“With everything that has happened… you can either feel sorry for yourself or treat what has happened as a gift. Everything is either an opportunity to grow or an obstacle to keep you from growing.
You get to choose.”
- Dr. Wayne W Dyer
Hello there!
As you already know, my name is Ian, and I remember buying my first DSLR camera on June 10th, 2011 (wow, so specific). Did I wake that night from a deep slumber, prophesying a meteoric rise in the world of photography?
No.
It was actually the day I received my acceptance letter into the College of Dentistry - finally… a future where photography is affordable! For the next 4 years, capturing weddings and events help train my creative eye, as well as relieve some of that crippling debt left from an outrageous tuition.
A 2015 move to Toronto for a hospital residency also sees a transition towards fashion and portraiture. Concurrently running around as an international model, I have the opportunity to experience both sides of the camera, working with brands such as: Hugo Boss, Giorgio Armani, Four Seasons Hotels, Lululemon, and Adidas. These high fashion and activewear cultures heavily impact my photographic style and direction today.
I’m honoured to have worked with some of the globe’s top talents and believe that there is value in everything - it just needs to be uncovered. There’s no greater excitement than when projects allow me to meet new people and travel to new places.
Blessings,
Ian
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you play anything in the background while editing?
Oh definitely! But it has to be something I’m very familiar with, so as to not distract from the work. Right now I’m rewatching: The Matrix, the Lord of the Rings trilogy (extended editions, of course), and many Netflix stand-up comedy specials (Dave Chappelle, Tom Segura, Bill Burr, and Jim Gaffigan - to name a few).
How do you come up with concepts?
My most creative moments come during times of boredom. So I purposely schedule blocks throughout the week to be away from work environments and just wander the streets of Toronto. Over time, bits and pieces come together to culminate into a final concept.
Pro tip: make time to be aggressively bored.
How does being a dentist help with your photography?
Have you looked through a Profoto equipment catalog?
I only have so many kidneys to sell.
What’s your favourite food?
Really? That’s like asking a person who’s their favourite child - I adore them all equally.
I love steak.
Please don’t tell chicken wings.
How does being a model help with your photography?
Empathy. I’ve been in front of the lens for years, and know how it feels when a photographer isn’t able to communicate with the team, or is downright abusive. However, it also shines light on how positive an experience can be with a passionate and driven team. Finally, modelling helps me distinguish “good” from “bad angles”. For example: tilting my jaw down into my neck = immediate double chin.
Do you shoot TFPs?
I’m always open to test shoots as long as it’s adding something different to my portfolio. If I’m excited about a new concept, I’ll likely donate my time to make the vision come to life.