K's Photography

East Village Board Walk

2012-02-13T20:06:00.001-07:00

Last week, I went for a bit of a walk and went down to the East Village board to see what all I could find. It is really rather nicely cleaned up, lots of walks and runners about getting some air before heading back to work for the afternoon.

There are some interesting benches for people to sit upon but they did make for some interesting photos just from the way the light falls on them.

I did originally have these in color but I didn't really like the looks of them ... wanted to emphasize the shadows that the benches were creating.

Well, I Would Never have Thought...?

2012-01-29T16:52:00.001-07:00

Well, I would never have thought that I would enjoy cooking, baking and putting meals together. I tried 2 new recipes this week. One being Hamburger Soup which was Delicious, Thank You Kate for the recipe. There has been reason changes in my house in diets, needing to watch for both sugar and salt intakes, its not the easiest thing to do. Or so I thought, there is more and more products out there that are low or no salt as well as many things made with splenda or can to converted over into using splenda.

Hamburger Soup

1 1/2 lbs. ground beef
1 medium onion,finely chopped
1 – 28 oz. can tomatoes
2 cups water 500 mL
3 – 10 oz. cans consomme
1 – 10 oz. can tomato soup ~ (Used a Hunts Tomato No Salt Sauces as part of the base)
4 carrots, finely chopped
1 bay leaf ~ (I left the bay leaf out .. not one of the favorites in this house)
3 sticks celery, finely chopped parsley
pepper to taste
1/2 cup pot barley 125 mL ~ (I used 1 cup Orzo paste, likes a little like rice, and partial cooked it and then added it to the soup to finish cooking.)

Campbells No Salt Chicken Broth ~ Campbell's Site, Canada
Almers No Salt Tomatoes
Hunts Tomato No Salt Sauces

Instructions:
Brown meat and onions. Drain well. Combine all ingredients in large pot. Simmer covered, at least 2 hours, or all day. Serves 10.

I also added grounded pepper to the soup as well as to the ground beef while cooking it.

This made a huge pot of soup, I have a couple of rounds for lunches as well as 2 or 3 meals.

Best of Bridge Recipes: Hamburger Soup

My first attempts at Lemon Meringue Pie ... well, actually just the meringue part. I picked up a graham pie shell and the filling but I did the meringue part and boy that was much easier than I thought. And it was so good!! I am looking forward to trying out some custard pie recipes and maybe even a Saskatoon Pie in the summer.

Deliciously Moist Chocolate Cake

2012-01-22T18:20:00.001-07:00

So, my first attempts at making a homemade cake from scratch!!! And as you can see, there is 2 pieces missing already!! So that must say something about how good it was!! I need a little practise with white icing, but I know for next time.

This cake was made with Splenda white and brown sugar, so it is not overly sweet which really makes a difference.

Quite impressed with my cake ... don't think I will be buying a box cake anytime soon!!

Recipe:

1 3/4 cups (430 mL) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (125 mL) SPLENDA^® No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated
1/2 cup (125 mL) SPLENDA^® Brand Brown Sugar Blend
3/4 cup (180 mL) cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp (7mL) baking powder
1 1/2 tsp (7mL) baking soda
1/2 tsp (2 mL) ~ didnt add salt
1 1/4 cups (310 mL) low-fat buttermilk
1/4 cup (60 mL) vegetable oil ~ used light olive oil
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 tsp (10 mL) vanilla extract
1 cup (250 mL) hot strong black coffee

Directions
Preheat oven to 350° F (180° C). Grease cake or bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray, set aside.

Blend flour, SPLENDA^® Granulated, SPLENDA^® Brown Sugar Blend, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt in large mixing bowl.

Combine buttermilk, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and coffee in a small bowl.

Add dry ingredients to buttermilk mixture, using an electric mixer on medium speed, mix until smooth (about 2 minutes).

Pour batter into cake or bundt pan.

Bake for 35 minutes, until an inserted toothpick in centre of cake comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 5 minutes.

Splenda Website

Full Moon and Chinook Skies

2012-01-08T19:05:00.003-07:00

Ran out quickly early this evening to catch the last of today's sun that turn the skies a beautiful pinks, blues, oranges and yellows. And just as I was coming in I spotted the moon just starting to rise, what luck!!

It blows my mind just how beautiful the skies here are in Alberta. There are times that I have been out in early evening when the sun is just starting to set and the shape of the clouds and how deep the red is and you would think maybe the world was ending something. But as fast as it comes, it disappears just as fast.

This evening is full moon, and it is quick big tonight. They say that when full moon comes, so does the change in weather ... Tuesday, Calgary is suppose to get snow!! Dam!!! :)

Trees was quite fascinating and with the right sky there is such great detail and they say there is no beauty during the winter season.

You can find all the images at that following address: Weather Album

ChristmasTime!!

2011-12-28T18:00:00.001-07:00

And the angel said unto them, “Fear not! For,behold,
I bring you tidings of great joy, Which shall be to all people.

“For untoyou is born this day in the city of David A Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.– St. Luke ii

Well, Christmas is over and its on to New Years and a fresh start. I will be happy to see 2011 go, it had its ups and had some serious downs, but what year doesn't. Christmas weekend was quite good, good family, friends to much food and some happy memories.

One was the fun memories, was my cousin bring her new hairless Kitty ... Fluffy!! Sorry, Crystle I think that name will stick.

We all spent a wonderful evening together, with Fluffy keeping us all entertained.

We decided to try something a little new with our Christmas dinner ... some yellow, red and oranges peppers and Boy!!! were they good. And I think that this might become a permanent part of Christmas dinner.

My Dad, who says, he isn't a shopper!! Well, he can always come up with something. Mother and I, got a great part of new soft jammies as well and beautiful sweaters.

Well, what can I say, this was my doing!! I spotted these wonderful boxer shorts and just couldn't resist!! I do believe however, they have been stuffed into a dresser somewhere that I cant find them!! ahahah I did get hit this LoL :) I however, he did appreciate and the warmer clothes and sweaters that Mom and I found for him this year. As well as, his box of chocolate covered cherries.

Christmas was grand this year!! Merry Christmas and All the Best in the Coming Year.

Pineapple Loaf ... & Dam it was Good!!!

2011-12-22T18:11:00.002-07:00

I tried my hand at making Pineapple Loaf and it was ssoooo good!! This was one of the last things I made for Christmas. And then had to make 2 extra loaves for Christmas gifts, hahah!! They turn out so good and tasty, it will be hard to give away. :)

Pineapple Bread

Bake: 350 / Time: 1hour

2 eggs 2 1/2 cupflour

1/2 cup marg.                         3 tsp baking powder
1 cup Splenda Sugar             1/2 tsp baking soda
1 cup crushedpineapple     1 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans or both

Beat eggsslightly. Add butter and sugar, beatsmooth. Stir in pineapple and vanilla

In separate bowl, putin flour, baking powder, soda and nuts. Stir well and pour into pineapple mixture. Stir to moisten. Pour into greased loaf pan 9x5x3inch. Let stand 10 mins and remove from pan. Cool& wrap.

More Christmas Baking

2011-12-11T17:33:00.001-07:00

Well, I can say that I did have a very productive weekend. Saturday, I made a round of Puffed Wheat Squares and another batch of Rice Krispies Squares. Also made a large batch of Butter Tarts, consisting of plain, raisin, walnut and pecan. And all turned out pretty good!!!!

Saturday, while I was still snugglied in under the warm blankets, I decided that I want to make a batch of cookies too. Now, in the past, I have not been very successful in baking cookies, always turned out rock hard ... pretty I broke a tooth somewhere along the way. But I decided I would give it a good try.

So I did some searching and decided to check out the Robinhood.ca web site. And found a really good and very simple recipe, just the kind I like.

For all you kids at heart, yes the dough was awesome!! Making it very very hard to actually bake the cookies instead of eating the dough!!!

And it smelled ssssoooo good while they were baking, it was truely unbareable!!!

So you know, they were just yummy!!!

Now for my secret, I did replace the sugar and brown with white splenda sugar and splenda brown sugar blend. And they turned out just fine ... and only baked them for 20mins. I did make my cookies a little bit bigger but I figured what the heck, they still tasted really good.

Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies

Christmas Baking!!

2011-12-06T18:14:00.001-07:00

Well, I have been busy trying to decide what I wanted for some simple but favorite squares for Christmas. I have been looking for the easy to make but turns out great and I think I was very successful.

I am not much of a baker, but this year because we are all trying to watch what we eat in regards to sugar, salt ... you know the good stuff. I have been trying to find recipes that I can substitute sugar for splenda and just eliminate the salt all together.

Now, todays squares, are to fix the sweet tooth that we all have in this house but instead of making lots of them I am only going to make 2 rounds, and when its gone its gone!! Well, thats the theory anyway, hahaha.

Peanut Butter Marshmellow Squares/Butterscotch Confetti!! These are a sin and thats all I can say about that!!

1/4cup of Margarine
1/2 cup of Smooth Peanut Butter
1 cup of Butterscotch chips
5 cups of Miniature Fruit Flavoured Marshmallows
Some chow mein noodles on top ... have to find a better method for adding these.

Melt margarine and peanut butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Stir in chips until melted; cool slightly. Add marshmellows, stirring until coated. Press into a 9inch square pan lined with wax paper. Refrigerate. Makes about 36 squares.

Rice Krispie Squares ... I have wanted to do these for ages with the holiday rice krispies but well ran out of time every year. So this I decided I was going to make them, and I rather like the red and green rice krispies!!

Christmas Squirrel

2011-11-30T19:31:00.001-07:00

This is one of our new Christmas decorations, now dont laugh I can hear!!! LoL :) But its hard not to isnt it.

This little guy was actually my grandfather's and when he past earlier this year, my Mom claimed this silly squirrel before it went out. And he was become part of our little family. I decided today that while we were decorating that he "did" need to stay out for Christmas. However, I thought he need a little decorating of his own. And I a vision in my head of him wearing hat, mitts and a scarf. It was Mom's idea for the peanuts and the apple and well I think it worked out pretty good. Mom made the little hat, mitts and scarfs a while ago for something else but I think it uses this little guy!!

Butter Tarts

2011-11-29T19:44:00.001-07:00

I made a batch of butter tarts today, and Dam they are good!!!

I found a recipe online for Splenda Butter Tarts, using Splenda brown sugar. I had always thought that butter tarts were hard to make well I was totally proven wrong today.

I was quite happy to say that I had this all done and cleaned up within a hour, more or less.

Heavenly Butter Tarts

The only difference, was that I put a half of a pecan in my tarts. And they turned out pretty good.

Black & White Photography @ MRU

2011-11-14T17:49:00.001-07:00

I signed up for a Black and White Photography course at Mount Royal University, it is only 3 class long, which works for. One night of lecture, One day of Shooting and Editing and One night of displaying your work.

The shooting took place on Sunday, the wind was blowing and it was CoLd out but I had a good time. The shoot was in one of the Industrial parks here in Calgary ... so factories, old buildings, machines, squished cars, railroad tracks etc etc. Made for some interesting imaginery.

