VENI ETIAM PHOTOGRAPHY
  • Home
  • SHOP
  • SEASONAL DECOR
  • Blog
  • About me
  • About my shots
  • Français
    • Mes inspirations
    • Mon approche
    • Contact

Photowalk in Montreal: Chasing the colors of spring

29/5/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
I have always loved taking long exploratory walks around urban neighborhoods, no matter whether I have traveled to a faraway place or I am happily acting like a tourist in my own city. I don't necessarily always plan to collect photos, but they seem to be inevitable. The simple act of moving, observing and being in the moment fuels my creativity.

Knowing this, I have gotten into the habit of scheduling a seasonal "staycation" -- a mini vacation (sometimes just a day or two, sometimes a whole week) in my own city of Montreal, where I devote time to exploring different areas and appreciating how they change with the seasons. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
In the mood to stretch my legs and to spend a little time outdoors with my camera, I signed up for one of the Photowalk Montreal group itineraries, organized by graphic artist and photographer Elodie Le Pape.

Every month or so, a new itinerary is proposed to explore a different facet of Montreal. Essentially, you meet up with a group of people on a Saturday and take a leisurely 2-hour walk together, snapping photos of whatever inspires you.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
When I met up with about 24 strangers at metro Mont-Royal for that day's "Colors of the Plateau and Village" itinerary, I felt a bit outside my comfort zone. For me, photography is usually a solitary act. It is how I unwind, how I practice mindfulness, how I pay attention to my posture, and how I reflect on my way of seeing and feeling things in this world. When I travel, I usually carve out time to walk around with my camera on my own. If I'm in a group, I make mental notes of where to return to when I have more time to observe and experiment. Being such a solo photographer, I had no idea how it would feel for me to be part of a large group of photography-lovers. Would I keep the pace and find inspiration without feeling pressured? Would there be a lot of discussion and comparison? Would be end up with extremely similar photos?

What I quickly noticed when we set out on our photowalk was that the atmosphere was pleasantly informal and relaxed, such that you could make the experience whatever you wanted it to be. For this group, it doesn't matter if you're a beginner or an expert, if you have a cell phone or fancy gear, or if you simply feel like going for a stroll (thus totally ditching the "photo" part of a "photowalk"). You can take your time (as long as you don't lose the group), and be as talkative or as quietly focused as you wish. ​If city photography is not your thing, you are totally free to take portrait photos with a buddy, while scouting out interesting backdrops for future photoshoots. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
I admit that it was still an odd sight to watch 25 people silently fill a narrow street and spread out into different directions like ants infiltrating a space! Some photographers were much more assertive than I was, climbing residents' staircases for better views, getting really up close and personal with their subjects. 

I stayed true to my usual style -- looking for unique compositions and details that highlight colors, textures and that celebrate the ordinary. I appreciated that there was room for every type of photographer, and that the photos would reflect our individual styles, in the end.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
The highlight of the photowalk was to discover a couple of charming streets that I had not yet explored. I was so glad to have done something outside of my creative comfort zone. It was a refreshing exercise to try something new but to still find my unique perspective and style within that new experience. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Since the photowalk, I have enjoyed a few leisurely walks on the Plateau, Little Italy and around the Parc Olympique, taking in the miracles of spring. It always astonishes me how a little bit of time outside, away from my screen and phone, can refresh my mind and spirit. (Though, between you and me, it can be a little overwhelming to come home to hundreds of new images to sort and process!) 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
I am often asked for advice for beginner photographers, and I almost always say this: take long walks and practice. Whether you join an organized photowalk for a structured itinerary, or you just weave in and out of streets on a whim, you are sure to find inspiration if you are open to it. Once something makes you slow your step, capture it in different ways -- different angles and compositions will tell a different story, and different camera settings will teach you about light. Finally, always look with your eyes first. Especially when the goal of the walk is to take pictures, it's easy to become a hurried collector and snap, snap, snap. Slow down, relax your shoulders, look at the scene and pay attention to how it makes you feel. What draws your eye naturally? Try to recreate that with your lens.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
But, most of all: have fun. No matter how your photos turn out, at least you've taken a nice walk through town!
Tell me: Have you ever been on a photowalk? How was your experience?
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments

Life at Number 63: A conversation with interior designer Kat Mannell

9/5/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Imagine creating a home for yourself and your family that feels cozy, stylish and representative of your tastes, without breaking the bank.

Imagine feeling that interior design does not have to be a daunting task, and that a beautiful space can be achieved with a few creative ideas, helpful tips and tricks, and original finds from independent businesses. 

