Tillsonburg Photographer Captures How Businesses are Adapting to COVID-19

Wednesday, 2 December 2020 at 16:36

photo courtesy https://salamonphotoworks.com/

A local photographer is hoping to contribute to the pandemic solution by publishing photos and business owners personal stories of how they’ve been pivoting their businesses during COVID.

TILLSONBURG - A local photographer in Tillsonburg is looking to use his craft to shine a positive light during the pandemic.

Earlier this year, Russ Salamon photographed front line workers at the TDMH.

Salamon says now he has turned his focus to small to medium size enterprises in town, to share their stories about how they have had to pivot during the pandemic.

"One thing that really stands out is the fact that all of the businesses in town, whether they are just starting out or been around for 20 years, is they are all taking this situation very seriously. In terms of wearing masks, hand sanitizers and social distancing, that seems to be the priority with everyone and nobody is slacking off. The community really needs to know that these businesses want us to come back but they need to know they are safe when they go there and browse and purchase from them."

Salamon says the interest this project has prompted has resulted in large engagements over the course of just one month has far surpassed expectations.

"Even our Mayor, Stephen Molnar has come on board and I have sought his help, because he knows and City Hall knows what I'm doing, I have been in touch with them along the way and he has consented to give his view and opinion and thoughts about how they have been helping the community along the way and I really appreciate his help for doing that."

Salamon himself has had to pivot his business during the pandemic. He says the spirit of entrepreneurialism and innovation has not been crushed by COVID, rather it has been propelled to greater heights.

"We will either be overcome or we will be overcomers. I believe and envision through this project that some of us will overcome, but most assuredly, unless we truly act neighbourly and seek to collaborate as a team, our trials will be far more exhaustive and enduring."

You can follow his work on Facebook @salamoncommercialandfineartphotography and Instagram @salamonphotoworks or visit his website online at https://salamonphotoworks.com/