R Y A N T A C A Y

Gaining new perspective means being able to not only see what’s directly in front of you but having the ability to interpret what’s not there as well. Having spent a lot of time recently shooting with my phone, I’ve been able to adhere to the one lens/one camera rule which forces me to get used to one (and in some cases 2) field of views to train my eye to anticipate images before I even bring the camera out. Typically, by using the rule of thirds grid, I’m able to line up shots that will work well with one another when constructing double-exposure shots that I assemble later in snapseed. I feel that while actually taking a photo is the primary aspect of photography, the art and one’s style really develops in the editing room. (puns always intended) As a photo retoucher in the commercial photo industry and being critical about quality, I feel it’s become less of an issue having to worry about the whether my files will hold up to rigorous edits which gives me peace of mind that whatever I create is good enough to print. Of course, while the sustainability of print media is another topic altogether, simply being adaptable in how one presents their artwork is a perspective we all have to take into consideration even though it’s literally neither here nor there. _ #thestreetartifacts#ig_generationstreet#streetphotoforum#fujifilm_street#moodylover#thecreatorclass#vzcomood#jaw_dropping_shots#collectivesociety#visualsoflife#thephotosociety#vscogrid#theimaged#visualarchitects #igmasters#createexplore#princely_shotz#exklusive_shot#liveessential#visualarchitects#vscogood_#special_shots#freedomthinkers#canadagram#master_shots#explorecreateshare#igpodium#lifeofadventure#street_focus_on#worldstreetfeature

It’s rare these days that I post candid portraits of random people looking into my lens as I’ve learned that it hardly has much significance to capturing the human condition as opposed to just simply, the human ...being. While people are indeed interesting creatures that do interesting things, what is a sharable moment in this photo is not so much the light, the subject, or the environment but rather the fleeting moment in which this combination can all occur. As seen in the clip in the next slide, which was supposed to be for my next video about “no flash corners" (who knows if I’ll ever get around to that) there’s not much thought that was put into the shot but rather instinctual muscle memory if you will. It’s a classic example of getting something out of what you put into it, as this shot isn’t anything particularly noteworthy; it’s a simple scene of a woman, lit from two reflective light sources, holding her phone. Not exciting stuff. These types of images don’t usually constitute a great shot but the aesthetics alone could be enough for some to be deemed as successful. I however wouldn’t be fooled by the superficial qualities of an image nor would I subject you to accept this other than what it is for face value so my unwarranted advice, if so chosen to be accepted would be to be mindful of how content and the context of an image is far more important than the style in which its presented. This is about the time that the old NBC “The More You Know” banner and jingle would play. _ #cityvibes#createcommune#agameoftones#artofvisuals#jointheclass#shoot2kill#way2ill#illgrammers#fatalframes#heatercentral#photomafia#highsnobiety#hypebeast#city_explore#igworldclub#mobilemag#awesupply#heatercentral#shootermag#shootermag_canada#youmustsee#photowall#worldshotz#ig_exquisite#discoverontario#superhubs#urbanrising#igpowerclub#clubsocial#beautifuldestinations#35mmstreetphotography

The best camera is the one you have with you” is a cliche saying that actually holds some truth to it. In this day and age we’re more inclined to ensure that we have our phones on us even more than our wallets, let alone our cameras. Being a creature of habit, I gravitate towards my usual photo gear, so when I was approached by @SamsungCanada to spend some time shooting with the GalaxyS9+ I didn’t know how much I’d actually incorporate it as part of my photography. What I found is that accessibility and convenience is actually a motivating factor in getting out to shoot especially when lately the thought of “having to shoot” is seen more as a chore than the enjoyable activity it’s supposed to be. While I’m an advocate of using what you have and that new equipment doesn’t make for a better photographer, you can’t ignore the fact that the inherent excitement when presented with trying new things with new technology is enough to spark potential inspiration. As skeptical as I am, I’ve come to realize that mobile devices have come a long way from trying to simply prove themselves as they’re much a part of the creative process as anything else these days, if not more. Whatever it takes to get out and create something outside the conventional box and into a longer rectangular shape is probably the most literal definition of getting a-long with a new format 😉 _ #SamsungInfluencer#WithGalaxy#Samsung#samsungs9plus#thestreetartifacts#ig_generationstreet#streetphotoforum#moodylover#thecreatorclass#vzcomood#jaw_dropping_shots#collectivesociety#visualsoflife#thephotosociety#vscogrid#theimaged#visualarchitects #igmasters#createexplore#princely_shotz#exklusive_shot#liveessential#visualarchitects#vscogood_#special_shots#freedomthinkers#canadagram#master_shots#explorecreateshare#igpodium

