Giving Back

This post is overdue, but I didn't want 2009 to end without a mention of a fantastic moment in my growth and development as a photographer.

Dec.12, 2009 was designated as Help Portrait Day where photographers around the world donate their time and equipment to  help those less fortunate. I volunteered my Saturday as an assistant at a local community centre that was hosting a toy drive. I was assigned to 2 fantastic Toronto-area photographers for the day.  Our goal, to photograph any individual families, or people that attended the drive and provide them a free 8x10 of the day.

It was a fantastic event for a few reasons:

1) Selfishly, I love to watch other photographers work. I like to see what their thought process is, and how they approach subjects. Luckily, they kept me very involved in helping them through the day, so I didn't feel like a lonely assistant, I truly felt part of the process.  It also helped me validate my own methods when I am shooting, add some neat tricks to my arsenal and reassure myself that I can be successful at this as a career.

2) We met some fantastic families. New immigrants, single mothers, an awesome grandfather. Even though we only had 15 minutes with each subject, it was heartwarming to hear their stories and see them interact in front of the camera (both good and bad).

3) It's good to give back. Even though it felt like something small for me to give (my time), it was huge for these families. To be able to get a gorgeous keepsake of their day, at Christmas, with the people they love was heart-warming.   It reminded me that I need to continue to give back - whether it be to do this again next year, or just to simply share what I am learning to other aspiring photographers.

I think as 2009 closes and we start 2010, I need to remind myself of this feeling of giving and continue to push to learn, share and grow. It's a good way to start a new year.

Update: youtube video of our day - fantastic! Click HERE.

I love Flickr

Finally, all my hard work posting, sharing, and tagging my photos on Flickr has paid off.

I was lucky enough to be chosen from thousands of photos on Flickr to be published in Time Magazine's Special Year-end Issue "The Year in Pictures" - Dec.21, 2009.  I was contacted randomly by the national photo editor, through my flickr account.  The spread is all about Michael Jackson and the various dance events that occured around the world after his untimely death.  I was the only Canadian photo chosen - other cities included Perth, Paris, Amsterdam, Mexico City, London and New York City.

I am still speechless that my first published photo in print was in Time. I've only had the issue on hand for less than 24 hours and already it's dog-eared from the amount of times I've opened it and looked at it.  I could not have imagined getting to this point so early in my photography career, but I am immensely proud and can only see great things in my future.

It's more than having something published - it's being chosen amongst the thousands and thousands of amazing images that are on Flickr that makes me the most proud. On top of that, being the only Canadian representative in a major national US magazine makes me proud to represent the great country I live in.

I know when the days come that I struggle with an idea, or image, I am going to pull out this issue and remember the fantastic set of circumstances that brought this photo to print. And then I am going to remind myself to just keep shooting what I love - for in the end, it will pay off.

Dance like no one is watching

I did the typical dance classes that all young girls do: ballet, tap and jazz. It was taught in a church auditorium. It was the 80's and I distinctly remember dancing to "Everyone wants to rule the world", with neon pink leg warmers and an off the shoulder sweatshirt like Flashdance (Irene Cara was my hero - an exotic dancer didn't exist in my 8-year old brain - all I knew is that she could dance!).  But I didn't dance for long. Soon, we moved out of the country and other sports took over my interests.  I grew up always loving music and dancing, but never formally took a class again. Until 3 years ago...

There was a local studio that I passed often on my way home from work. It looked like fun, and a quick web search showed that I could take hip-hop classes with no commitment (the best description was "absolute beginner" - no experience necessary). From that day I was hooked. At first I did it because I loved hip-hop music, the teachers were encouraging and energetic. Quickly I joined the annual showcase to perform in front of a live audience. It was incredibly thrilling and addictive, so I continued with classes and performances.  It has become a passion, a release and a huge part of my life.

But what does this have to do with photography?
Well for me - everything.

Dance teaches you a lot about yourself, and how your energy relates to the people around you.  When you learn to push your body and your mind at the same time, the satisfaction that movement gives you is unparalleled. Plus, accomplishing something, even something small, is so satisfying.

Photographers can learn a lot from dancers. They are open to emotion, and not just their own, but they feed off the energy of people around them. They take that energy, along with their own and translate it into often beautiful movement and expression.  I strive to have the same exchange every time I enter a dance AND a photography studio.  Emotion is a wonderful guide to the arts and for me, is one of the most important feelings when I dance and take photos.

