Stepping into Apertures’ new location on 11th Street is nostalgia for the senses, from the familiar smell of photography chemicals to the midcentury design of its storefront located on historic Route 66. Since opening in 1990, this is the third move for the locally owned photography shop. 

“This is where we are supposed to be,” says Mary Beth Leach, part owner of Apertures. “It just feels right, as both (Apertures and Route 66) represent a vintage era.”

Apertures was founded by Leach’s aunt right before digital photography changed the industry forever. Leach started working at the store when she was a teenager. 

“We mainly developed film and printed pictures when we first opened,” Leach says. “While we are still one of the only local labs to still work with film, we have also embraced the times and technology advances of photography, which has allowed us to remain in business for over three decades.” 

Apertures’ offerings include a photography studio, a darkroom available for rent, large format archival printing, new and used camera accessories and equipment, and now one of its most popular offerings — classes open to the public. 

“We offer classes covering all things photography, from how to take digital photos and use Adobe Photoshop to darkroom film developing and lighting techniques.” 

The digital photography class is by far the most requested, according to Leach. 

“Digital cameras are not exactly intuitive, and this class allows people to ask questions and get hands-on instructions, which is the best way to improve your photography skills.” 

Classes are offered throughout the year, and the schedule can be found on the shop’s website. 

Photographers can drop off color and black and white film for the Apertures staff to develop. They average about 100 rolls per week, Leach says, with development typically happening Tuesdays and Thursdays. Digital scans of prints and film also are available.

Shop Favorites

Pre-owned lenses and cameras, $100-$600. 

Mug, $10.

Film, $7-$20.

The M+ curatorial team has “always been fascinated by the cinematic quality of Girard’s photography”, says assistant curator Savannah Shiu.

“Each of his photographs testifies of a particular interest in time. By capturing the decisive moment of a found situation or staged scene, he invites viewers to imagine what could have happened before and after.”

Shiu says that “bringing these scenes to life in a sequence, in combination with sound and film extracts”, aligned with the vision of both Girard and the museum’s curatorial team.

Girard, 69, now lives in Vancouver, the city of his birth, but maintains a strong bond with the city that “made” him an esteemed photographer.

“Hong Kong Made Me” also features a performance by experimental post-punk band Gong Gong Gong, which was formed in Beijing in 2015 by Hong Kong-born vocalist-bassist Tom Ng and Montreal-born guitarist Joshua Frank.

Drawing inspiration from African blues and techno to create eclectic sounds with Cantonese lyrics, the duo – who performed at Hong Kong’s Clockenflap music festival in December 2023 – have a loyal following among the city’s indie music fans.

“It was Girard’s suggestion [to pick the band],” Shiu says. “We liked the idea due to Gong Gong Gong’s own strong engagement with the city and experimental take on post-punk music that is evocative of Hong Kong cinema, as if they were telling a story with secret agents, action and car-chasing scenes.”

Shiu adds that the photographer and the band have been working in close collaboration on the project, and that it will be an exceptional sensory experience for those who enjoy old Hong Kong vibes and alternative music.

“Greg Girard: Hong Kong Made Me” May 11, 4pm. Grand Staircase, M+ Museum, 38 Museum Drive, West Kowloon Cultural District. Standard tickets HK$120, available on mplus.org.hk.

After a four-year hiatus, the Chinese Grand Prix returned to the Shanghai International Circuit on April 19. From the first race in 2004 until the 1,000th race in F1 history in 2019, this 上-shaped (the first Chinese character for 上海，Shanghai) circuit has witnessed the inseparable relationship between F1 events, fans and the Jiading District.

Qin Jian

Chen Di, a national first-class photographer and president of the Shanghai Art Photography Association’s Sports Photography Branch, has been involved in the planning, marketing and event photography for major global events, including the Chinese Grand Prix.

“China hosted the first Formula One race in 2004. At that time, many Chinese photographers had not yet experienced high-speed racing photography. So, most of the photographs of the first race were captured by foreign professional sports photographers,” Chen explained.

Formula One has strict qualifications for photographers. Chen got his chance in 2009 and became one of the photographers for the Chinese Grand Prix, stepping onto the race track and using his camera to record the lightning-fast moments.

However, the initial efforts dampened Chen’s spirits.

“I watched the cars coming toward me, confidently pressing the shutter, only to find out later that the photo showed an empty track; the cars had already passed,” Chen said. “I had to progressively figure things out. I would sometimes pay great attention to foreign photographers during shoots, noting how they adjusted their cameras, the lenses they used, their movements, and the elements around them. Once they left, I would quickly move to their position and try to do the same.”

Since 2004, the Shanghai International Circuit has hosted a growing number of car events, giving Chen many opportunities to practice photography. He spent those years shooting, gaining experience and familiarizing himself with composition, settings and tracks.

Over the years, he has shot over 100 racing events, walking every corner of the circuit hundreds of times. Capturing the photo “Bulls Out of the Shed” stands out as one of his most memorable experiences.

