It all begins with an idea.

An older woman sitting on the edge of a boat holding a camera, with a white and gray boat deck, railing, and a view of the water and cloudy sky in the background.

Discovering a Passion for Puffins

Sylvia’s fascination with puffins truly took flight after her second trip to Machias Seal Island in 2022. She quickly became spellbound by their charm and the joy they brought her. Puffins mate for life, return faithfully to the same burrow, and raise just one chick each summer. The close-up photographs Sylvia captured on Machias Seal Island revealed not only their individual personalities but also the tender relationships they share with one another.

Sylvia Loomis has spent years honing her craft, blending photography with digital media to create stunning pieces that capture the essence of the puffins she adores. Sylvia has photographed puffins on Machias Seal Island, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, inhabiting the regions. Inspired by their lively nature and striking appearance, Sylvia dedicated herself to capturing these delightful seabirds through her lens. Her work beautifully reflects her deep appreciation for puffins and the breathtaking landscapes they call home.

Older woman sitting on the deck of a boat, looking through a telescope, with a blue sky and water in the background.

Artistic Vision and Style

Sylvia Loomis is known for her unique style that blends photography with artistic techniques, resulting in vivid prints that celebrate the essence of nature. The puffin prints Sylvia has created have been digitally painted stroke-by-stroke. Her attention to detail and skillful use of color, form, and texture bring the puffins to life, offering viewers an immersive glimpse into their natural habitats.

Poster for a photography exhibition titled "FEM," featuring five women with photography equipment, set against a high gray backdrop, with event details including date, time, location, and credits.
Close-up of an older woman with light brown hair and makeup, resting her face on her hand.

Interview with Sylvia Loomis for LensBaby

Early Career and Beginnings

Sylvia Loomis began her professional journey as a successful real estate agent, where she developed a keen eye for capturing the beauty and unique features of clients' homes. Her role required her to photograph properties and create digital marketing materials that would appeal to potential buyers. This experience not only honed her skills in composition and visual storytelling but also ignited a passion for photography.

Discovering a Passion for Photography

The transition from real estate to photography was a natural progression for Sylvia. Her ability to see the world through a lens, paired with her technical skills, provided a solid foundation for her new career. Sylvia embraced photography with enthusiasm, quickly establishing herself as a talented and dedicated photo-based multimedia artist. Her work began to attract attention, leading her to explore new subjects and techniques that would define her artistic style.

Sylvia's journey is a testament to her ability to adapt and grow, turning her initial career into a stepping stone for her passion. Her story inspires others to follow their dreams and embrace the unexpected paths that life may offer.

Sylvia’s work has been exhibited in FEM Photography Exhibition (2023) at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre, PHOTOGRAPH – FOTOGRAFÍA – LITRATO - תמונה - NAPUIʼGIGN (2023) at the George Fry Gallery, & group exhibitions at the Saint John Arts Centre (2019, 2022) & The Red Brick Gallery (2019). 

Sylvia’s art also supports local charities through sales at Isaac’s Way Restaurant in Fredericton.  Her work is held in private collections across New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario and in India.

Close-up photo of an older woman with short, curly red hair, wearing earrings and a pink top, smiling at the camera.
Painting of two puffins perched on rocks by the ocean with a cloudy sky in the background.
Mug featuring two puffin birds standing on rocks near water with a sunset background.
Four puffins standing on a rock with a blue sky background, one puffin on the left with wings open and three puffins on the right facing to the left.

Explore Sylvia's Collections

Sylvia Loomis's photography has been featured in various exhibitions and collections. Visitors to her online gallery can expect to find a range of captivating prints that highlight the charm and allure of puffins, as well as other elements of nature that inspire her.

Whether you're an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply curious about her journey, Sylvia Loomis's work offers something truly special for everyone.

Painting of two puffin birds standing on a rock near the ocean under a cloudy sky.