Enjoy the Ride

I saw "Cuff the Duke" at the Horseshoe Tavern tonight. It's one of my favourite venues to enjoy music because they have no issues with camera's brought to shows (in fact, they didn't even check my bag when I went in - next time, I'm packing water!). But it also has a host of fantastic bands any night of the week - and you can practically stand on stage you get so close to them!!

Cuff the Duke is a fantastic Canadian indie band. They've released 3 albums since 2002, with the latest released this year (their 4th) produced by Greg Keelor of Blue Rodeo. They have built quite a following across Canada, and the show was packed with fans. I was surrounded by no less than 5 cameras in the front row capturing the great spirit and music of this band.

While I was admiring all the 5d Mk 2's around me I noticed a really disturbing trend amongst the shooters. Everyone spent way too much looking at the LCD screen after they shot a set of photos and failed to just enjoy the show. As much as I was there to take photos, I was mostly there because I admired the music and had never seen them live before. There is nothing like a live show when the musicians are talented, and the crowd sings along. I admit, I did glace at my LCD periodically, but I was not about to scroll through all my shots while the show was going on.

Digital cameras have created amazing advances and access to those that might not normally have invested in this art-form. However, I think people need to stop using the LCD like it was key to taking a good photo. The only thing I rely on my LCD for is a quick check that my exposure is correct (to a degree) and that my framing is on. I definitely don't rely on it, nor check it constantly, like some of these shooters were.

People need to peel away from the LCD, take note of their surroundings, and enjoy what is around them. We are blessed to live in a city where world class musicians can share their talent 2 feet from us. We, as photographers, need to enjoy the ride we are on.

On the Web

Today is a big day on my career path as a photographer. It's something that, I feel, solidifies me as a pro, and gives me something to share and be proud of.
My website went live today.
My business cards are printed and ready to hand out.
I have 2 new jobs booked in the next couple of weeks.
People are starting to take me seriously as a photographer.

But now, the real work happens. I begin to really market myself to those "key" clients and accounts that I want to land. Those that might not otherwise look at me, with just a flickr account. Flickr has been fantastic for my education and career thus far, and will continue to be. But there is nothing like a professionally designed website to really represent what I am currently as a photographer.

I have big plans for this site in the future. More sections, integration of this blog, and perhaps a bio. But for now, it shows what I am capable of doing and represents the jobs I want to book.

I am thankful and proud of the steps it took me to get here, and I can't wait for the next steps to come.

Baby Steps

I've been very fortunate over the last couple of weeks to have a few of my photos included in some great online sites. One was due to pure luck (and my love for music), while the other attributed to a concentrated effort to promote myself and shoot daily.

1) Fazer Magazine - At a recent show for God Made Me Funky, I had the pleasure of meeting one of the writers who had reviewed their new CD. My photos ended up accompanying Alex's article on the show and the new Disc: Photos/Article Link here.

Lesson #1: ALWAYS have business cards on you. I had run out the day before and forgot to replenish my stock, luckily I was able to get the writer's email but I missed a valuable opportunity to market myself properly to a future collaboration-partner.

Lesson #2: There is nothing like capturing a live show! It's definitely becoming one of my favourite photographic pursuits. I have made it a rule to learn how to photograph artists with no-flash, however stage lights are a killer! My new rule is to shoot a LOT - sometimes stage lights give unbelievable effects, but the moments are fleeting.

2) BlogTO / Nuit Blanche. At the annual overnight arts event, here in Toronto, and a perfect opportunity for photography. My main focus was to photograph using off-camera flash work (strobist style), however I also managed to get some nice shots of the artists at work with available light.

BlogTO is a fantastic site that supports local photographers through their Flickr group site, from which they populate their articles and reviews. My photos were used in a review of the Distillery District. I've been contributing steadily over the last few months and finally, I see my photos on their site. Thanks BlogTO!

Lesson #3: Never delete any photos in your camera. I had actually taken a series of the above photo. My finger hovered around the delete button with this one, when I was distracted by a phone call. I don't know why I was about to delete it, other than I had a lot of the same shot. But this was the only one in which the artist was pointing at his work (which I think ads to the charm of this shot).

Lesson #4: It's nice to have a game plan, but don't ever let it distract you from any event that materializes before your eyes. Although my goal that night was to experiment with off-camera flash, most of my best shots were available-light.