That is precisely what Kat Mannell offers us with her inspiring interior design blog and Instagram account "Life at Number 63". 
Picture
Based in the UK, Kat left her job as an interior design assistant for the affluent and decided to show home enthusiasts that it is unnecessary to spend endless amounts on designer labels and bespoke items to create a perfect home. She is also a passionate advocate for small businesses and handmade items. 

​Kat thoughtfully renovated her Victorian home to create a stylish Scandinavian-inspired interior on a budget. Only 18 months after the start of her journey, her audience has grown to almost 60 thousand followers, with whom she shares her unique finds, favorite brands, inspiring color schemes, interior trends and design tricks. ​
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
What is special about "Life at Number 63" on Instagram is that Kat takes us through her space at least twice a day, showing us different angles and different ways of styling the rooms. In fact, Kat proves that a decor need not be set in stone! Kat embraces change at home, switching the color scheme and decor frequently. 

"I live in the moment, and if I feel like a room or part of a room isn't making me happy anymore, then I change it. I like to shop my home as well as buying new things, as even moving around furniture or accessories can make an area feel fresh."
Picture
Picture
Picture
Her two little girls Ruby and Molly also embrace a changing decor like their Mum.

"They are used to it! I think that, since we have lived in the same house all their lives, they are very settled children, and so a few colour changes or new items don't daunt them at all."
Picture
Picture
Picture
Kat describes her home style as "scandi, hygge and botanical".

​
She loves clean lines, soft pinks and Scandinavian-inspired furniture and accessories.

There isn't a spot of the house that is hidden from our view - we can admire every corner, and sometimes Kat takes us on a tour of the layout in her Instagram Stories.

"It's not a large house, but I try to be creative with my shots, and actually photograph every angle and corner possible!"
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
My print "Alberobello" in Kat's cozy space
Her personal favorite spot at home is simply her side of the bed. "I layer it up with blankets, turn my air diffuser and string lights on and curl up with a book and a cup of tea. Bliss!"
Picture
Other than showcasing her own space and guiding others in their home decor projects with her helpful blog articles, Kat also hosts an Instagram challenge she created under the hashtag "#spotthenewtrend", with prizes to be won. "I base the theme on current and future trends, and people use the hashtag on their posts containing that theme, and I share their posts on my stories. There are now over 18000 posts to the hashtag, which I'm thrilled with!"

Kat shares her surprise about the online community she has discovered. "There are so many people whose home is a huge part of their lives, and who want to make a cozy, inviting space to share with friends and family".
Picture
Aside from her work as an interior blogger and influencer, Kat is also the owner of the online shop Art House Illustration, where she sells her custom house portraits as prints.

When we talked about how she juggles her numerous projects, passions, collaborations and parenting, Kat confessed that keeping up with it all can sometimes be a challenge. "I have to be organized (which isn't my strong suit if I'm honest). I make a list of things to do at the start of the week, even down to small details and then work my way through them. If it all stays in my head, then sometimes I can feel a little stressed. List making is definitely key!" 
Picture
Although Kat is grateful for the huge community support she surprisingly experienced, she attributes her success to her persistence in following her dream. "Just believe in yourself and go for it," she advises fellow bloggers and entrepreneurs. "I really wanted Instagram and my blog to succeed, and I have put in many hours and late nights, which has often been exhausting, but it's always worth it in the end." 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Follow Kat over on "Life at Number 63" on her blog and Instagram to discover her home and her affordable tips and tricks to creating a unique home you adore!

​
​Blog posts you may also enjoy:
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments

Etsy Montreal Printemps 2019 - Etsy Montreal Spring Show 2019

6/5/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Etsy Montreal Marché de Printemps Technopole Angus / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
The Spring Show organized by the Collectif Créatif Etsy Montréal is one of the highlights of my year.
​
Hosted in the historic Locoshop Angus, the show gathers a curated selection of 100+ high-quality local brands (artists, designers, makers) in various categories, ranging from jewelry, to paper goods, home decor, gourmet food, baby stuff, skin care, fashion accessories and more!
It's impossible not to fall in love with something. Try, I dare you!

If you missed this epic spring show, do not fret. The Collectif Créatif Etsy Montréal will be hosting at least 4 more shows in 2019, with different vendors each and every time. In fact, the team truly prides itself of offering a different mix of brands to shoppers each time. If you don't want to miss any, your best bet is to follow the page on Facebook for updates!

