Makeover

This school bus was in rough shape, and left me with questions on the story that brought it to this point.  Mostly, it struck me as symbolizing the state of our school systems today.  How we must take a fresh new look to the future needs of our youth and society, and placing the appropriate value on our teachers and on quality education.  Without this prioritization now, we will pay in the not to distant future.

Ottawa, Canada 10.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 25mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/200 | f 4.5

Cool as Ice

Came across these street artists creating this piece from blocks of ice and colored paints.  The process involved the use of picks to chip away along the top of the wall of ice, and then the squeezing of different colored fluids into the grooves that were formed, with a resulting flowing and blending that rendered this result.  The combination of the daylight through the ice, the beautiful transparency of the blocks, and the blending of the many colors resulted in an interesting creation that continued to evolve with each pass.

Ottawa, Canada 10.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 55mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/400 | f 7.1

Sam I Am

This is a special young guy.  He is at a wonderful point in his life, full of energy, filled with questions as he looks to understand the world around him, and a sense of humor used for good versus evil.  On this day, he was a willing and excellent subject for this image.

Ottawa, Canada 10.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 800 | shutter 1/30 | f 2.8

Hunka Hunka Burning Love

What does it mean for your day when you happen upon a sidewalk Elvis impersonator knocking out the King's greatest.  He was into it, as was the crowd.  Say what you will, but Elvis Presley was about as cool as they came.  A true original, and it will be a long time before we see another like him, if ever in our lifetimes.

Ottawa, Canada 10.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 64mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/1250 | f 4.5

Post No Bills

Walking to our next destination, I had to double-take when passing this site.  A construction site, with a "Post No Bills" message, and a less than successful result.  Had to chuckle and capture it for the record.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 22mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/200 | f 4.5

Release Me

I'm a pretty easy going guy for the most part.  However, I am first to admit that my passionate side can at times translate to fixations.  This Hydro corridor is one of them.  When we first moved into our home, the farmers' fields near our place, had teeny tiny towers delivering power from there to here.  They drove me crazy.  They were hypnotic - all I saw in that field.  Hating the way they cut through the landscape.  Then came the day we dreaded.  The tiny were changed with the non-tiny.  My internal fury swelled - as I waited for the fields to be paved over with gray concrete.  I have slowly come to welcome them when I see them now.  While they are still the ugliest of beasts, especially in recent times, I have decided ... ENOUGH ALREADY.  Moving on.

Ottawa, Canada 10.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 200mm | ISO 800 | shutter 1/8000 | f 4.0

Terminal

Travel has played a varying role in my business life over the years.  Road Warriors understand that this lifestyle is a two-edged sword.  I have never really minded the travel - a lot of time in transit, in a bunch of different places, provided a rich opportunity to observe.  Terminals provide a highly energized cross-section of activity.  People on their journeys: young professionals, fresh new starts, family bonding, alone and wanting to get home.  A wonderful collection of experiences spanning the best and the worst our society has become.

Ottawa, Canada 07.2009

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 41mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/200 | f 6.3

In the Shadows

More along the Fall theme.  The thing that made this shot for me was the combination of the simplicity of the bed of leaves cut sharp by the diagonal shadow being cast.  I often find that the most simple of things can provide the most interesting of subjects to capture.

Ottawa, Canada 10.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 46mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/1250 | f 2.8

Fall from Grace

On a Sunday visit, and with Canon in tow, the time was right to get a few early Fall pics.  Looking at the lawn covered in fallen leaves that had better days, I noticed this green leaf amongst the old and withered, looking like it had fallen well before its time.  An interesting metaphor for the pressures faced by the career minded in today's hyper competitive workplaces.

Ottawa, Canada 10.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 48mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/1000 | f 2.8

Home and Castle

On another walkabout, I came across this downtown home that had been renovated to include this interesting tin faced tower with stained glass window.  The lines, lighting contrasts and materials combined to create a interesting and appealing visual...worth capturing.

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/250 | f 5.0

Pop Life

This is one of those shots that just happened.   Lucky enough to capture this fine lady on her way back from grocery shopping.  Was tickled by her contrast against the exhibition poster advertising the Pop Life exhibition (still time to see it).  She strikes me as having passed through "Pop Life" on her way to "Real Life" years ago.  A gal on a mission ... "don't waste my time and get out of my way"

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/50 | f 11.0

Step Right Up ...

Another shot from a Summer Fair, capturing one the oldest ways of introducing games of chance to children around the world.  With lower odds than Vegas, requiring skills comparable to Ninjas, and payouts so meager that put cheap Uncle Billy to shame - how can we resist.  Who knew that the void deep down inside could be filled by an 8 foot stuffed purple python, with white fur collar.

Ottawa, Canada 08.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 2500 | shutter 1/50 | f 9.0

Ring of Fire

Coming out of a workshop, a bit of "me" time after a long less than stellar day, this fountain called out to me.  A subject of an earlier photo (see "Refresher" Sept.11), this fountain had taken on a whole new shape.  I was drawn by how the combination of back lighting and contrast, turned water into what appeared to be bubbling, flaming lava.  Captured well my feelings from the day.

