Photography in Life

Tall Grass, Sheep, Wine and a Wedding

2012-01-16T14:32:00.000-08:00

I just loved this wedding.

The first of the season and what a way to kick it off. Fantastic weather which complimented a fantastic event. It takes a couple to create something special. The coming together of friends and family, an atmosphere of celebration, laughter and cheer and thats what it's all about.

Gotta love it aye.

South II

2011-12-31T23:26:00.001-08:00

South

2011-12-29T00:13:00.000-08:00

A few pics from my first ever journey to the south.

A Southern Wedding

2011-12-02T20:30:00.000-08:00

Family weddings can be the best to shoot due to the already relaxed state of the couple and the photographer. This one resulted in my first trip to the sought island so I knew it was going to be great trip so you can expect some of those pics soon.

2011-11-06T22:45:00.000-08:00

The introduction of a new life must surely be rated as one of the highlights of personal human existence and so it shall be for these two in about a month. I wish you both the best and oh, thanks for finding my keys.

2011-11-06T18:55:00.000-08:00

A weekend spent creating pictures is a weekend well spent I say.

Hannah being fairly new to the modeling thing did an amazing job for only her second time in front of the camera and should be quite happy with the results.

For the me order of the day was to create a series of pictures that dealt with who we are and where we want to be in life. Its the feeling of being lost, the sense of hopelessness and time wasted as we see our life's goals seemingly slip away. Its a message really. Don't waste the time you have. Grow old with no regrets.

Many thanks to Hannah for the great pictures and to Cher for the fantastic makeup.

The Daughter of Mother Nature

2011-10-11T20:44:00.000-07:00

Guess the title says it all. Presenting an image shot during the closing stages of the chair series.
One more image is needed to complete the project but (and I cant believe I am saying this) I need a rainy weekend to do it.

Unfortunately my model Tasha is off to uni soon so her great images will make fewer appearances here as of 2012. BUGGAR.

Go Baby Go

2011-10-10T02:44:00.001-07:00

The classic mustang has always been a ride on my dream hit list so with two hours, me, my camera and a 1967 GT Shelby Cobra, it was a definite step in the right direction.

AWESOME.

Mothers Children.

2011-09-26T00:23:00.000-07:00

Portraits with a difference suit my style and allow a high degree of creativity. For those who tire of the standard family photo hanging on the wall, these are sure to be a talking point and yep they are fun to make.

Great day for Mataatua Wharenui.

2011-09-15T19:36:00.000-07:00

This little lass should be proud to be the chosen one to cross the threshold of the recently returned Mataatua Wharenui.

One Feather To Many?

2011-09-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

Had to share this

Grasshopper

2011-09-14T00:25:00.000-07:00

Well it had to happen sooner or later, me the teacher. I have been drifting towards helping those who wish to express themselves through the lens so its great to share as many have shared with me. The main focus is to help with the creative aspect allowing individuals to express themselves through photography.

Wish me luck

The Empty Chair.

2011-09-04T00:46:00.001-07:00

Yes it's been a while since my last post and yes I am still alive.

Recently I attended a meeting of local emergency, police and council personal for discussion on a strategy aimed at combating youth drink driving. The police liaison officer had a bit of trouble putting his feelings into words so he placed a chair in the middle of the floor and asked "What is This?" and the reply came back "An Empty Chair". This prompted me to shoot a project, creating a series of pictures based on the personal loss of a loved one. The challenge is to capture a series of pictures depicting the emotion the pain, the effects of time on the healing process and the memories associated with those love ones lost.

As it turns out this is proving to be a bit of a challenge. Trawling through the emotions of past experiences seems to do nothing but yield memories highlighting the confusion of thought at the time. The eyes were open but I saw nothing as the mind struggled to come to terms with what had happened.

The project is well underway but unfortunately I can not share any of these pictures until the project is finished but there will inevitably be a few extra pictures made along the way and the picture below is one such extra.

I cant help but think images reflecting such a serious subject warrant pictures more down to earth, raw and truthful. I wouldn't expect images like that.

Friendships Take 2

2011-07-20T21:14:00.000-07:00

My Niece loves to celebrate her friendships with photographs. Having an uncle as a photographer certainly helps to keep the costs down but its a gesture I am all to willing to help her with.

