A Journey Through Toronto with the Sony RX100's Illustration Effect

Riding the TTC in Style: A Journey Through Toronto with the Sony RX100's Illustration Effect

There’s something special about riding the TTC. The mix of people, the movement of the trains, and the ever-changing cityscape outside the windows make for a perfect street photography experience. This time, I decided to add a little creative twist—capturing my journey using the Illustration picture effect on the Sony RX100.

What Is the Illustration Effect?

The Illustration effect on the Sony RX100 transforms photos into high-contrast, comic-book-style images. It simplifies textures and lines, creating bold outlines and a hand-drawn look. It’s like turning everyday scenes into graphic novel panels, making it a fun tool for street photography.

The TTC Through a New Lens

I started my trip at Kipling Station, where commuters rushed past me, their movements exaggerated by the high-contrast effect. The yellow safety lines on the platform stood out sharply, and the subway train itself looked like something out of a futuristic sketch.

On the train, I experimented with capturing passengers—silhouetted figures against the bright lights of the subway cars. The effect turned their expressions into striking sketches, adding a sense of mystery to everyday moments. The worn-out textures of subway seats and the iconic TTC map looked even more pronounced under this effect, making even the mundane feel artistic.

At Bay Station, I stepped onto the platform and framed a shot of the curved tunnel entrance. The effect made the underground space look almost cinematic, as if it belonged in a graphic novel about urban exploration. The escalators leading up were lined with bright fluorescent lights, their glow exaggerated by the camera’s processing.

Final Thoughts

Using the Illustration effect on the Sony RX100 turned a regular TTC ride into a creative exercise. The city, which I’ve photographed so many times, looked fresh and new. It’s a reminder that even the most familiar places can take on a different character when viewed through a new artistic lens.

If you’ve got a Sony RX100 (or another camera with similar effects), I highly recommend giving this a try. Sometimes, all you need to see your city differently is a little imagination—and the right picture effect.