Bob and the bride

 

Bob had just stepped into the lobby of the Sheraton Hotel in Toronto, his Sony NEX 3 slung over his shoulder, ready to capture candid moments of life unfolding around him. The hotel lobby, bathed in soft natural light from its towering windows, buzzed with activity—a mix of business travelers, tourists, and the occasional wedding party.

Bob noticed her immediately. The bride was radiant, wrapped in an elegant fur shawl, holding a bouquet of delicate white flowers. She seemed to glow with an effervescent joy that drew everyone’s attention. Bob’s photographer’s instinct kicked in. This was a moment worth preserving.

Careful not to intrude, Bob positioned himself by the side of the lobby, adjusting the settings on his camera. He noticed the light streaming through the windows, creating a beautiful, diffused effect that framed the bride perfectly. He crouched slightly, aiming for a shot that would capture her natural smile and the interplay of textures—the softness of her shawl, the intricate details of her bouquet, and the modern architecture of the hotel behind her.

Just as he was about to press the shutter, the bride turned, catching sight of him. Instead of looking startled, she laughed, her face lighting up even more. “Are you a photographer?” she asked, her tone playful.

Bob chuckled. “Just a humble street photographer,” he replied. “But I couldn’t resist capturing such a perfect moment.”

She tilted her head, considering. “Well, I suppose I’ll allow it,” she said with a wink. “Make sure I look good!”

Bob snapped a few shots, capturing her radiant smile and the genuine happiness that seemed to fill the space around her. He showed her the photos on his camera screen, and her eyes widened. “These are amazing!” she exclaimed. “You’ve got an incredible talent.”

Bob grinned. “The real magic is all you. Congratulations on your wedding, by the way.”

“Thank you,” she said warmly. “If you’re ever in need of a reference, let me know. You just made my day even more special.”

As she walked away to join her groom and bridal party, Bob lingered for a moment, reviewing the shots he’d taken. They were some of his best work—simple, candid, and full of life. He thought about how photography, even in the unlikeliest of places, always had the power to tell a story.

Bob headed out of the lobby, ready for whatever moment Toronto would offer him next.

Why is bokeh overrated in photography

Bokeh—blurred areas in a photo, often created by a shallow depth of field—can be seen as overrated in photography for several reasons. While it’s a beloved aesthetic, especially in portrait and macro photography, its overuse or misapplication can lead to criticism. Here's why some may feel bokeh is overrated:

Why Bokeh is Popular

Artistic Appeal: Soft, out-of-focus backgrounds can isolate the subject and add a dreamy quality.

Gear Flex: High-quality lenses with wide apertures create "creamy" bokeh, often seen as a mark of professional equipment.

Visual Simplicity: Bokeh minimizes distractions, drawing the viewer’s eye to the subject.

Trendiness: Social media platforms like Instagram popularized bokeh-heavy portraits and cityscapes.

Why It’s Considered Overrated

Overuse as a Gimmick:

Some photographers rely on bokeh to "beautify" images instead of focusing on composition, storytelling, or lighting.

Overemphasis on bokeh can lead to repetitive, uninspired shots.

Lack of Substance:

Bokeh is often seen as superficial; it adds style but not necessarily meaning or emotion to a photo.

A great photo isn’t defined solely by its background blur but by its narrative and engagement.

Lost Context:

Excessive background blur can eliminate interesting details that contribute to the story or environment of the image.

Barrier to Accessibility:

The obsession with "perfect" bokeh often pushes beginners to chase expensive gear instead of honing their skills.

It perpetuates the myth that great photos require expensive lenses with wide apertures.

Fading Novelty:

The novelty of bokeh has worn off due to oversaturation in photography circles, making it less unique and impactful.

Balanced Approach

Bokeh is a tool, not the goal. When used purposefully—such as emphasizing a subject or creating a specific mood—it’s a powerful technique. But relying solely on bokeh for visual interest can limit creativity and make your work blend in rather than stand out.