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi | focal 33mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/200 | f 4.5

The Church

This is the Holy Korean Martyrs Church, nestled away in the downtown core.  This tiny Chapel is set back on a well manicured lot, looking a bit out of place amongst its neighbors, but confident in its presence.  The contrast of this place against its environment struck me as very interesting.

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi | focal 10mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/400 | f 3.5

Eye of the Beholder

Generally, I'm a fan of graffiti - I qualify that by pointing out not all graffiti is equal.  This age old street art requires a combination of imagination, basic materials, fast work and large bold confident strokes.  The results of talented artists can be breathtaking.  I was drawn to this piece from across a downtown side street - its vibrant colors, and dynamic flows were great.  The canvas?  The side of a chip truck.  Unfortunately, as often seen, the good was juxtaposed by bad graffiti (off image) defacing the piece with details of what some guy named Moz does in his private time.

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 28mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/120 | f 8.0

Pimped Mini

Came across this classic VW "hippie bus" that was restored and decked out in delicious, non-traditional, metallic colors - looking as happy as can be.  Kind of neat thinking back how these oddities in their day, where actually way ahead of what we know today as the ubiquitous family minivan which fills our suburban landscape.  Peace brothers and sisters.

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 28mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/60 | f 6.3

Parade

Another street shot from Montreal, caught this group of Krishna (based on the little ditty) parading up and down the heart of the Rue Ste. Catherine.  Everyone was happy - the workers were happy, the shoppers were happy, I was happy - and of course the Parade participants were happy.  Their bliss was something to see ... a case of deep inner peace or, possibly, special brownies for dessert at lunch.  In Montreal, anything goes.

Ottawa, Canada 05.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 72mm | ISO 1600 | shutter 1/40 | f 29.0

Escape

There are two things I love about photography: 1. capturing moments in time that are not always seen with your day-to-day observation, and 2. that interesting moments are everywhere once you free your mind.  Looking up on this day, the overlapping hexagonal geometrics and tones were of particular interest to me.  My memory of iron fire escapes growing up, were imagination based, getting away from bad guys, on these structures that always seemed ready to fall off the side of buildings. 

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 25mm | ISO 500 | shutter 1/1600 | f 2.8

Bacchus

Walking past this local restaurant, I was drawn by the character of their entrance.  Visitors are greeted by a nice heavy aged wood door, with a playful metal relief of Bacchus (the god of wine and intoxication).  I am sucker for the marriage of materials, textures and tones, and this was a great example of it.  Unfortunately, nowadays it is becoming more difficult to distinguish between an authentic piece versus one that has been treated to look like it has character without the experience of time.  Another sad metaphor of the times we live in.  Focus on and reward substance. 

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/200 | f 4.5

Blank Slate

Amidst construction and torn up streets, this clean white wall against a wonderful Fall blue sky stood out.  The combination of the lines, simple colors and tones was oddly calming.  At closer look, it appeared that the whitewash was in part to cover up some graffiti - or unknowingly to create a fresh canvas for future works.
 
Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/800 | f 13.0

The Painter

I met this street artist on a Saturday morning.  Dan is from New Brunswick, and has created and maintained this piece since last winter.  He explained the sidewalk painting's three frames - the Owl (far right), a RIP in honor of a friend who recently passed on  (far left), and the center frame which was a work in progress.  Dan was proud that the piece has remained intact over many seasons, and how he expects it would still be there after he was gone.  Mentioned that I would add these pics to "my mind's eye" - he thought that would be great "The more that can see it, the better".

Dan - if you make it to the site, thanks for sharing.
 
Ottawa, Canada 09.2010

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/200 | f 9.0

Night Palms

After an evening walk in Hallandale, my attention was caught by these palms and the interesting highlighting of their tops, by the parking lot lights, against the moonlit sky.  One of my fondest memories was from a May evening almost 20 years ago, walking in this same area and thinking about the future, with the sounds of the Waterways, and the rustling of the leaves by an amazing warm breeze...feels like yesterday.

 
Ottawa, Canada 07.2009 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 56mm | ISO 100 | shutter 20 | f 8.0

Diner

Classic diners and their retro Art Deco cars are great.  A throwback to a simpler time, unpretentious comfortable menu, and the jukebox playing in the background.  We spotted this place along the highway near Fort Lauderdale, and stopped in for some lunch - great.  The combination of stainless steel, palm trees and a sunny Floridian sky called out to be captured.  "You gonna eat that - just sayin' if you're not gonna eat it, I might want it...if you're not gonna eat it"
  
Ottawa, Canada 07.2009 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 53mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/60 | f 20.0

One Less Car

Caught this shot visiting a local second hand bike shop.  The Bike Dump is a one of a kind place.  It's not so much that this place packs more character than most, it is the passion of the staff and their commitment to the business and the mission - "get more cars off the road". 
  
