MovingPic: "A Walk in the Byward Market"

Here is a first step towards my goal to expanding my storytelling through a new visual medium: video.  This will be an exciting journey is learning, refining and bringing together all the variables that are needed to harness the potential of video shorts.  Let's see how it goes.

Ottawa, Canada  12.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 7D | Post Production Apple Final Cut Pro X  Gear  Canon 10-22mm/24-70mm, Manfrotto Tripod

The Baptism

The crowd has gathered for the baptism of the treasured girl.  Daughter, cousin, niece, and future friend to many - all gather at the celebration in her honor.  Observing, I am taken by this image of this wonderful child, surrounded by so much love.  What better place to be for the journey ahead.

Ottawa, Canada  11.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 42mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/125 | f 3.5

She's All That

Enjoying a wonderful celebration at a family baptism, the children were running joyful and free.  Magic show, singing, and a game of tag in their Sunday best.  Caught in the excitement of the game, the kids trip to the ground, giving this little guy a chance to steal a kiss.  Remember those days?

Ottawa, Canada  11.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 70mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/50 | f 2.8

The Commute

As a people watcher, the New York subway provides a rich stage.  It offers a wonderful blending of local and traveller, affluent and on the margins, the joyous and the burdened.  A delicious range of societal extremes that are reshuffled from stop to stop.  What is clear from each ride is that a common thread is shared across the commuters - that in the end, all are just trying to make their way the best they can.

New York, New York, 08.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 400 | shutter 1/25 | f 11

Vegas Glow

Another early Vegas morning, the room once again lit by the neon green glow of the strip. While some (many) find this to be a bit on the side of tacky, I find the glitz and lights entertaining.  Granted, it is over the top, but it is also unapologetic.  Love it or leave it - with no in between.  The clarity of what this town is offering cuts through the subtlety.  Not necessarily a bad thing some days.

Las Vegas, Nevada 10.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/4 | f 3.5

Scrap Metal

I love street performers.  Laying their talent on the line for all to see.  This group was no exception.  The "Scrap Metal" trio jammed away on the Las Vegas strip , a junkyard symphony of plastic pails and metal drums, banging out a hypnotic beat.  What was great to see was how these artists were lost in their music, almost as much as the onlookers were taken by their passion.

Las Vegas, Nevada 10.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 27mm | ISO 1000 | shutter 1/40 | f 22

La Fontana

We stopped by this Italian fountain near "The Venetian" for a brief pause, admiring the tribute to Piazza San Marco, canals and gondoliers.  I must admit, once you allow yourself to step back from the point where grandeur meets gaudy, the accomplishments of Las Vegas theme casinos are quite incredible.  Attention to every detail, wrapped in a masterful process of squeezing as much from the consumer as possible - something to behold.

Las Vegas, Nevada 10.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/5 | f 22

Urban Cowboy

During our walkabout, we came across one of the coolest urban cowboys you will meet.  He was setup on a walkway arching over the Las Vegas strip, leaning back as he looked into the setting sun, playing his squeeze box.  When I gestured to him to capture his image, he smiled and said "yyyip" - and when I asked if he had an email address I could send the image to, his answer was a precise "nnnope".  We added some appreciation to his tin cup, and then moseyed off into the sunset.

Las Vegas, Nevada 10.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 15mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/30 | f 13

Sleepless

After a long day of travel across time zones, I was faced with the inevitable 3 a.m. wide eyed delirium.  Trying to get back to sleep, I found myself wandering my hotel room, grinning at the green neon from the street that was lighting the ceiling.  As I filled a drink of water, hoping that might do the trick, I noticed the intriguing effect of the side lighting in the mirror.  Of course, it was as good a time as any for a first self portrait.

Las Vegas, Nevada 10.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 17mm | ISO 250 | shutter 1/30 | f 4

il Laboratorio del Gelato

In pursuit of the best gelato NYC had to offer, we found this spot on East Houston street.  Il Laboratorio del Gelato delivered on its reputation - refreshing and delicious gelato flavour, in a storefront with beauty through simplicity.  If you have the chance, don't be turned off by the lineup.  It's worth the wait.

http://www.laboratoriodelgelato.com/

New York, New York 08.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 400 | shutter 1/25 | f 11

50th Street Station

The New York City underground is great.  The subways provide an environment full of flavour.  People from around the world, from all walks of life, on the move.  As a subject, these spaces are equally fun to work with, trying to capture the essence of the moment with the constraints of time, light, and traveller patience.

