The World of Long Exposure Photography with Toronto Photographer Paul Flynn
Long Exposure Nights in Toronto
Hi, I’m Paul Flynn. I’m a photographer and video editor who spends a lot of time shaping stories in the edit suite, but every so often I trade timelines for skylines and head out into the city after dark. Long exposure photography has become one of my favourite ways to reinterpret Toronto. The chaos softens, the traffic turns to ribbons of light, and the ordinary hum of the city transforms into something cinematic.
Upcoming Workshop
Gear
When I head out for a long exposure shoot, my kit is simple but deliberate:
- Full frame mirrorless camera. I shoot on a Nikon Z7.
- A couple of lenses, a 12mm fisheye and a 24-70 f2.8 or 24-120mm f4 lens.
- A sturdy tripod.
- Remote shutter release or intervalometer.
- Neutral density filters for daytime, dusk or blue hour work.
The tripod is non-negotiable. Stability is everything when your shutter is open for 5, 10, or even 20 seconds. I prefer a small, but solid tripod for transportation.
My gear on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4jaijy7
Special Techniques
One technique I lean on is incorporating a strong foreground element. Whether it’s a city bike ring, Canada Post box, planter, snow, or the curve of a streetcar track, a good foreground anchors the frame. It adds depth and creates a visual pathway into the scene. Without it, a long exposure can feel flat, no matter how dramatic the sky or skyline.
I also enjoy going really low with the tripod. Dropping the camera just inches off the ground changes everything. Puddles become mirrors. Pavement reflections stretch toward the skyline. Light trails feel more immersive, almost as if they are flowing past the viewer rather than simply across the frame.
Timing is also key. I aim for blue hour, when the sky still holds colour but the city lights are fully awake. That balance gives the image dimension and keeps the highlights from overpowering the scene.
Neutral Density (ND) filters allow for long exposures during daylight and can create dramatic effects.
Summary
Long exposure photography in Toronto is about patience and perspective. It’s slowing the city down long enough to see its structure and rhythm. For me, it’s also a creative reset. After years of cutting documentaries, standing still behind a camera while the world moves feels grounding. The result is a version of the city that feels both familiar and dreamlike, built one long breath of light at a time.
Resources and Links
Some posts from Paul. Check them out for many tips and descriptions of his amazing workshops.
Join a Workshop
Be sure to check out Tdot.cc for information about Paul’s workshops! We offer them regularly in spring and fall.
More photos
Be sure to follow Paul on Instagram. Here are a few of our favorite shots from Paul’s IG.
Upcoming Events for Creatives and Photographers
A unique and special photo evening with Paul Flynn and Mike Simpson from Tdot Shots – Tickets are $15
Long Exposure Photography Workshop with Paul Flynn and Tdot Shots on May 2, 2026
Visit our event site for more information and to buy your ticket!
