This weekend, July 26 and 27, we’re mega excited to have a chance to sit for famed photographer Justin Tyler Close! He has worked with the likes of Lenny Kravitz, Marina Abramovic (we’re so, so jealous), Emily Haines, and Jaime King. When he’s not looking at beautiful people through his viewfinder, Justin is running ultra cool and edgy international publication THE LAB MAGAZINE, which he also co-founded.

This weekend signals the first incarnation of Justin’s newest artistic venture, Strangers on the Street, an authentic series of portraits unique to Toronto. Bringing together art and philanthropy, Justin has teamed up with Sketch in hopes of creating awareness and opportunities for Toronto youth through his event.

All are welcome to “come off the street” and into the beautiful Drake Hotel (1150 Queen St. W.) to pose for him, free of charge, for an intimate 10 minute portrait session. There will be no make-up touchups, stylists, or props—just a raw, honest portrait of each subject.

In addition to his gritty aesthetic and stunning compositions, what sets Justin’s work apart is his rebellion against the digital world. He shoots on 35mm film and Polaroid exclusively. He finds it most freeing as it allows him to get lost in his subject, the vibe, and the conversation without being tempted to look through the 1,000 pics that’s he’s just snapped on a “cyborg, fancy little shit from space,” more conventionally known as a digital camera.  

The element of surprise is a welcomed part of Justin’s process, as are “happy accidents” that stem from shooting on celluloid like light leaks and blurriness. Not knowing what you have until you step foot in the dark room is all part of the magic, and we can’t wait to be part of it!

Here are the deets:
Where: The Drake Hotel
When: July 26th and 27th
Time: 3pm – 7pm