As an Ontario based photographer, I specialize in capturing the raw, unfiltered essence of urban life through black and white candid street photography. While not being in Canada very long I have so far experienced a small number of Canada’s vibrant cities—Toronto and Montreal being the biggest— which offer dynamic backdrops for documenting human stories. There are obviously so many more and I will add more blogs from them when I visit. Here are my top ten tips for mastering black and white candid street photography in these places, infused with techniques I use in my work to create evocative, timeless images.
1. Embrace the Monochrome Mindset
Black and white photography emphasizes texture, contrast, and emotion by stripping away color. Before shooting, visualize scenes in grayscale. Urban environments like Toronto’s gritty Yonge-Dundas Square or Montreal’s historic Old Port thrive in monochrome, where shadows and highlights deepen narratives. My portfolio at www.andygibbphoto.com showcases how I use black and white to amplify candid moments.
2. Scout Iconic Urban Locations
Canada’s cities are street photography treasures. Toronto’s or Montreal’s various locations, underground or overground, with their vibrant streets, stations or venues, provide rich settings. Hamilton or St Catherines in Ontario, other hubs of activity, are personal favorites that I’ve captured for my site.
3. Master Natural Light
Lighting is key in black and white photography. Variable weather—foggy mornings in Toronto or rainy days in Montreal—creates dramatic effects. Shoot during golden hour or overcast skies for soft, even light that enhances textures. My images often leverage natural light to add depth to candid shots.
4. Use a Fast, Discreet Camera
Candid photography requires agility. A mirrorless camera with a prime lens (35mm or 50mm) or even your cell phone, offers sharpness and portability. In bustling areas in cities, a compact setup helps you blend in. My gear choices prioritize discretion to capture authentic moments.
5. Focus on Storytelling
Great candid photography tells a story. Capture fleeting moments—people rushing to the train station, passers by heading to their work or someone walking their dog. Frame subjects with urban elements like signage or architecture to ground the narrative. My street scenes on www.andygibbphoto.com weave human stories into cityscapes.
6. Adjust Camera Settings for Speed
Street photography is fast-paced. Use a high shutter speed (1/250s or faster) to freeze motion in busy spots. Set a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower) for shallow depth of field, isolating subjects. Auto ISO adapts to changing light. See my technical approach in other images at www.andygibbphoto.com.
7. Blend into the Crowd
To capture authentic candid’s, be invisible. Dress plainly and move confidently in crowded areas . Use hip-shooting or zone focusing to shoot discreetly. My candid shots reflect this stealthy approach, preserving the moment’s authenticity.
8. Post-Process for Impact
Black and white editing enhances mood. In post-processing, adjust contrast and clarity to emphasize textures, like the brick walls or signage. Editing tools help me refine images, where I boost shadows and highlights for striking monochrome visuals.
9. Respect Your Subjects
Ethics are crucial in candid photography. In diverse cities like Toronto and Montreal, prioritize consent, when possible, especially for close-ups. Taking photos in public spaces, like streets, parks, or public transportation, is generally legal and doesn’t require consent. However, if you’re on private property, you need to obtain permission or be within areas where photography is allowed. If in doubt though (as remember, for many things different Provinces have different rules) check the laws before you take any images.
10. Practice Patience and Persistence
Street photography rewards dedication. Spend hours in spots that you find interesting, waiting for the perfect moment. My portfolio reflects years of patient observation, capturing the urban pulse in black and white!
Ready to Shoot?
Black and white candid street photography in Canada captures the soul of the cities like Toronto, Montreal, and so many others. From vibrant markets to historic streets, these tips will help you create compelling images.
To see some of the great locations and attractions around Canada, and plan your next photoshoots, go to: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/canada/attractions
For any enquiries on using or purchasing my images, wanting to know more about my work, having shots of your street art projects taken, or if interested in any other collaborative projects, please contact me using the form at :
