Tom Armstrong

Hey I’m Tom! I’m a wedding photographer in Vancouver, BC and Toronto, ON but I shoot anywhere and everywhere! I’m a nomad at heart, always looking for the next adventure. I like to keep life simple and relaxed, which plays into how I work with my clients. I had always wanted to become a travel and landscape photographer and said I would never shoot a wedding, but eventually everything seemed to fall into place. It’s funny how life works.

I shoot with a one camera setup, a Canon 5D Mark III, to keep things simple (and save my back). It’s been my workhorse for 5 years and I’ve definitely taken it close to the end of its life so I’ll need to think about replacing it soon. It’s been reliable and fast, allowing me to think more about capturing the moments. It really is an extension of my arm and I’ll be sad to lose that connection when the time comes to say goodbye. I’ve also rigged it with Magic Lantern for a few extra benefits like the zebra and histogram. Most of the other options I don’t tend to use for work, only play.

I also have my grandfather’s old film camera, a Nikon Photomic FTN. I’m starting to use it more for personal work and I plan to take it out more at weddings. It’s a different experience that I’m excited to pursue.

Fuji Discovery s1050 Zoom – I found a small Fuji film point and shoot at a thrift store that I’m still in the process of experimenting with but I mainly use it for any day-to-day adventures with friends or occasionally take it out on the dance floor at weddings.

Canon 35mm f/1.4 – The love of my life. I use it for practically everything – my go-to. If I could only have one lens, this would be my choice.

Canon 50mm f/1.2 – Slowly becoming my new go-to. It gives a little more depth and intimacy to moments.

Canon 85mm f/1.8 – Originally paired with the 35 at every wedding, now I rarely touch it unless I need to get in closer.

Canon 200mm f/2.8 – Haven’t used this much but it’s been great for guest reactions in the past. I keep it for the possible scenario where I’ll be super far from the couple on a mountain or something.

Canon Speedlite 430EX II – I try not to use it until I absolutely need to but it’s mainly for the dance floor for the dragged shutter vibes.

Zoom H1 – I’ve started recording the ceremony and speeches to use excerpts in my client’s slideshows, adding a little extra flavour.

Vinta Type II – Holds everything I need for a wedding day, plus room for snacks. It also holds extra batteries, cards, chargers etc. as well. Great for carrying everything around with me at a wedding.

Peak Design Slide Strap – Great feel and comfortability for a one camera setup. I keep hoping that they will make a harness; I’d buy that immediately.

Having a fairly minimal setup helps me perform at the top of my game. I also wanted to add in that your personality and attitude are also some of the most important pieces of “gear” you have. Whatever mood you bring with you can steer the vibe of the session, and utilizing your personality adds something extra sweet. But I’ll talk more about that later on.

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