A few Toronto girls

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

You are looking at two of my all time favourite photos and no, I have no idea of which building it is!! I shot this during one of my first excursions into Toronto's urban playground, getting lost among the downtown melange of business people, tourists, and shoppers... just to name a few!

I thoroughly enjoyed this foray into the world of photography! While I was always the one with the compact camera tucked into my purse, I had never ventured into the delicious world of SLR photography until I started working for one of its most dynamic enthusiasts!! She wanted nothing to do with a classroom environment... so there we were, cameras in hand, mentoring and learning, eagerly sharing and eagerly absorbing. And at one point, I happened to look up and discovered these ladies looking down at me and I was hooked!

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

Power House, Welland, ON

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

I used to walk by the old Power House building at the corner of Lincoln and Hellems Streets in Welland and wonder what it was like inside. Abandoned for years, it was probably an eyesore to those in the proximity, but I always thought it was an interesting building to look at, with its power line fixtures in a row along the top. At one point it had actually become a women's gym, but I don't recall how long it was available for workouts before it was deserted again.

I recall seeing this quirky old floodlight and thinking: I should bring my camera over here sometime and take some pictures of it. I think what really motivated me to actually do it was when I passed by and saw that someone had smashed the glass inside of it. I decided I'd better hurry up and do it for fear it would disappear altogether some day. So I grabbed my old Miranda and walked over and shot a whole roll on the red brick building and all its nuances. I would have taken this sometime between 1999 and 2000 I guess.

The day after I did this, (and yes, it was exactly one day!) there was an army of Caterpillars on site to finally demolish the lonely, neglected building. Mere hours later, there was nothing left of the structure but crumbling framework and massive piles of bricks. Cleanup took a little longer of course, but to this day, there has still not been a replacement erected at the corner of Lincoln and Hellems Streets.

It was during a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake last autumn that I had the opportunity to experience the rush reporters must feel when they find themselves right in front of the story as it's breaking!

It began as a flurry of sirens, then a gathering of people, mostly tourists conveniently equipped with cameras! Soon we were barred from accessing the area behind these buildings and quickly realised why. What was really eerie was to think that moments prior to all this commotion, we had walked directly in front of The Butterfly Gallery, completely unaware that there was already a fire burning in its basement.

I wonder, because of their seasoned participation in such events, if reporters experience the same cocktail of emotions that I felt on that October afternoon: while I was thrilled to be right at the scene of something that I knew to be significant and that everyone would be discussing, it was a thrill injected with great sadness as we watched hungry flames devouring someone's livelihood and passion, forever altering the very structure of "the prettiest town in Canada".

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

I imagine life being good in Boston. When I was there last year, I felt like I was encompassed by elegance and culture and history. I realise it is because I was on vacation, liberated from my corseted schedule, free to absorb all that I found intriguing and to breathe and sleep deeply. But I often indulge a little and imagine how fortunate I would feel were I able to see what's good about Boston any time I like.

My impression while walking its downtown was such that every landmark is relevant and they all originated years and years ago, back when correspondance was meaningfully crafted and attire was a production. I breezingly perused the shops on Newbury Street without feeling inundated with street vendors. There are swirls and spirals of wrought ironwork everywhere, framing condo steps, as in this photo, as well as the shops. Sunday morning held no more vexing consideration than deciding which restaurant's charming outdoor patio to visit today. And never mind about having slept in from last night's socialising: they do brunch, not breakfast... priorities!

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

Quidi Vidi Village, Newfoundland

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

This is not just a photograph of a rope. It is a photograph of a luxuriously relaxing afternoon meandering beside the sea on a quiet road, drinking in the textures and layers of the village. It is a photograph of Newfoundland weather and its effect on the rope and on the wood, both of which have been rendered monochrome and very soft.. almost fuzzy to the touch! It is a photograph of a fishing community, and of a tradition that may have been fractured but will never be exterminated completely. And it's a photograph that brings me back to one of my days in beautiful Newfoundland. After all, isn't that one of the main reasons we take pictures? To remember days and experiences, not just locations or objects.

Parliament Building Reflection

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

I have heard people declare that simply designed, smooth, mirrored glass buildings lack character, and have no place in a typical downtown environment amidst the more majestic, intricate structures that have been there for decades. I disagree! The Bank of Canada in downtown Ottawa effortlessly depicts a rippled, dreamy rendition of a very familiar historical building, but more dramatically than the typical postcard image. Check out the mosaic sky, look at all the different shades of blue! How about the molten patina roofing and the whimsical windows? Like a massive painting, the image is there for anyone to view, anytime, albeit dynamic.. you may never see the exact same thing twice! And that's just while looking from just one of its angles! What's not to like?

So there I was standing underground..

