The event that got me deeper into Social Media, Instagram, Vertical Videos and Content, and loads more.
GOAT Toronto — what can I say.
The competitive dance scene in Toronto has evolved significantly over the past decade, and nowhere is this more evident than at the historic Mod Club. As a veteran photographer of this venue, I've witnessed its transformation into one of the city's premier battlegrounds for competitive urban dance culture.
The space has become more than just a nightclub – it's a proving ground where emerging talent meets established performers. Through countless events, I've developed an intimate understanding of the venue's structure, lighting patterns, and optimal vantage points, essential knowledge for capturing high-stakes dance competitions.
This particular event followed the established competition format, similar to the popular BYOB (Bring Your Own Beat) series, which has helped launch numerous talented highschool youths into Toronto's dance community. The format demands specific documentation requirements: action shots for promotional materials, vertical images for social media stories, and square formats for Instagram's main feed – a reflection of how modern dance events live both on and off the stage.
What sets this documentation apart is my focus on emotional authenticity. Rather than simply capturing technical movements, my approach centered on the raw intensity of performers in their element. This shift in photographic strategy reflects a broader trend in dance documentation, where genuine emotional moments often resonate more strongly with audiences than perfectly posed shots.
Gear list:
Olympus OM-D EM-10 MK2 Body
Panasonic GH5 Body
24mm f 1/2 Olympus MZuiko Pro Lens
12-40mm f /2.8 Olympus M Zuiko Digital ED Pro 2 Lens
75-150mm f /2.8 Olympus M Zuiko Digital ED Pro Lens
