From the island city of Florianopolis, the maratona fotografia was born; the concept was simple: loaded with fresh film into their cameras and turn up their radios, waiting for secret themes. They then race through the streets, seeking out an image that captures the essence of each theme or concept. This race for photographers is drawn out over two days— a photo marathon — when it was conceived 11 years ago, www.torontophotomarathon.com
In Toronto, two Brazilians, Everton Souza and Lalo Porto, brought the idea to life since 2004; I had the opportunity to sit down with Lalo –
How do people respond to your concept?
Very positive, people are very excited to participate – we have people from amateur to professional photographers
How do you choose your subject themes?
Usually, a couple of nights before the Marathon, I sit down and have a Skype conversation for a few hours with the co-founder Everton Souza, and we share ideas that we have; then, by talking about them, we begin to eliminate them until we have twelve main themes. After this, we go through and try to figure out the order, according to the best time of day ideas that are inspired by each theme... We have a list of themes that were already done before and try not to repeat them... I guess it will become harder and harder as the year goes by... lol
Are you going to include subject themes that are social or political-related?
We try to include some different ideas for a couple of themes related to world issues in general, social and/or political. However, in the past, I have gotten some negative feedback about having political themes. It is really hard to have a political theme that is not biased toward a political stance.
What are the challenges that you have encountered to make it happen?
Nowadays, the challenge that is most evident for me is finding people that still own "analog cameras".
What's the prospect for the future? expansion?
In the future, I would like to offer the marathon for free or with a minimal registration fee And have a bunch of loaner cameras for those who do not own one. These would happen with sponsors and grant money. I also see that one day, the Toronto Photography Marathon will have a venue space/art gallery of its own to promote a diverse range of art-related events, including Alumni work, etc.
Are you thinking of going Digital?
YES, but only when I can get a hold of a bunch of SDHD cards that are locked to only taking 12 shots and only erase with password protection. Until then, I'm hesitant to go digital as it will take away from the challenges proposed by this event - conscious photography!
The event start on Aug. 7th and ends on Aug. 8th, registration is still accepted.
For more info, visit: http://www.torontophotomarathon.com/about.php
