Photographing the Tree Canopy in Ontario’s Provincial Parks

Photographing the Tree Canopy in Ontario’s Provincial Parks

Exploring Ontario’s provincial parks offers countless photographic opportunities, but one of the most captivating views is right above you—the tree canopy. Whether you’re capturing towering pines in Algonquin or vibrant fall foliage in Killarney, looking up can provide stunning compositions of nature’s architecture.

Why Shoot Upwards?

Photographing the overhead tree canopy adds a new perspective to your nature photography. Instead of the usual landscape shots, this approach emphasizes height, depth, and the interplay of light filtering through the leaves. The patterns of branches against the sky can create striking silhouettes, while different seasons offer unique color palettes—from fresh greens in spring to fiery reds and oranges in autumn.

Using a Flip Screen to Your Advantage

One of the biggest challenges in overhead photography is composing your shot without straining your neck or guessing at the framing. This is where a flip screen on your camera becomes a game-changer.

How a Flip Screen Helps with Overhead Photography

Better Composition Without Guesswork Without a flip screen, you’d have to hold the camera above your head and hope for the best. A tilting or fully articulating screen allows you to frame your shot precisely in real-time.

Easier Focus Adjustments With branches, leaves, and sky competing for focus, it can be tricky to lock onto the right details. A flip screen allows you to use Live View, tap to focus (if your camera has a touchscreen), or adjust manual focus while still seeing your composition clearly.

Comfortable Shooting Angle Instead of awkwardly tilting your head or lying on the ground, you can hold the camera at a comfortable level while angling the screen to view the composition easily.

Live View and Exposure Control Shooting directly into the sky can lead to exposure challenges, such as overexposed highlights or darkened tree details. A flip screen lets you monitor changes in real-time, ensuring a balanced exposure.

Ideal Settings for Canopy Photography

Aperture: Use a narrow aperture (f/8–f/11) for deeper focus across the leaves and branches.

Shutter Speed: If there’s wind, a faster shutter speed (1/250s or higher) will prevent motion blur.

ISO: Keep it as low as possible (ISO 100–400) to maintain detail and reduce noise.

White Balance: Adjust based on conditions—Daylight for natural tones or Cloudy for warmer hues.

Final Thoughts

Next time you’re in an Ontario provincial park, take a moment to look up. The ever-changing canopy offers dynamic compositions that tell a story of the seasons, light, and nature’s intricate patterns. And if your camera has a flip screen, take full advantage of it to make capturing these skyward shots easier and more comfortable.

Have you photographed the tree canopy in a provincial park? Share your experiences and favorite locations in the comments!

 

A Winter Tradition: Skating at Nathan Phillips Square

Toronto's Nathan Phillips Square transforms into a winter wonderland each year as skaters of all ages take to the ice. These photographs capture the essence of this beloved seasonal tradition, telling a story of joy, challenge, and community in the heart of the city.

The Excitement of First Steps on Ice In one image, a young child clings tightly to an adult's hand, her helmet slightly askew as she focuses on keeping her balance. This moment perfectly encapsulates the early struggles of learning to skate—the wobbly legs, the cautious movements, and the unwavering support of a loved one. The sun shines brightly, reflecting off the ice, as skaters glide by in the background, some more confident than others.

Finding Balance and Confidence Another photo showcases a woman standing alone, carefully extending her arms for balance. Her posture suggests she is still getting used to the ice, a feeling many beginners experience. Around her, more experienced skaters effortlessly weave across the rink, creating a dynamic contrast between uncertainty and ease.

Gearing Up for the Ice The long line at the skate rental booth tells another important part of the story. For many visitors, renting skates is their first step in this adventure. The image of bundled-up individuals waiting in line highlights the square's popularity and how it serves as an inviting space for locals and tourists alike.

Maintaining the Magic No skating experience at Nathan Phillips Square would be complete without the Zamboni’s careful maintenance of the ice. A photograph captures this iconic machine in action, smoothing out the marks left behind by countless skaters. Against the backdrop of Toronto’s historic Old City Hall, this image reflects the ongoing efforts to keep the rink in top shape for everyone to enjoy.