FYI - my favourite "strobist" shot of the night was this one (it's also really nice to have friends that are patient and willing to model over and over and over again):

Dancing in the Streets

One of the hardest parts about committing to the art of photography is constantly challenging myself. It is such an emotional ride, from the effort it takes, the thoughts and then the intense concentration needed for each shoot.

But then comes along a day when the stars align, the emotional ride is enjoyable, and every time the shutter closes I get a rush of happiness because I know the feeling I have will translate to the frames. The shot to the right was taken on just such a day.

I was taking a 1-day photo workshop that focused on capturing the movement of dance. This area of photography has been a focus of my portfolio development due to my love of the art. Although I do dabble in dance, the talent that these dancers/models brought to the set was inspiring. And the energy was unbelievable! You could just feel the exchange of creativity circling the photographers as the dancers performed.

Photography can sometimes be brain-scratching, frustrating and hard work, but when you get rewarded with days full of joy and creativity, it makes it all worth it. And the great thing is, every time I look at these images, I get that same rush of happiness that I did the day I shot them.

Now the trick is to try and repeat that happiness and rush every time I take photos!

Strobist Boot Camp - Assignment #2

Just completed the second installment of the Strobist Boot Camp (here).

I had just under a week to prepare for this shot. Which, in hindsight, is a ridiculous amount of time. However like all good photographers, I waited till close to the deadline to finalize my approach.

The hardest part of this shot was deciding on WHAT to shoot, but after spending 5 hours watching Federer and Roddick work out their frustrations on grass, I thought representing this tournament was a good start.

I had to restrain myself and think "simplicity". I started with a table full of Wimbledon accessories: a tennis racket, purple and green cloths, photos of Federer, even a trophy. But then I remembered some advice I received a long time ago: start with 1 item and add slowly - only what necessary.

I approached the lighting with the same thinking. A single strobe (430 EX) placed high-right of frame. In addition 2 reflectors used to highlight the left/front sides of the white bowl (to add details in the shadows).

I think this shot was a lot more successful than my first assignment.
1) I simplified the shot as much as possible. Tried to eliminate all the was not necessary to convey the message. I think I could have gone even further.
2) I like the lighting. I am happy with the texture on the strawberries.
3) I wish I had a food stylist. I just couldn't get the berries to lay the right way. It looks a bit haphazard.

See the group shots here.

Gangs of Kensington Market

Spent my Sunday wandering a local Toronto mainstay for downtown dwellers: Kensington Market with a group of amateur photographers. I am not normally a good "group" photographer. I usually run away from those gathering en-masse with cameras in hand (see earlier post), but this type of event does offer some really great perks:

1) My photography becomes more cerebral rather than reactive. I look harder for that unique shot, because 5 other photographers are following behind me taking in the same sights. (Today, I approach the day with "detail" in my mind. I forced this by only shooting with a 50mm lens, that allowed me a limited range of what I could capture. It also forced me to walk up to what I was shooting and become more involved in my subject).

2) I took a lot of time to watch my fellow photographers to see what they focused on. It amazed me to see what caught our attention.

3) Patio Beers. What's better than sitting on a warm patio, having a cool beer, talking about our experience?

Check out all our photos here.

Even if you can only get out with 1 other photographer, I think it's a great chance to expand your view of what makes an interesting photo.

Can't wait to set up more shoots like this in the near future.

Tell All Your Friends

Part of the struggle in becoming a professional photographer has nothing to do with getting jobs, figuring out how to light a scene, or looking for inspiration. The biggest struggle is much closer to home: self-doubt. However it's very easy to overcome. Live it out loud, everyday.

Tell everyone you know "I am a photographer". Tell people you don't know. Strike up conversations with people in a coffee shop and introduce yourself. But most of all, believe it everyday. It may have been a SNL skit with Stuart Smalley, but Daily Affirmations are powerful.

Wake up everyday with "I am a photographer". Leave self-doubt at home.
And remember to tell all your friends (you never know where you next job will come from).

Strobist Boot Camp II - Assignment #1

I am constantly awed and challenged by what I see on Strobist.
http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/
The photo community that has gathered here continues to give me new ideas and makes me strive to stretch my technical and creative muscles in photography. As lonesome as photography is, a community like this is invaluable to my personal and professional growth as a photographer.

David Hobby has created a new series of "Boot Camp" assignments to test this great group of photographers. First assignement was to create a head-shot of someone that has been affected by this global economic meltdown. My first reaction was to enlist my best friend Tammy. Although she does have a full-time job, she has just gone through an amazing spiritual growth to become a yoga instructor. She inspires me every day to listen to my heart, and allow the universe to guide what is spiritually right for me. I wanted to reflect this in the photo.

