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Student Spotlight – Missy Maher

6 years ago
gtapcnew
Adult Classes

Missy Maher is an amazing photographer that we’ve had the pleasure of teaching! She has taken a number of courses with us at GTA including, Photo 101, Photo 201, Lightroom 101, Photoshop 101, Portraiture 101, Studio Lighting and Night Photography. Through her work and passion for animals, she is soon to become, if she isn’t already, one of Toronto’s best pet photographers!

Her website will soon be live, but for now, feel free to follow Missy on Facebook or Instagram to see what she’s up to and some of her amazing photos!

1) When & how did you fall in love with photography?

I recall being very young, maybe 9 or 10 years old when I received my first camera. It was a Christmas present from my parents; a neon pink Kodak 110 film camera that required those cute little square flashcubes to produce flash and were literally useless after one press of the shutter. I took photos of everything; my brother, my dog, a tree, a bird, my toys, and I think I still have a set of prints from one recess in grade 6 of my friends getting up and close and personal. I will eternally possess a macro view of “Sandra’s nostrils”.

GTA Photography Student Spotlight: Missy Maher

My dad was in the military my entire childhood and we relocated often. I think taking photos was my way of keeping the memories of each “life” close to me. As I grew older, the photos began to take on more meaning and become more purposeful. Even so, there was always an underlying desire to capture my experiences so that I would have the opportunity to look back at them and re-experience the moment.

2) How would you define your photography style?

Currently I am in the experimentation phase. There are certain styles that I prefer over others (i.e. candid) and am often inspired by the work of other photographers but I haven’t really determined yet what my style is.

GTA Photography - Student Spotlight - Missy Maher
GTA Photography - Student Spotlight - Missy Maher
GTA Photography - Student Spotlight - Missy Maher
GTA Photography - Student Spotlight - Missy Maher
GTA Photography - Student Spotlight - Missy Maher
GTA Photography - Student Spotlight - Missy Maher
3) Do you now own a photography business or freelance?

Ask anyone I know to tell you how much I love dogs and they will probably sigh or roll their eyes, all while grinning a little. I love to pet them, I love to snuggle them, I love to read about them, I love to talk about them, I love to teach them, I love to swim with them, and I even love to greet strange ones on the street or in the park. My mom often jokes about the time we were in Paris, France and it took us almost an hour to walk a kilometer in one of the most beautiful cities in the world because I had to stop and say “Hi” to every dog that passed us. I simply can’t get enough of those cute little nuggets. Sometimes I wonder why my first clever word wasn’t “Puppy”! (It was “hoser”, in case you were wondering).

About one year ago, I started taking lessons at GTA Photography”. My friends and family also went along for the ride as I barraged them with hundreds of photos on a regular basis as I learned new techniques. Not long after my first few classes a friend of mine commented, “You should sell these, they are really good!” In the following months I created “Missy Maher Photography”. After just one year I have had the opportunity to photograph bridal showers, birthdays, babies, real estate and DOGS; lots of them! I have met and photographed two litters of seven squirrely weeks-old border collies, some very distinguished geriatric gentleman, a goofy and very rambunctious 100 lb giant, rescue pups up for adoption, and of course, my own two extraordinary fur kids. I have also participated as a photographer for dog-related fundraisers and an obedience trial. On some days I just head to the dog park and start snapping!

4) What was your most memorable photoshoot?

