Memoirs and musings of Darius Bashar. Toronto portrait photographer and writer, in pursuit of all things real, raw and intimate.
This is my dear Friend Sal Talon.
She just turned 30 this past weekend. The world is a better place with her in it. She's a mega talented human that has left a big impact on my life.
Her new album Glass Canon dropped on her b-day, last Friday. If you have a chance give it a listen. I'm really loving it myself.
Here's her Spotify link --> CLICK HERE
Big love,
D
I have an idea.
This idea makes me nervous, but I can’t stop thinking about it.
It feels like a big juicy creative risk for my photography.
Here’s the idea.
Can I convince random strangers on the street to let me take their photos?
AND
Can I actually take amazing photos in just a few short minutes, with no fancy setup or big team?
Can I capture photos that feel like ME?
Photos that are awesome and remind the subject how beautiful and powerful they really are?
Can I do this all while there is a behind-the-scene (BTS) camera capturing the whole process, from introducing myself to them, to convincing them to take photos, to taking the photos and finally, to showing them the photos and hopefully blowing their minds.
Lastly, can I make the BTS and final photos into really cool and engaging Instagram REELs or maybe even TikTok videos?
I am sharing this idea publicly because I want accountability to push me over the edge, so that I actually bring this idea to life.
This is my friend Kelly Swartz. She is a self-intimacy and sex coach. The work she does is really powerful. Yes, it's important to feel confident when it comes to your sex life and sexuality, but that's honestly the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what Kelly is able to help her clients with.
At the core it's about freedom and self-expression. It's about safety and abundance. Her work helps humans live fuller lives.
I'm sure Kelly's website will do a better job describing what she does and who she can help. If you're interested check her out. (www.awokenbeauty.com)
The best part is I have a second shoot booked with her in August. The first one was a ton of fun and I can't wait to play again.
Big LOVE,
D
——
PS: I've currently got a really great photography promo. It's an insane 2 for 1 deal. If you are interested in making something beautiful together send me a message. I'd love to connect. (Limited spots available)
If I was able to purge my addiction to praise, what would remain?
As I asked myself this question this morning, a voice from inside interjected to say:
"But...we're not really addicted to praise… we could quit at any time. It's not like we NEED it every day."
Sound familiar?
It’s a trip looking back at old work. Sometimes I am so focus on "the mission" that I can totally forget about really amazing moments that got me to this point. Sometimes slowing down can actually be the most productive thing I can do.
When I look at these photos I smile. I feel energized. I feel inspired and I feel deeply grateful.
This was a very short, but very fun photoshoot I did with Kendrick. It was a test shoot for a TEDxToronto project I was working on. I think we only had 30 mins together, but somehow we got so many awesome photos.
Kendrick, I think it's time for round two. You ready? I sure am!!
Fear is needed. Fear is helpful. Fear can alert and awaken you to danger.Fear can even save your life. BUT if you let fear linger and stay around longer than it is needed,Fear will find a way to suffocate all the joy from your life. Have you ever thought about all of the amazing humans who will impact your life, that you have not YET met?
This idea brings me so much joy, because it reminds me that the best is yet to come.
It also reminds me that I have so many more friends to meet and play with.
Thank you @Frances Young for being such an absolute joy to co-create with.
We took so many stunning photos together. Not bad for the first time we ever met in real life.
I can't wait for our next play date.
Big love,
D
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PS: I've currently got a really great photography promo. 2 for 1 deal. If you are interested in making something beautiful together send me a message. I'd love to connect.
We were trained to ignore you.
We were programmed to treat you as invisible.
They told us it was for your own sake, out of respect to you. Can you believe that shit?!
"Don't stare, it's rude."
What they actually meant was, don't look too closely at them because you might discover how bloody our hands still are.
Two artists in the morning making art.
Not about outcome.
Not about praise.
Not about capitalism.
Whatever shows-up, shows-up.
I’m talking about misfit energy. Bless and release energy. Adventure energy.
3-hours end-to-end and a celebrator breakfast.
Whose in?
I am making space for something new.
It’s time.
I’m ready.
Best summer of my life is here and she wants to dance.
D
