Simple Sailor Band Shoot

A few weeks ago I was approached by Simple Sailor for some new promo band photos. Honestly, it feels like forever since I’ve done work for a Toronto musician/band and I sure missed it. It’s always the best vibes getting to know new music and local talented artists, and the opportunity to layer visuals based on another art form like music is something that I can never get enough of.

While Simple Sailor is a Toronto band, their music is heavily influenced by the warm California air both Dan (guitar+vocals) and Owen (bass+vocals) grew up in as kids. It’s fuzzy, uplifting, and nostalgic in a 90’s kind of vibe. If you grew up in the 90’s you would love it. If you didn’t, stop reading this and go listen to some 90’s music.

Our shoot plan was as straight forward as it gets - choose a location that is meaningful to the guys - their neighbourhood, and have fun with it. We walked around the Bentway in Toronto and let the energy that brought those three together lead the way. Some direction but mostly an organic documented hang out.

My current favourite tune from Simple Sailor is ‘Walking Home’. In fact, it’s playing as I write this post.

“A night with friends
A night of wine
Our memories
Will age with time”

It’s giving me those hot summer night feels in Toronto. You’re out with your friends and they are your whole world. Nothing else on your mind but being in that moment creating memories with your best people.

To match the nostalgic feel of the music, and follow the creative direction and inspiration we decided on for this shoot, I photographed most of it with some sweet vintage Leica glass. Got the Leica M10 paired with my 35mm Summicron v2 (1969), and 50mm Summilux v2 (1973). With the super wide shots I turned to my Fujifilm X-T4 with the 10-24mm lens.

All natural and available light. Zero fuss.

Simple Sailor will be performing at the Tail of the Junction on September 28 - come out and have a drink with me!