Surrey Canada Day 2022
Canada Day, a celebration of national pride and unity, came alive in a spectacular event that I had the privilege to attend and photograph. The Surrey Canada Day celebration captivated attendees with an extraordinary lineup of local and national musicians and artists, a delectable array of food, and an assortment of games and activities suitable for the entire family. Among the standout performers were the immensely talented Shawnee Kish and the electrifying rock band, The Arkells. Here's an account of my experience capturing the essence of this remarkable celebration.
The day started off with an unexpected hurdle—traffic. Despite missing the opportunity to photograph Haviah Mighty, I was determined to make the most of the day. As I finally entered the event grounds, the soulful and powerful voice of Shawnee Kish immediately drew me in. Her performance resonated with the crowd, exuding an energy that reverberated through every note. Shawnee's dynamic presence and captivating stage presence left an indelible impression on everyone who had the fortune of witnessing her performance.
Eager to explore new sounds, I found myself in front of the stage as The Arkells took the spotlight. Admittedly unfamiliar with their music beforehand, I was blown away by their performance. The band's infectious energy, anthemic melodies, and undeniable charisma had the crowd on their feet, fully immersed in the sonic journey. I was instantly hooked. The Arkells delivered an unforgettable show, leaving me eager to explore their discography and enjoy their music during my work time.
As an amateur concert photographer, this event marked my first endeavor in capturing the magic of live performances. Though I wished I could have been closer to the stage, I managed to capture some memorable shots of both Shawnee Kish and The Arkells. Reflecting on my journey throughout the day, I noticed subtle improvements in my technique and composition with each post I shared on Instagram. The experience fueled my determination to refine my skills and secure a photo pit pass for future events, enabling me to capture even more striking images.
Beyond the musical performances, the Surrey Canada Day celebration catered to every member of the family. The festive atmosphere enveloped the venue, with delectable food stalls offering a diverse range of culinary delights, games and activities engaging children and adults alike, and a sense of unity and camaraderie that only Canada Day can inspire. The event truly embodied the spirit of inclusion, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate their shared heritage.
Attending the Surrey Canada Day celebration was an unforgettable experience, leaving me with cherished memories and a newfound passion for concert photography. Shawnee Kish and The Arkells delivered outstanding performances, demonstrating the wealth of talent present within Canada's music scene. The event's diverse offerings, from delicious food to engaging activities, showcased the community's commitment to creating an inclusive and joyous celebration. As I reflect on the day, I can't help but anticipate future opportunities to capture the magic of live performances and immerse myself in the vibrant spirit of Canada's cultural celebrations.