The story behind the most memorable photoshoot is sad but also very touching. My model was a Bulldog, old and very sick, surrendered by his owner at a time when he needed them the most. Fortunately, he was adopted by one of the sweetest and most dedicated dog-lovers I have had the opportunity to meet. This lady gives all of herself to her dogs, and that sweet squishy-faced Bulldog was no exception. She contacted me to set up a session because she was afraid he didn’t have much time left. The poor pup was on a cancer treatment program that made him very fatigued, and caused him to pant and drool a LOT! In fact, he drooled so much that he soaked a hole through the paper backdrop. Despite all that he was going through, he was still a happy boy and he demonstrated that with bum wiggles and huge sloppy kisses. I once asked the owner to just act naturally in front of the camera and sit with him how she would at home. I think for a time she forgot I was there. There was a very brief moment when I dropped the camera from my face and in watching them interact realized how much she adored that chunky little dude and that she would not have him for much longer. It was only a few weeks later that he passed away. I am truly honored to have been able to give her something to cherish. There are not enough kind words in the English language that can express the gratitude I feel for the people in this world that give all of themselves, without prejudice, to animals in need.

5) What is your favourite piece of gear?

My favourite piece of photography equipment is the Canon 16-35mm f2.8 wide angle lens. Although I do not own one….YET!……I am always blown away by the images I am able to capture with it. It does a fantastic job of capturing expanse in landscape photography and opens up tiny indoor spaces but what it I love most about it is the feeling it creates when you snap a shot of a furry critter up close and personal. It almost feels like you can reach out and “boop” their cute little noses. And sometimes, when get in really close; the lens distortion just makes them look kinda goofy!!

6) What’s your next photography purchase?

A 16-35mm f2.8 wide angle lens. Like you didn’t know.

7) What advice would you give to amateur photographers?

Practice!! And most importantly, don’t worry about what equipment you have, master the technical aspects first and borrow or rent camera gear as often as you can. Once you have determined your style and the subject matter you prefer, those will dictate what gear best suits your purpose. A good camera does not a good photographer make. Also, don’t let anyone discourage you from post-processing (i.e. Photoshop). It is part of the artistic process and in art, there are NO RULES!

8) What workshops/courses have been your favourite and why?

My favourite class was the introduction to Lightroom. I don’t think my photos would be the same without my knowledge of that program.

9) Just so we can find out a bit more about the person behind the lens, could you tell us…
  • What is your favourite dessert? Ice cream cake
  • Where’s your dream vacation destination? An overwater bungalow in Tahiti
  • What’s your favourite movie? Thirteen
  • What you would do if you won the lottery? Step 1. Purchase a ridiculous amount of land; Step 2. Build numerous housing structures suitable for animals of all shapes and sizes; Step 3. Hire staff to assist with tending to land, buildings, and building residents; Step 4. Adopt as many animals as would fit comfortably on said land; Step 5. Enjoy!
  • What’s your favourite holiday? Any holiday that allows me to spend quality time with my family is always a bonus. Although I am not involved in traditional religious practices, Christmas is probably the most celebrated in my family and therefore is typically when the majority of family is together in one place. As a child I had 6 grandparents, 19 aunts and uncles, and 19 first cousins and now that I am in my 30’s my cousins are having babies. There are 10 more little ones under the age of 8, with another one on the way. It can be chaotic but it mostly just a really fun party!!!