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved
So there I was standing underground, camera slung over my shoulder (unabashedly declaring my tourist status!) awaiting a train that would bring me to that most crazy and intoxicating of New York destinations, Times Square. As I stood there, shifting my weight and watching the people, I noticed this woman standing a little ways in front of me. She was twirling away on her long copper locks.. actions, I decided, of a person feeling either content or anxious. Of course I had no idea which it was, or whether it was either one at all. But I can certainly imagine what some of her thoughts may have been, as she stood there underground twirling her hair, waiting for a train bound for Times Square (or at least in that direction) on that Saturday afternoon:


..I don't really have to create a fussy dessert for tomorrow night, I think I will just pick up some fresh raspberries and serve them over some vanilla ice cream- ooh and blueberries too, it will look so American- his folks will love it….

..I think I'll be naughty today and get myself something from Godiva's in the square! and after I'm done at the seamstress I may just go in and see what's new at Jimmy Choo before I pick up the kids….

..ooh Cosmo was right.. my hair does feel softer today- I just hope I don't smell like a pint of Sam Adams.. hmm then again, maybe that wouldn't be such a bad thing....

..oh I forgot to ask Denzel what time he wants me to bring the kids over tomorrow afternoon- I think if I can get to the theatre by four today, we'll have time to chat about it before he goes on....

..I bet the Rover must be coming due for an oil change soon- I'll have to get my creeper back from next door and pick up a few litres so I can get at it this Saturday...

..I wonder if maybe we should explore Irish names - Seamus? Sean? ohh how do you possibly pick just one name that you're going to be saying for the rest of your life?...

..hmmm I wonder what it looks like over there inside that tunnel? I'd probably need a flashlight in order to find out….

..ohhh what is he going to say to me when he finds out I only spent two hundred and fifty dollars at Macy's? I just can't justify spending the thousand dollars he gave me just on clothes- I don’t know how other women do it.….

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

Who gets credit for a photo such as this... the person who shot it or the person who devised the composition? One person saw a tabletop covered with recently captured crabshells, thought they would make a cool tower, and then set about with a steady hand and a sprinkle of patience to make it happen. The other person (me) didn't really do anything except point a camera and press the shutter! At first I saw echoes of Yertle the Turtle!

Now when I look at it, I see the bottom creatures as the grownups, weary and disillusioned from supporting those spirited, curious schoolagers at the top. They are shocked, yet again, by the antics of the small fry, and can't believe how much energy they have and the things they do! They are drawn together on a common burden, and begin to discuss the craziness of youth, peppered with a natural dose of yearning for their own!

"What are we going to DO about those kids?"
"Can you believe they did that?"
"Was I ever that young and foolish? Really?"

The little ones, in the meantime, are mesmerised by everything they have been discovering in the world and elated to be able to see further than they've ever seen before. Everything is a miracle and worth checking out, and they just can't wait to get there, wherever 'there' happens to be!

"Wow, let's go get a closer look!"
"I can't believe we're going to get to do that soon?!!"
"Isn't that totally awesome?"

Look at them. You'll hear them!

Taken while exploring downtown Stratford, Ontario

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

Sometimes, asymmetrical is more appealing than balanced, the unexpected is more stimulating than the predictable, and that which dares to present itself however the heck it wants is simply more successful at commanding your attention, not to mention arousing more curiosity and providing more visual enjoyment!

By the way, it amuses me to think that if this were my door, I would want to straighten that lopsided pull, but as far as aesthetic appeal goes, its variance sure makes for a more appealing photographic subject! Although, I suppose for some people it would prove too annoying to look at because it's "not right" and they can't fix it.

Which one are you?

In today's busy world, there isn't always time to watch a snail...

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

In today's busy world, there isn't always time to watch a snail. After all, it's common knowledge that they don't really move very quickly. Even if we have afforded ourselves the time to meander alongside Manuel's River in Newfoundland, or any river for that matter, we are too busy watching the path, watching the kids, watching the time - we aren't watching snails. Besides, what good would that do?

Well, lots. One of my mantras when I am really busy is: "time spent with your kids is never wasted". It's kind of sad that I have to remind myself of that, but I prefer to think it's good that I at least DO remind myself of that. Another one should be "time spent watching nature is never wasted". Why? It forces us to slow down. It reminds us that there are other progressive things taking place while we are busy keeping our household and our families running sanely and effectively and contently. It reminds us that it's okay to stop for a while and just sit (or lie on our stomachs) and watch a snail wander as we feel our breathing and heartrate match its pace. And it reminds us that getting from one end of a rock to the other really can be a major accomplishment.

Truth: I wasn't actually lying on the river's edge when I took this. I adjusted the view screen of my Nikon so that I could lay my camera on the ground and still see what the camera was seeing. However, it's important to note that stretching out on the earth would have produced the same result, and had I not had the screen's flexibility, (and often even when I do), I would not have hesitated to do so. You, too, should never pass up the opportunity to do this if it allows you to get down to the level of your subject. Lie, crouch down, kneel, sit. It makes such a difference when capturing images of your children, your pets, and of course, your snails.

Cape Spear, Newfoundland, is the most easterly point of North America..

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

'Cape Spear, Newfoundland, is the most easterly point of North America.'