I am to find 3 of my favorite images to take to the last class. I took over 300 shots so it was a little difficult to decide and I still might change my mind before I head of to last class on Wednesday.

Nothing like weeds, is there. Well, I guess if you are a gardener, you wouldn't like them much. But this do make such interesting subjects.

I love these buildings with all the different lines ... gives you eye a work out.

I walked by this pile of rocks several times, and each time I think "Ahh these work make a photo!?" But I think in the end them are very interesting to look at.

I have take several Black & White photos for this class and there will be a few more that I will share along way over the next few weeks.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England

2011-11-12T17:47:00.001-07:00

Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England

The last of my photos from my trip in May of 2011, to Ireland and England. Quite happy that I finally finished but quite sad ... I was enjoying reliving all of the sites and things I have seen.

Seeing Stonehenge was truly an experience, to learn how it was, to try to imagine how in the world those stones were moved from possibly as far as the coast.

Stonehenge Gallery

The ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is unique; an expectional survival from a prehistoric culture now lost to us. The monument evolved between 3000 BC and 1600 BC. It is aligned with the mid summer sunrise and midwinter sunset, but its exact purpose remains a mystery. Today, this World Heritage Site is a source of inspiration and fascination and for many, a place of worship and celebration.

1 = The Altar Stone, a six ton monolith of green micaceous sandstone from Wales
2 = barrow without a burial
3 = "barrows" (without burials)
4 = the fallen Slaughter Stone, 4.9 metres long
5 = the Heel Stone
6 = two of originally four Station Stones
7 = ditch
8 = inner bank
9 = outer bank
10 = The Avenue, a parallel pair of ditches and banks leading 3 km to the River Avon
11 = ring of 30 pits called the Y Holes
12 = ring of 29 pits called the Z Holes
13 = circle of 56 pits, known as the Aubrey holes
14 = smaller southern entrance

Cute story that I found regarding Heel Stone, Number 5:

The Heel Stone lies just outside the main entrance to the henge, next to the present A344 road. It is a rough stone, 16 feet (4.9 m) above ground, leaning inwards towards the stone circle. It has been known by many names in the past, including "Friar's Heel" and "Sun-stone". Today it is uniformly referred to as the Heel Stone or Heelstone. When one stands within Stonehenge, facing north-east through the entrance towards the heel stone, one sees the sun rise above the stone at summer solstice.
A folk tale, which cannot be dated earlier than the seventeenth century, relates the origin of the Friar's Heel reference.

The Devil bought the stones from a woman in Ireland, wrapped them up, and brought them to Salisbury plain. One of the stones fell into the Avon, the rest were carried to the plain. The Devil then cried out, "No-one will ever find out how these stones came here!" A friar replied, "That’s what you think!," whereupon the Devil threw one of the stones at him and struck him on the heel. The stone stuck in the ground and is still there.

Some claim "Friar's Heel" is a corruption of "Freyja's He-ol" from the Nordic goddess Freyja and the Welsh word for track. The Heel Stone lies beside the end portion of Stonehenge Avenue.
A simpler explanation for the name might be that the stone heels, or leans.
The name is not unique; there was a monolith with the same name recorded in the 19th century by antiquarian Charles Warne at Long Bredy in Dorset.

And you can't leave with out getting a photo of the green landscape and the white sheep!!!

SunSet Sky at the End of October

2011-11-08T17:37:00.001-07:00

One of the things that I do love about Calgary are some of the Chinook Sky Sunsets. If you didnt know any better you would think that the world was coming to a fiery end!!

This was taken just at the end of October, 2011. And I have just had sometime to work on them.

And these skies make the trees really stand out, specially now that they do not have any leaves left on them.

Bath, Somerset, England

2011-11-05T21:03:00.001-06:00

Well, this was a totally learning experience!! I had no idea that such a place existed outside of Greece. Bath is a place that needs to be experienced, and long that 2hours!!

The official site of Roman Baths: http://www.romanbaths.co.uk/ Worth checking out.
My Gallery of Bath, Somerset, England

The entrance to the Roman Baths

The city was first established as a spa with the Latin name, Aquae Sulis ("the waters of Sulis") by the Romans in AD 43, although verbal tradition suggests that Bath was known before then. They built baths and a temple on the surrounding hills of Bath in the valley of the River Avon around hot springs.

Bath is at the botton of the Avon Valley, and near the southern edge of the Cotswolds, a range of limestone hills designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The surrounding hills give Bath its steep streets and make its buildings appear to climb the slopes.

Bath became the leading centre of fashionable life in England during the 18th century. During the 18th century Thomas Gainsborough and Sir Thomas Lawrence lived and working in Bath. John Maggs, a painter best known for his coaching scenes, was born and lived in Bath with his artistic family. William Friese-Greene began experimenting with celluloid and motion pictures is his studio in Bath in 1870s. Jane Austen lived in the city from 1801 with her father, mother and sister Cassandra and the family resided in the city at four successive addresses until 1806.

Royal Victora Park, one of several public parks (which costs 1pd to entry) was opened in 1830 by an 11 year old Princess Victory and was the first park to carry her name.

Pulteney Bridge is a bridge that crosses the River Avon, in Bath and it was completed in 1773. The bridge was designated by Robert Adam, whose working drawings are preserved in the Sir Soane's Museum and is one of the only four bridges in the world with shops across the full span on both sides. Shops on the bridge include a flower shop, antique map shop and juice bar.

Lacock, Wiltshire, England

2011-11-03T18:22:00.001-06:00

Another spot along the country side day tour, that the tour passed through. What a great little town to see, wish I had had more time to explore and photograph. It was old and I so have a thing for old stuff!! The abbey that was established in 1232, now with about 160-90 people, there is architecture from 14th century through to 20th century.

The Church of St. Cyriac, Lacock was established in the 11 century.

The village has been used as a film and television set, notably for the 1995 BBC production of Pride and Prejudice, the 2007 BBC production of Cranford. It has also made brief appearances in the Harry Potter films Harry Potter and Philosopher's Sthone and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

There was a great little tea shop here, picked up some wonderful tasting cookies and other sweets.

A few links that might tempted you;

White Horses

2011-11-01T16:56:00.001-06:00

While on my last day in England, I took a tour of the countryside and it was a beautiful day for it. It was a unique and exciting experience too see sights that are so old.

It was also great to see how green the country side really was. As we were driving through the country, I spotted something rather interesting, to say the least.

Now not the greatest of shots, but through the window of the bus, I thought it tooked out pretty good. This is the "White Horse of Cherhill", which was built about 1790's. Dating from the late 18th century, it is the third oldest of several such white horses in Great Britain, with only the Uffington White Horse and the Westbury White Horse being older. The figure is also sometimes called the Oldbury White Horse.

"A bold theory for the origin of the first Wiltshire horse is that it commemorates Alfred the Great's victory over Guthrum and the Danes at the Battle of Ethandun, in 878. Another is that it was carved in the early 18th century as a show of loyalty to the new royal house, the House of Hanover, the white horse being a heraldic symbol of the Electorate of Hanover. One writer on the subject has commented "...the hillside white horse can be a slippery creature, and the origins of some are impossible to establish with any certainty." ~ Wikipedia

Check out a couple of sites regarding the White Horse:

Just a little further down the road, not far from the White Horse. Just love those trees!!!

Avebury Henge - May 2011

2011-10-30T21:33:00.001-06:00

On my last day in England, I spent the day traveling the lush green country side. I booked a day trip that its first stop was at Avebury Henge.

The Wiltshire village of Avebury is home to the largest prehistoric stone circle in Britain and the most popular megalithic site after Stonehenge.
Like its more famous counterpart, the monuments of Avebury were constructed as early as 3000 BC and have been designated a World Heritage Site. Many travelers prefer the more atmospheric Avebury, with its peaceful village setting, to the heavily-touristed Stonehenge.

The little village that is within this circle is old and very picturesque. It is only during the Saxon period that any evidence of a village at Avebury began to appear. When the monuments were enjoying their golden age the beginnings of the village we now know lay over 3000 years in the future. The builders of the henge could never have imagined the controversy that the result of their labour was to create amongst the later inhabitants of the area and the treatment it was to receive as a result of religious zeal and financial gain. The effect the village was to have on the more recent history of the monuments adds considerably to the fascination of the Avebury story.

Sunday Drive

2011-10-23T18:51:00.002-06:00

Went for a drive out in the country today, before the snow flies and I am stuck at home yet again. Many of the fall colors are now gone and winter has touched the mountains. Cochrane is in the foothills of Alberta just before the mountains, it is a beautiful little town with great views.

The colors of the blue skies and the golden fields made for great images and you almost could think it was spring. Well, I can dream ... just a little keeps the insanity away.

I love how the lights hits the trees in the above image. All aglow!!

The above pano was made up of 7 images. I like the cloud formations and how bright blue the sky was today.

Weeds at this time of year are rather fun to shoot as well. Partly, because there isnt much for flowers left. LoL :)

Golden Autumn

2011-10-22T20:00:00.001-06:00

I am still playing around with Panos ... I do like doing this but having a time trying to come up with some different ideas of panos so its not all the same things. However, though some things don't always fits into the theme but well, I decided to give them a try anyway.

The above image is made up of 13 shots. I loved the colors of the sun coming through the trees. This was taken last weekend and today there are only have a few golden leaves hanging on.

The above image is made up of 9 shots. I just love these trees, they are pretty all year around whether was the dead of winter or the high of summer.

The above image is made up of 7 shots. This afternoon was beautiful time to head out for a bit of a walk and went with my camera.

I am heading out tomorrow to Cochrane and I hope to shoot a few more panos as well and anything else I might be able to find.

Autumn Images Album

Playing with Panos

2011-10-13T19:53:00.001-06:00

Todays attempt was to create a pano of the valley of Down Town Calgary ... with all its fall colors and the great clouds that were rolling through. I need a little practise with this yet, and unfortunately I over exposed the one side ... so will definitely need to do this again.

I had forgotten Photoshop really doesnt like doing this ... started about 6pm it is now 7:45pm for one image ... Hmmmm??!! But this might be because I was trying to do other things ... so next time, just one thing at a time.

I will upload the full version of this image and share it. This is a compressed because the full version is 24.6mb, which in other words ... HUGE!!!!

Kelby Photowalk ~ Inglewood, Calgary, Alberta

2011-10-02T20:08:00.001-06:00

What an excellent day to be out with a great group enjoying the beautiful autumn weather here in Calgary.

This is my second year being involved with the Scott Kelby Photowalk with Marlene Hielema running the walk. The walk started at the Hose and Hound Pub and end there as well ... the walk as really good down some of the streets of Inglewood as well as along the river walkway which was really nice. The trees and all the leaves are slowly changing ... all the colors were awesome today.

We weren't the only ones out for a walk today .. This little guy was out for his walk as well!!

I have some editing to do yet and will share more photos over the coming week.

It was a great day, one of my favorite ways to spend a day!!!

Artistic Autumn Blurs

2011-09-29T19:57:00.001-06:00

Ok, so I needed out of the house for a few minutes to wake myself up and decided to take along my camera. With the wind blowing, it made for interesting shots so I decided that I would try to be a little creative with these images.

