Welcome and Happy Holidays!!
Welcome to Toporowski Photography Inc.!
Hello, and thank you for visiting my photography website! I’m truly grateful that you’re taking the time to explore my services and the moments I capture through my lens. This blog is a space where I’ll share my philosophy, approach to photography, and unique stories about the meaningful people, events, and experiences that inspire my work.
Photography has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, but my true passion for it began at the age of 14. I still vividly recall the moment when my high school teacher, Mr. Birkland, introduced our grade 9 class to the art and craft of photography. His guidance, paired with the inspiration I drew from two incredible local photographers, Marg McConnell and Frank Sudol, ignited a creative spark in me. Mr. Sudol, in particular, was a globally respected creative in woodworking and his other passion, photography, came alive with slideshows for students and friends with his storytelling. Their influence shaped my early exploration of photography, and I’m forever grateful for the foundation they provided.
My very first "good" photo came during a “home project” during the fall of that first year. I still smile when I think about it—it was a picture of my brothers in a tree at my grandma’s, developed in the school darkroom. That single image set the tone for my love of capturing genuine, heartfelt moments. I also admired the beautiful professional family photos many friends and relatives had taken in natural settings and then displayed on their living room walls. Most had a bold and classic look that I continue to embrace influencing, my style today.
Growing up in small-town Saskatchewan was a blessing. My childhood was filled with love, encouragement, and a strong sense of community thanks to my parents and grandparents. Family gatherings were frequent and meaningful, with music, art, and storytelling playing central roles in our lives. The arts were always celebrated, from local craft shows to community dances and sing-alongs. These experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for life’s small joys and the importance of preserving memories. Whenever someone had a camera—whether still or movie—we made sure to document those moments. I did not know how precious they would become until my grandparents, relatives and father passed away. The physical photos and the images in our mind upstairs are all we have left yet looking at a beautiful photo can make those movies in our memory come alive.
Sports also played a significant role in my upbringing. Our town’s rhythm revolved around hockey, curling, baseball, golf, volleyball, and fishing as the seasons cycled through. Growing up with three brothers, hockey was a family staple with a backyard rink, and our dad played a pivotal role as our coach. We carried on this tradition, coaching our own children in the sport and fostering a legacy of athleticism and teamwork that continues with our grandchildren. These shared moments on and off the ice provided countless opportunities to capture the essence of community, competition, and family bonds through my camera lens.
After high school, I pursued a Business Degree at the University of Saskatchewan. This educational journey eventually led me to a rewarding career in the technology sector, culminating in a leadership role as Vice President at Konica Minolta. While building my career, I also built a family, raising two wonderful children and now thoroughly enjoy being a grandparent. Throughout these chapters, my camera was a constant companion. Photography wasn’t just a hobby; it was a way to preserve the beauty of life’s milestones.
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned over the years is the fleeting nature of moments. At the end of the day, all we’re left with are memories. The physical moments—those laughs, hugs, and celebrations—fade into the past, but a photograph can keep them alive. That’s the magic of photography for me: the ability to frame and freeze a story in time, allowing us to revisit it whenever we choose. Whether it’s a candid smile, a celebration, or a quiet reflection, I strive to capture the essence of the moment, creating images that resonate and endure.
Investing in my craft has been a journey of both passion and persistence. I’ve dedicated countless hours to learning and refining my skills and invested in the Sony Alpha professional camera system to ensure that every shot is of the highest quality. Encouragement from friends and family eventually gave me the push I needed to turn my hobby and side-hustle into a business. After retiring from the corporate world this past summer, I decided it was the perfect time to focus on what I truly love.
Through Toporowski Photography Inc., my goal is simple: to help you capture beautiful frames that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s a wedding, a family gathering, an action-packed sports event, or a quiet moment of reflection, I’m here to preserve those memories for you. My approach is grounded in authenticity and anticipation. I’ve spent years honing the ability to read the nuances of human behavior, enabling me to anticipate and frame moments that tell a deeper story. It’s an honor to be entrusted with documenting life’s milestones, and I take that responsibility to heart.
This blog will serve as a platform to share stories and insights from my work, reflecting on the "Meaning of the Moments" we’ve captured together. From the joy of a child’s many firsts or a bride and groom on their wedding day, to the thrill of a perfectly timed sports shot, every image has a story worth telling. I’ll also share personal reflections on my journey as a photographer and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. My hope is that these stories will inspire you to see the beauty in your own life and to preserve it through the art of photography.
Starting Toporowski Photography Inc. has been a labor of love, and I’m excited about the journey ahead. As I transition from a career in technology to this new adventure, I’m reminded of the importance of following one’s passion. Photography has always been a source of joy, connection, and creativity for me, and I’m thrilled to share that with you.
So, whether you’re here to learn more about my services, explore my portfolio, or simply connect over a shared love of photography, I welcome you. Let’s work together to capture the moments that matter most—moments that tell your story and create a legacy for generations to come.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my work. I look forward to the opportunity of meeting over a cup of coffee to discuss your objectives and expectations and how we can preserve your wonderful memories!
Warm regards,
Kelly Toporowski
Toporowski Photography Inc.