For street or travel photography (like yours), incorporating bokeh sparingly or in a way that complements the story can add depth while preserving authenticity.

Two Clocks

Bob was on a mission to capture the essence of Toronto's iconic timepieces. Armed with his trusty Sony a6000 camera, he decided to create a visual story about how these clocks represent the rhythm and character of the city.

His first stop was the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. Stepping into the grand lobby, Bob was mesmerized by the opulent holiday decorations surrounding the famous clock. The soft glow of fairy lights on Christmas trees created a magical atmosphere, while the intricate wooden design of the clock itself stood as a timeless masterpiece. He framed his shot carefully, balancing the golden hues of the clock with the twinkling lights below. The photograph felt alive, embodying the spirit of tradition and elegance.

Next, Bob made his way to Union Station, Toronto's bustling transportation hub. The imposing clock towered above the Travelers Aid Society desk, commanding attention in the grand hall. The clean, modern design of the clock stood in stark contrast to the historic architecture of the station, creating a visual dialogue between past and present. Bob positioned himself to capture the sweeping arches of the ceiling and the simplicity of the clock's face, emphasizing the station's role as a timeless crossroads for travelers.

As he reviewed his shots, Bob couldn’t help but think about how these clocks symbolized more than just the passage of time—they were landmarks of history and connection, anchoring the city in its rich heritage while pointing toward the future. Inspired, he jotted down a few notes for his photography blog, where he planned to write a story about how even simple things like clocks could tell the tale of a city.

This photo walk became more than a creative outing; it became Bob’s way of capturing the heartbeat of Toronto.

 

Use the VCL-ECF2 and VCL-ECU2 on the Sony 16mm Lens for Crowds at Rogers Centre

How to Use the VCL-ECF2 and VCL-ECU2 on the Sony 16mm Lens for Crowds at Rogers Centre

Photographing the energetic crowds at the Taylor Swift concert at Rogers Centre offers a great opportunity to explore creative perspectives with the Sony 16mm f/2.8 lens and its two specialised conversion lenses:

VCL-ECF2 Fisheye Converter: Turns the 16mm lens into a 10mm fisheye, offering a unique, curved distortion for artistic shots.

VCL-ECU2 Ultra-Wide Converter: Converts the 16mm lens into a 12mm ultra-wide-angle lens, delivering an expansive field of view with minimal distortion.

Here’s a guide to effectively use these tools in a bustling event setting like a concert crowd:

1. Using the VCL-ECF2 Fisheye Converter

The fisheye converter is excellent for creating dramatic, surreal images that emphasise energy and motion. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Capture the Crowd Energy: Position yourself in the middle of a dense crowd. Point the lens slightly upward to curve the crowd and the Rogers Centre into a circular, eye-catching composition.

Exaggerate Motion and Excitement: Move closer to the action—fans dancing, singing, or showing off their outfits. The fisheye distortion will amplify the energy in the scene.

Showcase Landmarks: Place the stadium, street vendors, or Taylor Swift-themed decorations prominently in your frame to add context. The fisheye view will create a larger-than-life effect.

Play with Angles: Experiment with shooting from low angles to make people seem larger than life or from overhead to compress the crowd into a flowing wave.

2. Using the VCL-ECU2 Ultra-Wide Converter

The ultra-wide converter is perfect for capturing expansive views while maintaining a natural feel. Use it to:

Frame the Entire Scene: Stand back and shoot wide to include the crowd, the stadium, and surrounding cityscape in one shot. This lens is great for capturing the scale of the event.

Highlight Fan Interactions: Focus on groups of fans while keeping enough background to tell the story of where they are and what’s happening.

Document Details with Context: Photograph merchandise booths, street performers, or lines of fans. The ultra-wide view keeps everything sharp and balanced without distortion.

Create Layers: Place interesting subjects in the foreground, middle ground, and background to take full advantage of the lens's depth.