Looking through my “discard pile” of images that I wanted to share but thought they were too simple and uninteresting has yielded a newfound appreciation for my gut instincts and understanding as to why I even bothered to save such folder in the first place. Clearly, my method of parking myself at a corner and waiting for things to happen is something I do less and less these days so I’m finding that whatever intrigues me enough to actually take out my camera and snap a shot may mean something after all, though I may not understand why to begin with. I’m learning that sometimes less is more and those quick meaningless snaps that take a split second may somehow turn into something more worthwhile than something that I’ve spent a ton of time on. Not that this is ground-breaking (or wall-breaking stuff in this case) but in terms of mind-blowing self-realization, to me, this is that sliver of light in a dark space. Now only if my gut instincts would be so kind as to remind me to simply turn on a light instead of wandering around in the dark, I probably would stub my toe less often on wall corners when getting up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. _ #cityvibes#createcommune#agameoftones#artofvisuals#jointheclass#shoot2kill#way2ill#illgrammers#fatalframes#heatercentral#photomafia#highsnobiety#hypebeast#city_explore#igworldclub#mobilemag#awesupply#heatercentral#shootermag#shootermag_canada#youmustsee#photowall#worldshotz#ig_exquisite#discoverontario#superhubs#urbanrising#igpowerclub#clubsocial#beautifuldestinations#35mmstreetphotography

The definition of street photography to me is something that’s constantly changing, evolving. The rules that used to govern what was street and what wasn’t is now a guiding light as opposed to a static beacon. People no longer need to be present, but rather the evidence of humanity is what needs to be heard. A story doesn’t have to be told but rather suggested. Much like these words, the images presented here could be everything or it could be nothing. Whatever it is, it’s at least something. #cityvibes#createcommune#agameoftones#artofvisuals#jointheclass#shoot2kill#way2ill#illgrammers#fatalframes#heatercentral#photomafia#highsnobiety#hypebeast#city_explore#igworldclub#mobilemag#awesupply#heatercentral#shootermag#shootermag_canada#youmustsee#photowall#worldshotz#ig_exquisite#discoverontario#superhubs#urbanrising#igpowerclub#clubsocial#beautifuldestinations#35mmstreetphotography

Having used the excuse of hibernation for my hiatus is something that I find to be a healthy exercise. It’s better to let ideas branch out naturally on their own even if they’re not exactly what you had in mind. As things start to clear up maybe I’ll start setting my sights on building up the motivation and just start shooting out of the blue again. _ Also, just wanted to say that although I don’t have the time these days to respond to each and every (or any) comment tbh, that I still appreciate all the kind words and support sent my way - thanks! _ Also, also - Happy International Women’s Day! _ #thestreetartifacts#ig_generationstreet#streetphotoforum#fujifilm_street#moodylover#thecreatorclass#vzcomood#jaw_dropping_shots#collectivesociety#visualsoflife#thephotosociety#vscogrid#theimaged#visualarchitects #igmasters#createexplore#princely_shotz#exklusive_shot#liveessential#visualarchitects#vscogood_#special_shots#freedomthinkers#canadagram#master_shots#explorecreateshare#igpodium#lifeofadventure#street_focus_on#worldstreetfeature

To clarify the focus of my work is a blurry endeavour at best. I once held a high expectation of myself to produce work that adhered to a certain standard/aesthetic for those who only saw things from the opposite side of the screen. That in itself constructed contrived creations. Once I became relaxed in the upkeep of social media, my eyes followed suit. Though I don’t see things quite the same way as before, it’s become clearer that I don’t really need to.

Giving up control isn’t easy for me, especially when it comes to shaping external perceptions of one’s self. You can imagine that when presented with an opportunity by @henryscamera to be in their #henrysspotlight video to get my message across concerning street photography, it was met with as much hesitation as it did exhilaration. On one hand, the ability to share my experiences would be great, on the other hand, having other people who may not know a great deal about who I am and what I represent, tell that particular story, was a bit conflicting at best. Upon making the video, I found that articulating my thoughts into something tangible was more difficult that I had imagined. The choice to focus on positive points of interest (because this was meant to be more inspirational than an introspective interview) made my approach seem a lot less complex than it actually is. The truth is that this process is something that’s a bit of a struggle for me to put into words because to be honest, I’m not exactly sure I have all the answers to why I do what I do. My hope is that through the layers that I exhibit for public viewing, that there is some form of enlightenment (whether it be enjoyment, education, or self-examination) even if I myself have yet to find my own fulfillment within this endeavour. In the end, I’ve learned that you can’t control what people will see within your art; even though there’s a limit in controlling how our work represents us, it's sometimes that restriction that makes us freer to create without limits. _ I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this project with you all and hopefully you’ll all enjoy it. Click the link in my bio to watch the full 2 min video _ #wearegrryo#streets_storytelling#capturestreets#best_streetview#pocket_streetlife#ultimate_streets#lensculturestreets#streetselect#cobblescope#ourstreets#challengerstreets#fromstreetswithlove#lensonstreets#friendsinperson#apfmagazine#streetphotocargo#streetshared#thisismystreet#thestreetartifacts#ig_generationstreet#streetphotoforum#fujifilm_street#street_focus_on#worldstreetfeature#35mmstreetphotography#photooftheday#bestoftheday#gramoftheday#streetsgrammer