I have a thing for Black & White images for the last little while and converted a couple over into B&W.

I like to play and see what all I can create and sometimes you can really come up with some different looking images.

I did leave one in color, Calgary's Autumn Colors never last very long so thought that I should leave one with the fall colors that I originally went out to capture on my little walk.

Exploring Fall Colors

2011-09-27T20:48:00.001-06:00

I love shooting in the fall ... but here in Calgary the Fall Colors only last for a very short period of time. So you dont have alot of time to head out and shoot.

I have over the last couple of days had taken my camera with me where ever I went, either my Canon G11 or 7D.

At a certain time in the evening around about 7pm, the sun coming throu the trees across the street from my home is just beautiful.

And on last Friday evening, it was just about perfect. I love how the sun also hits the tops of the yellowed leafed trees. Makes the yellow so brillant and almost unreal against the fall blue skies.

Today, I decided to take a bit of a walk throu the Deane House Gardens, which are still in pretty good shape. I haven't edited all of the photos from this little walk about today but below is a couple of my favorites from today.

Today, I decided I wanted to try a little HDR ... I still need alot of practise yet, mostly with the settlings in Photoshop, probably should do some reading first but I like to play first and then read some instructions on how to do such things ... do Shh!! Don't tell anyone. But I do like the results that I ended up with today.

Oh Yes, back to Deane House Garden ... its still busy growing and while I was there one of the cooks came out and picked a few herbs, so even throu it is fall things are still growing. So that made me feel so much better.

Still trying this thing called infrare photography ... well, actually its an infrare action that I found for Photoshop. Not totally sure about it yet ... but this one action made a great B&W image.

Well, All in All it was a very good day. I ended my day out by going into the big used book store in Inglewood!! Bad Bad thing to do, but well what do you do ... now I have lots to read.

I will be sharing more fall photos over the next week or so before all of the leaves are good.

Fall Colors Album

Westminister Abbey

2011-09-24T18:56:00.001-06:00

What a beautiful old building!!! Both inside and out, wasnt aloud to photograph inside but I took a few photos of the outside of Westminister Abbey. The detail on this church is fantastic!!

There was people everywhere so it did make it somewhat difficult to have photos of just the building alone but the guy seemed to add some character the building.

"The present building dates mainly from the reign of King Henry III. In 1245 he pulled down the eastern part of the 11th century Abbey, which had been founded by King Edward the Confessor and dedicated in 1065. Earlier in Henry's reign, on 16 May 1220, he had laid the foundation stone for a new Lady Chapel at the east end of the Confessor's church, but as the Abbey's own financial resources were not sufficient to continue the rebuilding of the whole church at this time no other work was carried out." More on the history of the Abbey at be found at HISTORY OF WESTMINSTER ABBEY.

It is an incrediable building, I wish I could have spent more time here looking and photographing this building.

London May 15th Album

The First Day in London

2011-09-21T19:08:00.003-06:00

My first day in London was busy but fun!! Met up with a couple that was on tour in Ireland with. We started out with the bus tour tour part of London and when we got to the River Thame decided to hop off and go for a boat ride up to Greenwich which was really rather cool.

Many of the photos were out the windows of the bus or river boat. The day started out dry and sunny but by the time we made it to river and the boat ride it wasnt warm or dry anymore.

London Bridge

Never did brave the Underground but next time around I will!!

After the boat ride, we headed into High Park mustly to find a potty station and a coffee!!! And then wandered up The Mail towards Buckingham Palace.

More photos to come with pictures of The Mail and Buckingham Palace.

1st Day in London Album

Ireland - May 11

2011-09-14T17:55:00.001-06:00

A day dedicated to wild and beautiful Donegal. Follow the scenic Atlantic coast around Donegal Bay with its small fishing ports and hidden beaches. Visit the ancient town of the same name, founded by the Danish Vikings and home of the O'Donnell Clan. Later call on the Belleek Pottery, renowned for its exquisite cream-colored Parian china.

May 11th Album

Breakfast at the Greath Northern Hotel. I had Donegal Porridge and it was great, I wasnt hungry all day!!!

Can't remember where exactly this was ... but I remember the wind was blowing like nuts ... a whole bottle of hairspray would not have saved your do!!!

Ireland - May 12

2011-09-11T18:43:00.000-06:00

Bundoran-Derry, Northern Ireland-Giant's Causeway-Belfast
A rich string of Northern Ireland attractions awaits you today. In Derry, walk the city walls in the company of a Local Guide. After lunch, pass Donluce Castle before visiting the awe-inspiring Giant's Causeway. Arriving in Belfast, Northern Ireland's seat of government, learn more about this fascinating city, where the Titanic was built, during a city orientation tour.

London-Derry or Derry, Northern Ireland.

On the way to Giant's Causeway, beautiful countryside.

May 12's Album

Ireland - May 10

2011-09-09T20:15:00.001-06:00

A fascinating start to the day -- vist Kylemore Abbey, the massive castle acquired by Benedictine nuns, for a visit to the restored house, church, and gardens. Pause at Westport before continuing on to Knock, a village that attracts pilgrims from all over the world. On the way to the resort of Bundoran, stop at Drumcliff on Sligo Bay to visit the grave of native son and poet W.B. Yeats.

May 10 Album

Kylemore Abbey ~ http://www.kylemoreabbeytourism.ie/
Westport ~ http://www.mayo-ireland.ie/Mayo/Towns/WestPort/
Knock ~ http://www.knock-shrine.ie/
Bundoran ~ http://www.discoverbundoran.com/
Drumcliff ~ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drumcliffe
Sligo Bay ~ http://www.sligotourism.ie/
WB Yeats ~ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/W._B._Yeats

Reflections of the City in the Hall

2011-09-08T20:10:00.002-06:00

Another beautiful day to be out shooting again to do in Calgary. The City Reflections have really intrigued lately, with the bright colors, sunshine and the blue skies to make everything pop so well.

Today, I focused mostly on Calgary City Hall spent about half an hour walking slowly across the front of building. I was waiting for someone to come out and shoe me away. LoL But I truely enjoyed looking at all of the reflections, directions/angles and colors that were there.

Calgary Reflections Album

Evening in the Mountains

2011-09-07T15:34:00.001-06:00

I truly enjoyed my weekend at Raduim Hot Springs. The days were hot and the evenings were beautiful not only for shooting but also for just sitting.

It was a great weekend for creating images!!!

I love these "Weeds" between the blue sky and the gold of the weeds made for beautiful colors to create an image.

BC Album

After Sunset in the Mountains

2011-09-05T21:48:00.002-06:00

The evenings were beautiful at Radium, BC and I was able to create a few interesting images without a tripod.

I had a chance to do some shooting while I was away and rather happy with some of the images that I was able to capture.

This was Saturday evening looking from the patio of where we were staying in Radium, BC for Labor Day Long Weekend. It was a wonderful way to spend the last weekend of the summer.

I will share others as I get them edited and uploaded.

The Lake Photos

2011-09-02T16:24:00.001-06:00

I try to stay a few days out at my Uncle's cottage at "The Lake" this summer. The Lake is actually Buffalo Pound Lake, Saskatchewan near Moose Jaw. It is a comfortable, relaxing, happy place to be and I find a few days of relaxing is something that is always needed!!

I promised myself this year that I would shoot, even if it was just a little each day, I would. And I did. some were just fun shoots and others were as I was out for a walk.

I enjoyed my time there, and as always it was to short.

The fields were beautiful when I was out in mid July, some of the storms that came through was were wild too but they was all at night some no great photos of those.

Saskatchewan Album

DownTown Calgary Reflections

2011-09-01T17:44:00.001-06:00

Its the first day of September, kids are in school, people back from holidays and I was out shooting today in the sun and beautiful blue skies. The weather has the feel of autumn, now, it always amazes me how fast it all changes.

The reflections again today in the downtown buildings were fantastic and I couldnt resist shooting the reflections.

I find it rather interesting to find all of these reflections ... I must learn to look up instead of straight ahead like I usually do. I enjoy seeing all of the different lines and angles ... it is interesting to see how the reflections become distorted. Makes you think a little :)

Calgary Reflections Album

Will be adding to this album over time.

DownTown Reflections

2011-08-31T19:43:00.000-06:00

Found some great reflections in the buildings DownTown Calgary on Monday. There is a new park that has been opened up recently, with some great statues of metal horses. I think it will make some great location for some shooting.

Last Evenings Fire in the Sky

2011-08-16T19:14:00.000-06:00

Last evening there were several storms come through the Calgary area and sometimes makes for very interesting cloud formations.

These photos were taken about 9ishpm last night, when the sun was just going down and making the clouds look so scary!!!

Weather Album

Attempting to Shoot Tattoos

2011-08-14T17:13:00.003-06:00

Ok, So I thought this would not be a hard thing to do .. well, I was very wrong!!! Trying to make it interesting to include both the tattoo as well as the model ... it makes for an interesting image.

Link to Album

But ever so Thankful that my Model was so patient with me, trying to come up with some ideas. And I think at the end of it all we did come up with some interesting poses as well as images.

Both girls were awesome and I think they both had fun in my little studio. I look forward to doing up more tattoo shoots in the near future, I already have 2 lined up and I hope to do more so.

One From Last Weeks Shoot

2011-08-08T20:51:00.000-06:00

This is Kat!! And she was Awesome!! I was working with lighting during this shoot and it took a while to get it to work the way I wanted. Thank you Kat for being so patient.

Creating a Backdrop!!??

2011-08-02T21:12:00.000-06:00

I have been thinking of doing this for quite a while just not sure how I was going to do so. So the other day I did a little research and originally I was going to do a design on my basement wall but changed my mind after chatting with a friend. She suggested that I may get bored with the design that I might create on the wall. I started thinking about it and why not use an old white sheet which I have a few ... so then it was on to the design ... I actually looked up quilting designs and got a few ideas from that. But what I came up with was just out of my head.

Above is more or less what I started with ... if it works out I think I will create a couple with some brighter colors on the next one.

I promise to share the first backdrop and if it works I will share the next one that I design as well.

Just Playing!!

2011-07-28T20:38:00.000-06:00

Picked up some pretty pink flowers yesterday and decided I needed a few photos. This also gives me the chance to work with my lights and play with tethering a little more. I really like tethering ... much easier to see on a big screen than on a 2inch screen.

The other I also played with my lights to see what I could come up with and I am quite impress with what I got.

I picked up several masks early this year but havent had the time to play with them. So I decided the other day was a perfect time to do so.

Working with Volunteer Calgary

2011-07-27T19:03:00.000-06:00

For the last 2 summers, I have been photographing some of the events that Volunteer Calgary have organized.

So far, its been an Event called "Paint the Town". It is a program where different companies along with Volunteer Calgary and the City of Calgary go out and paint homes of seniors that need a little help.
Chevron Paint the Town June 28th

I also had the privilege of photographing a group from Cenovus, that helped build a Play park.
Cenovus at Windsor Park Playground Build

These are great shoots and I have so much fun!!!

Its been a Long Time!!

2011-07-25T19:28:00.000-06:00

Yes, it has been a long time since I have posted. But going to give it a better try and post at least once a week to keep everyone update and show that I am still around.

