Meet Vitalii Mazur | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vitalii Mazur and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vitalii, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born and raised in Ukraine, but now I live in Toronto, Canada. My journey into photography began in the early 2000s when I started taking pictures using my parents’ film Olympus camera. Back then, photography was more about having fun with friends, taking playful shots, and not taking it too seriously. I was quite young and had no real knowledge of photography.

Things started to change when I got my first mobile phone with a built-in camera at the age of 16. This marked the beginning of a more serious exploration of photography. I became genuinely interested in the art of capturing moments, delving into the study and practice of photography. It was an activity that resonated with me on a deep level.

As I gained more experience and honed my skills, I developed a desire to upgrade to a more advanced camera. Although I was initially drawn to Leica, its cost was beyond my means at the time. I embarked on a quest for alternatives and eventually found my ideal choice – a Lumix camera with a Leica lens. It was a compact camera that consistently delivered outstanding results. Interestingly, I continue to use this very camera to this day.

My path towards becoming a photographer took a more serious turn in 2022 when Russia’s invasion of Ukraine brought devastation, sorrow, and uncertainty. Photography became my solace during those trying times. It was then that I realized being a unique photographer goes beyond having the right equipment and technical know-how. A truly distinctive photographer immerses themselves in the world, connecting with the surroundings and the people within it. Photography is not just about technical specifications; it’s about capturing what a photographer feels in a fleeting moment.

Today, I’m still on a journey of exploration, delving into the beauty of our world and sharing those experiences through my photographs.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I was born and raised in Ukraine, but now I live in Toronto, Canada. My journey into photography began in the early 2000s when I started taking pictures using my parents’ film Olympus camera. Back then, photography was more about having fun with friends, taking playful shots, and not taking it too seriously. I was quite young and had no real knowledge of photography.

Things started to change when I got my first mobile phone with a built-in camera at the age of 16. This marked the beginning of a more serious exploration of photography. I became genuinely interested in the art of capturing moments, delving into the study and practice of photography. It was an activity that resonated with me on a deep level.

As I gained more experience and honed my skills, I developed a desire to upgrade to a more advanced camera. Although I was initially drawn to Leica, its cost was beyond my means at the time. I embarked on a quest for alternatives and eventually found my ideal choice – a Lumix camera with a Leica lens. It was a compact camera that consistently delivered outstanding results. Interestingly, I continue to use this very camera to this day.

My path towards becoming a photographer took a more serious turn in 2022 when Russia’s invasion of Ukraine brought devastation, sorrow, and uncertainty. Photography became my solace during those trying times. It was then that I realized being a unique photographer goes beyond having the right equipment and technical know-how. A truly distinctive photographer immerses themselves in the world, connecting with the surroundings and the people within it. Photography is not just about technical specifications; it’s about capturing what a photographer feels in a fleeting moment.

Today, I’m still on a journey of exploration, delving into the beauty of our world and sharing those experiences through my photographs.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In the heart of Toronto, there exists a vibrant neighborhood known as Ossington, where creativity thrives and the culinary arts flourish. This charming district has become a haven for those with a passion for both gastronomy and the arts.

Ossington’s streets are lined with an eclectic mix of restaurants, each offering a unique culinary journey. From cozy cafés serving aromatic coffees to bistros dishing out delectable international flavors, the options are as diverse as the people who call this neighborhood home. Locals and visitors alike can savor dishes from around the world, making Ossington a food lover’s paradise.

But Ossington isn’t just a destination for foodies; it’s also a hub for artistic souls. The district boasts a lively arts scene, with galleries showcasing the works of talented local artists. The walls are adorned with colorful murals, and the sidewalks come alive with the rhythm of street musicians and performers.

Amidst the eateries and art spaces, you’ll find a sense of community that’s truly unique to Ossington. Residents and visitors come together to celebrate the arts, share their love for good food, and create a welcoming atmosphere that’s both inspiring and comforting.

As the sun sets on Ossington, the neighborhood transforms into a captivating blend of flavors, colors, and melodies. It’s a place where artists find inspiration in every corner, and where every meal is a journey of the senses. Ossington is a testament to the power of creativity and community, a place where the arts and culinary delights merge to create a vibrant tapestry of culture and expression.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Diana Ugnivenko -Designer Instagram – @diana.ugnivenko
diana.ugnivenko@gmail.com

Website: https://vitaliimazur.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalymazur/

Image Credits
Vitalii Mazur