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UPDATE
From the editor: There's been quite a lot of feedback on this story which has given both UrbanToronto and the Chief Planner's Office some pause for thought. Our story left out a couple of crucial details—most importantly that the City is still buying professional photography and that a budget remains in place for that—while the Chief Planner's Office has decided they should tweak their approach somewhat. The following comes directly from their office, while an edited version the original article runs below the asterisks.
Dear UrbanToronto readers, we have heard your comments below regarding the photo sharing initiative and we hope to respond to some of these concerns. The Chief Planner's Office is looking to generate excitement and interest in Toronto by having readers post photos on certain themes. This initiative was not intended to replace the purchasing of paid photography - the City Planning Division continues to value its long standing relationship with Toronto's stellar photographers! We are seeking to engage in conversation about planning, using a tool that most people have readily at their disposal, by sharing photos that encapsulate what we love (or don't love) about Toronto with others on UrbanToronto.
Photography is an excellent way to help share successful examples of city building, and we really appreciate the submissions received thus far. Rights to the images posted will remain with the photographer. In certain cases where we see a photo that we think is truly stellar, we will reach out to you directly to discuss how and if it should be used.
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We know you love this city. By contributing to the discussions on UrbanToronto, you help to foster a dialogue on urbanism and the ways in which our city is striving to better itself. Toronto's Chief Planner's Office is looking to showcase these accomplishments through photos comprising some of the best images posted to an UrbanToronto thread. Each month we will highlight a theme such as heritage preservation or the public realm and invite readers to contribute photos to the thread from across Toronto that demonstrate successful examples of these themes.
What could happen with the photos? If the Chief Planner's Office would like to use one in social media or in a public presentation, they will send you a message asking for your permission to use the image. Full credit will be provided, and/or compensation on an individual basis. Professional photographers' work will still be sought out as is already customary.
Our first theme is the work of Waterfront Toronto. These can be current photos or those from previous years. All that's required is that they show the space in its completed state.
We look forward to seeing your work!
