Elora: Behind the Brochure

Elora is truly an adorable town. Best known for the Elora Gorge and Elora Quarry (80 foot limestone cliffs), Elora also run a number of cultural festivals throughout the seasons.

However, I am not here to sell you the beauty and charm of Elora, which is what touristic websites are for (like this one). What peaks my curiosity are the hidden gems that can be found beyond those outlined in any website or brochure.

To take these, I had to wake up before sunrise (well worth it). One hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset are called the ‘ Magic Hours ’. Between these times, the soft indirect light of the sun produces the most amazing photographic effect. The light changes by the minute during the Magic Hour – so it makes to an interesting shoot!

Finding hearts or nice words on old walls are one of my favorite things to photograph. Like this one .

Love is hidden everywhere.

Calm of the morning

This is the Elora Mill, which will soon be fully renovated and ready for hosting weddings and events of all sorts! It is owned by the same company as the Ancaster Mill, Cambridge Mill and Spencer at the Waterfront.

Which came first…

This EXIT sign wall seemed so eerie and out of place, I wonder what this used to be…

THIS is what I mean by ‘Magic Hour’, the lighting is just so fun. The Elora Bridge just glitters right before the busy day begins.

If you drove through Elora, you might never know that this old building exists. When taking pictures, sometimes it is important to look beyond where everyone else is pointing their flash.

FAST FORWARD TWO WEEKS… In the Guelph Mercury, I found an article about this exact location! It turns out this was the site of the ‘Little Folks‘ toy factory. This photo now makes a lot more sense:

-Alexandra