Episode 01: Queen Street Vlog
The pandemic took away many freedoms, but not the freedom of self-expression. Over the course of months of lockdown, I decided to take my photography and video skills pro, after years as a hobbyist. I spent many nights in, watching Youtube tutorials and learning some studio photography while working with clients here and there.
I also started a new Youtube channel, where all of you were able to see from the very beginning where this journey is starting. Warning: it’s a little rough around the edges haha.
This vlog is a true day-in-the-life: errands, rambles, as well as seeing friends and family. I was testing out a Sony A7C as my potential future camera, and used it to vlog my journey to my favorite camera store along Queen St. West (Downtown Camera). I never made it to the camera store, but this might be the most eventful walk down a street I’ve been a part of.
If you’re not familiar with Queen West, it is one of Toronto’s most established areas, home to creative types, textile shops, artsy types and ever-changing store fronts. There’s also a commercial aspect to it, where east of Spadina toward Yonge, large stores like H&M and Lululemon call the street home, as well as some Toronto icons like the Bell Media Headquarters (the home of MuchMusic and CTV) and the Eaton’s Center mall.
Strolling on Queen on a summer day is a great way to meet people and in this vlog I made up for all the lockdown confinement by socializing. Vehemently. In all honesty, it’s kind of funny to watch this vlog looking back because of just HOW excited I was to see people outside on the street. I guess I really missed them over COVID!
In fact, I was so enamored at the idea of social connection that I ended up doing some impromptu street photography in the vlog. Toronto is home to such creative, unique individuals that I was inspired to capture people who seemed friendly and interesting on my way.
Check out some snapshots from the vlog below:
Later in the vlog, I went to Niagara Falls to visit some family friends by train. It is a short trip via Union Station (around an hour), and it was worth it to join my family friend on her 24th birthday.
All in all, a great day! What was your favorite part? Let me know in the video comments and be sure to subscribe to the channel and my newsletter below so you never miss a video!