3. General Tips for Both Lenses

Use Aperture and ISO Strategically: The Sony 16mm f/2.8 lens handles low-light situations well. Use the wide aperture in dim lighting or boost your ISO slightly for nighttime shots.

Focus on Close-Ups: Both lenses work well for close-up shots, offering dramatic foreground emphasis while still keeping the background engaging.

Move with the Crowd: Don’t hesitate to shift your position to find fresh perspectives.

Keep it Stable: Use a wrist strap or small tripod if shooting in chaotic areas to stabilise your shots and prevent motion blur.

4. Composition Ideas

Fisheye Fun: Frame a circle of fans around the lens to emphasize unity or shoot skyward to curve the cityscape above.

Ultra-Wide Drama: Position Taylor Swift-inspired outfits in the foreground with the stadium towering in the background for dramatic storytelling.

By combining the natural versatility of the Sony 16mm f/2.8 with the creativity of the VCL-ECF2 and VCL-ECU2, you’ll capture the electric energy of the Taylor Swift concert crowds in ways that stand out. Each lens offers a unique view, so experiment boldly and enjoy the results!

Sony SEL18-105mm f/4 G lens

Using the Sony SEL18-105mm f/4 G OSS lens with your Sony a6000 for photo walking is an excellent choice, especially for street photography, travel, and general walkabout shooting. Here are some pros and tips to maximise your experience:

Why It’s a Great Combo

1. Versatile Focal Range:

• The 18-105mm focal range covers everything from wide-angle (18mm) for landscapes and architecture to telephoto (105mm) for capturing candid street moments without being intrusive.

2. Constant f/4 Aperture:

• The fixed f/4 aperture allows for consistent exposure throughout the zoom range, making it easier to shoot in changing light conditions.

3. Optical SteadyShot (OSS):

• The in-lens stabilisation is helpful for handheld shots, especially in lower light or when zoomed in.

4. Good Build Quality:

• The lens is robust, yet not overly heavy, making it manageable for longer photo walks.

5. Power Zoom Feature:

• Smooth zooming, which can be handy if you’re also shooting video during your walk.

1. Use Manual Focus for Precision:

• The Sony a6000 and this lens work well with manual focus for subjects like street signs or intricate architectural details. Assign focus peaking to your function button for better control.

2. Leverage the Zoom for Composition:

• At 18mm, frame wide scenes and establish context. Use 50-70mm for natural perspectives, and go to 105mm for isolating subjects or compressing backgrounds.

3. Carry a Compact Sling Bag:

• The lens is slightly large for the a6000 body, so having a bag to rest your gear during breaks is essential.

4. Watch for Flare:

• If you’re shooting in bright sunlight, attach a lens hood to avoid unwanted flares.

5. Adjust for Low Light:

• The f/4 aperture may struggle in dim lighting. Use higher ISO settings (like ISO 800-1600) to maintain shutter speed, especially when capturing motion.

6. Take Advantage of the OSS:

• You can shoot sharp images at slower shutter speeds, but avoid going below 1/60 for handheld shots unless you have exceptionally steady hands.

7. Capture Street Portraits:

• At 105mm, the lens offers a flattering perspective for portraits without getting too close to the subject.

8. Battery Awareness:

• The a6000’s battery life can drain quickly with prolonged use. Carry spares to ensure your walk isn’t cut short.

This setup is fantastic for capturing everything from candid street scenes to sweeping cityscapes. If you're heading back to Kensington Market or exploring new areas, you'll find the lens handles most situations effectively.

Friendship Bracelet

It was a crisp, afternoon in Toronto when Bob decided to explore the buzz near the Taylor Swift concert venue. The streets were alive with fans sporting friendship bracelets, a tradition that had become synonymous with Taylor's tours. Bob, ever on the lookout for unique street photography moments, strolled around the bustling area with his Sony a6000 in hand.