The Joy of Skating in the City Together, these images tell a story of wintertime in Toronto—one filled with excitement, perseverance, and community spirit. From hesitant first-timers to seasoned skaters, everyone who steps onto the ice at Nathan Phillips Square becomes part of a cherished tradition. Whether you come to glide effortlessly or simply to watch from the sidelines, the rink remains a place of warmth and connection, even on the coldest days.

 

Reflections in the City: A Self-Portrait of a Street Photographer

There’s something about the cold winter air in downtown Toronto that sharpens the senses. The streets bustle with people hurrying between buildings, the sound of car tires crunching over slushy snow, and the golden glow of office lights reflecting on glass surfaces. On this particular day, I set out for another street photography session, camera in hand, looking to capture the essence of the city in winter.

But before I even took my first shot of the day, I stumbled upon an unexpected opportunity—a self-portrait.

Standing in front of a reflective glass window, I caught my own image staring back at me: bundled up in my Helly Hansen parka, scarf snug around my neck, my Poke hat perched playfully on my head, and my camera poised for action. The reflection wasn’t just of me, but of the environment itself—the towering office building behind, the snowy sidewalks, and the blurred movements of pedestrians. The moment felt like the perfect representation of what it means to be a street photographer: part observer, part participant in the city's ongoing narrative.

I didn’t set out to take a self-portrait, but that’s the beauty of street photography—you capture what the city gives you. The raw, unfiltered moments that tell a story, whether of the people walking by or the photographer behind the lens.

After snapping this shot, I continued my journey through downtown, weaving through the Financial District, making my way toward the hidden alleyways and street corners that often hold the most interesting stories. The streets are never dull; there’s always something to document, from the patterns of melting snow to the unique characters that make up the urban landscape.

This self-portrait serves as a reminder that every photo walk is an opportunity to see the city from a different perspective—even if, sometimes, that perspective includes yourself.

Capturing Marit Stiles at Yonge-Dundas Square

 

Yonge-Dundas Square is always a lively spot for street photography, but on this particular day, it was also the setting for an important public event. As I moved through the crowd with my Sony a6000 in hand, I caught sight of Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles standing on stage, radiating confidence and warmth. It was a perfect moment to capture—a blend of politics, public engagement, and human expression.

I took this shot as she was mid-laugh, the natural sunlight highlighting her face against the urban backdrop. She wore a deep navy blazer, accented with an orange shirt pin—an unmistakable symbol of solidarity with Indigenous communities in Canada. Her earrings added a subtle yet vibrant pop of color, reinforcing the significance of the occasion.

As a street photographer, I always aim to capture more than just an image; I want to tell a story. This photograph is a reflection of leadership in action, a reminder of how public figures interact with the people they serve. The candid nature of the shot adds authenticity—there’s no rehearsed expression, just a genuine moment of joy.

One of the challenges in event photography, especially in a bustling environment like Yonge-Dundas Square, is finding the right angle without obstruction. I had to maneuver through the crowd, adjusting my position to avoid distractions in the frame. The Sony a6000’s fast auto-focus ensured that I didn’t miss the moment.

This is the kind of image that defines why I love street and event photography—it’s about freezing a moment in time that tells a deeper story. Whether you’re covering an event or simply observing life unfold in the city, every shot has the potential to be part of a larger narrative.

Using the Fishing Technique in Street Photography

Why the Fishing Technique Works Well in Winter Street Photography

Using the fishing technique in street photography during winter might seem counter intuitive—it’s cold, your fingers go numb, and you might not want to stand in one place for long. However, winter actually makes this method more effective and rewarding. 

Here’s why:

1. People Move Predictably in Winter

When it’s freezing outside, people tend to follow certain predictable paths—sticking to shoveled sidewalks, waiting at transit stops, or hurrying into warm shops. This makes it easier to anticipate where an interesting subject will appear.

2. Less Walking, More Shooting

Instead of walking around endlessly in the cold, you can pick a great location, settle in, and let the scene develop in front of you. This conserves energy and keeps you from getting too cold.

3. Winter Clothing Adds Character

People’s winter fashion—big coats, colorful scarves, furry hoods, and unique boots—creates interesting visual elements in a photo. A bright red coat against a snowy background (like in your image) immediately draws the eye.