Friendships in this day and age seems to be a concept that is unfortunately taken for granted by a few to many but its enlightening to see such values still held high by those closest to me.

There is a strong symbolic depth to the above picture that one would hope would make the closed minded among us stop and think. I don't believe this warrants an explanation so will let it speak for its self.

As always, your comments are welcome.

Shock for Effect

2011-07-20T20:38:00.000-07:00

Accidents may be the least liked aspect of my job but I am glad to say the pics below are mealy part of a mock accident. This provides emergency service with essential training which you may say is obvious but what isn't is this whole exercise is designed to shock risky youth into understanding the potential results of there behavior.

It was all rather to realistic if you ask me.

Relly of Chucky

2011-07-12T14:23:00.000-07:00

Saw this and couldn't help myself. There's a bit of chucky revisited here.

NorthShore Success.

2011-06-27T21:38:00.000-07:00

Entry into the 2011 NorthShore Salon of photography has netted me a Gold Medal for Open Colour Prints. Last years comp saw a silver medal come my way so the Gold was a definite goal for 2011. The image below was the winning image and is a statement about conservation. This was part of a small series as part of the "Birds A Plenty Festival" exhibition here at the Whakatane Museum Gallery. The inspiration was the story of the Huia (now extinct) and a passage I read from Perrine Moncrieff, an old time conservationist

"One feels inclined to write an indignant protest at the ghastly manner in which lovely birds have been twisted into grotesque shapes to adorn women throughout the ages...
For every bird killed to provide warmth, hundreds have been slain merely to trim dresses , or worse still, stuck on hats".

This image is also part of the Birds A Plenty" collection and received Hounors.

I am stoked with the results this year and have to thank the model "Tasha" for the stunning look she gives to each image she contributes to.

Montys Revenge

2011-06-27T15:47:00.001-07:00

Whakatane is an outdoors mans mecca so it makes perfect sense that there will be plenty of well attended and respected events that celebrate our unique environment.

Motys is a fantastic event and a joy to shoot.

Unfortunately not all photographers were able to enjoy that day as much as I did with this unlucky shooter stuck on the side of the road after attempting a U turn and this culvert kind of snuck up on him.

Walking the Walk in Kawerau

2011-06-26T00:38:00.001-07:00

Kawerau, a town with a bad rap. With all the negativity in the press, Kawerau proved it has what it takes to WOW and impress. The youth fashion show is a case in point where those who sat beneath the bright lights and streaming lasers had nothing but great things to say about Kawerau and the organisers of this fantastic event. I am sure there are a few who kicked themselves for missing out but hey, you will have to wait till next year. In the mean time here are a few pics to keep you going.

Sadler having a go. Great Job.

Walking the Walk in Kawerau II

2011-06-25T23:55:00.000-07:00

A place to rest and create.

2011-06-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

Small rural New Zealand towns have little photographic gems in tucked away corners. Strolling through these places can never be described as an experience that affords a sense of comfort. After all as we amber past row after row of granite and stone arranged in measured uniform rows, no one wants to be reminded of our own mortality, the final resting pace. Our unconscious is constantly drawing comparisons with living experiences and our perception of nothingness is a state we cannot comprehend. With this in mind, a cemetery would hardly rate at the top of ones list of locations to make great photographs.

Photos never capture the present, only the past, the same also applies to our communal resting places so making pictures in a cemetery seems strangely apt. There a stories to be told, lives to reflect upon and memories to be had each carved into stone. Seek out the old and the majestic and shoot with respect.

Kora Kora Kora

2011-05-29T03:34:00.000-07:00

I loved this shot of Brad Kora, taken with nothing more than two remotely triggered flash guns. Kora is a name usually associated with music here is Whakatane with most of the family seemingly all blessed with the musical gene but music is not the only talent the Koras are recognised for. Brad runs a growing mixed martial arts Dojo and the cage (as per pic) is a new addition.

I am often surprised at how great and eye catching images can be created when we take the time to remove the flash from the camera. So if your looking to take your photography to the next level, spend some time trolling the net for some of the numerous strobist sites and then take your flash off the camera and play.

For those who want to know, there were two Nikon SB800s, 2m either side of brad just above eye height and against the cage shooting manual at 1/8th power. The camera used spot for the metering duties, 1/250ths, ISO 200, f3.2. The 50mm 1.8 lens was used here, a great little lens.