As much as I’d like for artistic growth to be as simple as a shadow that creeps up in the background, sometimes it can be more complex than curating images to couple. Accepting the consistency in how you perceive the world doesn’t necessarily mean stagnation, but rather an opportunity to understand what subconsciously peaks your attention. Studying your own work and seeing patterns and similarities within shots that may have been taken days or even years apart may be the key to opening your mind and seeing if you’re headed in the right direction. Hey, at least if I’m not, these two definitely are. #.PunsAlwaysIntended 2017-02-16 / 2016-03-19 #wearegrryo#streets_storytelling#capturestreets#best_streetview#pocket_streetlife#ultimate_streets#lensculturestreets#streetselect#cobblescope#ourstreets#challengerstreets#fromstreetswithlove#lensonstreets#friendsinperson#apfmagazine#streetphotocargo#serikat_sp#streetshared#thisismystreet#thestreetartifacts#ig_generationstreet#streetphotoforum#fujifilm_street#street_focus_on#worldstreetfeature#35mmstreetphotography#photooftheday#bestoftheday#gramoftheday#streetsgrammer

It's not every day that I get to check out these gear-related events but sometimes I like to show my face... If even partially. #moreiscalling#lgv30#toronto#canada#urban#streetphotography#vscofilm#vscocam(a6)#vsco#huffpostcanada#insta_crew#top_masters#lcexposure#streettogs#street_perfection#streetphotographers#SPiCollective#urbanandstreet#everybody_street#beststreets#burnmyeye#life_is_street#thephotomotel#streetbwcolor#rsa_streetview#wearethestreet#storyofthestreet#thestreetartifacts#ig_generationstreet#streetphotoforum

It’s been more than a minute and figured I’d pop by and say hi. Though I’ve been sitting on many images I’ve been meaning to share, I simply haven’t because I feel that it’s much of the same stuff with the exception of the colours/backgrounds/figures only slightly different when compared with its predecessor. While every subsequent shot can’t be ground-breaking or significantly better than the last which is an unrealistic expectation from one’s self, I feel like I owe it to me (and to you all to a degree) to have a purpose when I decide to take and share an image. Maybe the imperfections that keep me on the fence about uploading something (such as an overlapping shadow) may just be the perfect example of what not to do and reason enough to post. Maybe the purpose of my images have become more of a tutorial (contrary to my interests of it holding ‘artistic’ merit) and that the objective is to motivate others even though I’m not very motivated myself. Maybe that Carly Rae Jepsen song was playing at the aquarium and got stuck in my head. Maybe it’s stuck in your head now too. Sorry not sorry, maybe. #wearegrryo#streets_storytelling#capturestreets#best_streetview#pocket_streetlife#ultimate_streets#lensculturestreets#streetselect#cobblescope#ourstreets#challengerstreets#fromstreetswithlove#lensonstreets#friendsinperson#apfmagazine#streetphotocargo#serikat_sp#streetshared#thisismystreet#thestreetartifacts#ig_generationstreet#streetphotoforum#fujifilm_street#street_focus_on#worldstreetfeature#35mmstreetphotography#photooftheday#bestoftheday#gramoftheday#streetsgrammer

As photographers we rely on light to reveal the scenes we want to share as well as the dark to reflect upon the messages we’re trying to convey in our images. The challenge of shooting an art installation to commemorate the invention of the incandescent light bulb as part of Canada’s 150th celebration in both a documentary and interpretive manner turned out to be more than a simple job, but an exercise in reflection and interpretation. An admirable quality about this piece is its ability to play on our natural tendencies of using bright light (subconsciously drawing us from the potential dangers of the darkness), to pull us closer - only to reveal an even darker reflection, metaphoric of the black mirror from own mobile devices. While the concept of scrying (best known using crystal orbs or magic 8 balls) may seem dated, it’s not uncommon for us to treat our devices in the same manner - looking for guidance, significant messages, revelations, and inspiration in the palm of our hands. Perhaps our inquisitiveness hasn’t really changed much from before but at least we are daring ourselves to creatively use different mediums to reveal the information we seek. My objective is to slow down the pace of social media using quality over quantity, creating images that captures attention long enough to appreciate the details, empower our mental capacity with words to tell a story, and to somehow try to make it more rewarding these days to swipe left. Although it may appear to be impossible to be unhurried given the fast-pace lifestyle we live in, I think it’s important to be enlightened by the subtle features of the world around us and take in the moments that would otherwise pass us by. In many ways, the bulb was just a stepping stone in how we view the world today, maybe more so than what we realize. Hope you guys enjoyed the behind-the-scenes action in capturing these images of @castordesign ’s installation for @cadillac_canada as well the process of what a typical shooting day is like for me. If you’re interested in finding out more about the other installations just click on the #FIND151 tag to see what’s been launched and to stay tuned into what's up next!