4. Snow Adds Texture and Mood

Snow-covered streets, slushy sidewalks, and falling snowflakes add depth and atmosphere to a shot. By finding a well-lit spot or a place where snowflakes are visible, you can create magical winter street photography.

5. Natural Framing from Snow Banks and Architecture

Winter often changes the landscape. Snowbanks act as natural leading lines, and reflections in icy puddles add layers to your shot. Position yourself where these elements enhance the composition.

6. People’s Expressions Are More Expressive

Cold weather often makes people more animated—pulling up their scarves, blowing on their hands, rushing through the streets. This can lead to great candid moments that show emotion and movement.

Tips for Using the Fishing Technique in Winter

Choose a spot with movement – Near streetcar stops, coffee shops, or busy intersections.

Stay warm – Wear finger-less gloves or use hand warmers to keep your hands functional.

Look for color contrasts – Bright jackets against a white snow background pop in a photo.

Use falling snow to your advantage – A slower shutter speed can capture the motion of snowflakes.

Final Thought

Winter might be cold, but it brings unique photographic opportunities. Instead of wandering aimlessly, find a good background, wait for the right subject, and let the city come to you. Your patience will be rewarded with strong, well-composed winter street shots.

Would you try this technique on your next winter photo walk?

Walking the Memory Lane

Walking the Memory Lane: Celebrating Flag Day in Toronto

Every February 15th, Canada celebrates National Flag of Canada Day, marking the anniversary of the first time our iconic red-and-white maple leaf flag was raised in 1965. This year, I decided to commemorate the day by taking a photo walk along Memory Lane in Toronto, an alleyway tucked between Leslieville and the Beaches. While it may not be a grand boulevard, its name carries a certain poetic charm that seemed fitting for reflecting on national symbols and history.

A Winter Walk Through Memory Lane

The narrow, snow-covered alleyway greeted me with a quiet stillness. Flanked by older houses and garages, the lane had an old Toronto charm that felt like a step back in time. I set out with my Sony RX100, looking to capture the essence of the place in black and white, letting the textures of winter and architecture tell the story.

As I walked further, I came across a historical marker dedicated to Alexander Muir, the composer of "The Maple Leaf Forever." Though not Canada’s official anthem, this song held deep patriotic significance before "O Canada" took center stage. Muir’s inspiration supposedly came from a grand maple tree in this very neighborhood, reinforcing the deep connection between Toronto and the symbol of the flag we honor today.

The Stump of a Symbol

Beyond the plaque stood the remnants of that legendary maple tree, now a weathered and hollowed-out stump. Snow clung to its rugged bark, a stark reminder of time’s passage. The tree may be gone, but its legacy endures—much like the ideals our flag represents. The sight of it made me reflect on how symbols evolve; while "The Maple Leaf Forever" no longer plays the role it once did, the maple leaf itself has remained a unifying emblem across the country.

The Flag and the City

While Memory Lane itself isn’t a spot where one might expect grand Flag Day celebrations, it felt like the perfect place for a quiet moment of appreciation. The Canadian flag is omnipresent in Toronto, flying high at City Hall, waving from storefronts, and even appearing on murals in Kensington Market. It’s a reminder that while we celebrate national pride in many ways—sometimes loudly in parades, other times quietly on a snowy walk—our connection to this symbol remains strong.

Closing Thoughts

As I wrapped up my walk, I snapped a final shot of the plaque against the backdrop of evergreens. The contrast of past and present felt fitting. Memory Lane may not be well-known outside of the neighborhood, but for me, it became the perfect place to honor the maple leaf—both as a song and as the flag that unites us all.

Whether through a flag-waving celebration or a reflective winter stroll, Flag Day is a moment to remember what our national symbols mean to us. For me, this year, it was about walking through history, camera in hand, capturing the quiet stories that make Toronto, and Canada, what they are today.

 

A Garbage Truck Adventure

Snow, Struggles, and Street Photography: A Garbage Truck Adventure

Winter in Toronto has a way of turning the most ordinary days into unexpected adventures. The streets were buried under a thick layer of fresh snow, and as I glanced out the window, I noticed a bright green GFL garbage truck hopelessly stuck in a narrow, snow-clogged lane way. The scene screamed for a photograph, and like any dedicated street photographer, I grabbed my camera and rushed outside.

