The Toronto Shooters Club’s second photo walk was held on Monday, April 12th from 5:45pm until about sunset. The group of four; Meghan, Ted, Kristen and Roman, set out from Castle Frank to head for Craigleigh Park and the Milkman’s Lane. We had a great map, courtesy of the Evergreen Brick Works website, but still weren’t sure exactly where to find the trail. Some friendly Rosedale dog walkers in Craigleigh Park happily directed us to the entrance.

Once into the wooded ravine trail, photo opportunities presented themselves immediately and we all had our cameras ready and shooting. Slanting early evening sunlight filtered through the sparse foliage of early spring, making for some medium contrast, softly lit scenes. Initially, natural subjects plus some scenes with walking, cycling or jogging folk were plentiful. A bit later, some early spring wildflowers and urban features like rusty fences presented some shallow depth of field, closer up compositional opportunities.

Coming around the bend adjacent to the one of the Don Valley highway system ramps, the group had the chance to capture some views of urban features, including highways, apartments, lighting, wiring, fences and highway maintenance structures. A little further on, dramatic skies featuring jet trails and cloud formations presented themselves. This gave rise to the first of several discussions of settings and exposure principles.

Pressing on, we passed through a more heavily wooded path and soon approached the Brick Works site. The brick buildings, paver stone walkways, ponds and various types of birds and vegatation provided so many possibilities that the group broke up as we each pursued our individual inspirations. Having each explored a number of the many photographic possibilities for the better part of a half hour, Roman was inspired to climb a steep hill just as we had gradually drifted closer together, and we all flocked along behind.

Great thing we did too; we were all presently treated to the awesome views provided from the Governor’s Bridge Lookout. To the northwest, the namesake of the Lookout, the Governor’s Bridge which carries Governor’s Road as it traverses the Moore Park Ravine ravine between Rosedale and the neighbourhood of Governor’s Bridge was visible through the trees. To the west, the ponds were laid out before us with the setting sun and dramatic clouds beyond the tree lined edge of the valley. To the south, in the foreground lay the buildings of the Brick Works, currently under construction towards eventual restoration. Further beyond to the south lay the somewhat distant skyline, featuring the CN Tower and tall buildings of the downtown core. To the south east, the Prince Edward Viaduct was fully visible along with sections of the Don Valley Parkway system.

Here we remained, shooting contentedly and occasionally discussing various technical and artistic points until the sun began to set. After a brief discussion which concluded with the sad realization that heavy clouds at the horizon would prevent any decent golden hour shots from developing, we decided to head off. Another great photo walk! Wish you could have been there with us!