I have been trying to do more photography again, the creative juices are starting to squirt out my ears so I thought that I should try and do a better job of it.

Over the weekend, I had the great opportunity to photograph Lorraine, her husband Kevin and daughter Kennedy!! And had great weather, great yard and great people to work with. And want to Thank them for letting me come out and do so.

I also want to Thank my Aunt Barb for including me and helping me out ... you make a great assistant :) I so appreciate all that you do :)

Tea & Scones - Ballyknocken

2011-05-26T21:12:00.000-06:00

Ballyknocken Cookery School is located in the Wicklow Mountains, it is a beautiful spot for not only for the school but as well as the bed & breakfast.

The name Ballyknocken stems from Gaelic - Baile an Cnocan - the town land of the little hill. There is some great history to this place.

The whole group really enjoyed the watching the making of Scones as well as eating them. The lady who was showing us how to make the scones did an awesome job, and so did the volunteers.

Walked around the grounds here as well, and it is just beautiful. Herb garden, vegetable gardens, animals including Chickens!!! LoL

Ballyknocken Baker Volunteers Bakers Tea & Scones Ballyknocken Scenes

Outside Cooking Chickens!!!

Sorry, for only links to images this time around ... there are some issues.

Ireland 2011 - Kilmainham Gaols

2011-05-20T13:34:00.001-06:00

Kilmainham Gaols are located in Dublin. Has a fasinating and very sad history, I couldn't imagine how one would survive here and I am some did not.

Built in 1792 and is currently a Irish Heritage Site, that the public can tour through. I did the tour, that went through the different areas including the chapel, one of the cell blocks, the courtyards etc. If the walls could talk, them would have much to say.

"From the 1790s onwards, freedom from Bristish rule, as a republic, became the form of political independence favoured by radical Irish nationalists. More moderate nationalists aspired to "Home Rule", or constituational independence for Ireland within the British Empire. A remarkable number of the leading figures of Irish nationalism were imprisoned at Kilmainham Gaol, and some were executed here.

But there is much more to Kilmainham's story; the gaol functioned for most of the its life as an ordinary prison, and the fate of ordinary Men, Women, and Children as convicts is a compelling story in its own right."

The following photos are of the East Wing.

This part of the prison may seem familiar to some, as it has featured in scenes in the movies. Some of In the Name of the Father, Michael Collins and The Italian Job were shot here.

Mural of a Madonna painted by Grace Gifford Plunkett while she was held during the Civil War. This is quite a sad story, Grace Gifford Plunkett was married to Joseph Plunkett was one of the original members of the IRB Military Committee; Easter Risings of 1916. Following the surrender Plunkett was held in Kilmainham Gaol, and faced a court martial. Hours before his execution by firing squad at the age of 28, he was married in the prison chapel to his sweetheart Grace Gifford, a Protestant convert to Catholicism, whose sister, Muriel, had years before also converted and married his best friend Thomas MacDonagh, who was also executed for his role in the Easter Rising.

Throughout the Civil War, vast numbers of republicans were arrested and incarcerated in jails over the country without trial or charge. Grace was arrested with many others in February 1923 and detained in Kilmainham Jail for about three months. She painted pictures on the walls of her cell, including one of the Madonna and Child. She was released in May 1923.

The Prison Chapel

There is alot of history in this place, many things happened here that changed many lives. If you are planning a trip to Dublin this would be one of the places to go and see. To get a good sense of Irish history.

Links:
Grace Gifford Plunket
Joseph Plunkett
Kilmainham Gaols

London Photo Tour

2011-05-16T10:50:00.001-06:00

Today was great!! Lou Smith is a wonderful person and it was an awesome Experience to hang out with her. My creative juices have been restored and I am so looking forward to getting home and going through my photos from today.

We did a big circles and saw quite a few spots in downtown London. Once I get all of my images sorted and edited I will start to share all the little stories that go with them :)

Tuesday is Stonehedge and Wednesday will be time to go home.

Promise to post again once I get home.

Exploring London - May 15th

2011-05-15T13:55:00.000-06:00

London is a big place, but there is lots of history here and that just blows my mind!! Did one of the hop on - hop off tours which includes a boat cruise down the Thames River. Got on at Westminister Abbey and cruise east, I believe, towards Greenwich. Well, that was a fascinating trip. Alot of that old warehouses have now been turned in a million pounds or more apartments. Makes me wonder if the people living there know what all use to be shipped in and out there. :). Enquiring minds want to know lol :)

I did get off and wonder just a tiny bit around the buildings there but didn't stay for long because it was a late in the day already and didn't want to miss the boat heading.

Did go under London bridge and it didn't fall down. Also drove over it on the tour bus :). Very pretty and has a great and humorous history .. I guess when it was first open ... Big ceremony and Queen Victoria pushed the button to lift the bridge, it didn't work lol. :)

I walked down the Mall ... Which was closed to motor traffic so you could walk down the middle of the road. So I did get a few photos there as well as Buckingham palace and the big statue in front, which at this time I can't remember the name of??!!

One of the hi-lights was to go into Westminister Abbey to listen to an Organ Recital. Now, the music was not my cup of tea but to sit in there and listen to the organ being play was an awesome experience. However, no photos!!! :(. Which I kinda figured but was hoping that in could. It is a beautiful church and the architecture is amazing. What you see on tv does not do it justice, it would be something you have to see for yourself.

Well, that was very much my day. I hang out with a couple that was on my Ireland tour. They were wonderful and really made for a great day, Thank you Larry & Sharon :)

So one last little tidbit, I rode in a London Cab .. Those funny little cars!!! It was a hoot, and the driver was great so nice we chitchatted all the way back to the hotel :)

Ireland 2011 - May 12th. - Heading to Northern Ireland

2011-05-14T10:48:00.002-06:00

Todays adventures took us to Northern Ireland along the Antrim Coastal Scenic Drive. There were some awesome views and very beautiful countryside all lush and green.

The tour headed into Northern Ireland, a fascinating and sad history, that I never really understood and still don't, so I think I will have to do a bit of research when I get home.

We went on a tour of Derry or London-Derry with a gent by the name of Rowan, who was a great guide ... Fun, informative and had a great out look on life.

Now, imagine this ... This gent gets on the bus and introduces himself, thick accent, very much Irish and Chinese lol. And he makes fun of it too!! He saids he has a Catholic Daddy and a Buddhist Mommy .. So he says that he lives in a city of Catholics, Protestants and One Buddhist. He was a hoot!

Derry has had a hard history but fascinating ... And now seems to be very peaceful but not without a lot of hard work to get there. Where we went on the walking tour was where all of the Orangemen marched and much of the violence happened on the old city walls. It was an interesting walk.

Then it was now to Bush Mills which is on the coast. Pretty countryside town just before going now to the Giants Causeway. Giants Causeway was a great place if the wind wasn't blowing like nuts and it wasn't raining but I did go down and got a few photos. This was also our lunch break stop. Now, I must explain, I have lived on fish just about the whole time, and it was wonderful. But for some reason, I ssssooooo wanted a McDonalds burger and fries, I think might have been that I passed by at least 3 of them. LoL. So, today I had a burger and it wasn't to bad ... Fries however, was a different story ... They were like chunky hash browns. But hey live and learn lol :)

And then it was in to the Radisson Hotel in Belfast. Did venture off a little bit here before supper, and check out the Victoria Square Mall. This was interesting, it was sort of an indoor / outdoor mall. It has all the shops on the exterior of the mall and the interior was open to the outside with a glass ceiling and doom. It was really neat!!

Now, it is back to Dublin in the morning and Saturday on to London. And it will soon be time to head home. It was much to short and had such and awesome time, it is hard to believe it is almost done.

I look forward to sharing my images and short videos with everyone.

- Posted using BlogPress from iPad

Ireland 2011 - Good Ole Donegal!

2011-05-12T01:25:00.000-06:00

Spent the day exploring the County of Donegal and the town of Donegal. Donegal Use to be a port city and mainly a fishing town. The harbor is a beautiful spot and I can't imagine leaving here so many years ago. It was a strange feeling to walk that harbor and to think that my ancestors may have walked in the same place to board a ship to their new world and a new hard life.

Last evening, the group went to O'Donnels pub ... Which was great fun!!! The entertainer was a great fellow and the locals were a great group!! Couple of them even knew where Calgary was and had been to the Calgary Stampede!

Well, this was short but must go or the bus will leave with out me :)

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Co. Donegal

Ireland 2011 - Sheep Shearing Anyone?? - May 9th

2011-05-10T14:51:00.001-06:00

Just a quick note for this evening. Monday morning the group was able to visit the Rathbaum Sheep Farm. It was very interesting to see a full sheep shearing ... I never seen one from then beginning to the end. As well as seeing the beautiful young black and white collie herd the sheep. He was very nerves and unsure of all the strange people in this barn. I got a little video of the 7 week old lambs being feed. Oh and they are so soft!! And such talkers especially when they are hungry.

They feed us tea and fresh scones and it was so go!!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Bundoran, Ireland

Ireland 2011 - Day for New Things

2011-05-08T15:02:00.000-06:00

This morning we were all in Killarney ... what a beautiful town, I wish I had more time to explore but this place will be a place I come back to. I could of spent hour wandering, exploring and watching the world go pass at some of the outdoor eateries and coffee shops.

The morning consisted of going to the Muckross House and Gardens; Muckross is translated to english as Pig Peninsula. Their claim to fame at the Muckross House was that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert visited the Herbert Family in August of 1861. Today, the House is owned by the State and many of the rooms have been restored to its original Victorian style.

The gardens are amazing. Many different kinds of plants, flowers, & trees have been bought in from many parts of the world. The house and gardens over look Muckross Lake, which was extremely rough today. The wind was just a whipping through the valley.

Muckross House & Gardens

Then it was on to "The Lake Hotel" where we had "Tea & Scones". Well this was sinfully delicious!! The scones are covered with red jelly and thickly whipped cream. It was just awful!!! Nestling on the lakeshore of Lough Lein, Killarney’s lower lake, The Lake Hotel, Killarney enjoys the most magnificent setting with the truly unique backdrop of the mountains, islands, woodlands and the 12th century McCarthy Mor castle ruins. The Lake Hotel is a four star, family run and owned hotel and has been welcoming guests since 1820, so a long tradition of warm Irish hospitality awaits all visitors. Truly, beautiful place and wonderful scenery to look at while you are having tea!!

Then it was on to Limerick, but first with a stop at Adare in the Co. of Limerick. And went to the Holy Trinity Catholic Church which was founded in 1230ad. The current building was restored in 1811 and 1852.

Today, was a rainy, windy, and sunny day. And in the end, we enjoyed an evening of great Medieval Entertainment. In the lush green countryside of County Clare is beautifully restored Knappogue castle, home of Lord and Lady Gort. Dine by candlelight in the beautiful 15th century castle of the MacNamaras. Truly, enjoyed this Authentic Irish Medieval Experience ... Knappogue Castle Banguet

Knappogue Castle Banguet Video

Will try and add some photos tomorrow :) Got a few good ones from the banguet and also from the Cathedral.

