A New Year's Day Tradition: Bob's Hair of the Dog Walk

The streets of Toronto were quiet yet alive with the promise of a new year. It was January 1st, and Bob was ready for one of his favorite traditions: the Hair of the Dog Walk with Toronto Photo Walks. A slight chill hung in the air, and the overcast sky cast a soft, even light—perfect for photography. Bob adjusted the strap of his Sony a5000 camera and met the group near  Gerrard Street East & Broadview Avenue, where familiar faces greeted him with smiles.

The group, a mix of regulars and first-timers, buzzed with energy. Each photographer brought their unique style and perspective, and Bob couldn't wait to see the city through their lenses. The walk's route would take them through Toronto's past vibrant murals, and into the eclectic streets of Cabbage town. The finale would be a visit to the Hair of the Dog Pub—a fitting end to the day.

As the group moved along the bustling streets, Bob found himself drawn to fleeting moments. He captured a cyclist zipping through the drizzle, his reflection mirrored in a puddle. He also couldn’t resist a candid shot of a fellow photographer engrossed in their craft, capturing the layers of dedication within the group.

The highlight of the walk for Bob was when the group stopped at an intersection. Three of his fellow photographers were lined up, cameras poised and ready, perfectly illustrating the camaraderie and shared passion of the day. Bob quickly snapped a photo, knowing it would become one of his favorites—a photo of photographers capturing the city.

As the walk wound down, someone suggested heading to the Hair of the Dog Pub on Church Street. Bob, always up for good food and conversation, eagerly agreed. The pub, with its cozy wooden interiors and warm lighting, was a welcome retreat from the cold.

At the table, plates of hearty comfort food and mugs of beer replaced cameras and lenses. The group shared their favorite shots from the day, passing phones and cameras around the table. Bob shared the photo of the three photographers at the intersection, sparking laughter and nods of agreement about the beauty of capturing moments within moments.

The conversation flowed as easily as the drinks. Stories of past photo walks, future aspirations, and creative tips filled the air. Bob talked about his plans for his blog and his goal to explore more of Toronto’s hidden corners in the coming year. The camaraderie reminded him of why he loved this tradition so much—not just for the photography but for the connections it fostered.

As the afternoon turned late, Bob stepped outside the pub, the chill in the air a stark contrast to the warmth he felt. He slung his camera over his shoulder and smiled. The Hair of the Dog Walk had once again set the tone for a year of creativity, community, and exploration. Bob couldn’t wait to see where his lens would take him next.