Just One Paige In The Album

2011-05-29T03:17:00.000-07:00

Little page was the reluctant star on a stunning day at Ohope beach. Kids do provide you with some great photo opportunities as they are so natural in front of a camera. It just takes a little patience and the realisation that attempting to set up shots is a pointless exercise. Simply let them go and get ready for the magic of youth to show itself.

What a Cutie.

Only One Worried Owner

2011-05-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

It was all excitement and suspense at the Whakatane Heads as storms and high river water levels caused a boat to drag and eventually break its moorings and head out (backwards) over the river bar. There it spent the nest few hours being thrown around in the surf with an ever growing crowd waiting and watching for the seemingly inevitable moment when it would be smashed against the rocks. By some miracle this wasn't to be and two keen men braved the wild surf to swim out and rescue to stricken vessel.

I would say there was a lot of sweat on the forehead of who ever owned this boat as the sea had its way with it. There was no apparent damage except some damp carpet and debris to clean up.

Bat Splat

2011-05-26T20:24:00.000-07:00

In other countries this may be a regular feature but here in little old NZ having a bat splat on the windscreen would be considered an unusual occurrence. Well that's what happened to Queree (below). She managed to retrieve the little fella who lived for a little while but eventually succumb to his injuries. The bat is now in the hands of D.O.C and is most likely stuffed and mounted by now.

When $10.00 is not Enough.

2011-05-24T19:49:00.000-07:00

Ones childhood is full of stories about dragons, trolls waiting under bridges to snatch the unwary, witches attempting to fatten up there captives to eat and ginger bread men roaming the countryside. Then we grow up and "hey, there just fairy tails", so as adults we carry on our merry way passing these stories on the younger generations with a degree on amusement.

UNTIL ONE DAY while out working, I come across this. Now even though every sense and experience tells you its there for someones amusement, everyone who approached this still stopped in there tracks, eyes betraying a fleeting moment of nervousness and a sideways glance under the bridge. Each step is lightly taken as we venture to the other side all the time reminding ourselves how stupid we are to be thinking like this.

I guess those fairy tails fed to us as children will always reside somewhere deep within us.
Sure was a laugh watching other grown adults letting there inner child pop to the surface just long enough for all seriously realise $10.00 is a joke. Surely there's a few zeros missing.

Breaking News, Reaching new Heights

2011-05-18T03:27:00.000-07:00

Motivation is an important tool we all use to keep focused, goals we all can aim for and be proud of achieving when we in fact finally do obtain them. But I must say that getting one of my photos in space was a goal I have never contemplated.

So it was a rather pleasant surprise to be told I in fact did actually have a photo in space, a feat I will admit I had nothing to do with (well directly anyway). The final launch for the aging shuttle fleet had an unusual cargo on board, a collection of items selected from around the world for a once in a life time flight.

This is the image which has now taken me to dizzying heights, taken around three years ago at the Whakatane observatory. I will admit to still coming to grips with a few technical issues surrounding the use of flash in situations like this so was rather happy with my efforts at the time.

I would like to think this image was selected due to its relevant subject matter and the fact it captured the story of a mans life long desire to watch the stars, rather than the possibility of it being so bad, NASA thought it necessary to get it off the planet in a hurry. Whatever the reason, this is going to look great in a resume.

Intrepid Journey

2011-05-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

I had heard the tales of the old power station in the Manawahae hills that utilised the flow of the Karaponga stream the supply power to the Whakatane township and a past attempt to discovering this piece of history had yielded nothing. So following a call from local councilor,

Bill Clark we headed off. I think the idea of a guided tour was a good one as there was no way in hell I was going to find the old turbine on my own.

Built in 1928 there's not much left of one of the turbines. Its amazing how nature will always have the last say as the last remaining turbine is slowly disappearing under a blanket of moss and vines.

Pictured below is the original dam used to hold water ready for its flight down the valley to the turbines. The old pipes have long rusted away but the dam remains. I was unable to find any images of this dam on the net so am glad to have one to share. I was a little nervous about exposing my camera to the large amounts of spray the water was kicking up so didn't muck around taking this shot.