New York, New York 08.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/8 | f 5.6

Under Pier 21

Walking along the beach beyond the Atlantic City Boardwalk, we cross under this massive pier supporting a fun collection of boutiques and restaurants.  The water breaking against the pillars, combined with the worn concrete and sparse light made for an interesting setting and subject to capture.

Atlantic City, New Jersey 08.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 22mm | ISO 1000 | shutter 1/125 | f 8.0

Lincoln Road

A great night out was spent on Lincoln Road.  Humming with the crowds of interesting people, sidewalk cafes packed with friends, and the pleasureful mix of scents, sights and sounds,  A must see for people watchers.

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 2000 | shutter 1/5 | f 3.5

Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive, South Beach Miami - the land of sun, sand, adventure and oddities.  Lotta fun!

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/80 | f 13

Rico Suave

Walking Bayside, and in the middle of the afternoon, a salsa band was in full force.  A crowd had gathered in front of the stage and lines of energetic dancers had formed.  Off to the side was this dapper looking gentleman - dressed to the nines, and bringing it.  Eyes closed, moving to the beat, he was enjoying every minute of it.  Oh the joy of dance.

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 70mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/400 | f 5.6

Beach Patrol

Sitting in a pimped out golf cart, this gent was keeping a close eye on the holiday crowds, maintaining the peace.  While the contrast was enough to grab our attention, the ink, icy glare and gold filled smile was enough of a reminder to keep our cool.  Respect.


Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 48mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/250 | f 2.8

Table is Set

The sidewalk patios prepared for the 4th of July dinner celebrations.  White linens, the setting sun, and hungry South Beach worshipers were the right ingredients for the evening's birthday festivities. 

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/160 | f 6.3

Divine

Along Ocean Drive, there was a giant clock and calendar, which provided tourists the photo opp to mark their visit to South Beach on the 4th of July.  Next to the clock was this gent, sliding himself into frame after frame, hitting his sharpest poses.  It was no surprise when pointing to my camera, that he obliged with his best photo shoot moves and smile.  It didn't hurt that my brother was behind me doing his best "love the camera" routine.

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 70mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/250 | f 2.8

Mr. Miami - In Action

South Miami has its version of a "muscle beach".  Groups of lads workout under the summer sun: push ups, pull ups, curling logs.  Not surprisingly, this guy was a stand out.  His unique cross training regime of body weight strength training, acrobatics, pole dancing (yes) and quite an impressive fitness level had the onlookers mesmerized.  Just couldn't help but say "dang".

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/640 | f 2.8

La Vita Bella

Grabbing a bite at the News Cafe, we had the pleasure of witnessing a master at work.  This waiter, anticipating the Hari Krishna parade marching down the sidewalk, made his way to the front of their line, and led the parade through the outdoor patio, ending with a Krishna "high five".  His positive vibe was appreciated by all.

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 22mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/60 | f 7.1

Mr. Miami

South Miami has its version of a "muscle beach".  Groups of lads workout under the summer sun: push ups, pull ups, curling logs.  Not surprisingly, this guy was a stand out.  His unique cross training regime of body weight strength training, acrobatics, pole dancing (yes) and quite an impressive fitness level had the onlookers mesmerized.  Just couldn't help but say "dang".

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 68mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/320 | f 2.8

Chillin'

Spending some time on Ocean Dr. in South Beach on the 4th of July, and the cast of characters did not disappoint.  This gent, with his two amigos, was the coolest thing on this hot day.  Chilling on his custom HD, he confidently gives the nod to go ahead and capture this moment.

Getting the shot ...

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 42mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/800 | f 2.8

One Man Band

Walking along Bayside, we came across the One Man Band.  A performer from NYC, this seasoned entertainer's smile emitted his love of music, which was further accentuated in a charming and flirtatious rendition of Happy Birthday to the beautiful Stephanie. 