I really enjoyed snapping these photos of the event, although it was challenging to navigate the huge crowds at times! Do you recognize any of your favorite brands?
Picture
Etsy Montreal Marché de Printemps Technopole Angus / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Pink Clementine / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Abricotine / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Collage / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Collectif Créatif Etsy Montreal / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Uekibachi / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Alice Bertin Ceramiste / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Amango Cacao / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Sofs Designs / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
L'Atelier Cheval de Bois Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Bar à plantes Mtl / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Abricotine / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
La Pincée / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Meemoza / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Isa Kapsaskis / Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Etsy Montreal Printemps / 2019 / Credit Veni Etiam Photography
Picture
Veni Etiam Photography / 2019 / Collectif Créatif Etsy Montréal
Picture
Have you ever been? Is that where you and I met? Leave a comment and let me know!
​
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments

Doors and windows of the world

6/5/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Whenever I exhibit at shows and markets, you tell me that you have a thing with doors and windows too. They attract your eye, make you pause to take photos, make you want to display them in your home.

Doors and windows are portals into a world we can only imagine. Curious in nature, we wonder what lies beyond them, hidden on the other side. I especially love it when they are half open, inviting and mysterious.

This week's series is devoted to the mysterious allure of windows and doors of the world.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Which is your favorite?

Share your photos and thoughts with me over on Instagram. I'd love to connect with you!

From my heart to yours.
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments

Made Me Look: Bicicletta

6/5/2019

0 Comments

 
My Mom loves this print.

She was with me in northern Italy when I took this photograph. She initially hadn't realized I had stopped in my tracks during our late morning stroll. What had caught my eye? The parked bicycle, of course, but also the texture of the wall and the gentle morning light. It was almost lunchtime, said the echoing church bells. It was such a beautiful spring day, full of love and promise. and fresh Italian lakeside air. 


Maybe your Mom also loves bicycles, simple scenes, life in Italy. Or maybe YOU do. Who knows. "Bicicletta" is in my shop for whoever might be inspired by her.

Try it on paper or canvas to showcase the texture of the scene.
Picture
Picture
From my heart to yours.
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments

Tango: Made me Look

6/5/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
Every season, I like to take a stroll in my hometown of Montreal to see what inspires me and my lens. It's a way to unwind, to look at my everyday surroundings with a different perspective, and it simply feels good to get up and move with no set itinerary or destination.

Strolling through the Plateau streets last summer, I was enchanted by this detail.

If I were to zoom out, I would have photographed two neighboring houses. But it's this zoomed in composition that felt most compelling to me, especially in a square ration that enhanced its symmetry and contrast. 

​I named this one "Tango", because of how two contrasting halves can still mingle and complement one another, dancing harmoniously as a pair. I love the vibrant colors of the brick, the way the phone line traces a boundary between the adjacent' homes, but how the twisting vine doesn't seem to care about any boundaries whatsoever.
.
"Tango" has always been special to me, not only because of its composition and color, but because it sort of represents the many areas of life where it's not about choosing to be one or the other, it's not all or nothing, it's beautifully, wildly, paradoxically both.

Tell me: Has anything in your neighborhood made you stop in your tracks? Do your everyday surroundings inspire you too?
Picture
Have a mindful Monday, friends! 
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments

    Kristina Kasparian

    Thanks for stopping by! #OnTheBlog are the stories behind my prints, posts about my travels, glimpses into my daily life, news about my shop, events in the Montreal community and tips on travel, home and photography. 

    Merci de visiter mon blogue! Vous y trouverez les histoires qui ont donné naissance à mes photographies, mes chroniques de voyage, un aperçu de ma vie quotidienne, des nouvelles sur ma boutique et mes conseils sur les voyages, sur la déco maison et sur la photographie. 

    Follow

    Categories

    All
    5 Photos
    Artisan Fairs
    Beginning
    Birthday Blog Series
    Boutiques
    Cards For A Cause
    Community
    Contests
    En Français
    En Français
    Feature Friday
    Fundraising
    Home Decor Tips
    Inspiration
    In The Community
    In The Maker Studio Series
    Last Weekend Series
    Made Me Look Series
    Mindfulness Monday
    Musings Series
    My Brand Story
    New In Shop Series
    News
    Nostalgia
    Photo Tips
    Press
    Products
    Promotions
    Rediscoveries
    Shopping
    Social Media
    This Is Me
    Tips
    Travel
    Travel Reviews
    Travel Tips
    What's In A Name Series
    Your Favorites Series

    Previous posts

    April 2024
    April 2023
    March 2023
    November 2022
    November 2021
    September 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    May 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    September 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015

    Picture
    Follow on Instagram!

    Upcoming events

    Marché de printemps Collectif Créatif Montréal
    April 26-27 avril
    May 3-4 mai

    Shop on Etsy!

    Special offers

    Don't miss out on any special offers.
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture

    RSS Feed

© 2025 | All Rights Reserved | Tous droits réservés
Kristina Kasparian, Veni Etiam Photographie
Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Disclaimer
Newsletter | Infolettre
About | Reviews | FAQ | Contact & Wholesale | Etsy | Instagram
Découvrez ma boutique | Suivez mes aventures en français sur Facebook