Weather forecast was overcast and likely some rain in the afternoon. That means great looking clouds as icing on the cake for every scene shot. Had to get a new back pack for my gear. My good old sling pack was getting smaller and smaller.

As always, Toronto’s Queen Street back alleys offer up great scenes and many I’ve shot over and over. A favorite place to return to from time to time. I don’t know about most other big cities like Toronto in other parts of the world, but people will actually detour off the sidewalks to walk back there...safely too.

There’s always something new to see.

This time was different. Seems like the fame of this back alley is snuffing out some of the artistic talent. It’s become over run by tagging or shall we say the “not so talented”. Some really outstanding graphics are still there, but it is changing. This alley way has been the backdrop for all kinds of shows like the Rick Mercer Report and his famous rants, Much Music VJs and numerous interviews all in this really cool urban art gallery.

Along the way I came across this scene (below). A stairway to the heavens. I have to think that if God has a sense of humor this is how he might handle a really busy day so the almighty might have a chance to swing a coffee break.

Despite the weather today, still lots of activity and action on Queen Street. It’s the happening street in Toronto. One of my favorites anyway.

Marc’s DP Tips: Early mornings around sunrise and just before sunset are the perfect time to capture warm light and shadows that emphasize shapes and forms particularly in nature. The light also tends to be warm and colors richer. Sunlight at high noon on a clear day can wash out colors making them less vibrant. On those bright lit sunny days, a polarizing filter added to the end your lens can help restore color and add contrast. A circular polarizing filter helps you control the amount of polarizing.

Now go out and find something you weren’t looking for.

Keep shootin’!

Best regards,

Marc