I love to ponder that statement when I am there, standing as close to the edge of the cliff as I will dare to venture.. In the entire country of Canada, in the entire country of the United States, there is no piece of land that extends further into the ocean than where I am now standing. (yes, I am the type of person who thinks that is cool!)

Reverence aside, this is a place where the air is cool and fresh, the photographs come easily, and the stunted fir trees are all perpetually leaning from the wind. Most of those who visit Cape Spear find themselves drawn towards the open, winding steps, eventually reaching the lighthouse, which, I am told, is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the province. However, there's more to this Canadian National Historic Site than that. I've recently discovered that if you walk a short distance in the other direction, you will come across this magnificent cluster of rock that reaches out into the sea like giant fingers. I could literally stand here for hours, mesmerised by the rolling waves crashing up onto the clean rocks again and again. And on this particular May day, the view was as crystal clear as the air surrounding it, the kind of view that makes you forget that you're only wearing a light sweater.

I held his warm feet in my hands..

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

I held his warm feet in my hands, caressing their silky soft skin with my thumbs. They were so alive, dancing in my hands, spirited, and unapologetically filthy! His soles were coated with dust and crumbs, evidence of his unkempt mommy. But Mommy wasn't really unkempt, just a little behind in her house cleaning today.

He squealed as I touched him a little too lightly and unwittingly tickled him. I smiled and started to tickle him intentionally. He laughed and glowed, his hands banging on the highchair tray in delight, sending more crumbs floating to the floor. Where they would probably sit until later tonight. Unapologetically.

Massey Hall, 178 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

When I walk around in places like Toronto I always have my head up in the sky because while there is much to see at street level, there is also so much going on overhead. Have you ever done that?

I originally started gazing upwards because of all the tall buildings that brazenly reached towards the sky higher than us common folk could never dream of reaching! Then I started to discover the most incredible architectural details that were perched at the top of the more modest buildings and I was hooked. Now I always shoot upwards. Not only do you capture things that people who walk Toronto's downtown streets on auto-pilot never care to notice, but you can create the most interesting negative space imagery when the tops of the buildings appear to converge!

Besides, you could never take a picture like this of a cultural and historical icon like Massey Hall from over on Yonge street with a zoom lens - you would have had to have been directly underneath it! And that's just where I was!

Macy's flagship store on 34th Street in New York City was the starting and finishing point of a whirlwind bus trip that included some shopping, but for me, the most dynamic urban photographic carnival I've seen thus far! We jammed a lot of sightseeing into the 12 hours we were there, but one of my favourite photos is this one of some of Macy's stylish mannequins. I loved the way their reflection was visible on a seemingly non-reflective surface: the smooth brown exterior of the massive store, made of a material which I guessed was granite. By this point, everyone was exhausted from the day's excitement and had assembled in front of the store waiting, languishing, for our bus to arrive to bring us back to reality, and to let us succumb to our fatigue. I had finally put my camera back into my bag, finally deciding to call it a night. Then I saw these girls and I was smitten!

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

Sometimes, when you are standing on Signal Hill...

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

Cabot Tower, Signal Hill, St. John's, Newfoundland

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

View of Fort Amherst, Newfoundland, from Signal Hill

Sometimes, when you are standing on Signal Hill, you feel as though you could literally be blown off the edge of the cliff. I've actually found myself feeling my way around the building or grasping the surrounding stone wall to counteract the intensity of the wind coming off the ocean. It's one of those places where you feel completely insignificant amidst the forces of nature and completely at the wind's mercy, and it's absolutely incredible!!! I've been up there in all sorts of weather, which isn't difficult to accomplish in Newfoundland, and I prefer to be there when it's actually doing something!

On the day these pictures were taken, the fog was so dynamic, so alive... living and breathing as it tickled and embraced the hill's craggy slopes. The view of the city and of the neighbouring cliffs would come in and out of view, with the mist providing a frame one minute and a filter the next, and at times a complete whiteout! It was fascinating to watch and photograph.

Cabot Tower, Signal Hill, St. John's, Newfoundland

© Christine Mastroianni, all rights reserved

Sometimes I wonder: what's the big deal about photography anyway? Everyone's camera, regardless of its mechanisms or intricacies, performs in the same manner. The imagery being captured on film, or as is the norm these days, in pixels, is generally visible to anyone who passes by. What makes a photograph great or even interesting? Is it because they have an alphabet of degrees after their name and possess the knowledge and finances to use the best equipment that the hobby has to offer? Or is it simply because the camera, any camera, was handy, and the person wielding it thought to capture that image in a way that made him or her smile.

So many people visit icons like The Eiffel Tower or Niagara Falls every day, participate in group tours or anniversary celebrations, and meander along municipal trails or ocean beaches, being present in any given location, the mundane and the exemplary. But sometimes, someone will allow him or herself to be swept away by what is being presented to the eye, dares to stand still and drink in the lines and angles, the colours and patterns, to consider its origin or imagine its potential, and to revel in yet another wondrous facet of life. And sometimes, that person has a camera slung across their chest.

This blog illustrates what happens when that person is me.