The truck's tires spun uselessly, kicking up clouds of powdery snow. The driver and his partner were already outside, assessing the situation. With my Sony a5000 in hand, I snapped a few shots—documenting the moment as they dug around the wheels and tried to free the massive vehicle.

But street photography isn't just about capturing the scene—sometimes, you become part of the story. Seeing their struggle, I tucked my camera away and offered to help. We pushed, shoveled, and tried everything, but the truck wouldn’t budge. Eventually, the decision was made to call in reinforcements. Another truck had to be dispatched to pull them out.

As I stood there, watching the rescue unfold, I realized how unpredictable winter can be—not just for photographers but for the hardworking people who keep the city running. By the time the truck was finally free, I had a set of photos and a story that perfectly captured the challenges of winter in Toronto.

Sometimes, the best moments in street photography aren’t just about what you see—it’s about what unfolds right in front of you.

 

A Snowy Night at Stonehouse Cemetery

A Snowy Night at Stonehouse Cemetery

The snow crunched under my boots as I made my way through the quiet streets, the city lights glowing faintly behind me. It was one of those winter nights where the world seemed muffled, the fresh snow absorbing sound and creating an eerie stillness. I had set out for an evening walk, camera in hand, with no particular destination in mind. But as I turned a corner, I found myself in front of Stonehouse Cemetery.

The name itself felt fitting—etched into the cold stone of a solitary grave marker standing against a backdrop of leafless trees. The monument, partially buried in the fresh snowfall, bore a name that seemed as if it had been there forever, resisting time and the elements. The dim glow from nearby streetlights cast long shadows across the snow, adding an almost ghostly presence to the scene.

I raised my camera, adjusting the settings to compensate for the low light. A slow shutter speed captured the faint glimmers of light reflecting off the snow, while the branches above twisted into haunting silhouettes. The result was an image that felt frozen in time, much like the cemetery itself.

There’s something about cemeteries in the winter—they feel more forgotten, more isolated. The world moves on, but here, beneath layers of ice and snow, history sleeps undisturbed. I stood there for a while, listening to the stillness, letting the quiet wrap around me like a heavy coat.

Eventually, the cold urged me to move on. But as I left, I glanced back once more at the Stonehouse marker, now partially obscured by drifting snow. It was a moment that reminded me why I love photography—the ability to capture these fleeting, unexpected encounters with the past.

That night, I walked home with cold hands and a full memory card, knowing I had just captured something special.

 

Ask ChatGPT how would you edit this photo?

Ask ChatGPT how would you edit this photo?

Editing this photo depends on the mood and affect you want to achieve, but here are some general edits that could enhance it:

Basic Adjustments:

Exposure & Contrast – Slightly increase brightness and contrast to make the details pop, especially in the darker areas.

White Balance – Adjust for a neutral tone, ensuring the lighting isn't too warm or cool.

Clarity & Sharpness – Boost clarity to enhance the texture of cans, bottles, and wooden elements.

Composition & Cropping:

Straighten Lines – Ensure shelves and floor lines are level.

Crop for Focus – If needed, crop to remove unnecessary empty space.

Color Enhancements:

Vibrance & Saturation – Enhance the colors of the cans without making them look unnatural.

Selective Color Editing – Slightly boost reds and oranges to make the packaging stand out.

Final Touches:

Noise Reduction – Reduce any noise in darker areas.

Vignette Effect – Subtly darken the edges to draw focus toward the center of the store.

Would you like me to apply these edits for you?

I'll apply the suggested edits to enhance brightness, contrast, sharpness, and color vibrancy while keeping the image natural. I'll process it now and share the edited version shortly.

Here is your edited image with improved brightness, contrast, sharpness, and color vibrancy.

How would you crop this photo?

Cropping depends on what you want to emphasize, but here are a few approaches you might consider:

1. Focus on the Center Display (Tight Crop)

Crop out excess floor space and some of the background.

Keep the main shelves of beer cans and bottles as the focal point.

This draws attention to the textures, labels, and colors of the products.

2. Balanced Composition (Rule of Thirds)

Maintain the foreground display but reduce some of the right side and ceiling.

