I’ve been meaning to put together this post for the longest time so I’m absolutely pumped as I’m writing this obligatory intro. I actually am!

Heads up and zero shame – there’s going to be a lot of plugging here. As a Toronto photographer and visual artist, I try to jump on every opportunity I get to push my local creative network, and help my peeps’ work get the love it deserves. Let’s go!

Above: my very talented long-time friend and NYC photographer Vaho Unaev (not from Toronto but had to make it in!)

With that said, I am also sharing these today as a token of gratitude to all humans who are willing to take a step outside the box with me, be themselves, and have a good time. I shoot a lot of professional and formal headshots, and while those are great and serve a purpose, they are not always as dynamic and creative.

Above left to right (desktop), top to bottom (mobile):

Painter/ Set Dec/ Art Dept wiz Alex BG

Photographer James Correia

Medical Illustrator Enid Gottlieb

Being an opportunist by nature, I’ve learned that experimenting in portraiture is always rewarding in some way. Even considering the process only with no regards to the final results – each experience trying something new is always so worth it.

Working with artists means doubling down on the creative thought process. This makes my life so much easier, and helps bridge all the gaps and ideas as we bounce them between us. If you ever find yourself in front of my camera – know that your input is critical.

Above left to right (desktop), top to bottom (mobile):

Art Director/ Interior Designer/ Muralist Tova Hasiwar

Photographer/ Director Tanvi Madkaiker

Graphic Designer Steven Oliveira

Multidisciplinary Artist Yaniv Hason

Some of the things that make me feel like a 4-year-old during a shoot are obviously dynamic light and unique compositions BUT (!), I also love to bring lots of context and visual layers that relate to the subject. What is their work all about, who they are as individuals, and the meaning of the location we chose for the shoot. Storytelling in portraiture is everything. I recently went to a remarkable exhibit at the AGO, showcasing the work of Arnold Newman, who was the master of personifying his photographic subjects.

Above: Toronto stained glass artist Yehuda Rotenberg

If you are a GTA artist, needless to say, I’d love to photograph you. Reach out so we can chat about what your project is all about and how I can help you with some fresh visuals that you can use for your website and socials. It starts with reaching out to say hello!

SAY HELLO BUTTON

Above left to right (desktop), top to bottom (mobile):

Hamilton Photographer Callum Pinkney

NYC Architecture/Interior Photographer Eitan Gamlieli (yet another NYC mention)