scott describes himself as a portrait artist at heart. He enjoys working with people of all ages and creating photographs that reflect their personality.
Scott Tanner Photography serves the Halifax area, with a studio in Lewis Lake, Nova Scotia. Sessions include sports teams, individual athletes, seniors and graduates, and portraits.
Whether the session takes place with a team on location or in the studio, the aim is to make the experience enjoyable and help each person’s character come through.
That matters because being photographed can feel unfamiliar. You may know exactly how you want to look, or you may simply know that you want something that feels like you. Having a conversation about the purpose of your photographs is a useful starting point.
For an athlete, that might mean celebrating their passion for a sport. For a graduate, it could mean recognising an accomplishment and looking ahead. A portrait gives that moment a lasting form.
Explore our Photography, Products, and Booking Options
Whether you’re organising team photo day, celebrating graduation, or planning a personal portrait session, Scott Tanner Photography offers several ways to capture and enjoy your images.
Photography Services
Sports Team Photography
From individual teams to larger clubs and associations, Scott provides on-location photography that celebrates athletes and their connection to their sport. Options include individual athlete portraits, team photographs, and locker room sessions.
Explore Sports Team Photography
Seniors and Graduation Portraits
Graduation deserves photographs that reflect the person reaching that milestone. Scott offers relaxed studio and on-location sessions that highlight a graduate’s personality, interests, and achievements.
Portrait Photography
Scott’s work extends beyond sports, with portrait sessions focused on capturing personality and creating meaningful images. His Lewis Lake studio provides a setting for a creative, personalised photography experience.
Explore the Portfolio
Scott’s portfolio offers a closer look at his work across curling, soccer, figure skating, and judo. Each sport brings its own movements, atmosphere, and opportunities for photographs.
Browse the galleries to see how Scott approaches different sporting environments:
These galleries represent areas of focus, and Scott also welcomes enquiries about photographing other sports.
Products That Preserve the Season
The experience continues beyond photo day, with products designed to give athletes and families lasting reminders of their season.
Memory Mates combine an athlete’s individual portrait and team photograph in one 8" × 10" layout. A traditional part of Scott’s photography packages, they bring both memories together in a single keepsake.
Trader Cards feature player photographs and information in a double-sided design printed on quality card stock. Scott offers both Proline and Premium options, with designs for a variety of sports. Families who already have their own photographs can also enquire about creating cards.
Posters put your athlete in the spotlight with single-image and multi-image designs printed on premium lustre paper. The most common size is 16" × 20", with larger sizes available upon request.
Photo Buttons feature a magnet backing, making them easy to display on suitable metal surfaces.
Let’s Tell Your Story
Scott’s path from judo to photography has brought him around the world and introduced him to thousands of people. Today, his work continues to centre on the person in front of the camera.
Your photographs should mean something to you, whether they celebrate a team, an achievement, or a new stage of life.
If you’re looking for a sports or portrait photographer in Halifax, Scott would love to hear what you have in mind.
Contact Scott Tanner Photography to start planning your session.
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