Roland in the Media: Recognition & Accolades
When I changed careers, I didn’t expect my photographs and stories to find their way into these publications. Here are a few highlights from that journey, from Newfoundland’s coastlines to the light around Mont-Saint-Michel.
As Featured In
Read the full story: Living on Eeyou Istchee
Top 5 Destinations with CAA North-East Ontario
Nouvelle Aquitaine Is Better When You Stop Trying to See It All
AWARDS
TMAC Awards
- Gold Medal: Landscape Photo of the Year (2024)
Recognition from the Travel Media Association of Canada for my Mont-Saint-Michel photograph.
Silver Medal: Four-Image Storytelling Series (2024)
Recognition for my Newfoundland coastal wildlife series, “The Atlantic Puffin.”
Selected Editorial Publications
- The New York Times & Toronto Star
Photography featured in “The Wild Island Kitchen,” exploring Newfoundland’s culinary culture. - CAA Magazine (July 2024)
Editorial feature and interview, “Top 5 Destinations in the World.” - WestJet Magazine
Published photography of Parc Omega’s wolf sanctuary. - Canadian Geographic
Photography documenting Eeyou Istchee (James Bay) and Cree culture. - HOMME Magazine
Travel features over several years, including coverage of Fogo Island Inn.
Television, Interviews & Community Coverage
- Bell Fibe TV1: “My Story, My Lens” (2022)
Documentary coverage exploring my photography, creativity and mental health.
Watch the episode one teaser
Watch the episode two teaser - CTV News: Community Resilience Project
Coverage of my volunteer photography and social media support for more than 40 local businesses during the pandemic recovery. - Ottawa Life Magazine: Best of Ottawa
Recognition for my photography of Ottawa landmarks and city life.
Community Award & Directory Recognition
- Faces Ottawa Awards: Instagram Photographer of the Year (2023)
A community award recognizing my photography and social storytelling. - FeedSpot: Top 30 Canadian Photographers & Influencers (#7 2025, #5 2026)
Inclusion in FeedSpot’s directory ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
My photography and travel stories have appeared in publications including The New York Times, Toronto Star, CAA Magazine, WestJet Magazine, Canadian Geographic and HOMME Magazine. The credits above describe selected examples.
I share firsthand perspectives on slow travel, changing careers in my fifties, destination photography and the practical planning behind a trip. My work connects travel experiences with the details that help readers explore for themselves.
Yes. I consider photography assignments, travel features and destination storytelling projects across Canada and internationally. Use my Contact page to share your publication, proposed story, timing and requirements.
The Person Behind the Credits
I’m Roland Bast, a Canadian destination storyteller and travel photographer based in Ottawa–Gatineau. I bring original photography, firsthand travel stories and practical planning together to help readers discover places for themselves.
I was a TMAC member from 2022–2025. My work continues across Canada and internationally, with a focus on the landscapes, food, culture and people that give a destination its character.
Editorial Assignments, Interviews & Partnerships
Have a story, interview or destination project in mind? Share your publication or organization, proposed angle, dates and requirements through my Contact page. You can request my media kit there too.