Keep the background elements, such as the chalkboard signs and the lit shelves, to retain the atmosphere.

3. Wide Crop for Context (Minimal Adjustments)

Trim slightly from the floor and right side to remove distractions while keeping the depth of the store.

This preserves the environment, showing it as a well-stocked craft beer store.

Would you like me to apply one of these crops so you can see how it looks?

Here’s the cropped version, focusing more on the central display while reducing excess floor and side distractions.

This is how you can use ChatGPT to edit a photo

Exactly! You can use ChatGPT to edit photos by providing a description of the edits you want, and I can apply adjustments like brightness, contrast, sharpness, cropping, and more. It’s a quick way to enhance your images without needing complex editing software.

Looks great as a black-and-white street print!

Your photo of the Billy Bishop Airport shuttle has a cinematic, moody feel with the fog, which could look great as a black-and-white street print!

Using Auto mode with optimized settings helps in printing by ensuring your photos are well-exposed, sharp, and high quality straight out of the camera, especially if you’re shooting JPEGs. 

Here's how it benefits printing:

1. Ensures Proper Exposure for Printing

If a photo is too dark or overexposed, details may be lost when printed.

Auto mode (with exposure tweaks) balances highlights and shadows, ensuring a well-lit image that prints well.

Using Exposure Compensation (+/- EV) helps fine-tune brightness before you even take the shot.

2. Reduces Noise for Cleaner Prints

ISO Auto (with a limit of 1600-3200) helps prevent excessive noise.

High noise in JPEGs can make prints look grainy, especially on larger paper sizes.

3. Maintains Sharpness for High-Resolution Prints

AF-C (Continuous Auto focus) + Zone AF helps keep subjects sharp, ensuring details hold up when printed.

Continuous Shooting Mode increases your chances of getting a perfectly sharp frame.

Min. Shutter Speed (1/250s or faster) prevents motion blur, crucial for detailed prints.

4. Optimizes Colors and Contrast for Printing

Using Vivid Picture Profile creates punchy colors and contrast, making prints pop.

Auto White Balance (AWB) with slight tweaks ensures accurate colors, preventing overly warm or cool tones in prints.

DRO (Dynamic Range Optimization) helps preserve shadow and highlight detail, preventing blown-out areas in high-contrast prints.

5. Saves Time in Post-Processing

If you're printing JPEGs directly from the camera, good Auto mode settings mean less editing is needed.

JPEGs are already processed in-camera, so adjusting Picture Style (Neutral/Vivid) ensures a print-ready image without much correction.

6. Helps with Different Print Sizes

Higher resolution (at least 300 DPI) is needed for larger prints (e.g., 8x10 or 11x14).

Using the highest JPEG quality setting ensures enough detail for enlargements.

A sharp, well-exposed JPEG prints well on glossy, matte, or fine art paper without losing clarity.

Printing with Your Canon Selphy CP1200

The 4x6" postcard prints look best with balanced exposure and sharpness from Auto mode.

If images are too dark or too bright, they might not print well, so preview and adjust exposure compensation before printing.

Summary: Why Auto Mode Helps with Printing?

✅ Good exposure = better prints with full detail

✅ Less noise = sharper prints, especially in large sizes

✅ Better colors & contrast = vibrant, accurate prints

✅ Less post-processing needed for JPEGs

✅ Fast and consistent results = ready-to-print shots

 

Using a square crop when doing macro photography

Using the Sony SEL 30mm f/3.5 Macro lens and applying a square crop can enhance these photos in several ways:

1. Sony SEL 30mm Macro Lens Benefits

Close-up Detail: This lens allows you to capture fine textures and intricate details of the plant surfaces, such as the spiky pads on the cactus and the burn patterns on the leaf.

1:1 Magnification: The lens provides true macro reproduction, ensuring the small details appear life-sized in the image.

Sharpness & Contrast: The lens delivers good sharpness, highlighting subtle surface imperfections and color variations on the plants.

Shallow Depth of Field (DOF): The macro capability enables a soft background blur, making the damaged parts of the leaves and textures stand out.

2. Square Crop Benefits

Better Composition: The square format allows you to focus on the main subject without distractions, improving balance and symmetry.

