ABOUT THIS EVENT
When: Saturday, June 21 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Where: Evil Empire Studios — 366 Victoria Ave N, Hamilton, ON (≈ 60 min from downtown Toronto by GO Train or car; parking available)
Cost: $10 cover charge — RSVP early; space is limited.
We’re thrilled to invite you to a Hamilton Creative Experience at Evil Empire Studios, brought to you by Canon Creator Lab and Socality. Join us on June 21st to connect with creators from the Greater Toronto Area and Hamilton in an inspiring private and immersive studio setting at the iconic Evil Empire Studios.
Event Highlights
- Immersive Studio Sets & Talent: Discover creatively styled studio environments featuring professional talent designed to inspire your photography and videography.
- Hands-on Canon Gear: Get hands-on experience with Canon’s latest mirrorless cameras and lenses. Reserve your equipment in advance through your ticket confirmation email or try your luck with limited on-site availability.
- Live Printing Experience: Turn your digital creations into tangible memories with complimentary large and small prints, including a special framed print to take home. Plus, enter our draw for a chance to win a professionally framed large print by Frame Lab.
- Community & Connection: Catch up with a wide range of the local creative community from across the greater Toronto area and beyond.
- [Optional] Intro to Photography Workshop: Boost your confidence behind the lens with this engaging, beginner-friendly workshop designed to teach you essential photography skills and inspire your creative journey. [Note: this takes place 1 hour before the main event – see more details below.]
Who Will Benefit from This Experience?
This event is crafted for creators across all disciplines and experience levels.
- For newcomers: Discover the art of photography in an inspiring, welcoming setting with tools and guidance to help you grow.
- For seasoned creatives: Elevate your craft by experimenting with professional-grade gear and styled sets while networking with other creators.
Why Attend?
- Capture breathtaking visuals in an inspiring space reserved exclusively for this event.
- Bring your images to life with hands-on printing experiences.
- Discover and trial the latest Canon technology.
- Expand your creative circle and connect with a vibrant community.
Light snacks and coffee will be served. Space is limited, so secure your spot today to be part of this one-of-a-kind experience.
Travel & Logistics
Downtown Toronto (GO Train): Take the Lakeshore West line to West Harbour GO Station — about 60 min. The studio is an easy 10‑minute walk from the station.
Downtown Toronto (Car): Drive via the QEW / Hwy 403 — roughly 55-65 min, depending on traffic. Free street parking is available near the venue.
Mississauga / Oakville (GO Train): Hop on the Lakeshore West line heading west — 30–45 min travel time.
Need a custom route? Drop the studio address into your preferred maps app: 366 Victoria Ave N, Hamilton, ON L8L 5G6.
Free Add-On: 1-Hour Intro to Photography Workshop [Optional]
Interested in learning the basics of photography in a supportive, hands-on environment? This beginner-friendly session is designed for those who want to explore the essentials and gain confidence behind the lens. If you’re new to cameras or primarily shoot with a smartphone, this workshop is for you.
In this 1-hour session, you’ll learn key photography concepts like aperture, ISO, and shutter speed, along with simple composition techniques. Led by an experienced instructor, you’ll get the opportunity to practice with a Canon entry-level camera and walk away with foundational skills to kickstart your photography journey.
Please note: This workshop is tailored specifically for beginners. If you’re already experienced with camera basics, we encourage you to explore other event activities, like advanced gear trials and styled sets.
The workshop takes place during the first hour of the event, and space is limited to 30 attendees.
How to Register
Select the “Intro to Photography Workshop” ticket option during check-out to sign up for both the intro workshop & main event.
About Evil Empire Studios:
Formerly a Hydro Substation building built back in 1895, power was run from Niagara Falls to this building, where it was then diverted to the first electric street lights in North America. The building features a small tunnel system and a large underground cellar that will be open during the event.
Who’s the event for?
Whether your interest lies in photography, video, social media, design, or another creative discipline, these events are inclusive and open to everyone, regardless if you’re just starting out on your creative journey or have been in the industry for years.
This event will be great for anyone looking to:
- Expand their creative network and meet others in the creative industry and community in Hamilton and the GTA and beyond.
- Capture images / video in and around the botanical garden in a fun and social atmosphere.
- Learn from other creatives and Canon Ambassadors on site.
- Try out a variety of Canon gear, including mirrorless bodies and lenses.