Ok, so at this point things sound like a rather lazy stroll, that was until Bill thought it would be a good idea to photograph the waterfall not to far below the dam. Here is where things to hairy. Now, scaling a steeeeep rock face, coated in moss and slime covered rocks while negotiating a raging torrent, and doing this while trying to keep several grands worth of camera gear in a backpack "dry" ???. That Little orange dot is my partner Mandy Hague who wisely refused to go any further.

The camera certainly survived, largely due to my ability to stay upright but I was soaked through. Looking back over the shots, it was worth it.

One year old Rocket

2011-04-30T17:21:00.000-07:00

Photographing kids can be a real challenge event at the best of times but little Regan here was a true gem. She managed to keep still long enough for some great shot to be captured.

I would like to hope these pics may pop up at her 21st birthday one day.

Confetti & Champers

2011-03-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

It takes good people to make a great wedding, be it the couple, family or the quests. That laid back atmosphere with no tension or nervousness, great weather matched with radiant smiles where all are relaxed and the day flows with seemingly little effort. Yep these are the best and the wedding below had all the ingredients necessary to ensure a fantastic day for those luck enough to be there and that includes me.

Great day with great people and its was a whole lot of fun being involved.

I would like to wish Philippa and Keiran all the best for the future. If the start of there married life is anything to go by, it should be rather bright.

The Perfect Day

2011-03-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

Saturday was abound with couples left right and center making the most of the diminishing summer sun to exchange vows and start off on a new beginning. Amanda and Dean were one such couple who's lives are now forever intertwined and enjoyed not just the suns warmth but the company of there friends and loved ones on a perfect day.

The scene was set at the Ohope Golf Club and although the light was challenging at times, the clouds rolled in late in the afternoon which was sure to result in some dramatic shots.

The wedding season is drawing to a close and next weekend will see the last wedding shot by this photographer until later on this year. I only shoot a small amount of weddings per year and really do enjoy each and every one of them so I would like to thank Amanda and Dean for including me on such a special occasion. It was fantastic.

A Day At The Movies.

2011-02-13T01:03:00.000-08:00

I do feel I must apologise for the length of time between posts but I have been soaking up the sun with a month off work which has been fantastic. Anyway, I'm back have am re-establishing my relationship with my camera.

I used to love spending time watching movies on the big screen (I don't seem to do that much anymore). It was always a chance to transport myself self into another world and escape an ordinary and seemingly mundane life. This was great until leaving the theatre thinking how exciting it was and then, buggar, I had to leave that behind and continue on with my comparatively boring existence.

I love creating and making photographs which portray a world far removed from the normal life me and my models enjoy. It gives us both a chance to be somewhere else and I find myself re-visiting those places every time I view the pictures.

This is a style of portraiture I employ every opportunity I can. No straight on closeup forced smiles here.

The series above contains the images of two beautiful sisters, Zara and Tasha. My camera just loves these two and I thank them both for giving me there time.

For Love For Life. A Wedding.

2011-01-08T03:37:00.000-08:00

The end 2010 saw the beginning of a new life for a great couple and a perfect day for a wedding.
We certainly were treated to fantastic weather and a very relaxed and photogenic wedding party who were a pleasure to work with.

Many thanks to Dana and Paul and we wish you all the best.

A Touch of Man, A Touch of Woman, A Touch of Time.

2011-01-06T22:27:00.001-08:00

Photography is nothing without an idea, without light, without contrasts, journeys and experiences. It brings together the ages, defines beauty and times lost.

I love being able to bring together all those elements into one concept, even one photograph.

I am not to sure which era this old house originates from but it drew me in like a magnet. Even the stories relayed to me about ghosts seen through the windows from time to time did not prevent me from venturing inside to explore and capture a little piece of its soul to take away with me.

These images have that touch of contrast. The old with the young, Man and Women combining in an attempt to bring together two different eras into one simple series of images.

Many thanks to Tasha and Giani for not running when ghosts were mentioned.

Model Mayhem

2011-01-03T21:15:00.000-08:00

Well a fair bit of time has past since I photographed Tasha and she has been under the ever watch full eye of modeling professionals teaching her a few trick of the trade. I was rather surprised at how photographing her such a fantastic experience as she flowed and performed for the camera. It left me with much more time to shoot actually leaving me trying to keep up with her.