Emphasizing Patterns & Textures: This works well in macro photography, as it helps highlight repeating patterns, like the dots on the cactus or the veins in the leaf.

Removing Negative Space: A square crop eliminates unnecessary background elements, making the damaged areas of the plants more visually prominent.

Social Media Ready: Square images fit well on Instagram and other platforms without cropping issues.

My Flickr album with the square crop images.

 

Escaping Winter at the Centennial Park Conservatory

 

 

Toronto winters can be relentless—biting cold, grey skies, and the occasional snowstorm that makes you question why you ever leave the house. But on one particularly frigid day, I decided to trade icy sidewalks for tropical greenery and made my way to the Centennial Park Conservatory.

Tucked away in the city’s west end, this hidden gem is the perfect antidote to winter blues. The moment I stepped inside, my camera lens fogged up—always a good sign that I had entered a warm, humid paradise. After a quick wipe, I was ready to explore.

A Photographer’s Dream

The conservatory is divided into three distinct greenhouse areas. The tropical house immediately welcomed me with towering palm trees, vibrant orchids, and the calming sound of a small waterfall. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and blooming flowers—a stark contrast to the dry, frozen air outside. I framed a few shots of exotic plants, playing with the natural light filtering through the glass panels above.

The cactus house transported me to a desert landscape, with succulents and spiky cacti standing defiantly against the humidity. The contrast between this arid environment and the tropical lushness next door was striking. I found myself drawn to the intricate textures of the plants, capturing close-up shots of their patterns and symmetry.

Finally, I wandered into the seasonal display house, currently bursting with cyclamen in shades of pink and white. The floral arrangements were stunning, with hanging baskets of cascading greenery adding depth to the scene. I took my time composing shots, capturing the interplay of color and light in this beautifully curated space.

A Peaceful Retreat

Beyond photography, the Centennial Park Conservatory is simply a place to breathe. A few visitors sat on benches, enjoying the warmth and serenity. A couple of families strolled through, their children marveling at the koi pond and towering ferns. I found a quiet corner, sat for a moment, and let the tropical ambiance sink in.

The Perfect Winter Escape

Spending an hour inside the conservatory felt like a mini-vacation. As I stepped back outside into the cold, I felt refreshed, with a camera full of vibrant images and a renewed appreciation for Toronto’s green spaces—even in the dead of winter.

For anyone needing a break from winter’s chill, I highly recommend a visit to Centennial Park Conservatory. It’s a little slice of summer, open year-round—and best of all, it’s free.

Now, if only I could bottle that warmth and take it with me!

Capturing the charm of small towns in Ontario on a summer road trip

Perth Ontario

Orillia Ontario

Grand Bend Ontario

Capturing the Charm of Small Towns in Ontario

Summer Photography Tips

Ontario’s small towns are full of character, history, and picturesque scenery, making them perfect for summer photography. Whether you're drawn to heritage buildings, quiet streets, or local life, here are some tips and ideas to make the most of your small-town photography adventures.

1. Start Early or Stay Late for the Best Light

Golden hour—just after sunrise or before sunset—provides soft, warm light that enhances the textures of old stone buildings, colorful storefronts, and tree-lined streets. Midday light can be harsh, so plan your shots accordingly.

2. Focus on Architectural Details

Ontario’s small towns are rich with historical architecture. Look for unique facades, ornate window frames, old signage, and intricate brickwork. Towns like Perth, Elora, and Niagara-on-the-Lake are full of well-preserved heritage buildings that tell a story.

3. Capture Local Life and Events

A small-town farmer’s market, a community festival, or even a quiet street with locals enjoying coffee on a patio can add life to your shots. Ask vendors or shop owners for permission before taking close-up portraits to keep things respectful.

4. Explore Side Streets and Alleyways

The main street may be the heart of a town, but don’t be afraid to wander down alleys or less-traveled roads. You might find hidden murals, rustic barns, or vintage signs that add character to your shots.

5. Look for Reflections and Water Features

Many Ontario towns are built near rivers, lakes, or canals. Places like Port Hope or Paris, Ontario, have beautiful waterfronts where you can capture reflections of historic buildings in the water, especially during calm mornings.