Near one of the parking lots, he spotted a heartwarming interaction unfolding. A Toronto police officer, decked out in his uniform, was exchanging friendship bracelets with a young girl and her mother. The little girl, bundled in a cozy pink jacket, extended her hand eagerly, her bracelet clinking softly as the officer carefully tied one on to her wrist. The mother stood beside her, beaming with pride at the simple yet meaningful exchange.

Bob crouched slightly, angling his camera to capture the moment in all its sincerity. He admired how the tradition of swapping bracelets—a gesture of kindness and connection—was bridging roles and generations. Even law enforcement, often seen as serious and unapproachable, was participating in this whimsical, unifying act.

Later, Bob reflected on the scene as he reviewed his shots. The photo, with its raw emotions and unexpected subject, perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the day: unity, joy, and the power of small gestures to create big connections. For Bob, it wasn't just a photograph—it was a story worth sharing, a reminder of how even the simplest traditions could bring people together.

 

Diptych Photography

First Responders

Exploring Diptych Photography in Street Photography

Street photography is all about capturing moments that reveal the essence of a place, its people, and their stories. A powerful way to tell these stories in a creative, layered format is through diptych photography. A diptych, a two-part image or "two-photo panel," can deepen the narrative, bring in visual contrast, or create compelling connections between scenes. In this article, we’ll dive into how diptychs can enhance your street photography and how you can use this technique to bring a unique perspective to your work.

What is Diptych Photography?

A diptych is traditionally a pair of images placed side-by-side, designed to work together as a single piece of art. These images can show contrasts, similarities, or even a sequence, and are often used in the art world to add depth and dimension to storytelling. In street photography, diptychs can bring added meaning by showing two perspectives of the same scene, comparing two subjects, or conveying the passage of time.

Why Use Diptychs in Street Photography?

Diptychs are particularly effective in street photography because they allow photographers to:

Show Contrasts: You can capture two opposing elements in a single story—like rich and poor, young and old, or chaos and calm—using two images that contrast with each other. This gives depth to your narrative and brings out the underlying tension or beauty of city life.

Convey Continuity or Motion: Diptychs can portray movement, where one photo captures the beginning of an action and the second captures its end, creating a dynamic storytelling experience.

Present Multiple Perspectives: In fast-moving street scenes, diptychs offer a way to capture both the wider context and a close-up, or two sides of a single story. You might photograph a bustling street corner in one frame, and zoom in on an individual’s expression in the second.

Create Visual Puns and Humor: Sometimes, clever juxtapositions reveal ironic or humorous elements in a scene that wouldn’t be as impactful in a single photo. Diptychs allow you to highlight these connections without being too obvious or forced.

Tips for Creating Diptychs in Street Photography

Choose a Theme: Think about the story you want to tell with your diptych. Themes like “contrast,” “mirroring,” or “time passing” are good starting points. You might decide to capture two opposing emotions or an unexpected visual similarity.

Consider Composition and Framing: Each image in a diptych should stand on its own while also complementing the other. Pay attention to the framing of each shot to ensure visual balance. Elements like leading lines or a colour that runs through both images can help create cohesion.

Look for Juxtapositions: This is especially useful in street photography. You might find two people in similar outfits in different parts of the street, or capture a quiet moment right next to a scene of intense activity. Sometimes, diptychs are most powerful when the images contrast starkly.

Tell a Mini-Story: Capture two moments that are part of the same scene. For example, you could take one shot of a person browsing a street vendor’s stall and a second shot of them walking away with a purchase. This creates a beginning and an end within the same narrative.

Play with Colors and Lighting: Use colours or lighting to tie the two images together or to highlight their differences. For instance, a warm, sunny scene could contrast with a cool, shadowy one to evoke different moods.

Keep Experimenting: Diptychs are highly versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations. Play with angles, perspectives, or patterns in the urban environment, and try pairing unusual subjects to see what new storylines emerge.

Ideas for Diptychs in Street Photography

To inspire you, here are a few creative diptych ideas you can try on your next street photography shoot:

Person and Place: Capture a wide shot of a city scene, and pair it with a close-up portrait of a person in that space. This can highlight the connection between people and their surroundings.