Nice Day for a White Wedding

2010-12-13T09:05:00.000-08:00

The wedding season is in full swing and the roads are graced with shiny white ribbons flapping across polished bonnets and shimmering in the bright summer sun. Smiles, laughter and confetti can be see in all corners of the bay as happy couples exchange vowels and kisses in front of those whom they love the most.

This weekend was no exception as Caleb and Amber came together for there day in the sun.

I hope to be married with in a year or two to my partner of 6yrs and could only hope for a day as amazing as Caleb and Amber's. Magical day with fantastic people.

It's always such a privilege to be included in a day where a couple bring together family and friends to share in such a special occasion so being as outsider standing with the rest is always a great experience.

Wedd in 2010

2010-11-13T01:05:00.001-08:00

The first wedding of the season is under my belt and it was a great one to kick off with. Some weddings are damn hard work but this just flowed thanks to a couple who really made things easy and great fun.

Above are four great reasons why I love this job.

Many thanks Matt and Sarah for a great day.

Koreen PtII

2010-11-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

Sunday was a great day for a photo shoot. Koreen did a great job modeling for this set coming out with a series of punchy images for her modeling portfolio.

Moving through, hard times and finding ones self identity was the theme with the location representing a void landscape or transitional space within our selves that we have to endure before we can discover yet another piece in the puzzle which is who we are.

Photographs by there nature are made to be shared and will hopefully promote discussion so please feel free to comment and / or critique.

Koreen

2010-10-10T22:10:00.000-07:00

Its Saturday and good weather for a photo shoot. Its time for some modeling shots with Riini Mora. She acts, dances, sings and now models.

That's stage one completed with a location shoot sporting a more conceptual twist as stage two yet to come.

Exhibition Opening.

2010-09-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

Nga Manu exhibition opening was a success. There was a great turn out and response to all works on display. The exhibition runs from the 25th Sept to 31st Oct and is well worth a look. My contribution is below and comments are welcome. My partner is a bird nut so her work has left me informed about the plight of some of our native species and there struggle to survive. This was to be the approach I took when I made these two pictures with a quote from Perrine Moncrieff to help express there meaning.

"One feels inclined to write an indignant protest at the ghastly manner in which lovely birds have been twisted into grotesque shapes to adorn women throughout the ages.... for every bird killed to provide warmth, hundreds have been slain merely to trim dresses, or worse still, stuck in hats".

Many thanks to all who attended and also Tasha for being yet again such a stunning model.

Nga Manu Exhibition.

2010-09-21T23:25:00.000-07:00

The Nga Manu exhibition opening night is this Friday at 5:30. The artists with works on display are Mandy Hague (Works with paint), Grant Whibley (painter), Raymond Ching ( Arguably one of NZs best painters), Ian Davie (Great work with swan feathers), Jonathan Campbell (Bronze Sculpture), Fiona Gedson (Mandela work with feathers), Jo Ogier (Print Maker) and myself.

There are some names here that are new to me but produce work that is a must see.
This is not just the opening of an exhibition but also the opening event on the Birds a plenty Calendar.

To see great work and enjoy wine and nibbles, come along and enjoy.

Keeping Busy

2010-09-06T21:49:00.001-07:00

Note to self:

Up and coming photo shoots - Claire. Portraits.

Claire has her eye on some beauty portraits and is a bit nervous in front of the camera but I don't think she has anything to worry about. This will be great for her and fantastic for my portfolio.

- Riini. Creative photo shoot.

I am looking forward to this shoot. Riini seems to have her eyes on the entertainment world. She dances, acts and has a modeling portfolio to fill.

- Wedding of Sarah and Matty.

This will be the first wedding of the season for me so can wait to get out there and photography a magic event with a great couple.

Looking Back.

2010-09-05T16:20:00.000-07:00

I had a photo shoot scheduled with a first time model, Queree. The location was an old rundown homestead which made a perfect backdrop. I think I may have to venture inside sometime for a further shoot. Its a fantastic and spooky place like a trip back in time. One of the vines caught a foot on the way out the front door resulting in a rather ungraceful tumble onto my butt. Great start to a shoot.

I really tried to capture the essence of the environment I was working in. The house, the past, the stories the land and building hold but never to tell, its all there and it left me wondering.