6. Photograph Small-Town Details

Close-up shots of flowers in barrels, an old bicycle leaning against a café, or a faded mural can create intimate portraits of a town. These details often capture the town’s charm just as much as its skyline.

7. Try a Black & White Approach

Small towns often have a timeless feel that works beautifully in black and white. If you’re photographing an old stone building or a quiet street, converting it to monochrome can emphasize textures and nostalgia.

8. Include a Human Element

A person walking down the street, a cyclist riding past a historic building, or a musician performing at a local event can bring your scene to life. These moments make your images feel more personal and engaging.

9. Capture the Town’s Unique Personality

Every town has something special—Cobourg has a gorgeous beach, Stratford is known for its theatre scene, and Creemore has a famous brewery. Research ahead of time and plan to highlight what makes each town stand out.

10. Edit Lightly for a Natural Look

When editing your small-town photos, keep them natural and true to the scene. Adjust exposure, contrast, and sharpness, but avoid heavy filters that might take away from the town’s authentic beauty.

Bonus Idea: Create a Small-Town Ontario Photo Series

Consider starting a series where you document different small towns across Ontario. You could create a blog series, a themed Instagram project, or even a printed zine showcasing the unique charm of each town you visit.

Summer is the perfect time to hit the road with your camera and explore Ontario’s charming small towns. 

What be the best camera equipment to use

The best camera gear for photographing small towns in Ontario depends on your style and what you want to capture. 

Here’s a breakdown of recommended equipment for your summer photo walks:

1. Camera Choice

Sony a6000 (or similar mirrorless camera) – Since you already use the a6000, it’s a great lightweight option for walking around small towns. It delivers high-quality images without the bulk of a DSLR.

Compact Camera (Sony RX100 series, Ricoh GR III, Fujifilm X100V) – If you want something even lighter, these cameras are great for discreet street and travel photography.

Smartphone Camera – Don’t underestimate a good phone camera! Modern smartphones have excellent quality and can be useful for quick shots or behind-the-scenes photos for social media.

2. Lenses for Small-Town Photography

Wide-Angle Lens (16mm-24mm range) – Perfect for capturing full streetscapes, historic buildings, and interiors of cozy cafes.

Standard Zoom (18-105mm or 16-50mm kit lens) – A versatile lens that lets you shoot wide shots of town squares or zoom in on architectural details.

Prime Lens (35mm or 50mm f/1.8) – Ideal for portraits of people, street scenes, or detail shots with a dreamy blurred background (bokeh).

Telephoto Lens (55-210mm or similar) – Great for compressing perspectives in town landscapes or capturing details from a distance without being intrusive.

3. Essential Accessories

Polarizing Filter – Cuts down reflections and enhances blue skies, making it perfect for shooting summer landscapes and water reflections.

ND Filter – Helps with long-exposure shots of waterfalls or moving clouds, especially in towns near rivers and lakes.

Tripod (Lightweight Travel Tripod) – Useful for capturing sharp images in low light (e.g., night scenes, golden hour shots). A mini tripod like the Manfrotto Pixi is also handy.

Extra Batteries & Memory Cards – Small towns often have limited places to charge, so bring spares to avoid missing shots.

Lens Wipes & Blower – Summer can be dusty, so keeping your lens clean is essential for crisp images.

4. Flash & Lighting

Sony HVL-F20M Flash – Since you already have this, it can be useful for filling in shadows on bright summer days or shooting interiors with dim lighting.

Reflector (Small Collapsible One) – If you’re taking portraits of locals or shop owners, a reflector can bounce natural light onto their faces.

5. Carrying Your Gear

Small Backpack or Sling Bag – A compact camera bag like a Peak Design Everyday Sling or Lowepro Passport can hold your gear without being bulky.

Comfortable Strap – A cross-body strap like the Peak Design Slide Lite makes carrying your camera all day more comfortable.

Street Politics: The Mystery of the Wrecked Election Sign

 

Bob had seen plenty of unusual things on his street photography walks—dogs in sunglasses, pigeons engaged in intense sidewalk debates, even a man walking backward for no apparent reason. But today, his lens captured something a little different: political carnage.

Two election signs lay toppled in the snow, their bold blue-and-white print half-buried in the slush. The name "Doug Ford" was still visible, though the message was fractured, as if the weather—or something more deliberate—had taken a stand against them.

