Tuesday, August 31, 2010

The Insiders


For followers of "my mind's eye", this subject is a companion image to "The Outsider" (refer to August archive).  These Bixi "bikes for hire" line Montreal downtown streets, and based on the number of riders, they seem to have hit the spot with the locals. While the bikes lend themselves to a Mary Poppins style posture for the riders, I do enjoy the symmetry and balance of shapes, tones and textures in these modern day urban stables. 

Ottawa, Canada 07.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 59mm | ISO 500 | shutter 1/200 | f 9.0

Monday, August 30, 2010

Harvest Coming


The lands are filled with Peaches n Cream, as corn fields grow high, summertime memories bring smiles to faces, and our children head off to school for another year.  A favorite time of the year for me.  

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 400 | shutter 1/500 | f 16.0

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Fine Print


Incredibly, monogrammed grains of rice continue to be a mainstay on the Ottawa tourist circuit.  Proof once again that there remains a market for virtually anything in Western society.  What about Custom Canadian Handcrafted Organic Toothpicks? Hmmm...

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 32mm | ISO 500 | shutter 1/160 | f 8.0

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Rocky Scoops


Taking a walkabout before catching up with a couple of brothers from University days.  Came across this gentleman, not looking too satisfied with how things were going.  Sadly, the sign over his shoulder seemed to sum up what life appeared to be dishing out for him.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 45mm | ISO 500 | shutter 1/200 | f 9.0

Friday, August 27, 2010

Breaking Storm


While storm clouds covered the region, the Sun fought hard to get it's share of the skyscape.  Quite dramatic from a distance, and a subtle reminder that no matter how dark things get, always remember the Sun will shine again.

For my friend Dennis, who is dealing with a curve ball.  Thoughts are with you Denny.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 56mm | ISO 800 | shutter 1/50 | f 18.0

Country Calm



Another rural shot - a beautiful field and a crisp day.  Shooting these scenes immediately slows down the the mind.  The passerby stopping to see if I needed help was an eye opener - sadly it took a few seconds to switch my mental frame from "caution, predator" to "good neighbor".    

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 16mm | ISO 400 | shutter 1/500 | f 16.0

Thursday, August 26, 2010

If it still works...


As part of my country walkabout, came across this farmer's shed - or what was left of it.  Half-boards hanging from a weathered frame.  It exemplified the practicality and waste-free living of our farming community - forcing you to think "do we really really need five iPods?".  Loved the contrast captured in the outer boards, against the dark interior.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi | focal 85mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/125 | f 5.6

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

The Red Barn


This majestic Red Barn is a brilliant structure on a nearby country road.  As I understand, red barns were a European farming tradition brought over to North America over 200 years ago.  Why red?... One explanation is that, way back when, wealthy farmers would mix the blood from a recent slaughter to the oil mixture used to protect their buildings.  I wonder what the equivalent practice would be in today's corporate world. 

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon Digital Rebel XSi | focal 24mm | ISO 400 | shutter 1/50 | f 13.0

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Conviction!?


This gentleman was walking the street on a busy shopping day with his message in hand.   I continue to be torn in these situations between a respect for the conviction one requires to step out from the herd and being desensitized to the potential of "the crazy".  My preference is to err on the side of the former.  As for the picture, while not the most esthetically beautiful, I was glad to have delivered on rule Number 1 - "get the shot".  The stoic determined stride as he passes the onlookers tells a tale.

Montreal, Canada 05.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 85mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/30 | f 29.0

Monday, August 23, 2010

Caged Spirit


If you haven't figured out by now, I am a big fan of unintended symbolism in the space around us.  This is one example I captured in downtown Montreal.  Looking at this sight, the first thing that struck me was this image of a caged spirit ("esprit" in French) being rejuvenated in a city of decadence.  A stretch? Well - it was cool to me anyway.

Montreal, Canada 05.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 26mm | ISO 640 | shutter 1/50 | f 25.0

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Hogs & Heifers


Hogs & Heifers is a biker bar in the heart of the New York's Meat Packing District.  Full of flavorful characters and atmosphere, this joint promises nothing but authentic.  The power of the front of this place called me as we were walking by, to capture it for others to enjoy.

http://www.hogsandheifers.com/

Meat Packing District, New York City 08.2009

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 33mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/100 | f 4.5

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Serenity Now


Attending an all day meeting, where the organizer in his wisdom decided offsite would be best for all.  Its amazing how much you can get done away from steel and fluorescent lights.

Calabogie, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/125 | f 16.0

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Draft Team



Popped into a competition of Draft Horses in Navan.  Big and beautiful, these teams are wonderful to watch.  In this shot, I enjoy the perspective from behind the plexiglass, a point of view common to all who have spent one too many hours in an arena.  The effect of the glass on the light, and capture of the horses in motion convey the spirit in the space on that day.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 3200 | shutter 1/30 | f 9.0

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Flower Child


After his fun romps with Simba, Nemo likes to find the tall grass and crash.  Sitting amongst the yellow blooms on this day, he reminded me of some kind of canine flower child (without the psychedelics).  He just loves to be outside with the family.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS Rebel Digital XSi | focal 200mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/640 | f 4.0

Monday, August 16, 2010

Alpha Mom


Another beautiful evening walk with the boys.  It's wonderful watching these two goofballs with my wife.  They look to her with such affection, and desire to please - and for someone who was a cat person, she has learned why they are man's best friend.  Lucky all the way around.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 200mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/1600 | f 4.0

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Sunday Morning


Early Sunday morning on a weekend getaway, and off to a lazy start.  Perfect.

