Renowned Christian photographer Ken Duncan has spent decades capturing the beauty of God’s creation through his camera lens. Taking a creative passion and turning it into a business is no easy task. But together with his wife Pam, he has built a business that highlights both artistic excellence and demonstrates their commitment to doing what’s right. As Ken looks back on his journey, he says, ‘I’m an average photographer with a great God.’ And when you take the time to pause and reflect, each image tells a story of deep connection to God’s creation.
Ken and Pam’s business is very much a team effort. It includes a gallery on the NSW Central Coast and an online store, both of which serve as platforms to share his breathtaking images with people worldwide. Pam manages much of the business operations, allowing Ken to focus on photography. Their shared vision is simple yet profound. ‘To show the beauty of God’s creation.’ For Ken, this work is more than a job. It’s a calling. ‘I feel immensely privileged to travel the world, take photos, and bring those images back to show people how awesome God is,’ he says. ‘The beauty of God’s creation has tremendous power to bring peace and tranquility into people’s homes and work spaces.’
Demonstrating a Commitment to doing what’s right
Faith is at the core of every aspect of their work. Ken believes that as Christians in business, they must live above reproach and focus on doing the business basics well and demonstrating a commitment to doing what’s right. ‘Paying people on time, being honest, having integrity—these are non-negotiables,’ Ken explains. His faith also guides his creative process in surprising ways. To capture the photos we enjoy, Ken is often navigating secluded landscapes, exploring difficult terrain, and combatting all sorts of weather for days at a time. In this process, you’ll find Ken praying in the wilderness and asking God to direct him. ‘Some of my best photos come from moments when I feel God nudging me to look in a particular direction,’ he shares. ‘Creativity starts with the Creator.’
Over the years, Ken and Pam’s business has grown and evolved significantly. At its peak, it included five galleries, an online store, printing and framing, as well as a publishing company. All of which employed 53 staff. While the growth was rewarding, it also came with challenges. ‘That was a huge responsibility,’ Ken recalls. ‘At times, it was a lot of pressure.’ Eventually, they made the difficult decision to scale back, closing galleries and reducing staff to create more space for their work with Indigenous youth in remote Australian communities. ‘The process took years, but we now feel we have more freedom to do what God is calling us to do. Our heart is to help create sustainable enterprises for Indigenous people in remote communities through the Walk a While Foundation. Connection to country is very important to Indigenous people, so we are endeavouring to create meaningful jobs within their own communities.’
The Beauty of God’s Creation
Ken’s journey has included moments of profound challenge and faith. He remembers being called by God in 1994 to create a book titled America Wide – In God We Trust, a project meant to remind Americans of their stated trust in God. The project took seven years and required significant financial commitment. Publishers wanted to remove ‘God’ from the title, but Ken and Pam couldn’t compromise the purpose, ultimately publishing the book themselves. ‘It could have cost us everything,’ Ken says, ‘but as we stepped out in faith, God provided every step of the way.’
When asked for his advice for other Christian business leaders, Ken’s thoughts are inspired by Philippians 4:13. They are simple yet powerful words. ‘Be the light that shines in the darkness. There’s so much turmoil in the world—so much fear and anxiety. We can give people the hope of the Gospel of Christ, and we should do that.’
For Ken, the greatest opportunity is the chance to show people the beauty of God’s creation and bring peace and tranquility into their lives. He regularly partners with Vision Christian Media to share the Gospel in new and exciting ways. ‘Vision reaches further than any one person can,’ Ken says. ‘By partnering with them and other like-minded ministries, we can reach many more people with the hope of Christ.’
Committed to their purpose, Ken and Pam have dedicated their lives to more than beautiful pictures. Their work is a showcase of God’s beauty and a powerful reminder of our Creator. You can see Ken’s images by visiting www.kenduncan.com.
