Press Button To Blog - The Beaches

I always bring my camera to the beach so I can capture those sandtastic moments!

None of these are funny. I don't know why I keep doing them.

I always love visiting the beaches in Toronto, even though I've never swum in that condom filled water nor have I tanned in that needle filled sand. Still, the waterfront is definitely one of my favourite places to go to in the city. Whether it's in the warmth of that cliché summer breeze or the boner stiff whiff off of the frozen lake in winter, each season offers a unique environment to stroll and relax in when the hustle and bustle gets too strong.

The beaches are always really busy too, with so many people out and about enjoying the sun, sand, and not at all safe to swim water. And as a photographer, that type of action and energy is always a great opportunity to capture some cool moments. As an avid people watcher, you can't ask for much more of a day out.

Some of my favourite memories of spending time at the city's various waterfronts goes back to my teenage and young adult years when I visited semi-frequently for some personal stress relief. In Toronto, it is technically illegal to feed most wild animals, and that includes the ducks and swans at the beaches, but of course that didn't stop me from sneaking the boys some bags of bread and crackers when the mood fits. And before anyone starts going on about diet and habits and blah blah blah, I've heard the arguments against it, I just disagree.

Considering how much time it takes to focus on finding food for sheer survival (not to mention the numerous dangers in doing so), I firmly believe that it's more beneficial for many animals to have the occasional easier meal so that they can focus on other endeavors, like building homes and mating. Having bread isn't good for humans either, but that doesn't stop us. I certainly know that's what I'd rather be doing instead of scavenging for sustenance. So I always loved seeing the ducks fattening up for their long winter trip south. I always avoid doing so in the late fall however, as I didn't want to encourage them to stay for longer than they should since they have their already scheduled vacation on the horizon.

Now, as an adult wannabe photographer, I still love finding time to eat my lunch or just have a drink on a bench and do some people watching. It's a peaceful break from the busy city life, and it offers a fantastic opportunity for candid shots. I do find in comparison though, that beach goers are more reluctant to be willing subjects. Whereas at big events and even in the streets, public privacy isn't expected. But perhaps, when attending the beach people feel more like they're giving themselves a slice of vacation, and find it more intrusive to be in someone's photo than they would other wise.

Like with all other street photography I always have to remain cognizant of what I'm shooting. I'd love to try and take some pictures of the frolicking families and the beautiful athletic people playing volleyball, but that inside voice that says "don't be a weirdo, don't be a creeper" drones out the creativity that I'm trying to tap into, even if my intent is pure (I promise). But I imagine the longer I practice photography the easier it's all going to get when it comes to those awkward moments. Eventually I'll just be yelling posing instructions to the people on the beach from across the boardwalk, hoping they'll volunteer themselves into better positions for my shots. I can't let social awkwardness get in the way between me and my so-called art now can I.