Ireland 2011 - May 7

2011-05-07T13:32:00.001-06:00

Well, I love holidays where I lose track of time ... I was thinking today was Friday but I informed that no it is Saturday, hahah So I am going to be working backwards to catchup on the couple of blogs posts that I have missed. I have also tried to work on a few of the photos that I want to share with you.

We arrived in Killarney, yesterday and stayed an extra night here and will be leaving Sunday for Limerick.Killarney, Dingle Excursion - Saturday May 7

Panoramic views on Dingle Peninsula on the way to Blasket Island Centre, where the group had lunch. Learn about the way of life and unique literary achievements on the string of remote islands evacuated by the last inhabitants in 1953.

Blasket Island
Dingle Peninsula
History and Heritage of Blasket Island
Blasket Islands ~ Youtube video shows alot of what the interpretive centre share, only in song.

We first stop to shop today :) I had my first Irish Coffee, and Dam that was good!!! At Macken of Ireland. This place had some very nice stuff, jewerly, hats, scarfs, sweaters and shirts of all kinds. I tried on a Ireland Heritage Bracelet in white gold (this is your first hint at how much it was) .... it was beautiful but even with the discounts and last years stock ... you were still sitting at 1198eur (not 11.98 --- 1198.00). It was beautiful but a little bit out of my price range hahaha :)

The story behind the bracelet is very unique and it would make a great heirloom to pass along.
http://www.allcladdagh.com/history-story.htm

Mid Morning cocktail or a warm me up!! Ireland Coffee: Freshly brewed Coffee, Irish Whiskey, Whipped Cream and much to much sugar ... but it was Good!! LoL

We took The Slea Head Drive that runs along the coast. It was a drive of a life time not only where the view awesome but the road was heart stopping ... just big enough to get the bus up and down it ... and if you met a car along the way, it made from a tight squeeze!!

At the end of the drive was the Blasket Centre on the mainland in Dun Chaoin on the tip of the Dingle Peninsula is a facinating heriage centre/museum honouring the unique community who lived on the remote Blasket Islands until their evacuation in 1953.

A view away from the sea looking up the side of the hill on the mainland. Beautiful and unreal views.

Lunch was delicious!! Smoked Salmon Sandwich ... well, I cant eat the stuff in the can anymore!!! And the most sinful chocolate and cookie pie.

Coumeenole Beach, near Slea Head, on the Dingle Peninsula where "Ryan's Daughter" was filmed. This was a beautiful spot. I wished the day's weather would have been nicer but that was the way it went. I did get a very photos just before the batteries on little camera died.

The evening was to yourself, which I needed. I found a laundrette again and got some clothes washed. It was 12euro this time but much cheaper than the hotel.

Remember this is Euros
Jackets: 8.75
Jeans: 6.70
Undies: 2.25
Nightgowns: 4.00

Nuts HuH!! So finding a laundrette was much easier, well sort of ... had to find it first ... I was told left and left ... well I went left and left and couldnt find it ... it was hiding down a back street ... there are quite a few of those!!!

Ireland 2011 - In Cohb

2011-05-05T14:49:00.001-06:00

Last night we all stayed in the Granville hotel at Waterford, Ireland. Waterford is the oldest city and once was a Viking settlement. It has a fantastic and interesting history. We had a short guided historical walk done by a man named Jack and he was and awesome story teller.

Then it was off to Kiss the Barney Stone. And I did do it!!! To say the lest it was and interesting climb of about 150 steps. Make that skinny wet stone spiral staircase!!! It was 20 euros to go in but it was worth it. Your climb to the top and your hang upside down over the edge of the castle and kiss the stone!!! Two very nice gentlemen hang on to you haha. It was interesting!!!

So then it was off to Cohb to drop off our suitcases and down to Queenstown. This is harbor were the Irish navy is located and and the second last place from which the Titanic sailed from. The Titanic picked up passengers for steerage and also lots of mail going to North America. Also many many people also left from Queenstown during the Potato blight Famine. It was a excellent exhibit.

We had a few minutes to snoop around the main street Queenstown. Even saw where the Titanic was dock in the bay and saw a few of the monuments that celebrate the history of the area.

Today, end with an evening to yourself so a few of us went and had supper in the pub/bar and then went and got lost in the rain!!!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Ireland

Ireland 2011 - On the Road

2011-05-04T14:15:00.003-06:00

Today, start by 8am, we were off to Ballyknocken Cookery School for a deminstration on how to make Sweet Scones and all I can say was "Dam they were good!!"
http://www.thecookeryschool.ie/

Then it was on to Kilkenny Castle, which is really a castle. I have some photos from here and look forward to sharing them with you. Unfortunately, right now there just isnt enough time. But I promise to share once I get home or if there is a little free time later down the road :)
http://www.kilkennycastle.ie/en/

I did rain much for today but there isnt much you can do about it so I enjoyed it and so did all the birds. We spent the evening with a very entertaining fellow by the name of Tom Comerford at the Jack Meade Country Pub. It was a very good evening spent and then back to the Granville Hotel in Waterford.
http://www.tomcomerford.com/
http://www.jackmeades.com/

Well, the day didnt end until 9pm and it is bed time :) It was a great day!!

Ireland 2011 - 5th Day in Dublin - Changed Hotel and a Little Exploring

2011-05-02T15:39:00.001-06:00

Do to slow connection speed and other tech. problems you will have to go and check out the Ireland Album at the link at the bottom of the page.

I check out a place called Kilmainham Gaol (Jail). Built in in the 1790's and was in 1796. Facinating but very sad history as well. Ireland has done alot of fighting to gain its indepence from England. I picked up a brochure so if you are interesting in reading it.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kilmainham_Gaol

I also wanted to check out the Royal Military Hospital and Gardens. It was a beautiful through the garden walk and found another 2 cemeteries which you were unable to go into, not sure if it was because it is a holiday here or it is the norm to have the locked up. But I was able to see through the gate and take a few photos.

At the end of the walk was a big beautiful old building that was once a hospital for injuried soldiers but is now used for the Modern Art Museum. Feel as if you have steped back in time, and I bet there are some great ghost stories that go with this building.

I did some other wanderings today as well, found River Liffey and went across Ha'penny bridge. It use to be a toll bridge to cross was a penny. And found the actually entrance to Temple Bar district.

It was a good day, ending with a drinks & supper with the tour group. Looks like a good mixture of folks and it should be a good trip with everyone.

Ireland Album ~ Come Check it out!!

Ireland 2011 - Extra Blog, Extra Blog!!!

2011-05-02T03:45:00.001-06:00

"Daylight Robbery"

During the Georgian Periond when there was a saying started called "Daylight Robbery", while its not what you think.

At that time, there was a tax on glass for windows. So when the house was being built, the main floor got the biggest windows. And as the building progress the windows would get small, second level windows were for the children's and then of course at the very top would be the servent's quarters and their windows would be small.

"Please, Paint Your Doors' Black"

In 1861, Prince Albert passed away and Queen Victoria went into a deep mourning period. And to show support, Queen Victoria asked everyone to paint their doors black. Well, not here in Dublin, just about everyone went out and painted their doors bright colors, yellow, blue, red, green and so on.

Ireland 2011 - 4rd Day in Dublin ... Well, Sort Of ... ??

2011-05-01T15:04:00.000-06:00

Today, I took a day tour out to Wicklow National Park .. very pretty and worth well seeing. First stop along the way was a place called Sallygap, its a beautiful look out over a valley with a glacier lake. The water of this lake appears to be black however, it is actually suppose to be quite clear :)

And then it was off down this tiny winy little road!! Just barely big enough for the bus that I was in. The bus would actually have to pull over some enough to let you other cars go by. It was an interesting and sometimes heart stopping trip!!

The next part of the tour was to a place called Glendalough: The Round Tower and Saint Kevin's Church, Glendalough are set in one of County Wicklow's most beautiful glens. The area is rich in history and dates back to the 6th Century when the hermit, Sait Kevin, founded his monastery here.

I was quite thrilled when I realized it was a cemetery ... yes, yes ... I am weird you must get use to that!!! And it was very old, many old and weathered stones to look at, I wished I had a little more time to look around.

From this point, you walk part way up the valley to where there is a bit of a lake. The walk was awesome, it was a beautiful day to walk, take photos and listen to the birds.

Then it was off to have lunch at Fitzgeralds in Avoca, Co. Wicklow.

Look up a show called Ballykissangel, it is suppose to take place in this village and mostly in the pub. And then off to Avoca Store and Mill Tour. Which was rather interesting as well. Watch a little bit of weaving done.

Weaving Video

The World's Oldest Weaving Mill's Established in 1723.

Ireland 2011 - 3rd Day in Dublin - Guiness Storehouse

2011-04-30T15:46:00.002-06:00

This morning started out with a bit of rain but it freshened up things and made the Birdies very happy!!

I decided today that I would take a cab/taxi to my tour pick up spot but because I wasnt to sure where that was. The city streets are very strange here and the signage for the streets, are some what none existent. So if you dont know where you are going, you can get rather lost rather fast. But I think I have gotten some of it figured out :) The cab/taxi ride was rather interesting as well, driver was awesome very talkitive and explained alot and some of it I even understood. He explained that to get anywhere you basically good in a big circle and that you cant really get out of the circle until you get to where you are going, its a left circle and you can't seem to right turn out of it. LoL Well, I think that was basically what he was saying.

Part of the Tour took place at the Guiness Storehouse: http://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/Index.aspx

Its a great museum located inside the old part of the Guiness factory. Also known as the St. Jame's Gate Brewery. St. James is the name of the church that is located at the front of the brewery, which I think still has some sort of significates?? LoL

"Since 1759, Guiness has been produced here at the St. James Gate Brewery. The brewery occupies 60 acres of land in Dublin's South Side. Each day 3 million pints of the black stuff are produced here for the Irish, UK, European and US markets.

A Guiness Fermentation Plant from 1904 to 1988 is now the 7 storey visitor experience dedicated to the history and making of this world famous beer."

About halfway through the brewery tour, you were able to have a sample of the Guiness. I walked through this section with full intentions of not tasting and then I thought to myself that if I have come this far I should at least taste, right. And well .... ??? :)

It was quite a good experience and learned at more about beer than I knew before. The architecture of the brewery as well as the surrounding buildings were awesome. Arthur Guiness and his son, had georgian style homes built for the men and their families, who worked for the brewery.

After the tour, I went to the National Museum of Ireland and wandered through it. I found the exhibition on Kingship and Sacrifice very interesting. I didn't take any photos of this exhibit out of respect.

"The exhibition also highlights a theory based on the observation that the bog bodies were placed on significant bounderies linking them with sovereignty and kingship rituals during the Iron Age." http://www.museum.ie/en/exhibition/kingship-and-sacrifice.aspx

On the back from the Museum, I found a little convenience shop that sold Timmies coffee ... Would You Believe!!! It wasnt the greats but it smelled like Timmies and sort of tasted like Timmies ... but it still doesn't go great with steamed milk hahah

And Last supper was "Fresh Cod & Chips" which as wonderful!!!