Chen Di

During the 2011 Chinese Grand Prix, Chen got an opportunity when the Red Bull Racing team’s car entered the pit stop. He dashed to the scene to take a photograph of the car leaving the pits. However, just as he hit the shutter, a team technician approached him and informed him that he was too close to the car. Despite the chaotic setting, he was able to get the shot that is now permanently archived at the China Art Palace.

“Twenty years have gone by, and while I know the shooting spots at the back of my hand, I still believe there’s potential for creativity,” Chen said.

Imagine dozing off under the shade of a tree after a taxing day out in the sun, only to wake up to the gentle nudge of a wild cheetah snuggling against you. This isn’t the start of a fable or a campfire story. It’s what happened to Dolph Volker, a wildlife photographer and animal enthusiast, during one of his volunteering stints at Cheetah Experience, a sanctuary for endangered species in South Africa.

Volunteering with a Purpose

Dolph’s journey with animals began much like anyone’s affection for their pets. After the loss of his beloved dog, Dolph found a renewed mission in life: advocating for animal rights and raising awareness about endangered species. His commitment led him to Cheetah Experience, where lions, leopards, servals, and of course, cheetahs find refuge from the threats they face in the wild.

A Nap to Remember

The memorable encounter took place on a particularly sunny day, when all Dolph wanted was a brief escape from the relentless sun. He found solace under a tree, not knowing that he would soon share his makeshift bed with a curious cheetah named Eden. As he slept, Eden approached him, likely intrigued by his presence, and decided to settle next to him for a nap. The slight nudges from Eden eventually woke Dolph, who was stunned but delighted by the trust and affection shown by this majestic creature.

Capturing the Moment

With his camera by his side, Dolph didn’t miss the opportunity to document this extraordinary event. The photos and videos he captured show Eden displaying an unexpected gentleness, nuzzling against him, playfully biting, and even licking him. These tender interactions have not only strengthened his bond with the cheetahs he works to protect but have also made him a beacon of hope for animal conservationists worldwide.

An Ambassador for Cheetahs

Often referred to as “the cheetah charmer,” Dolph uses his platform, including a YouTube channel, to share insights into the behavior of these fast, fascinating felines. His stories and visuals help educate people about the plight of cheetahs, which are among the most threatened felines in Africa due to poaching and habitat loss.

This experience beautifully illustrates the surprising ways in which wildlife can interact with humans when given respect and space. For Dolph, it was a poignant reminder of why he dedicates his life to these creatures: to ensure that future generations will not only know of them through photos and videos but will be able to experience their grace in the wild. Such moments of connection underscore the urgency and beauty of wildlife conservation.

Western Canada’s second-largest camera show is coming to Richmond next weekend, as the hobby of photography continues to gain popularity.

On May 4, hundreds of photographers and filmmakers will gather at South Arm United Church for the Richmond Camera Show.

Patrons will get to explore offerings including all formats of film gear, cameras and lenses and accessories, and connect with other enthusiasts. A consignment table and appraisals will also be available.

Retro resurgence

Film photography and Y2K digital cameras have continued to gain renewed interest over the past few years, with many on social media rediscovering the small, pocket-sized digital cameras first introduced more than three decades ago. 

One potential reason for this rise in popularity is accessibility, said Kevin Shen, founder of the Point & Shoot Club in Aberdeen Square.

“People think (the trend) probably started two or three years ago, but it actually (goes) way back when those cameras were selling for around $10.”

“$10 doesn’t hurt anything, right? So you spent $10 and figured out it’s pretty fun, and the trend (keeps) going.”

Digital point-and-shoot cameras also often come with built-in flashes, which is better value for money, said Shen.

He added film photography may also be appealing to those who are interested in photography but find the digital editing aspect daunting. 

Although the cost of shooting film and point and shoots has since gone up, Shen said they remain more affordable than the average DSLR and mirrorless camera.

Sometimes, people might not even have to purchase a camera, he added.

“You can always (find) in your garage or your mom’s, your grandma’s places… I guarantee you will have those old cameras just lying around waiting for you,” he said.

Sharing the knowledge

Spanning two storefronts, the Point & Shoot Club serves as a camera shop, a studio and a clubhouse for Shen and his fellow photography enthusiasts.

Shen, who began taking photos more than 10 years ago, told the Richmond News he first set out to be a photographer but when that didn’t work out, he realized he could sell cameras.

He decided to start the club to provide a space for his business as well as his friends who also enjoy photography.

“I don’t know anything else (outside of photography),” said Shen.

The Point & Shoot Club sells anything vintage and used, but it also recently expanded by adding a studio space for local photographers. It also offers a film development service.

“I’m sort of an entrepreneur. I force myself to be an entrepreneur,” said Shen, who said he started the business to fund his dreams.

Not only does the studio welcome beginners to borrow props for photoshoots, Shen and other members of the club are also happy to offer advice. For example, those who are interested in film development can either set up a workshop with Shen, or he could simply show them his secret tricks.

“There (aren’t) many hidden secrets,” he said.

The Richmond Camera Show will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at South Arm United Church at 11051 No. 3 Rd. Tickets are $5 and early bird admission from 9 to 10 a.m. is $10. For more information, click here.

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