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GTA Photography Classes
GTA Photography Classes
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Based on 71 reviews
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Katherine Seatree
Katherine Seatree
23:10 24 Feb 20
I recently did the Photo 101 class with Lauren and it exceeded my expectations! Lauren was a great teacher - very knowledgeable and clearly passionate about photography which definitely helped boost my own enthusiasm. The class also benefited from being small, think it was just 6 of us and the content felt appropriate for a beginner. I now have a good understanding of things like aperture, shutter speed, ISO, composition etc. What I really loved was that there were practical exercises and steps explained that made it so much easier to understand and master what we learnt. My photos have already massively improved, and I can now say I feel confident shooting in manual mode! I would definitely recommend this course.
Samantha Peck
Samantha Peck
18:23 10 Feb 20
I took Photo 101, knowing very little about manual photography and left knowing the basics- and more! I'm feeling much more confident in my skills and interested in pursuing more classes. The small class size, knowledgeable instructor and hands-on learning all helped me get more familiar with my camera. I highly recommend taking classes at GTA Photography!
Fazeela Jahangir
Fazeela Jahangir
08:50 28 Jan 20
I was very keen to end up at the right place to brush up my photography because I wanted to learn from the best. GTA Photography exceeded my expectations at that. The location is conveniently located one stop from Kings Station with lots of places to eat and practice photography around. The best part I would say are undoubtedly the instructors who are some of the top in their various fields of photography. They were very patient with students asking questions as and when they wanted, which meant by the time we got to the end of the class and QnA session all queries had already been dealt with and everyone was happy with the instruction. We got lots of opportunities to practice as well. I am so happy I found this place to connect with other photographers- I have taken 3 courses already and am planning to take 3 more. I think that speaks for itself!
Melany Tiago
Melany Tiago
04:54 20 Jan 20
I spent my time at GTA photography Classes as a Co-op Student and really enjoyed my time here! Great kind hearted Staff & 5 star classes!
Anna Medvedev
Anna Medvedev
19:24 10 Jan 20
If you want to learn photography, this is the school you should go to. Knowledgeable instructors, interactive classes and very practical instruction.
Yve Benz
Yve Benz
17:42 10 Jan 20
Best photography school in the GTA and beyond. Amazing management, nice and professional staff, great camps and adult classes. Can highly recommend it!!!
Mark Buck
Mark Buck
15:09 14 Dec 19
As a photography and digital arts teacher with both the TDSB and YRDSB I highly recommend GTA Photography (Toronto). They teach us (students and adults) how to capture the special memorial moments of our lives.Dorothy Lange once remarked:"Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still."-
Josh Kim
Josh Kim
19:07 12 Dec 19
I spent time as both a counsellor at GTA over the summer as well as a co-op student during the school year. Super friendly staff that love teaching and helping people. Sitting in on different workshops and camp sessions, their instructors are always available to help and seeing how they teach, I'm not surprised when I see the other glowing reviews here. Would highly recommend both their camps and adult classes for anyone with an interest in photography!
Pam Robertson
Pam Robertson
00:58 10 Dec 19
The kid camps are amazing! They had very informative instructors, interactive teaching, and a so many fun field trips in a great location! The staff were very friendly and you could tell that they loved what they do and were so great with the kids!
shepherd Huang
shepherd Huang
17:05 09 Dec 19
Very knowledgeable instructors, interactive teaching and fun field trips. Lauren is so patient and I have a great time.
Candice Pollack
Candice Pollack
15:56 15 Oct 19
Our organization rented this space for a two day meeting. The team at GTA Photography was incredibly helpful and the space was clean, well-kept, and made for a great workshop space.
stephanie grace
stephanie grace
16:15 16 Sep 19
Great location and clean and light filled rooms for smaller groups. We came here for a management meeting and it was perfect for our needs.
Senthuran Kopalakrishnan
Senthuran Kopalakrishnan
15:14 09 Sep 19
Learned so much in a short period of time. Knowledgeable friendly instructor. Highly recommended for anyone interested in photography.
Sandra Nagy
Sandra Nagy
02:21 25 Aug 19
My 9 year old son had an unbelievable week of camp at GTA photography. He went on amazing field trips, had amazingly passionate counsellors and raves about every day. He also learned a ton and gained tremendous skills and confidence. There were tons of older kids as well, up to 15-16 year olds and they all seemed to love it as much as him. A unique and fun experience. I highly recommend it.
Agnes Roter
Agnes Roter