Day and Night: Photograph the same location at different times of the day. This can be powerful, especially if the location’s atmosphere changes dramatically.

Movement and Stillness: Capture one photo with movement—like pedestrians walking across a busy street—and another with a still subject, such as someone sitting on a bench.

Reflection and Reality: Play with reflections, especially in windows or puddles, capturing one image of the actual subject and one of its reflection for an interesting visual twist.

Detail and Whole: Focus on a specific detail, like a street sign, and then take a wider shot that shows the broader context of the area.

Editing and Presentation Tips

Editing plays a big role in diptych photography. Here are a few pointers to get the best results when creating diptychs:

Match or Contrast Colours: Try to either match the colour palette of both images or create a clear contrast. This enhances the relationship between the two photos.

Align the Horizon: If both images have a visible horizon, aligning it can make the diptych more cohesive

Experiment with White Space: Consider how much space to leave between the images. Sometimes a bit of space can make each image stand out, while other times a narrow border helps them feel like a single image.

Tell the Story with the Pairing Order: Sometimes, the order of images matters. Decide which image should appear on the left and which on the right based on how you want viewers to interpret the story.

Conclusion

Diptych photography can be a game-changer for street photographers, adding depth, narrative, and creativity to your work. It’s a technique that lets you go beyond the single-frame storytelling format, inviting viewers to explore the relationships, contrasts, and juxtapositions that make city life so fascinating. So next time you’re out on the streets, consider shooting with a diptych in mind. You’ll discover new ways to capture the world around you—two frames at a time.

 

Remembrance Day 2024

At Old City Hall in Toronto, Bob arrived early for the Remembrance Day ceremony, his camera ready to capture the solemn atmosphere. The air was thick with reverence as people gathered, each wearing a red poppy to honor those who served. Bob moved quietly through the crowd, blending in with veterans, families, and young cadets, all there to pay their respects.

As the ceremony began, two soldiers in World War II-era uniforms stood at attention near the memorial, rifles slung over their shoulders. Bob felt the weight of the history they represented—a tribute not just to soldiers from the past, but also a reminder of the sacrifices made in every generation. He snapped a few photos, careful to capture the reverence in their expressions and the pride they wore alongside their vintage uniforms. The crowd around them watched in silence, eyes fixed on the ceremony, as if time had momentarily paused.

When the Last Post played, Bob noticed people lowering their heads, some wiping away tears. He took a few more shots of the crowd, catching the subtle gestures of remembrance: a child holding a grandparent's hand, a veteran saluting, and a young woman placing a single poppy at the base of the cenotaph.

After the ceremony ended, Bob lingered to photograph the wreaths left by various groups and individuals. The red flowers against the cold, grey stone of Old City Hall made for a poignant contrast, and Bob hoped his images would capture the depth of the city's gratitude and respect.

As he packed up, Bob felt humbled, realizing that his photos were not just pictures but pieces of a larger story—a story that would help others remember long after the day was over.

 

Ghost Bike

Bob was walking through Toronto on a brisk, sunny afternoon, camera in hand, scanning the streets for interesting shots. As he turned a corner near a busy intersection, he noticed a white bike chained to a pole, starkly contrasting with the gray concrete and dark asphalt surrounding it. The bike was painted entirely white, from the tires to the handlebars, and adorned with a small bouquet of faded flowers. Bob had seen these "ghost bikes" before, memorials placed in spots where cyclists had tragically lost their lives.

This one was simple yet haunting. The white paint caught the light, almost glowing against the background of the bustling city. He felt an unexpected wave of solemnity, sensing the quiet story that this tribute told. It was as though time had paused at that spot, marking the end of a life and an unfulfilled journey. Bob snapped a photo, capturing the moment in silence.

