Discover the Heart of Manitoba's Dairy Farms.

As a nature photographer, every image I capture tells a story of patience, adventure, and awe. This year’s calendar is a carefully curated selection of my best work, but for every photo that made the cut, there are dozens that didn’t. That doesn’t make them any less meaningful.

In this special gallery, I’m showcasing the “almosts” and the “not quites”—photos that, for one reason or another, didn’t find their way into this year’s calendar. These images represent the beauty of nature in its raw, unpredictable state. From early morning mist that refused to lift to wildlife that danced just out of frame, each photo captures the magic of the moment, even if it wasn’t perfect for print.

Some might see these as the outtakes, but for me, they are a testament to the journey, the challenges, and the joy of being immersed in nature. I invite you to explore this behind-the-scenes collection and share in the untamed beauty that fuels my passion as a photographer.

Welcome to the other side of the lens—these are the images that almost made it.

— Rudi Dueck