And thats it in a nutshell :)

Ireland 2011 Album

Ireland 2011 - St. Patrick's Cathedral

2011-04-30T03:35:00.001-06:00

Just a quick post of the Inside of St. Patrick's Cathedral.

There will be more once I have time to edit them.

Ireland 2011 - 2nd Day - Dublin Bus Tour Hop-On Hop-Off

2011-04-29T14:48:00.000-06:00

I spent the day checking out the sites from the top of a Double Decker Bus ... and just so you know it is winding and rather chilly first thing in the morning!! I was lucky, one of 23 bus stops for this tour is located just around the corner from the hotel!!

Dublin Bus Tour Hop-On Hop-Off

Abbey Street Corner: This is mainly a shopping area.
Trinity College: founded in 1592
National Gallery
St. Stephen's Green
Temple Bar: This is another big district of shopping, eating and drinking.
Dublin Castle: this was neat to wander around in.
ChristChurch/Dubinia
Kilmainham Gaol
Phoenix Park: Looks to be a beautiful place ... lots and lots of greenery and flowers
Wellington Monument: located in Phoenix Park

There were other spots along the way but these are some of the highlights of the tour. Some of this tour was a blur, it went by so fast but I did go again on parts of the tour to visit a couple of the spots that grabbed my attention. The Normans built a church in stone on this site in 1191. It was rebuilt in the early thirteen century and is this building that is there today. One of the main spots that I stayed the longest at was St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Other sport that I am hoping to explore a little more is the Temple Bar ... no it is not a "bar" it is a district of shops, eateries and pubs. Temple Bar has preserved its medieval street pattern, with many narrow cobbled streets. I found a Sandwich/Soup & Cake shop, where I had a "Turkey & Coleslaw" Sandwich ... and Yes, it was Good!!!

I wander a little and got a tiny bit lost and missed out on my boat ride on the River Liffey which sucked because I was looking forward to it. I still not exactly where I ended up but made it back to the bus stop that I needed to be at. But did see some great old buildings along the way :)

Looking forward to tomorrows adventures.
Good Night All

The official residence of the President is Áras an Uachtaráin, located in the Phoenix Park in Dublin. The ninety-two room building formerly served as the 'out-of-season' residence of the Irish Lord Lieutenant and the residence of two of the three Irish Governors-General: Tim Healy and James McNeill.

Top of the Double Decker Tour Bus. I was wishing for some gloves and a warmer coat about this time.

And of course the Guiness Storehouse, which I will be visiting tomorrow and taking more photos of.

Link to Ireland 2011 Album

Ireland 2011 - First Day in Dublin

2011-04-28T14:12:00.002-06:00

Well, the first day in Dublin was really good. I arrived about 130pm at my hotel and got settled in. Flights and connections were all good and had no trouble finding my way to the bus or to the hotel as I was quite happy about that.
I did go out and do a little shooting but about a block away from my hotel, the batteries in my camera died!!! So I didnt get as many photos as I was hoping for!! LoL :)
Across the way, is a church and it is beautiful and old!! The Christchurch Cathedral was established in 1030, I dont know if the building is that old but I will see what I can find out tomorrow.

The traffic here is bizzare to say the lest .... I gotta remember to look Right not Left!!! And there are cars coming from every direction.

Here are some images that I took today will add as I got along. Just a few images because of lack of brains and forgot to charge the batteries, LoL Hey I remember all the other stuff :)

Ireland 2011

Well, it is bedtime here!!
Good Night All

Week 3 - 52 Week Project - Trying to find Spring at -38c!!

2011-03-07T20:30:00.000-07:00

The last 2-3weeks, Calgary has been in a deep freeze with no true break at all. So I had to find my own spring in my own way.

Spring to me is tulips, they are usually one of the first flowers to brave spring here in Calgary.

I played with just 1 strobe with all of the images as well as no softening white umbrella. And I rather like the effect that it created.

I was a little late with this posting this week, had a very busy weekend. I was busy shooting more bowling team photos as well as spending a few hours printing. Took alot longer to print than I anticapated but now I know and will be able to alot a little more time for the next time around.

Week 2 - 52 Week Project - Red Mustang!!

2011-02-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

Well, the theme was suppose to be "RGB", but I only found the red part of this little project. LoL I had access to a Red Mustang this week and I took some photos of it. The lighting wasnt the greatest but sometimes that is the way it goes.

It is definitely a Pretty Little Red Car!!!

Week 1 - 52 Week Project - Valentine's Day

2011-02-19T21:17:00.000-07:00

I have decided to try a 52 Week Project ... One theme a week, to share with the world. I plan on posting a photo each Saturday. I will decide on what the theme will be early in the week and will set out to shooting later in the week.

This week, I was lucky enough to be able to photograph some very wonderful people at work. I wish to Thank all 3 of them for all the hard work they did on Valentine's Day as well as for letting me photograph you.

Frost Filled Mornings

2011-02-18T17:44:00.000-07:00

For 2 days this week, Calgary had fog which cause some great tree images. The first morning I was out very early so I didn't get the greatest of images but what I did capture I was very impressed with.

This was taken around 7am on Wednesday morning. You can see the street light through the tree while the snow/ice crystals falling. So no that is not noise from shooting at such a high ISO, haha :)

This next however, was a perfectly clear blue sky day which made for some great images as well. It was cold and clear and I so wished I had more time to play that day. All of the images were taken on the short walk to the bus stop before heading off to work.

You can see all of the frost images at the following gallery: Out and About Gallery

Mother~Daughter Shoot

2011-02-13T20:08:00.001-07:00

I just had to share these 2 images. I just love how they turned out. It is actually the same image however, I added a background to one of them to add a little more to it. I really like the idea of digital backgrounds, you can really add life to an image ... it is an easier said than done kind of thing!!! But if it wasn't worth working at it wouldn't be satisfying in the end would.

I am still having a few problems getting my backgrounds as white I would like them but this one turned out not to bad.

This is a muslin digital background ... I think it really goes with these 2 girls. Gives them a little more color and a little more life to the image.

Well, I have decided to start a new project ~ 52 Photo Project ~ I am hoping that maybe if its only one photo a week maybe I will have better luck. So wish me luck on this one!!!

I will be posting on Sundays the possibly theme for the coming week. And will be posting the image on Saturdays with a little bit of a story to go with the image.

This week the possible image will be taken at work. Monday is St. Valentines, and it is a big deal, fancy clothes and wrapping of flowers. So I am hoping I will be able to post these images.

I have been playing in my studio as of late. Just playing with my lights to see what I can create. I will be posting those images later this week when I have had a little bit of time work them. :)

Just testing

2011-02-09T22:51:00.001-07:00

Just trying blogging from my iPad. I found a new app, in hopes that it will run better than the last one. And so far so good!! Still have a few of the functions to figure out but I am sure it won't take much to do so.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Calgary

Daisies for Sale!!

2011-02-08T20:37:00.002-07:00

I posted the following 3 images that I took yesterday in my studio and decided to share. Well, when I got up this morning one of my friend on Facebook really liked them and wanted to purchase prints. Which I thought it was really cool and I look forward to getting the photos to her!!

I had alot of fun creating these images, I love to play in my studio. You never know what you might be able to create along the way.

Email Me

Family of Man

2011-02-05T19:25:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, I had a little running around to do but also wanted to do some shooting as well. So I decided to take along my little G11 camera, which I just love to play with and see what I can capture with it.

Well, this statues were along the way .... I have wanted to photograph them before but never in the right place at the right time. The statues are of "Family of Man". I took several shots of these statues and did a little experimenting to see what might look good.

"These sculptures were specifically commissioned for that part of Britain's Pavilion at Expo 67 which portrayed Britain responding to the challenge of the world problems and meeting international responsibilities. They were conceived and designed by Mario Armengol, who aimed to inspire two moods - an immediate reaction to man dominating and then a contradictory feeling of insignificance and dependence.
The sculptures, despite their height of 21 feet, are unmistakably human - naked, raceless, expressionless men and women. They are placed in groups, hands extended in gestures of fellowship and goodwill.
At the conclusion of Expo 67, Robert Cummings purchased the sculptures on behalf of Maxwell Cummings and Sons, who donated them to the City of Calgary."

Great Sunday Shoot!!

2011-01-31T20:46:00.001-07:00

I had the great opportunity to photograph Alyssa again this Sunday, a daughter of one of the girls I work with. Love shooting her, and it shows that she loves it as well :) We had great fun ... I picked up a couple of different props. But ended up going very simple with many of the photos. Still have problems with posing ideas but it is coming ... we lasted for almost an 1.5hr and it flew by!!

This first image is one of favorites!! Alyssa is not a big hat person but she went along with and pulled off a couple of great images!!

Alyssa was also willing to let me do some different kinds of shots to try out some creative ideas. I am still working on but the first one is below. Working with some texture ideas ... I've had this idea before but wasn't sure how to go about it. So I just decided to go for it and see what the out come would be. And I am quite happy with it.

Winter Weather and Photography!!

2011-01-29T19:42:00.004-07:00

Well, the plan today was to go down check out Chinese New Year. Well, Mother Nature had her own plans today ... so I decided that I would make the best of it and head out for a walk around the block in the Snow!! It did end up being a short walk, but a good one ... it is rather chilly out & I hate wearing a hat so I didn't last long, LoL :)

I did take a few shoots from around the neighbourhood and decided the play with them in Photoshop to see what I could create.

I have always loved Black & Whites and I love to create them as well.

I love the Black & White function in Photoshop, you can be so creative with it. Also played a little with the exposure as well. You can check this photo out in a larger version. If you are interesting in purchasing a print of this image, head to the following link.

Also went to the park!!! I was out early enough that there wasn`t to many folks out and pretty sure most of the kids were home where it was warm. Park was rather fun ... I should hung out there a little longer to shoot so many that will be my project for tomorrow.

The last two here were just they were rather interesting, the way they look in the snow. So that was my Saturday! Not overly exciting but very good and enjoyable.

Looking forward to a studio shoot in the morning and having some new photos to play with.

Baby Booties

2011-01-25T20:28:00.001-07:00

Well, I had this idea a little while ago and how a chance to finally play around with the idea. I still have a few things to try with this idea.

Well, I should show you my idea. LoL :)

Baby Boy Cards

Baby Girl Cards

Twin Cards

I can really see these as announcement cards!! Do a little more playing to see what else I can come up with.

This week had a good start to it ... found some awesome props for my studio. And have been busy cleaning up and reorganizing my studio in preparation to my first in-studio shoot coming up this weekend.

Will be heading down to the Chinese Cultural Centre for Chinese New Year on Saturday to do some shooting. Very Much Looking Forward to This!!

Tinted Image

2011-01-21T20:34:00.002-07:00

This was taken last week when it was very cold here in Calgary. I have been enjoying taking images and seeing what I can recreate in Photoshop. This first image was taken with a Canon G11, a great little camera!!

I have tinted the image in hopes that it will emphasize the black tree branches and the sun shining through it.

And then I had a couple of other ideas that I wanted to try in studio. It always surprises me what things around the house may create a great backdrop for a subject. This backdrop is is of one those fake bamboo curtains that you hang up on your deck to creative some shade. Didn't work well on my deck but sure makes and interesting backdrop.