I saw a music video by Johnny Cash today called "Hurt" which is a reflection of his life and his feelings of regret and the song is now generally seen as his epitaph. A person such as this has had his life's story documented for all to see and would make fascinating reading. This house may contain equally fascinating stories about the people who lived there but are lost to all but the house itself.

Who Got The Power

2010-08-20T00:42:00.000-07:00

We all have to rely on batteries to keep things going so if your like me you may have a mountain of AA rechargeables lying around. I stumbled of this site and the great thing about it is the fact its aimed at photographers.

http://dpanswers.com/content/equip_batteries.php

There is alot of conflicting information out about battery care so if you have ever found yourself running flat half way through a wedding ceremony, you may want to give check it out.

Speaking of power, there are a few times i'm sure we could all do with a bit extra juice so decided to give one of these babies ago. She holds 6 batteres and runs both the SB800 and 900s. So far it seems to do the job rather well. The only downside I suppose is it increases my relience on those blasted AAs

Nga Manu II

2010-07-31T02:34:00.000-07:00

This is Nga Manu Part II. Well I wasn't totally happy with my last portrait shoot so decided make a few more pictures to keep my shutter finger happy. It was supposed to be a short shoot to re-capture what I felt I hadn't got the first time but as usual ended up being hours when my mind takes over and the camera wont stop.

Nga Manu

2010-07-26T02:35:00.000-07:00

For all you portrait lovers out there, here is a little treat.

Below is Sashka who used to have long flowing locks. Since her head shaving stunt to help raise dosh for cancer she now has a more modest due reminiscent of a 14 year old lad and is in my opinion the holder of many great image.

Many of you may be familiar with this young lady as she has made many an appearance here before. She just goes from strength to strength so I think you can expect a few more and better pictures from her in the future as she extends her portfolio.

News News News.

2010-07-03T22:20:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest issue of Pulp magazine. It features the results of the 2010 Pulp Sony Photographic Competition in which I managed to acquire a gold medal for a portfolio of four images. I must admit I was rather surprised at the result but I suppose that's a confidence thing. There were entries from all over the world so that really makes thing just that bit sweeter.

A second piece of new is the great result from my North Shore Saloon of photography entries. I can now add a silver medal and a highly commended award to the mix. Its not just me that wins but the models and all those who help out so thanks to you all.

Hit The Road

2010-07-03T17:07:00.000-07:00

Well I have been on holiday for 2 weeks now and have one glorious week to go. It all began with a bit of a road trip around the bottom half of the north island from Whakatane to Featherston then on to Wellington. The next stop was the mighty Taranaki and we held up there for a couple of days. Its a fantastic piece of coastline with an amazing history. There were 15 old Moari Pa sites surrounding immediate location so one could almost feel the Moari spirits walking around you at times, so it was a little freaky to see this on the beach

We were told that a piece of ancient Moari Waka had been found not for from where I took the above picture and was dated at around the 1300s.

I haven't seen this mountain since I was 3-4 yrs old. It was the first time I saw snow and was totally in kid heaven. I also remember my Mother sliding on her butt down a snowy bank, not watching where she was going. That was a little scary for me due to the fact a 4yr old sees his parents as all conquering protectors and the idea of them as being vulnerable to such mistakes just never enters a childs mind. I suppose the fact it is one of very few memories I have from that trip means it must have taught me that if grown need grownups to help them then whats going to happen to me? Needless to say I have survived so my fears were unfounded.

Above believe it or not is a bridge in New Plymouth. As solid as it looks, it acts like a suspension bridge and move as you walk on it. A fantastic example of how this area is making a name for itself as an open minded and artistic region and the people just love it.

I couldn't resist. Pukekura Park, New Plymouth.

A brilliant sunset at Urenui.

One Hoop 2 Far?

2010-06-17T19:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we get invited to things we would otherwise never get to see. Here is a guy from Canada who is a traditional hoop dancer. Cant say I had ever heard of such a thing but hey, here on is. He was great with a max of 30 hoops hanging off him as he danced around for a group of delighted primary school kids.

Hot in 60seconds.

