Tribute to Michel Pilon
Michel Pilon (1951–2024) was a distinguished Canadian photographer renowned for his compelling commercial and artistic imagery. Based in Montreal, Pilon owned and operated Michel Pilon Photographe Ltée, a prominent advertising photography studio. Throughout his career, he collaborated with esteemed clients such as Bell Canada, Provigo, Ontario Milk Board, and Coca-Cola.
In 1997, Pilon embarked on a remarkable project capturing the artistry of Vis Versa, the acrobatic duo comprising Yves Decoste and Marie-Laure Mesnage, known for their performances with Cirque du Soleil. This series showcased Pilon's ability to encapsulate movement and emotion, highlighting the performers' strength and grace.
Pilon's work extended to platforms like Saatchi Art, where limited edition prints of his photographs, such as "Balancier," were made available. "Balancier" depicts a female artist supporting her male partner in a display of balance and control, exemplifying Pilon's talent in portraying the human form and dynamic movement.
Beyond his photographic achievements, Pilon was a passionate advocate for professional photographers' rights. His enthusiasm and dedication left a lasting impact on the photography community, inspiring both peers and aspiring photographers.
In the mid-1990s, Michel Pilon, a highly esteemed photographer and a key figure in Canadian photography, was among the first to participate in professional photographers' meetings in Quebec, initiated by the CAPIC/Montreal chapter (Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators). After reaching out to more than 226 photographers, an assessment of the existing professional practices in Quebec was conducted. It became clear that there was an urgent need for mobilization to enhance the value of the profession.
This led to the realization that a major change was necessary, given the outdated nature of the Canadian Copyright Act (LDA), particularly concerning its exceptions for photography. There was a pressing need to address the injustice surrounding photographers' copyright, especially for commissioned work.
Michel Pilon took on a leadership role, accepting the position of co-president alongside André Panneton under CAPIC/Montreal's guidance. A large-scale initiative, involving colleges and educational institutions, was launched with the goal of amending the Copyright Act to improve professional practices in the industry. To align with most industrialized countries, a public relations firm was hired, funded by the majority of professional photographers and their suppliers.
André Panneton, Christiane Valcourt et Michel Pilon.
As part of this effort, a Vade Mecum and a standard contract—offered freely to all—were developed to provide structure to the photography industry. These tools aimed to better protect photographers while simplifying client transactions by clearly defining reproduction rights.
In the spring of 2012, the Copyright Act was amended through Bill C-11, rectifying the longstanding injustice regarding commissioned photography. Canadian photographers are now recognized as the primary copyright holders of the images they create, on the same legal footing as other creators.
Michel Pilon dedicated himself wholeheartedly for many years to defending his craft. Thanks to his efforts and the solidarity of his peers, freelance professional photographers gained recognition for the ownership of their copyrighted works.
The entire industry owes him a great debt of gratitude. His generosity and commitment made the success of this movement possible, and his contributions will be forever remembered by the photography community.
Michel Pilon's legacy endures through his evocative imagery and his contributions to the field of photography, reflecting his profound understanding of visual storytelling and his commitment to the art form.