Teaching photography, unleashing creativity!
Sonia Saund, a GTA Photography graduate, has successfully launched her portrait and street photography business Shuttersaund. Her images are stunningly sharp and beautifully capture simplicity.
We took some time to catch up with Sonia and asked her a few questions about her work, and how she came to love photography!
When & how did you fall in love with photography?
“I think I’ve always loved taking pictures. Back in the day, I used my mom’s Canon T50 SLR and then later on, any point-and-shoot I could get my hands on. I truly fell in love with photography when I started street shooting in manual mode, when I could really manipulate what I was seeing to get my perfect shot.”
How would you define your photography style?
“I don’t think I have a set style yet. I think it takes years to develop a style. Right now, I’m experimenting with simple and clean looks, but I do have my busy and colourful shots. One thing I know for sure is that I love structure. I like sharpening an image, especially an architectural one, to bring out all of the nitty gritty.”
What was your most memorable photoshoot?
“I had an amazing opportunity with one of my mentors to help shoot a wedding that took place in Toronto. The ceremony itself was beautiful, and I learned so much that morning, but the most memorable part was the reception that was held downtown at Terroni. I remember snapping away and listening to the bride and groom’s speech, and they were so impactful that at one point I forgot that I was a photographer there. The couple treated us like we were their most respected guests and I could truly feel it. It was one of the best experiences I’ve had shooting, and even attending a wedding.”
Which piece of gear (lens, tripod etc.) is your favourite?
“I am in love with my 50mm f/1.4 USM Canon lens. It’s not the most expensive lens on the market, but it takes amazing portraits and the depth of field is great for the price point.”
What’s your next photography purchase?
“My next purchase is going to be either an 85mm or a 70-200mm L Series lens. I hear great things about both but it’ll be hard to choose! I’m also looking for a great tripod. I shoot real estate photography during the week and that is a must!”
What advice would you give to amateur photographers?
“Keep shooting. A lot of seasoned photographers told me the same when I first started shooting. I did a ton of reading, but all the words only click once you actually press down on your shutter.”
What workshops/courses have been your favourites and why?
“Photo 101 was probably my favourite course. It put the pieces of the puzzle together for me. Learning about the light meter really changed my game. I passed along this tidbit of info to a wedding photographer, and to my surprise he had no idea what I was talking about. Lauren was my teacher and she was great; super patient and very informative.”
Just so we can find out a bit more about the person behind the lens, could you tell us…
- What is your favourite dessert? That’s a tough one. Right now, probably chocolate cheesecake.
- Where’s your dream vacation destination? Thailand. I can only imagine the pictures I would come back with. And I’d probably be up 10 pounds because Thai food is my all-time favourite.
- What’s your favourite movie? I have two: Elizabethtown and The Departed
- What you would do if you won the lottery? I’d probably buy a condo or a house first, and then take a month or two off to travel. I haven’t been to Europe yet, so I would love to do some kind of Eurotrip. And then after coming back, I would probably quit my job and open up a studio for my own photography 🙂
- What you got for your last birthday? I think I got a lot of booze, makeup, a horseshoe diamond necklace, and money. Money is always a good gift.