Montreal, Canada 07.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 17mm | ISO 2500 | shutter 1/500 | f 4.5

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Reflection


From a sidewalk cafe in downtown Montreal, I noticed how the windows of one of the high rises captured the reflections of a classic copper roof seen on so much of the city's historic architecture.  I liked the interesting blend of past and present.

Montreal, Canada 07.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 85mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/100 | f 8.0

Friday, August 13, 2010

Fair Play


Fair season here once again, and on this evening we thought we would make our way out to the Navan Fair.  This is a real country fair, bringing together the local rural community, showing off livestock, the demolition derby, and of course the Midway.  The people and corn dogs were a-plenty - it was good to see the fun being had.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/200 | f 9.0

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Center Stage


Came across this street performer with his partner - two self-proclaimed graduate students with the Cirque du Soleil.  On what was a slow day in the Market, these young performers brought a perfect combination of skill, energy and style.  They owned the crowd ... it was great to see.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 14mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/160 | f 13.0

The Outsider


Over the past couple of years, Montreal streets have been lined with these bike rental stables, with new shiny, clean, uniform bikes in the middle of the action, ready to be used.  Came across one of these stations, where I noticed this beat up, rusted-out old bike, laying helpless next to the Chosen Ones.  Was tickled by the symbolism, a stone's throw from St. Catherine St.

Montreal, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 13mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/80 | f 9.0

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Morning Fog


On a recent morning drive, with a detour down a country road, we happened upon this farmer' field with its wonderful morning fog rising.  Loved the calm of the moment, and was feeling fortunate that such a site could be so close to home.  Had the camera and salesmanship to convince the team for a brief stop to capture the moment.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 59mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/1000 | f 13.0

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Friends


These are the Boys.  Nemo, the Golden, is a rescue dog.  When we first got him, we really did not know whether he would make it to a normal day to day life.  We also had no idea the impact Simba would have on his life.  The two are inseparable, and grow every day with each other.  You can never underestimate the power of friendship.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 126mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/400 | f 4.0

Monday, August 9, 2010

Quenching the Thirst

Sam


This is Sam, a long time friend of the family.  Sam is a pretty easy going guy, always open for good conversation.  He has not been feeling well recently.  Hoping for his quick recovery.

Ottawa, Canada 07.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 200mm | ISO 1000 | shutter 1/500 | f 4.0

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Caffe Roma



We heard about this little place on Mulberry Street that is known for its coffee and desserts.  With their amazing Cappucino, Cannolis, Tiramisu, and Lemon Granita, the colorful case of characters at Caffe Roma did not disappoint.

http://nymag.com/listings/stores/caffe-roma/

Little Italy, New York 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 17mm | ISO 1000 | shutter 1/100 | f 13.0

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Any Questions?


Came across this sign while walking about the West Village.  Must say it was a first, and that I found the directness oddly refreshing.  There is something to be said for clarity.

West Village, New York 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 17mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/800 | f 11.0

Sunflowers


Finally got out to catch a shot of this field near our place.  I'm not a flowers and garden kinda guy, but there is something about sunflowers that make them stand out from the rest.  When in bloom, a field of sunflowers looks to me like a bunch of happy smiling beings all staring up to the sky.  You can't help but stop and enjoy. 


Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 320 | shutter 1/60 | f 8.0

Friday, August 6, 2010

The Dinosaur


A couple of months ago, my friend Steve introduced me to a great BBQ joint in Syracuse.  "Dinosaur" is a perfect mix of great food and atmosphere.  As it turns out, it seems like I was the last to hear about this place.  Enjoyed a second visit on our way to NYC.  If you don't mind a biker or two, strongly recommend it .. try the wings.


http://www.dinosaurbarbque.com/

Syracuse, New York 07.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 17mm | ISO 2500 | shutter 1/320 | f 4.0

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Passing Lane


We've done what seems like a thousand road trips.  More often than not the rides down and back are as full of stories as the time at our vacation spots.  On this voyage, conservative talk radio dominated the airwaves and restaurant serving staff seemed less familiar with their menus than we were... all good fun and worth a couple classics for future reference.

I-85, New York 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/200 | f 4.0

The Herd


While walking about in New York, we came across a number of interesting things as you might guess.  This was a wall display in a SoHo clothing store.  This place was beautifully put together, and had pieces as original as the decor.  Had to capture these Rams heads for the gallery, before the inevitable "Sorry Sir, no photos here!"

SoHo, New York  08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 33mm | ISO 1000 | shutter 1/125 | f 4.5

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Repose


It was a busy day in SoHo.  Lots of people, merchants were happy.  After coming out of a shop, I noticed these two gals taking a break, from what I was sure was a long day.  People resting on ledges, curbs...wherever...was one of those things that caught my eye this time around.

SoHo, New York  07.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 22mm | ISO 400 | shutter 1/60 | f 13.0

Dragon Fruit


While in New York City's Chinatown, we came across this street vendor with a wonderful display of fruits.  The rich color and abundance in the display of Dragon Fruit caught our attention.  The activity in this area is non-stop, and not for the faint of heart.  Our purchase was a bag of incredible nectarines which hit the spot after the hours of walking.

Canal Street, New York  07.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 17mm | ISO 250 | shutter 1/15 | f 14.0

Monday, August 2, 2010

New York Sky


New York is quite an amazing city.  I was sitting in Times Square enjoying the smooth flow and conversation of people around me.  Watching the activity, I get this feeling of how the people around me are really a small community from all different cultures wandering in this forest, a meeting place of lights and skyscrapers.  Captured this shot of the New York sky from amongst the trees.

Times Square, New York 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/2000 | f 3.5