I toured Toronto Image Works today with Jeannie Baxter, Managing Director. For those of you who don’t know about TIW, it was founded by Edward Burtynsky, an incredible aerial and environmental Canadian Photographer, in 1986. The facilities have an industrial, modern and rustic feel but more importantly the first impression of the staff was more than welcoming. Jeannie was so generous with her time with me and explained all the areas of the shop, starting with the drop off counter for film - YES, film! E6 is shipped elsewhere but they still process C-41 & B&W & RA-4. Various scanning options are available here too. They also offer incredible digital image printing options on a variety of fine art papers and a lower cost bulk printing. Also available is handcrafted framing in a variety of profiles - all custom to fit the needs of the client and the work.

After the tour, Jeannie and I sat down for a lengthy discussion about starting a service bureau in our program and what TIW would be looking for in an employee. She encouraged our efforts in starting the service bureau at Algonquin College and teaching about client liaison, trouble shooting the print and time management. Soft skills are the key when looking and keeping a job in this industry.

Thank you so much to Jeannie Baxter for sharing your valuable time with me.

Next was personal time - went to Sugar Beach Park and shot a bit and just chilled out and had some self-reflection time.

Balance is the goal.