2010-06-17T17:25:00.000-07:00

Well, a dull can turn at any moment. One minute your cleaning the dust off the back of the desk and counting the loose paper clips and the next there's smoke on the Horizon and your off like a rocket and today was no exception. Its important to be ready for anything, have the batteries charged, memory cards clear, and spares loaded into the bag just in case. The last thing a reporter wants is to wait for the photographer to get his stuff together when something happens.

I cant say I have ever had a desk job and would avoid one like the plague. I love what I do and to be able to work in such an unpredictable environment suits me down to the ground.

The above pics were from a car fire in an industrial scrap yard. I managed to get there before the fire service which was a bonus. Details are sketchy but it seems as though someone was cutting parts off the car when fuel ignited resulting in facial burns to the guys face.

Water Water Everywhere.

2010-06-08T02:18:00.000-07:00

For those who don't live around here, we have had just a little bit of rain lately, not quite enough for a repeat of a few years ago to cause the destruction Matata suffered, but enough to mess things up a bit.

The unlucky owner of this Mobil servo has had a rather muddy beginning to his day twice in the last week. That's enough to really soil your mood.

Well, I guess she's going no where fast.

The water level may have dropped but this once sedate canal has caused more than a few headaches once logs block the water flow the water spews water and mud into surrounding properties with disastrous results.

All in a days work aye!! Looks to me like a vain attempt to improve drainage on King St.

Uleash the T Bomb.

2010-06-07T23:13:00.000-07:00

Well it has been a while but I thought I would treat you all with a few pics from my favorite Model, Tasha. I managed to shoot a few different scenarios and I hope she sees these as welcome additions to her portfolio.

I love using light and sometimes the lack of it to give simple portrait setups some real punch.

Tasha has been begun some training with one of NewZealands top modeling agencies so as time goes on, expect some stunning images from this young woman in the future.

Done it Again

2010-05-17T14:42:00.000-07:00

Well I hear you say "how did you fair in the Community Newspaper Awards"? and my answer would be..... FANTASTIC. I scored the "Dick Graig Memorial Award" for best photographer for a second year running. I am stoked about that as I had thought there were a few gaps in my portfolio but it looks as though the judge still saw fit to pat me on the back.

Below is a small preview form my portfolio I submitted for the competition.

Its just a bit Classical

2010-05-17T00:25:00.000-07:00

Well as promised, here are a few pics from my latest photo shoot. There are no messages here, it was just a case of taking pictures for pictures sake, for fun and the pure enjoyment of it. Many thanks to Hannah and Georgia for showing up (had me going there for a while) and putting up with my bossy instruction.

Many thanks to Lee Clark from Whakatane High for the loan of the violin.

Will I Retain My Title???

2010-05-13T21:10:00.000-07:00

Well it's that time again, yes its the annual Community Newspaper Awards. I have been informed I am a finalist which means I have won something, but what?? Guess I will have no wait until Saturday night to find out. I have a person on the inside ready to squeal when the results are released.

ALSO

For all of those image starved watchers out there, I have two photo shoots booked this weekend. Yes two on the same day so will have to be on the ball I reckon. I have acquired the services of two first time but keen gorgeous young ladies to who have volunteered to suffer the stress and strain for the sake of great pictures (fingers crossed). So tune in sometime early next week for a sample of how it all went.

The Road To Happiness

2010-04-19T03:29:00.000-07:00

Well its a big congrats to Ben and Holly, recently married at the stunning lake Okataina. It was a fantastic day and a location I would recommend to any prospective Bride and Groom. I may even get Married there myself.

Wedding photography, through extremely rewarding really is hard work. The result is usually sore feet, strained eyes, aching shoulders plus a yearning for a hot shower and a cold beer.

It pays not to dwell on the fact that its a one shot deal so planning is essential. Know your gear inside out, know the location back to front and know your self and your limits. Good prep and planning may help steady the nerves but although it may not allow you to relax, it will help to enjoy the day and love what you do.

Love that last image. What a cutie.

As the Wedding season draws to a close I am looking forward to the end of the year when the confetti begins to fall again.

A Day at the Circus.

2010-04-14T02:18:00.000-07:00

Well, as promised, here's a few pictures I shot today. After many a frustrating episode unable to access keen and enthusiastic models, now I have the luxury to pick and choose to suit the theme of each shoot. Now after a short break, it feels great to throw the strap around my neck and raise the viewfinder up to the eye and shoot for me. The idea here was fun for the girls with a punchy carnival theme.