Well, this was my week, didn't get out to shoot much but decided that playing in studio wouldn't be such a bad thing.

You can purchase the tree image at the following site:
Tinted Tree

Saturday Night Bowling!!!

2011-01-18T17:00:00.000-07:00

It was a good night out with the girls!!! No big scores, but we all had fun and that was all that matter. This is the second year of getting together to bowling, have some pizza and enjoy one anothers company.

I designed the template .. I was aiming for simple and I think it worked. "Very Soft & Fluffy Ladies" was Kate's idea, hahah

Fort Henry - Fun Place to Photograph!!!

2011-01-07T19:31:00.000-07:00

Great stuff to photograph here!! Not only architectural photography but performance photography as well. Interesting way to learn how to judge timing for a performance as well.

It was a good day of shooting well I was there as well as lots to see, hear, learn and do.

Fort Henry - Kingston, Ontario, Canada

The Thin Red Line. As solid as the limestone fortress Crimson-draped Guard ... called to order by the bugle, fife and drum. Eyes and bayonets fixed. The enemy dead ahead. Enfields afire and cannons ablaze. Smoking guns fill the parade square. It's 1867. Fort Henry heats up Wednesday evenings throughout July and August with critically-acclaimed heritage reenactments. The Fort Henry Guard Drums, Drill Square and Artillery Detachment act the story of 1860s military music, drill and artillery maneuvers. Performed entirely by college and university students, this performance invokes patriotism and pride as they demonstrate their passion and skill for the craft.

Did You Know ... ???

IT'S CALLED FORT HENRY BECAUSE ... The peninsula on which Fort Henry is built is called Point Henry, named after Henry Hamilton, 1st Lieutenant Governor of Quebec, 1782-85.
THE FORT WE WORK IN TODAY IS NOT THE ORIGINAL FOR BECAUSE ... The Fort today is the 2nd Fort Henry. The 1st was originally built in 1813. It was dismantled when the 2nd Fort was built from 1832-37.
THE ENEMY THE FORT WAS TO DEFEND AGAINST WAS ... Throughout most of the 1800s, the United States.
THE PURPOSE FOR FORT HENRY WAS ... To defend the terminus of the Rideau Canal, the Royal naval Dockyards and Kingston Harbour.
THE FOR WAS USED AS A PRISONER OF WAR CAMP/INTERMENT CAMP IN ... The 1837 Rebellions, during World War I, 1914-18 and during World War II, 1939-45.
THE YEAR 1867 WAS CHOSEN AS THE YEAR OF PORTRAY BECAUSE ... Even though soldiers were stationed at the Fort from 1812-1891, 1867 was the year for Confederation, when Canada because a nation, and when the Snider-Enfield rifle was introduced into the British Army. The rifle was the first breach-loading rifle (loaded the back of the barrel), representing a major advancement in weaponry.

Just a little history for today!!

New Years Day - Out & About - 2011

2011-01-06T20:51:00.001-07:00

Spent a about an hour out shooting on NewYears Day ... However, it was cold and I didn't last for very long. It felt warming then it really was, and I think froze my poor fingers. But I did get a couple of shots that I kinda like and wanted to share. I have been wanting to photograph some of the skaters that were down at Olympic Plaza but I wanted the motion blur thing to happen. Wanting to try this for ages but just haven't had the time to do so. So New Years Day I made it and was lucky enough that there were some brave souls out skating that day. It was very strange ... I havent been downtown Calgary in a long time when it has been that quiet!!

It was also a good day to go down because there were still the ice sculptures up for the Big New Years Eve party that the city put on. And they were interesting to photograph.

It was a good shoot but very short. One tip for ya, even though you think it is warm out ... wear your mittens anyway!!

Happy & Health Belated New Year!!

RockStar and Fireman, All in One Day!!

2011-01-05T20:17:00.001-07:00

This little guy was awesome!! It wasn't quite his day but he did a great job of dressing up to be a fireman as well and a Rockstar!! Its alot of work for person to put on a Rock Show and then put out a fire.

This was a great shoot and it give me so many new ideas ... don't know when I am going to have time for everything!! haha

Thank You Van!! You did a Great Job!! And Thank you Phil for letting me play with all of your great toys!!

You can check out the rest of the images in the following Album.

RockStar Shoot

2011-01-03T20:52:00.002-07:00

Spent a Great Day with 2 Great Photographers, Amanda & Phil. Phil as a great little studio going and we all got to play with all of his toys!! LoL :)

I also discovered that my Canon G11 is an awesome little camera. I was able to hook up the G11 with pocket wizards was able to set off the strobs and creative some great images.

She was an awesome Little Rocker!!! Played the part well and I think everyone had fun :)

I also used my big Canon 40d camera as well. But I am surprise to see if you really look, you really don't see a difference. But ssshhhhh don't tell, Ok :)

And the Phil pulled out his Flash Ring!! Well, that is an interesting toy!! I might have to look into one of these!!! Which looked something like what is in the following link. And it creatived an interesting look.

It was a thoroughly enjoyable day, with friends, food and shooting. What more can one ask for!!??

I did attempt a little video ... a videographer I am not but I thought I would give it a try. Amanda is shooting in is this video.

This album for this shoot is located at the following: Rock Star!! Will be adding a few more videos to the Rock Star album, once I get them uploaded.

Philip Litke ~ Philip Litke Photography ~ Didsbury, Alberta
Amanda Yakam ~ Illumination Fotography ~ Edmonton Alberta

December 26 - Boxing Day in Canada

2010-12-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

Well, for alot of people that means shopping not for me!! I refuse to get anywhere near a shopping mall, LoL But I did want to get out and do a little shooting and I did. Found a couple great old cars to shoot .. didnt get the greatest shots but I decided that I would make one of the images in to a "Curve Creation" which I haven't done so in a long time.

Then decided it might be interesting to take some shoots of Downtown Calgary and of the Chinook Arch. It is interesting to see how much Calgary has changed in recent years.

And of course I wasn't the only one out!! It was a Dog's Day Out!! Haha

He was a happy guy! Ran after the red furizbee (?? Hmmmm...) the entire time I was there shooting!! So I would say it was a good morning.

You can checkout the rest of the images in the following album "Out and About".

Christmas Day Project

2010-12-25T21:55:00.000-07:00

I had a friend ask me if I would be willing to design a simple birthday poster ... you know one of those ones where there is a great photo of the person and then there is room for the guests to be able to sign it. So I like doing such things but sometimes the creative juices are just not working!! But today I was luck.

I came up with this first one, just a quick little lay out, pink & purple with a heart and it was so simple and clean that I thought it would work out pretty good.

She said she like hearts, and she is a sweet person so I decided hearts it is. Well, then of course I just couldn't do just one poster I had to 2 ... who knows there might just be a 3rd one there somewhere too!!

I photographed Jamilee in late spring this year, on one of the very few nice spring days we had here in Calgary. And the above 2 photos I used are my favorites so I am having a very hard time deciding which ones I like.

Well, that was my Christmas Day project ... and that was about all I did today. I hope everyone had a Happy and Safe Christmas!!

Wednesday Morning Coffee League

2010-12-19T19:56:00.001-07:00

I have finished up all of the photos from this years Bowling Teams. And I am quite happy with them this year.

Team Photo Album

Looking forward to having the chance to photograph these ladies again next year. Its been alot of fun.

Big Group Photo

2010-12-15T16:47:00.001-07:00

Well, today I did up the last of the bowling teams photos as well as the Big Group Photo. This is an easier then said kinda of photo ... to get everyone, which is about 55 people, to listen, and in a good spot and not to hide, haha!! But it is a fun photo because you can get some really interest reactions and great smiles. So I thought I would share a couple of images from todays little shoot.

All these folks are wonderful people and I am so thankful that they have let me come in and take there photos for the last 3 years.

Thank you All ... you are all Beautiful People :)

Another Year, Another Round of Bowling Photos

2010-12-10T16:57:00.003-07:00

Well, another year has gone by and I have had the great opportunity to photograph the Ladies of the Wednesday Morning Coffee League. They are all awesome and I can really see the difference between my knowledge and how much more comfortable the ladies have become having they photos taken. Love the fact that they are willing to give things a try, this year I bought in some step stools so that I can get some different heights. It makes the photos much more interesting and the shorter ladies got to be the tall ones, which rather made their day, I think. LoL
On another note, I am looking forward to shooting out at the Millennium Lanes in Okotoks, Alberta on the evening of March 4, 2011. There is a tournament going on and I will be shooting all of the teams ... should be fun. And a good little workout because it will be shooting and printing at the same time, so it will be an interesting evening.

Playing with Dried Flowers

2010-12-09T10:00:00.004-07:00

December 9, 2010
So, I wasn't sure about this little project but decided I would give it a try. I had picked out a few of the flowers from my garden that made it through for first autumn frost to dry. Mainly, because of the pretty colors that were in the flowers. The flowers dried beautifully and I decided that maybe photographing them might create some interesting photos. In the fall, I purchased a simple grey background for doing product shots on, a neutrel background so that it isn't over powering the shot. And as always, there are all sorts of little treasures in my basement; where I found 2 pieces of slate rock that my Mother (who is the painter in my house) picked somewhere along the way. I cleaned up the rocks which I than used to support the flower and helped to add just a little extra to the image. The lighting was just my simple continuous light which I either brought forward and backed up a little to create some shadows etc. Needless to say I am rather pleased with the out come. I have a few more images that I want to edit and put up to share with you.

Check out the other flowers: Dried Flower Album

Fair Fall - November 2010

2010-12-08T19:23:00.001-07:00

Well, meant to write a little note ages ago regarding my first try at a craft fair. Now, in the grand scheme of things it was successful to me. I got my name out there and people some of my photos. It was a very cold day and people weren't out and about very much but it was there was a fair trickle of people. I did see a few of my co-workers at the fair which made me quite happy.

My set up at the fair. A combination of my photos and my Aunt's photos.

I look forward to giving this a try later on in the new year. I would like to try a farmers market at sometime just to see how that goes. And there are some interesting weekend fairs through out the spring/summer/fall here in Calgary that I want to give a try.

Help Portrait - Calgary

2010-11-30T17:54:00.003-07:00

"Help-Portrait is a movement of photographers who are using their time, equipment and expertise to give back to those who are less fortunate this holiday season."

Help Portrait - Calgary
Help Portrait - Globally

Help Portrait will be held December 3, 2011 ... Looking forward to being part of it next year.

Fall Holiday Fair

2010-11-12T19:35:00.002-07:00

Hi All;

I will have a table with some of my photos at Marlborough Park Community Hall on November 21, 2010 from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

There are many over vendors as well, so it would be a great place to start your Christmas Shopping.

Marlorough Park Community Hall
6012 Madigan Drive NE
Sunday, November 21, 2010
10.30am to 3.30pm

Come and Check it out!!
Kelly

Ottawa, Canada

2010-10-21T12:13:00.001-06:00

October 21, 2010

Ottawa, Canada

The Last of the images from my trip to Ontario. We spent an afternoon in Ottawa, which was just not long enough. So the decision was made to head down to Rideau Canal and check things out. Was even lucky enough to see a couple of boats go through the Canal, connects the city of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada on the Ottawa River to the city of Kingston, Ontario on Lake Ontario.

