Melville, NY—Canon USA added four Explorers of Light photographers to its EOL program. Members of one of the first programs of its kind, Explorers of Light are renowned photographers in all genres of photography. Moreover, they share knowledge and educate as well as inspire visual artists and new generations of content creators.
As photography continues to evolve, Canon’s program includes an eclectic mix of visual artists. They bring new and creative ways of seeing the world while maintaining the program’s longstanding tradition of education, collaboration as well as learning.
Canon has named Nadia Aly, Kevin Jairaj, Alex Strohl and Victoria Will as its newest members of this elite group of visual artists. Each photographer brings a level of style, energy and also artistic acumen. They complement the diverse photographic genres represented by the current 32 creative artists participating in the program.
Canon Adds to Legends Program
In addition, as a new class of creators enters the EOL program, an influential group of Explorers will transition as lifetime members of Canon Legends. This program preserves the legacy and leadership of some of the most accomplished EOLs. 
Further, Canon will induct Bruce Dorn, Darrell Gulin and Damian Strohmeyer into the Legends program. They join a short list of legendary photographers that includes Harry Benson, Lauren Greenfield, Gregory Heisler, Chris Rainier as well as Joyce Tenneson, to name a few.
What’s more, these industry legends will continue to share their knowledge and expertise with photographers and filmmakers through workshops, seminars and published articles.
Four Explorers of Light Enter EOL Program
Here are the newest Canon Explorers of Light photographers and their primary photographic genres.
Nadia Aly: Underwater / Wildlife
Aly is an award-winning wildlife photographer with a focus on underwater marine life. Her work seeks to educate people globally about the diverse populations of sea creatures. Consequently, she captures their beauty and uniqueness with her camera and publishes those photographs and videos.
In addition, Aly does this to raise awareness and interest in supporting efforts to conserve the oceans and their inhabitants. She also takes clients on numerous underwater expeditions yearly, through her company, Scuba Diver Life Expeditions. Its focus is in-water whale encounters around the world.
“I think photography is an amazing tool to share moments in time. I personally use it to share moments and educate others about the numerous animals that call our oceans home. Not a lot of people get to experience the ocean the way I do, and I find it important to help show and educate others,” said Aly. 
“For example, my ‘Hairy Frog Fish’ photo. Not many people know what a hairy frog fish is. I received thousands of comments from curious viewers about the photo. This to me is a win. It’s a great example of educating others about an animal that most have never heard of.”
What’s in Nadia Aly’s Bag? Canon EOS R3 and R5 camera bodies, as well as RF 15–35mm, RF 100–500mm and EF 8–15mm lenses.
Kevin Jairaj: Sports/Portrait/Wedding
In just a few years, Jairaj has become a sought-after photographer. He has commissioned photo shoots, weddings and events worldwide. He is also one of only a few people to hold the Triple Master title from WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International) and Master of Photography from PPA (Professional Photographers of America).
In addition, he was commissioned by USA Today to take portraits of key members of the USA Summer and Winter Olympic teams. He covered the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, as well as the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang for USA Today. Jairaj has also covered Super Bowls, Final Fours, the World Series and National Championship games. Moreover, he is the Official Photographer for the College Football Playoff National Championship.
“Being named a Canon Explorer of Light is an honor of a lifetime and really a dream come true for me,” commented Jairaj. “I have used Canon gear since day one as a photographer and have never really looked back. I am definitely looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experiences with other photographers and hobbyists around the world.”
What’s in Kevin Jairaj’s Bag? EOS R3 and EOS 1DX Mark III bodies; EF 200–400mm f/4, EF 70–200mm f/2.8, EF 24–70mm f/2.8 and EF 15mm lenses; as well as a Canon Speedlight with a battery pack. 
Alex Strohl: Outdoor/Landscape
For more than a decade, this photographer and entrepreneur has pioneered the visual style of the outdoor industry. Strohl’s marketing campaigns garner clients’ audiences in the millions. Furthermore, his acclaimed photography workshops share years of experience and insight to tens of thousands of aspiring amateurs. Lauded by National Geographic, Outside magazine and Gentlemen’s Journal, Strohl’s influence on the direction of outdoor media is unparalleled.
Moreover, his work is an immersive visual experience that blurs the boundaries of life and work, and of humans and nature. His timeless style and eye for subtle authentic moments transcends industries from local ski brands to the foremost watchmakers.
“Photography for me is a powerful vehicle to get a message across, to challenge perceptions and offer new ways to view the world,” said Strohl. “It is also a great way to meet people. That is what it all comes down to for me; meeting interesting people, learning from them and trying to tell their story in the most accurate and honest way possible.”
What’s in Alex Strohl’s Bag? EOS R5 and EOS R3 bodies; RF 15–35mm, RF 70–200mm f/2.8L, RF 100–500mm and RF 28–70mm f/2.0L lenses; a Strohl x Moment MTN Light 45L backpack; as well as NanLite Pavotubes.
Victoria Will: Celebrity/Editorial/Portrait
Will began her career as a photojournalist and has since transitioned to celebrity portraiture, editorial as well as commercial assignments. Her characteristically authentic portraiture has appeared in Vogue, New York Times, Rolling Stone, ESPN and W magazine. Her approach is rooted in collaboration and a meaningful connection where she seeks intimacy, authenticity and elegance with a thoughtful eye and composition.
She was also recognized with numerous honors, including from American Photography, PDN Photo Annual and Communication Arts. What’s more, her imagery is the subject of both solo and group exhibitions internationally.
“Being a Canon Explorer of Light means that I have the honor of joining a long legacy of photographers whose creativity has directly inspired me throughout my career. And now I have the opportunity to give that back to the next generation,” Will said.
What’s in Victoria Will’s Bag? Two EOS R5 bodies (with battery grips) as well as 24–70mm f/2.8, 70–200mm f/2.8, 100mm macro and 50mm f/1.2 USM lenses.
