Seeing My Father Through a Different Lens
The Power Of Portrait Photography
Welcome back to Adopted Lens, my monthly newsletter dedicated to the journey of self-discovery through photography.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve always reached for my iPhone when photographing my family—taking quick snapshots on special occasions, or funny moments around the house, but nothing more than that. For some reason, I’ve never used any of my film cameras (which I typically use for street photography) for capturing the people closest to me.
“I think I’ve always seen my street photography as a work of art and an act of self-expression, while my family felt too familiar or too normal to frame in the same way.”
But recognizing that my father is getting older (almost 83) and time is not promised, I thought it would be a good idea to take his portrait while I still can.
To truly capture my dad, I wanted him to feel at ease—so I set up a simple studio in my parents’ living room with a white backdrop and a few lights. I chose to shoot medium format film on my Mamiya RZ67, knowing the slower process would force me to be intentional. My goal was simple: to create portraits that reflect who he is, not just what he looks like.
The shoot wasn’t just about making a portrait—it became a moment of connection. It gave me a rare chance to slow down and spend meaningful time with my dad, something we don’t always get to do. Setting up the lights, loading the film, explaining my process—it all turned into a quiet exchange of care and respect. I could tell he enjoyed seeing me in my element, and I loved watching his curiosity unfold. In the end, the experience of making the portrait felt just as important as the final image itself—maybe even more.
“It was a way to honor him not only through the camera, but by being fully present with him.”
Full transparency—I hadn’t picked up my RZ67 in quite a while, and I’d never shot film using constant lights before, so this was a creative challenge I welcomed. I used two film stocks: ILFORD Ortho 80 for black and white, and Kodak Portra 800 for colour. Shooting both gave us a range of looks and pushed me to get more creative with my lighting. I usually gravitate towards black and white film, but to my surprise, the colour portraits ended up being my favourites.
Shooting film gave the moment a sense of weight—like we were creating something that would outlast the both of us. Knowing I now have archival negatives of my dad, preserved on film, means more than I can put into words. It feels like we made history together, something tangible I can pass down. This was my first time photographing family in such an intentional way, but it won’t be the last. In fact, my dad’s already pitching ideas for our next shoot—he’s just as excited as I am to keep this going.
If someone in your life means the world to you, don’t wait—photograph them. The image will matter, but the moment you share will matter even more.
Until next month, peace.
Photo Of The Month
News & Updates
I’m excited to share that I’ll be exhibiting new work as part of the Contact Photography Festival with local photographers Dzesika Devic and David Akio in the “Neighbour’s Hoods” Open Call Exhibition.
Opening Reception – May 23, 6 - 9PM
Shintani Gallery – 700 Lansdowne Ave, Toronto
Hope to see you there!
Upcoming Events
Bloorcourt Community Photo Walk
Sunday, April 27th 2025
4–6PM
This event, led by local street photographer Bryan Brock, in partnership with the Bloorcourt BIA, offers creative photo challenges, a chance to connect with fellow local photographers, and an opportunity to explore the neighbourhood while supporting the local businesses.
In The Studio Workshop
Saturday, May 3rd 2025
Sorry Studio
10AM–2PM
In The Studio: A Portrait Lighting Experience is a hands-on workshop designed to introduce photographers of all levels to the art of studio lighting and portraiture.
Get Tickets
For more event listings, visit myphotocommunity.pixpa.com/events
Links
A Playbook Photo Series Competition – “Hidden In Plain Sight”
LensCulture Street Photography Awards – “Istanbul–A Mosaic of Dreams”
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Beautiful, brought tears to my eyes