The day we arrived in Ottawa was only 38c, in the shade so I didn’t do a lot of wandering around outside. When we first arrived, we went for lunch and decided just to snoop around in the mall. And then headed out to find Rideau Canal, passed by Fairmount Laurier, what a beautiful building.

We decided that it would be really rather a neat experience to go in and have a drink in the Laurier. We decided to wander around the Laurier, to check things out and did get some interesting interior images of some of the rooms.

I had a great time on my holidays and it was just to short. Its been a very busy fall, and looking forward to heading with my camera as much as possible.

Checkout the images at the following address:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kellym32ca/sets/72157625062249995/

New Canon G11 - Images

2010-10-08T19:45:00.000-06:00

I purchased a new Canon G11 for my little everywhere I go it goes Camera. And so far I am quite impressed. I am going to take it with me this weekend and give it a good workout just to see how it goes :)

I was hoping for another creative outlet which I think I have found. I always wanted something that I could take with me on an ongoing basic but my big Canon 40D is not always good for that. I have also wanted to be about to do video too. It will be something new and interesting to learn to edit video ... should be interesting to do :)

Just a few images from todays testing and walkabout. The leaves and colors here in Calgary are just about gone but still some pretty spots.

I love the trees right now, they almost look like veins. I pulled this image into Photoshop and turned the background white and the trees black but not with the Black and White layers option but through Camera Raw. Ok confused yet, me too!! And then I did a soft blur. I rather like it and going to have it printed just to see what it will look like.

I was a beautiful day to be out and I really enjoyed my little walk. I need to learn to do this more often than I do.

Well, the weekend will be filled with photos, turkey and family.
Have a Very Happy Thanksgiving Everyone.

Beautiful Day for a Photo Shoot

2010-10-01T20:34:00.000-06:00

Spent a little time with some old friends I havent seen in a long time. Jamie is a friend of a gal I use to work with and for ages we have been trying to work out a little time to spend together so that we could take some photos. Well, today we finally had the chance to do so. I remember Jenna when she was just a baby and I was just starting my photography pursuits and was to "Chicken" to do her photos :)

Jenna and Jamie were awesome models today ... the autumn colors I think suit them both very much. We played in the leaves which I havent done in years!! And it was so much fun!!

One of my Favs from todays shoot.

Check out the rest of their Album, Still have more photos to go which I will work through over the weekend.
Jenna and Jamie - October 2010

I look forward to trying this again!

Little Rocker

2010-09-29T20:54:00.000-06:00

The beginnings of one of my Story board images for my class. Had so much fun with this, looking forward to work through all of these images.

Little Rocker Album

Check it out over the week, will be adding more images.

Evening Shooting in Beautiful Light

2010-09-28T21:44:00.000-06:00

I am currently taking a class at ACAD here in Calgary called the Creative shoot. And Monday night we experimented with evening light. I had forgotten how pretty it can be to shoot in, only had about 15mins but I love the images I got.

One of my favorites is below:

Could you ask for anything more, other than I wished it would have lasted longer so we could have experimented with other locations but hey that is the way it goes.

Please check out the rest of the images from evening: Class Album

Ontario Travels - Knapps Country Market

2010-09-15T20:12:00.000-06:00

Spent an afternoon at Knapps Country Market, where we had lunch and picked up something for supper which was really good. Knapps is both a country farmers market and a nursey, where we wandered about taking photos for quite a while. There was some great scenery and neat details to photograph.

Check out Knapps Website to see all the different things they provide: http://www.knappscountrymarket.com/

Ontario Travels Album

Ontario Travels - Ribfest in Guelph

2010-09-14T21:12:00.001-06:00

Went to this thing call Ribfest in Guelph, well if you like ribs you would have been in heaven!!! There had to have been at least 10 to 15 boths that you could choose from and it was all really good.

We decided to wander around the grounds as well as in to the park where we found some really great scenes.

We ventured off into Riverfront park, where there was some great reflections as well and find a great old dog who was out for his evening walk with his mate. He was quite happy to let us take his photo and to get a good itch behind his ear.

Check out the Album: Ontario Travels 2010

Andrea

2010-09-13T21:04:00.000-06:00

Well, I posted a little note regarding Andrea much early this summer but hadn't had a chance to edit up her photos. Finally, I was able to work had more of her photos and decided to post the ones that she really liked first. I still think it is "All about the Eyes" with her, she has great eyes that just pull you right in.

We decided to try out the bubbles with her to ... that was a fun experiment that turned out not to bad. We both had fun with this shoot and really enjoyed coming up with some new ideas for Andrea.

Andrea's Album

BC & AB Travels - Day Five & Six

2010-09-09T21:50:00.001-06:00

Well, I haven't written the last 2 days but I do have a little time this evening we decided to stay 2 days in Kaslo, BC. Which is just a Little town on Kootenay Lake, that has some really neat little shops that you must visit before 5pm or they unplug the street lights and roll up the streets. LoL

I dont have all of the photos done up yet from our travels around the Kaslo and Nelson area. We travelled across on the ferry from Kootenay Bay to Balfour. That is one twisty whiny road!!! Pretty scenery along the way.

Today, we went to Nelson BC ... didn't see alot there but picked up makings for lunch. Nelson is built all on the side of hill/mountain so the roads are interesting to navigate!! Then travels lakeside all the way back to Kaslo, through Slocan, New Denver, and several other little towns along the way.

Went into Kokane Provincial Park, where we were able to see the Salmon spawning. Salmon only live for 4 years. So these were at the end of there life cycle and were heading back up stream to lay their eggs and died. The park ranger said that there was a bear that was in the creek the night before having supper.

Candles from Creston Candle Factory. Neat little shop, to bad it will be shutting down if it isnt sold.

BC & AB Travels Album

BC & AB Travels - Day Four

2010-09-07T21:04:00.000-06:00

Great day!! We travelled from Cranbrook, through Yahk where we stopped and I took photos of a couple old hotels which is about all there is at Yahk. And then on to Creston, where we picked up fresh tomatos and fresh buns and well that was supper and man was it good!!!

Also went through the Historic Town of Moyie, this is another neat little place. Everything is right on the side of the road, old fire hall and the "Road House" which was rather interesting. The Road House wasnt open but sure has some character to it. Made for some great photographic opportunities.

Great old ford truck outside of the Road House which I dont think has moved in many years.

We are currently staying at Crawford Bay. Not far up the road is the old mine of Roindel, where my great uncle Pat Vance use to work, many many years ago. Drove by the old house they use to live in as well, which is at the village of Kootenay Bay.

Sorry, no photos this evening will post a few tomorrow. Need a early night, :)

ksphotography2009@yahoo.ca

BC & AB Travels - Day Three

2010-09-06T21:26:00.001-06:00

Day Three and all is Good!! We have stayed the last 2 nights in Cranbook where we have been staying in a half of a house with three rooms, 1 bedroom, bedroom/living room and a kitchen/bedroom which is rather unique, hahah :)

Today, we went off to Fort Steele heritage site which was interesting to go through. Check out the site, it has some neat stuff on it: http://www.fortsteele.ca/

This was a great couple of hours wandering around checking out the old buildings, the animals, bakery (which had some great cinnimon buns) and just seeing how things were.

Then it was off down the road to Wasa Lake which at many times we have been there was just packed with people. Well, today, the beach was empty and there was just one brave soul out walking. When we all got out of bed this morning it was only +4c. Wasa Lake is one of those places I remember from when I was a kid, I won of button for running in the Sand Castle contest. LoL

Wasa Lake, BC

Then off down the road again we all went to Kimberley, BC, which has an alphine village feeling to it. It is a neat little places to photograph and go shopping in. Only had a few minutes to shoot and off course hit the fudge shop!!!

City of Kimberley ~ Attractions

More Images are being added each day from this trip.

BC & AB Travels - Day Two

2010-09-05T21:51:00.001-06:00

Today, was a rather soggy wet day but it did dry out here and there so that we can do a little sight seeing with out getting to wet.

Stopped off at the Kootenay Trout Hatchery and fed the fish, hahah. There were several large trout out front in a pond that one could feed and well they were fed quite well.

"The Kootenay Trout Hatchery is operated by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, a non-profit agency that operates five trout hatcheries and a fish health unit in BC.
KTH opened in 1966 - since then it has raised 125 million trout, char, kokanee and white sturgeon."
Site: http://www.fortsteele.ca/rates/othertodo/kootenay-trout-hatchery.asp

The fall colors have arrived in the Kootenay Valley, just light touches here and there but soon Autumn will be in its full glory here.

Before supper, we decided to go for a drive and went up to Jim Smith Lake.

Then we went down the road a little ways to Moyie Lake, which we will be going by again in a couple of days. And through the historical town of Moyie, which looks like have some really great old builds which I am looking forward to photographing.

Walked along the shore of the lake which was beautiful but definitely not swimming season anymore. There is spring that bubbles up in the sided pool which was interesting to see and wish I could have gotten closer.

BC & AB Travels Album

BC & AB Travels - Day One

2010-09-04T21:08:00.000-06:00

Well, off we all went to BC for the week to get away. And it was a beautiful day to go, the great southern Alberta Blue Skies with awesome puffy white clouds.

Make down through Nanton Alberta in to the Crowsnest Pass area with Frank Slide is located. Didnt stop at Frank Slide this year but did stop at the Burmis Tree again to see what kind of shots I could get with my wide angle lens ... and I think I was successful. Will post these images when I can.

Check out the album for this trip at the following address:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kellym32ca/sets/72157624756343355/with/4959038532/

Spending the evening at Fernie BC, neat little town, havent been here in a long time, and really dont remember much of it. Looks like a great places to be if you are a skier however :)

Travels

2010-08-30T08:39:00.001-06:00

Well, I have been on the go for a week on in Ontario and it's has been a good week. I will been heading home Thursday and will be looking forward to my own bed and pillow. And a cup of good Kicking Horse Coffee, which I sssooo miss.

Currently, I am on the train to Kingston via Toronto. I like the idea of train travel maybe it is a nostalgia thing, train travel in the movies always seemed to be an elegant way to go.

A friend of mine from Edmonton decided to travel about a little bit this year and we met up in Guelph. Spent a day in Toronto and a day snooping around Guelph, checking out the farmer market.

This years NSI was awesome!! The instructor for my class on lighting and posing was the very knowledgable Hanson Fong from California. It was a great course, learned alot and looking forward to giving it all a try. I always come away with some great ideas, new look on my photography and life. Here's hoping it stays with me all year long.

I truly enjoyed the atmosphere of NSI this year. Not sure whether it was because I knew more people or because I have decided not to give in to the shy quiet side. I am hoping to find the happy medium between the two.

Shall post again soon!!

Nsi, The First Day

2010-08-22T10:51:00.000-06:00

This years NSI is about to begin!! I am so looking forward to it and learning some new techniques and getting some new great ideas as well. This is my 3rd year here and have met some really great people and awesome photographers. Its like going to camp everything, only here you get to drink.

Check it out:
http://www.niagaraschool.com/

Kelly