As he stood there, he thought about the person who must have ridden that bike, about their life, dreams, and the loved ones who missed them. The bike, fixed in its position, was a poignant reminder of the fragility of life on these busy streets. He took a few more shots, then tucked his camera away, grateful for the opportunity to witness this subtle, meaningful memorial.

Using the LCD Screen on your camera

Using the LCD screen on your camera rather than the viewfinder can offer safety advantages, especially in street photography where awareness of your surroundings is essential. 

Here’s why:

1. Increased Situational Awareness: Using the LCD allows you to keep your head up, maintaining a broader field of vision. This awareness helps you notice approaching people, vehicles, or potential hazards in busy streets or crowded areas like Kensington Market.

2. Reduced Attention Draw: Holding the camera away from your face makes you look less like a photographer and more like someone casually checking their camera or phone. This subtlety can help you blend into the crowd, making it less likely that you’ll attract unwanted attention.

3. Non-Confrontational Approach: Shooting with the LCD instead of holding the camera up to your eye often feels less intrusive, especially in crowded areas. People may assume you’re simply checking your camera settings or reviewing photos, rather than actively photographing. This can help you avoid drawing attention, which is helpful if you want candid shots and also may reduce the chance of confrontation.

4. Reduced Fatigue: Constantly lifting the camera to your eye can lead to fatigue, especially over a long day of shooting. The LCD allows for different holding angles and lets you maintain a comfortable stance. This can also help you stay alert and agile, especially in a fast-paced or crowded environment.

5. Faster Reaction Time: With your head up and eyes scanning the scene, you’ll be better positioned to react quickly to dynamic changes, like unexpected movements or events. This also allows for quicker repositioning without taking your eye away from the action.

6. Safety in Unfamiliar Areas: In areas where you’re not familiar, using the LCD to frame your shot can prevent you from inadvertently wandering into unsafe locations or bumping into obstacles.

7. Improved Peripheral Vision: Keeping the camera at arm’s length instead of directly in front of your eye gives you better peripheral vision, helping you spot and avoid any sudden movements around you, which is valuable for both your safety and the security of your gear.

8. Avoiding Eye Strain: In bright conditions, the LCD can sometimes be easier on the eyes than the viewfinder, and it prevents the strain that comes from squinting through a viewfinder for long periods.

Would these approaches fit well with your street photography style, especially when covering festivals and events?

Bob at the rail yard

As the morning sun cast a soft glow over the rail yard in Toronto's Junction neighbourhood, Bob adjusted his camera, feeling the familiar weight of the Sony a5000 in his hands. This place held an odd charm—rusted rails, boxcars splattered with graffiti, and the gentle hum of city life somewhere beyond the tracks. To most, it was just an overlooked industrial area, but to Bob, it was a story waiting to be captured.

The sky was perfect that morning, with scattered clouds floating in a sea of blue, the sunlight breaking through in gentle patches. The boxcars, lined up like silent witnesses to years of city history, were painted in faded tones of yellow, black, and rust, their walls covered with graffiti that hinted at the lives and expressions of those who'd passed through here. Some had been left untouched for years, while others bore fresh tags, the vibrant colours adding life to the otherwise muted scene.

Bob crouched low, framing his shot to capture the expanse of the rail yard and the endless line of freight cars disappearing into the horizon. He loved this part of the Junction, where the remnants of old industry met the modern energy of the city. It felt like a portal to a different time, and he hoped his photo would reflect that mood.

As he snapped the picture, he thought about the stories each of these boxcars could tell. Maybe they’d carried goods across provinces or bore witness to countless people who’d seen them in passing, each in a different place, with a different life. Today, though, they were just here, stationary, waiting to be noticed by someone like him.

Bob reviewed the photo on his camera. The composition was perfect—the contrast between the graffiti-laden boxcars, the open sky, and the bare earth in the foreground conveyed a raw, urban serenity. Satisfied, he shouldered his camera, leaving the silent rail yard behind, but knowing he’d be back again, ready to uncover another hidden story in Toronto’s Junction.