Miami, Florida 07.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 32mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/60 | f 3.2

Waiting for John

As part of any good charity event, a special place was made for the special guests: community leaders, titans of industry and the most authentic of politicians.  This scene caught my eye, the symmetry, simplicity and calm before the storm.

Ottawa, Canada 06.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 70mm | ISO 160 | shutter 1/125 | f 4.5

The Hill

On this overcast Sunday morning in Majors Hill Park, I was volunteering some photography time for a fundraiser.  This view of Parliament Hill was a reminder to me of the beautiful city we live in.  I often try to put on a tourist's lens when looking at Ottawa.  It is too easy sometimes to take for granted this town of ours.

Ottawa, Canada 06.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 22mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/320 | f 9.0

After the Vows 2

The ceremony had ended on this beautiful Spring evening.  The guests filed into the tent ready for an evening of celebration, joyfully sharing in the excitement of the new bride and groom.  A beautiful couple, a wonderful moment, and appreciating having had the opportunity to share in the wedding day (... and wishing I had more camera in hand than my Blackberry)

Ottawa, Canada 06.2011

ShotSpecs: Blackberry 9800 | focal - mm | ISO - | shutter - | f -

After the Vows

The ceremony had ended on this beautiful Spring evening.  The guests filed into the tent ready for an evening of celebration, joyfully sharing in the excitement of the new bride and groom.  A beautiful couple, a wonderful moment, and appreciating having had the opportunity to share in the wedding day (... and wishing I had more camera in hand than my Blackberry)

Ottawa, Canada 06.2011

ShotSpecs: Blackberry 9800 | focal - mm | ISO - | shutter - | f -

Clifton Hill

Clifton Hill is a classic tourist attraction in Niagara Falls.  Some may call it over the top, but boring it is not.  A very eclectic cross section of society cram the streets - from bikers to brides to be (some are both).  It is a sight that forms a sharp contrast against the dramatic Falls which serve as a nearby backdrop.  This shot was taken 175 feet above this landmark, from the giant Skywheel - where better?

Niagara Falls, Canada 05.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/15 | f 3.5

Willy Wonka

Walking the over-the-top Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls, we popped into this "homemade fudge" shop.  The craftsman at work drew a crowd both inside out out.  His masterful circling of the the marble workbench, the skillful mixing of the delicious mixture, and the unhesitating fill of the fudge brick form was captivating.  We convinced ourselves that the precious metal pricing of the Canadian Maple and Walnuts treat was attributed more to the skill of the fudge maker, that naivete of the tourist.

Niagara Falls, Canada 05.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 19mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/15 | f 5.0

unRest and a Latte

A crisp, sunny Saturday morning in Montreal.  Window shopping and people watching on St.Laurent, we jump into one of our favorite cafes to grab a hot drink and a warm seat.  Enjoying a care free day, sitting back as my best friend grabs our drinks, I notice the gent in front of me flipping through the morning paper.  The cover page was the level set - a cold reminder of our freedoms and blessings.

Montreal, Canada 02.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/30 | f 2.8

Le Parlement du Québec

As we settled in for the night, the crisp evening gave us a wonderful view of the Quebec City Parliament Hill.  It overlooks the Old City, with lights gently reflecting off it's stone face.  The calmness and contrast of the evening provide for a memorable site, and a moment of reflection that we are a better Nation together than apart.

Quebec City, Canada 03.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 13mm | ISO 160 | shutter 2.0 | f 4.0

Rabbit Hop

This gorgeous storefront caught our eye.  Great color and textures, Le Lapin Saute was a classic Old Quebec stop.  Our only regret was not having the opportunity to try their wonderful menu.  On the list next time we are in town.

http://www.lapinsaute.com/

Quebec City, Canada 03.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 11mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/40 | f 3.5

Day at the Track

As we walked the Old City, we happened upon a crowd, watching these young x-treme athletes bombing down the Red Bull sponsored track that ran miles around the city.  Speed, jumps, turns, and focus, all translated into great afternoon sport.  Go Canada!

http://www.redbull.com/cs/Satellite/en_INT/Red-Bull-Crashed-Ice-2011/001242785030624

Quebec City, Canada 03.2011

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 22mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/2500 | f 4.5