Doors Open Orillia

This past weekend I made the trek to cottage country and the small town of Orillia for their Doors Open event.

Many visitors to Orillia will be familiar with the Stephen Leacock museum located in town. For myself, the highlight of the event was the quirky Ellesmere Junction Railway Museum located in Uptergrove. This toolshed was one of the buildings located on site.

[05/2009, Uptergrove/Ontario, Nikon D700/35mm, hand coated Satista print]

Hortop Mill

Located in the small village of Everton this three-story flour and grist mill was built in 1865. The terrain surrounding the mill is typical for the area. This is a great place to explore and well worth a visit.

Hopefully, under the protection of the Grand River Conservation Authority, it will remain a part of Ontario's history.

[04/09, Everton/Ontario, Nikon D700/35mm, 6-frame stitched image]

Lynden House

Nestled throughout the back roads is a network of charming country homes that form the backbone of the Bed and Breakfast inn. For the weary traveller they are a wonderful alternative to the dingy roadside motels.

One source of B&Bs in Ontario can be found here.

[08/2005, Sheffield/Ontario, Fotoman 617/90mm/Fuji Acros]

S.S. Nr.16

In 1850 the Ontario government began building one-room school houses in many rural communities throughout the province. Known as a 'School Section' each one provided education to an area of approximately 5 square miles. They continued into service throughout the 19th century. By the early 20th century their numbers began to dwindle.

This particular building, School Section Nr.16, was erected in 1864. It's fate is still to be determined.

[02/2009, Pickering Ontario, Nikon D700/85mm]

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

BEST WISHES TO ALL FOR A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!

[11/2008, Tapely/Ontario, Nikon D700/58mm]

Confessions of an Art Photographer

I was never destined to be a commercial photographer. From the earliest beginnings my photography has always been counter productive to the mighty dollar.

Over the years I've tried small product and wedding photography, model comps and did three seasons of 'kids having their picture taken with Santa'. I even worked in a large commercial photo studio but it was nothing more than work.

I've come to the realization that my work will never be used to sell a product or service. After all, from the very beginning, I've always been an 'art' photographer.

[11/2008, Whitby/Ontario, Nikon D700/35mm]

Fall

I love the Fall season. The rich earthy colours. The smell of fallen leaves on the ground. The slant of the afternoon light as it carves out every minute detail into the landscape. But most of all I find it to be a somber season. Fall is the signpost that divides the lazy days of summer and the depressing dreary months of winter.

[10/2008, Gormley/Ontario, Nikon D700/50mm, 8-frame stitched image]