For some technical stuff: Lit this with 1 strobe (Canon 430EX), off-camera shoe cord, hand-held above camera left. Tried to balance the ambient lights of the bridge to incorporate the rigid structure. 2nd Curtain shutter enables to create slight blur on Tammy to give her a more ethereal quality. 2nd part of the assignment was to include a picture of myself. I hate sitting still, and having my photo taken, so the use of the 2nd curtain allowed this interesting view.

What I will improve next time:
- I didn't quite get the balance of the flash and ambient right. Although limited to 1 strobe, I think my power balance was a bit off
- This is technically NOT a head shot (as per the assignment). I think I got carried away with capturing Tammy's spirit/form and tried to incorporate too much of the surrounding. I should have just focused on her for a real head shot.

Can't wait to assignment #2.

A Day amongst hundreds of photographers

I spent today at Toronto's "Doors Open" event - when public/private buildings are opened to the public for viewing all the areas normally not accessible. Needless to say, this also brought out all of Toronto's photographers - everyone from blackberry photo takers (eek!) to so many pro levels cameras, I started to get "gear envy".

But while I was being shuffled through these buildings, I did notice one trait that I strive really hard to work against - that is the gathering of photographers. My instinct when I see a cool shot, and a bunch of photographers grappling on top of each other for that perfect frame, is just to run.

Sure, I might miss that "postcard" shot, but in turn I feel I get a much better perspective and often better shots. I shot the above photo sitting on the ground, while photographers clamored in a corner to capture this whole place in one shot. It was a stunning place, but everywhere you looked there were opportunities for uniqueness (and places to hide from other shooters).

I think this is really important to keep in mind while photographing. Look for the unique perspective. Point out something that someone might miss. Take a moment to look at the detail. Breathe. And above all, if you see a group of photographer's gathering at one end of the hall, run as fast as you can to the other to get your shot.

My Direction is Clear(er)

Met with an objective obsever to my photography tonight - what an eye-opening experience!! All along I've been taking photos that I like, of people and things that make me happy. Looking at all my photos in a collection, all this time I've actually been heading towards a style, feel and career. I'm basking in the thought that I'm on my way (although baby steps it might be).
I've always been a linear thinker. Having a goal for my work (not to mention my business) is paramount to keep me on track, and thanks to Rob, I now have a very clear one for when I shoot.
I know my work over the next few weeks is going to be critical, and I have every confidence that it will be successful.
If anyone else is struggling, get someone you trust to give you a fresh perspective (on anything, not just photography) and I swear, it will change the bounce in your step instantly.
Check out Rob's work here: www.rdaphoto.com - He's awesome!

Portfolio Woes

I'm in the process of finalizing my portfolio shots - or at least deciding which photos best represent me as a photographer at this time (the one at the right didn't make the 1st cut). I've printed up my best shots from the past 2 years, thrown them all over my house, and have taken the last week deciding which ones still catch my eye.

I have 50 favourites. I obviously have a problem with being objective/critical of my own work.

So, I'm going to get some professional advice, from a commercial shooter that I admire, and hopefully he can steer me into the right few for my website. It's a bit like putting your heart and soul on a table and someone playing operation on it. Not looking forward to the process, yet the outcome is worth it.

First Online Published Photo

Got some wonderful news over the weekend. One of my recent photos was voted to be apart of this awesome online mapping tool: schmap.

Link to my photo is here:
http://www.schmap.com/toronto/activities_chinatown/#r=none&mapview=Map&tab=Places&p=85355&topleft=43.7107,-79.44815&bottomright=43.58226,-79.35167&i=85355_5.jpg

I took this photo while I was rushing to meet some friends for Dim Sum in Chinatown. Funny thing is, I took this with my iPhone. I normally always travel with a camera, but at time when fashion does not allow for a Crumpler bag, the iPhone has become my new photographic companion.

If Terry Richardson can take stunning photos with only and point'n'shoot, why can't I produce images through my iPhone?

Beginning Thoughts

From the day that I picked up a camera, I knew that it was always going to be an important part of my life. I'm now at an important cross-road in my creative life and I believe that becoming a professional photographer is where I need to be. I believe that there are others going through the same process and the only way we can all grow and continue to develop this community of photographers is to grow together. So, I enter into the blogsphere to do my part as a new member of this community. Welcome and look forward to sharing with you all!