a photographer's diary
Last week, the very sweet and talented Becky of Blush & Bloom fame shared some photos on her blog from Lisa & Joel’s fabulous Casa Loma wedding.
Becky created such prettiness that I can’t help but sigh whenever I think about it.
But don’t just take my word for it — go visit her blog and see for yourself here.
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Been pretty busy lately. Have loads of new work that I’d love to share but, alas, have not had much time to do so. So please be patient my darlings — I promise to be back soon!
In the meantime, here are a few of my favourites from the recent 4-day Epicure Selections Conference that just took place in Toronto.
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While in NYC, we stayed with my lovely childhood friend Suzy and her family. They were living in Toronto previously but moved to Park Slope in Brooklyn ’bout a year and a half ago.
Back when Suzy was getting ready for the big move, I peppered her with questions about everything. The visa process. Moving costs. Living costs. The whole 9.
While still happy and comfortable in Toronto, I dreamed of New York.
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Aside from the sketchbook tour, we only had a few plans. At just 4 days, ’twas a short one and I didn’t want to stress out by having too much on our plate. So we mostly just went with whatever.
We enjoyed some great eats (at Talde, Parish Hall, and Sky Ice) and also went to the Brooklyn Flea — all of which I’d highly recommend.
We also checked out Sleep No More — which was amazing. (And if I could give just one bit of advice, wear comfortable shoes and do NOT read anything about it. At all. Except maybe a Cliff Notes book on Macbeth. But seriously — the less you know, the better. Admittedly, the show has been running for a while so there’s tons of info out there — but if I could do it all over again, I’d go in knowing nothing. Nada. Zip!)
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One thing I realized early in our trip was that this was my first time visiting the big city while living in another big city. Coming from Edmonton or Victoria, the difference is stark. But coming from Toronto… this was different.
We already have art and artists and street noise and music and great food and culture and things to do every night of the week. I’ve been here 10 years already and am still just scratching at the surface.
Of course, there is a vibrancy of spirit in New York that is unparalleled.
But Toronto is pretty awesome too.
And in real terms, the amount we pay for our house essentially would get us a teeny-tiny studio far out in the boroughs. So there’s that too.
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Anyway, near the end of our trip, Suzy asked if New York was still on our radar. And I paused.
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If we could afford to “do it right” in NYC, I’d still move there in a heartbeat. But if and until that happens… I’m actually pretty happy, right now, right here in Toronto.
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I’ve been thinking a lot about what this trip has meant for my relationship with NYC and for our future together. I’ve held on to the dream of living there for so long; I no longer know if it’s passion or habit.
But the one thing I do know, if it weren’t for New York, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Living in a big city, doing work I love to do.
And for that reason alone, big and beautiful New York City, a part of me will always be yours for the taking.
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A week or so ago, I experienced a moment of synchronicity.
I’ve had this idea for a photo project floating around for awhile and, for whatever reason, now seems to be the perfect time to get started. The idea, not to get it all crazy hyped-up or anything, is to take portraits of artists in their living and/or working spaces. Very original, I know. But whatever!
So, as I was wondering who I’d target ask first, my lovely friend Pam Lostracco came to mind.
She’s an artist/graphic designer/illustrator and lives in a sweet spot, just 5-minutes from mine. Perfect.
Now. This is the part where I check my phone and see that Pam just emailed. She’s about to be profiled on this super cool website and would I mind writing a little paragraph about her?
Of course, I jumped at the chance because I:
(a) fancy myself to be a very accomplished wannabe writer, and
(b) would love to write something nice for someone nice.
Oh and since we’re talking, I’ve been thinking about starting this thing and how would she feel if I were to come over and take her portrait as well as some snaps around her home? Oh em gee, she was already thinking of asking me! Obviously there were plenty more exclamation marks in the ensuing rapid-fire exchange of emails but anyhow.
It was pretty cool.
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Anyway, if you wanna see just one more reason why Toronto is Awesome, go on and check out their profile on my dear and talented friend Pam Lostracco.
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Visiting with my Montreal family.
En route.
Home.
155/365
Lobster lovers take note: Grace Upstairs, Wednesday nights.
20 bucks buys you one of these. Deeeee-lish!
117/365
There’s something about seeing the glittery sky that makes all the wandering feel worthwhile.
65/365
michelle yee photography 