19:10 06 Jul 19
My daughter absolutely loved this camp. It was her first intro to photography and she quoted techniques and instructions from day one. She also quite enjoyed exploring downtown Toronto with the crew. That was a great part of the program. Highly recommend GTA Photography camp.
Anson Wong
Anson Wong
05:20 27 May 19
I received a nice camera for Christmas but did not know how to use it properly while on vacation. Decided to take an introductory course and it provides me with the tools to understand my camera. Alex is a great instructor. Not only is she very knowledgeable but her class was very well structured. She provided me with the confidence to use my camera and highly recommend this to anyone who finds cameras intimidating.
Culham Anderson-Brodie
Culham Anderson-Brodie
15:41 12 Mar 19
I took the photo 101 course through gta photography and i must say my experience was amazing. My instructor Donovan was extremely knowledgeable and I left with all the skills necessary to properly operate my camera in manual mode. Since taking this course my photography skills have continued to improve and I will MOST DEFINITELY be back for more classes!
Greg Leung
Greg Leung
19:56 11 Feb 19
Very professional, patient instructors. Perfect balance between fun & informative. I've taken Photo 101 & 201 and will definitely be enrolling in future courses! GTA Photography has ignited my passion for photography.
Tricia Anderson
Tricia Anderson
16:37 11 Feb 19
I took a couple of weekend sessions (Photography 101 and 201) to get me going with my new Digital SLR camera. They provided a great foundation to help me progress with my photography. The small class size and enthusiastic instructor made for a great learning environment. Tricia A.
A Woods
A Woods
22:07 17 Dec 18
Took the Portraiture 101 class. The Instructor was very informative and had some really great tips for making my photos better. She clearly is very experienced and has a great eye. It was part function and part art course and I loved that! The school was well designed and felt very warm and inviting. I loved that they took us outdoors to practice in real life conditions. I would definitely recommend this course and am looking forward to taking another!
troy bacchus
troy bacchus
16:00 26 Nov 18
UPDATE: Took the Photo301 lighting class this past weekend with Shayne and it was fantastic. Shayne was an excellent instructor and gave us a good grounding in lighting techniques and tips and tricks that really save a lot of time. I highly recommend this class to anyone looking to advance their skills working with natural, and artificial light.Just finished the photo201 class this past weekend and it was great. The instructor Neil made the class enjoyable while conveying all the necessary information. Material is good, they may want to consider having it printed for note taking. Overall a great class and I have already registered for photo301.
Danial Mirzakhani
Danial Mirzakhani
21:42 17 Jul 17
I haven't ever gon ther..but I think it's so good
Kristen Valente
Kristen Valente
19:00 14 Jun 17
Yesterday I took the Travel Photography workshop and it was awesome! It was such a small class that we really got to fire off questions whenever needed. Neil was a very extremely knowledgeable, engaging and patient teacher. He is clearly passionate about his craft and he did an excellent job of preparing us for future travel endeavours.
Jason Hopkins
Jason Hopkins
19:30 24 May 17
I took the Lightroom class which is a 4 week class every Thursday for 2 hours. The class was taught methodically and left me feeling confident using Lightroom. The teacher was very friendly and kept the learning environment fun and relaxing. I highly recommend gta photography, I've been around the owners and other people who work there. They all really care about their job and the students who come to learn.
Tess Vardy
Tess Vardy
13:10 20 May 17
I took classes last year in the fall and winter, and I learned so much!!!! I really feel like I have gained a lot of skill and confidence with a camera that I will carry with my for the rest of my life. I definitely missed having the classes once they were done because they were just SO much fun and the instructors really know what they're doing. I would recommend to anyone!!!
Jennifer Qu
Jennifer Qu
20:25 19 May 17
GTA Photography Classes is a really amazing camp for kids of all ages. I was 15 when I took teen camp 1 and teen camp 2 in the fall and winter. The instructors are amazing and I learned so much. The classes were really informative plus the instructors did a really good job making everything as clear as possible. I had Laura and Kylie as my instructors. They were amazing and really knew what they were talking about. Each class was accompanied by a field trip every other week. Because the camps location is in the centre of Downtown Toronto, the field trips were pretty cool if I do say so myself. We went to Kensington Market, ROM, Nathan Philip Square, etc. I highly suggest GTA Photography Classes if you're a beginner and even if you have experience and you want to get a little more creative with your work, it's definitely worth the money.
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