Ottawa, Canada 07.2009 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 17mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/200 | f 7.1

Businessman

This is J.  J is family.  Three years ago, newly married, child on the way, and responsibilities mounting, J decided it was time to pursue his dream of business ownership.  Visiting on this day, J's happiness was undeniable - business is growing, happy customers are flowing, and his pride was glowing from what he has built.  Very well done J. 
  
Ottawa, Canada 09.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 800 | shutter 1/250 | f 3.2

Refresher

Coming out of a weekend seminar, the sun was shining and these fountains were streaming.  Captured this shot in honor of a beautiful September day.  Water is one of my favorite subjects ... however, it can get a bit tricky to capture your desired image without tripod in hand.
  
Ottawa, Canada 09.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 64mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/5000 | f 2.8

Showtime

Approaching my first demolition derby (not mentioning it to brag), and found this perspective of the awaiting audience in the stands cool.  Found it interesting observing from the point of view of an approaching spectator - the crowd sitting patiently, engaged in conversation, in anticipation of the big show.  The gathering of crowds looking to share a common experience is something I have always enjoyed observing - this country flavor was that much more interesting.
  
Ottawa, Canada 08.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 10mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/40 | f 13.0

Faith

From my lakeside walk, I came across this neat scene.  I found the image of the steel chains wrapped around this shadow cast on the boardwalk, quite symbolic of the current state of religion and its struggle to continue to evolve within today's insta-society.  Was someone sending me a message?
  
Ottawa, Canada 09.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 400 | shutter 1/500 | f 10.0

Balance

Seems like these days too many are struggling with getting "the balance".  Rushing to get up, out, through and back, then starting all over again.  Consciously making the time to stop and think, see and feel what is around us, not taking for granted all that we "do" have, continues to be harder than it ever should be.  I caught this shot on the ride home from work - rather than pass it by once again, with a "maybe next time", I decided to pull over and capture it.  Fact is, we all have one of these everyday - it's our choice whether to enjoy.
  
Ottawa, Canada 09.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS Rebel Digital XSi | focal 38mm | ISO 400 | shutter 1/200 | f 20.0

Tah-Feh

Apples are a great fruit - beautiful, portable, delicious.  My love for apples likely goes back to my childhood and my grandfather.  While he was a man of few words, I remember often sitting with him on his front step, where he would gesture if I would like to share a "tah-feh" with him.  With my nod, he would pick one up and pull it in half with his bare hands.  Amazing feats of strength sprinkled with love  - what more could a grandson ask for.
  
Ottawa, Canada 06.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 140mm | ISO 200 | shutter 1/200 | f 4.0

Market Berries

The Byward Market's selection of fresh fruit and vegetables is a feast for the eyes.  As an uncle of mine once put it "there is nothing better than getting food straight from the earth to your mouth".   The colors, smells and tastes are a gift to the city.

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 44mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/250 | f 10.0

Post It

Most of you will recognize this from the days where telephone poles were used as a way to get out the news of "what's happening".  The weathered surface of this pole tells of the role it played in its neighborhood.  The rich character of its grooves and patch work of nails and staples makes one think of the many messages posted over the years of those reaching out the community around them.   

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 24mm | ISO 1000 | shutter 1/60 | f 9.0

Side Door

Chatting with Steve after the Saturday morning board meeting, when this scene from across the street caught my eye.  The sun shining down on the red brick and the collection of geometric shapes and lines contrasted by the ornate shadow of newly installed street lamps was pleasing to the eye.  Appreciating Steve's patience, I caught the shot.

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 38mm | ISO 400 | shutter 1/800 | f 10.0

Dock 22

On a quiet Saturday morning walk, I was drawn to the docks nearby.  The sound of the wind and water, the bumping of the dock against the shore and the character of the aged planks that made up the launch site, were a great subject worth capturing.

Ottawa, Canada 09.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 46mm | ISO 250 | shutter 1/500 | f 13.0

Oasis

Another tribute shot to Summertime.  This pic is of a suburban splash pad which is "on the go" non-stop.  The red bulb signals fun ahead, and one press of the launch button sets the games in motion.  Growing up, our version of this was setting up the lawn and running like lunatics through the sprinkler, controlling the fun by kinking the hose.  Maybe old school, just as much fun.

Ottawa, Canada 06.2009 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 50mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/13 | f 22.0

Happy Home

Out for a summer walk and came across this sidewalk art.  The power and purity of expression that can be conveyed through drawing is wonderful - open to all ages, classes, cultures.  From this work I saw - "happy home - happy artist"

Ottawa, Canada 06.2009 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 50mm | ISO 100 | shutter 1/1000 | f 2.5

Uncle Edward

Edward is a long time friend.  At a recent event, we got to catch up, and I had the unexpected pleasure of being charmed by his young niece.  They have had the good fortune of spending much time together over the past little while.  That night it was clear how much he adores her, and her love for her Uncle Eddie was indisputable.  Caught this pic of the two of them chatting that evening.  Both are lucky to have each other.

Ottawa, Canada 07.2010 

ShotSpecs: Canon EOS 50D | focal 109mm | ISO 320 | shutter 1/80 | f 4.0