Curiosity got the best of Bob. He'd walked this route dozens of times, and just yesterday, these signs stood tall, firmly planted in the frozen ground. What had happened overnight? A strong gust of wind? A disgruntled passerby? A raccoon with a strong political opinion?

Bob did what any good street photographer and citizen journalist would do—he took some shots, adjusting his angle to capture the contrast between the damaged signs and the crisp, untouched sidewalk beyond. The image told a story, but it also raised questions.

Election season in Toronto always came with its share of drama. Yard signs went missing, got defaced, or mysteriously relocated to odd places—like that one time Bob found a campaign sign floating in a fountain. But these? These looked like they had been yanked, bent, and left in a hurry.

As he snapped away, a man walking his dog slowed down and glanced at the scene. "Guess someone wasn't a fan," he muttered, nodding at the crumpled plastic. Bob chuckled but made a mental note—maybe he'd check other streets to see if this was an isolated incident or part of a larger pattern.

This was exactly the kind of street-level story Bob liked to uncover—not the polished press releases, but the small, strange moments that spoke to the city’s character. Was it an act of political protest? A simple accident? He didn’t have the answer, but his photos would keep the question alive.

As he packed up his camera and moved on, Bob realized something: whether in politics or street photography, perspective is everything.

Bob at the LCBO: A Pre-Tariff Saturday Frenzy

Bob at the LCBO: A Pre-Tariff Saturday Frenzy

Bob stood near the California wine section of the LCBO, camera in hand, watching the shoppers with quiet amusement. It was the Saturday before the now-cancelled tariffs were supposed to take effect on Tuesday, and the panic had already set in.

People rushed through the aisles, grabbing bottles with a sense of urgency usually reserved for blizzards and power outages. Some had carts filled to the brim, others clutched prized vintages like lifelines. A couple near the Bordeaux shelf debated whether to splurge on one last case before the "all the American stock was removed from the store." Meanwhile, a man in a Raptors hoodie muttered to himself about stocking up on bourbon, "just in case."

Bob snapped a few candid shots, the chaos making for perfect street-style photography—except this wasn’t the street, it was the heart of a Canadian consumer panic. He overheard a store clerk trying to explain that the tariffs might be scrapped, but the customers weren’t listening. "Better safe than sorry," one woman said, cradling a bottle of Napa Valley red like a newborn.

As Bob left, he chuckled to himself. The tariffs might have been cancelled, but the spirit of last-minute Canadian preparedness was alive and well. Maybe next Saturday, when things calmed down, he’d return and pick up a bottle himself—assuming there was anything left.

 

A Fancy Toilet Paper Discovery at Creeds

Bob's Pricey Encounter: A Fancy Toilet Paper Discovery at Creeds

Bob loves exploring the city with his camera, finding the unusual, the absurd, and sometimes the downright extravagant. On one of his recent downtown photo walks, he stumbled into Creeds, a stylish café and general store known for its upscale selection of goods. But what caught his eye wasn’t artisanal coffee or boutique pastries—it was a pyramid of high-end, eco-friendly toilet paper.

Labeled “Plant Paper,” these neatly stacked brown boxes proclaimed their superiority: “Tree-free, Toxin-free Toilet Paper.” Bob was intrigued. He had never given much thought to the luxury toilet paper market, but here it was, in a store that sold $7 lattes and designer snacks. Naturally, he did what any street photographer would do—he took a few shots of the setup against the industrial concrete backdrop, amused by how something as mundane as toilet paper could be packaged like a high-end lifestyle product.

Curiosity got the best of him, so he checked the price. Bob nearly choked on his imaginary coffee—this was not your average bulk-pack from a discount store. This was the Rolls-Royce of toilet paper, and it came with a price tag to match.

Was it worth it? Maybe. The box promised environmental responsibility, a smooth experience, and a guilt-free conscience. But Bob couldn’t help but wonder: Was this peak Toronto? Had the city officially reached a point where even toilet paper was an aesthetic statement?

He left Creeds with a few good shots and a chuckle, knowing he had just found another piece of the city's ever-growing collection of quirky, photogenic oddities.