Enjoy and comments welcome.

The Holiday Is Over.

2010-04-08T21:25:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a while I know but have no fear, I have not disappeared into a sea of nothingness. There is a fair bit happening behind the scenes with a couple of projects requiring some thought and planning long before I get anywhere near the camera.

In the mean time for all those image starved readers, here is a few recent images captured while out and about during work hours.

This was a real challenge. These arrows travel at hundreds of feet per second so capturing it a just the right point of release required a shutter speed of 4000th/sec and quite a few frames before I got it right. For me its so important to have the image already captured in my mind long before arriving at the job. Be prepared to be flexible as nothing is ever exactly as you want it.

Photographing bands and live performances can be just magic.

Hard, gritty and an accountant. Great to see local business men getting down and dirty for charity.

If you have never been to a rodeo, please go. There a so many fantastic action pictures just waiting to be had. I get to do this stuff for a job. Not a day goes by without me thinking about how luck I am.

I have another photo shoot on the horizon involving a fantastic model, a rocking horse and ???, well you'll just have to watch this space.

One Step Closer to World Domination

2010-02-13T18:54:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, well this photographer has a website. Yeah I know, why has it taken him so long so get around to it?? Good question. So with no excuses from me, you can check it out at

http://www.troybakerphotography.co.nz/

Feed back welcome.

The Covers Are Off II

2010-02-11T18:19:00.000-08:00

And so after far to long a wait, here is the next set of three.

I know the series was based around the "shared human experience" but I did stray a little here. This image portrays the Greek goddess Persephone. The story may be a bit long winded to go through here but a quick goggle search will tell all. This pic only took about 2 hrs to complete so was one of the quicker to setup and capture.

Next we have an image I hope the fairer sex will relate to. It highlights the tasks and responsibilities women have had to face from the colonial years through to the current day. This is supposed to be the age where women have independence, personal freedom and choice? The chimney symbolises the past with the drees and shes the present and the basket of washing??

Well there are some things that just haven't changed.

I love this image as its relevant to the days we live in. It demonstrates that we are tied to this world, our actions influence it and shows we are not immune to the changes in the planets delicate biological balance. Although some may argue this is not a human experience, but a common realisation!, if we all do nothing to change our ways, we will all have a rather nasty experience.

I have no immediate plans to stop designing and photographing pictures for this project. I am learning to so and having to much fun to stop now.

The Covers Are Off

2010-01-29T11:40:00.000-08:00

The Covers are off and the moment of truth has arrived. After two years of working on this project I have finally managed to get 6 pieces into a public exhibition. This is the first time I have really had one of my personal projects displayed in public but I am sure I am not the first photographer to feel a few opening night nerves on there first showing. For any one out there who can get to the Whakatane War Memorial hall complex, I welcome your feed back on what has been a fun and enlightening journey to create a series designed to capture some elements of the human condition.

So here is the first three.

One I was told "If you want to succeed, never give up" well it didn't take me Long to realise that although this may sound like good advise the key is to know when to give up. The watering of box thorn, (a flower long gone) is a waste of time and energy so be aware, pull back now and then, reassess then try a different direction.

If there's one thing that fascinates me its youth. I had a fantastic childhood with not a care in the world and time just didn't matter. I believe that even at my age I still have more child within me that adult so thought it appropriate to highlight the promise of youth in the above image.

In our lives one of the lessons we all have to learn I (some take longer than others) is that there are consequences to all of our actions no matter how small. What better way to illustrate this that to photograph a scene reminiscent of the tale of Adam and Eve but with a slight modern twist.

Next Three coming soon.

Its That Time Of Year Again.

2010-01-18T18:38:00.000-08:00

Well its that time of year again, the birds are singing, the suns shinning and love is in the air. Yes you guessed, its the wedding season. Beautiful brides and handsome grooms can be seen gracing local roads, beaches, parks and hilltops.

Weddings are fantastic. Its such an amazing moment shared between a couple there family and friends. To be asked to record those moments in pictures is really an honour that shouldn't be taken for granted.

The Game Is On.

2010-01-18T11:41:00.000-08:00

Yes people, as mentioned before, my butt is in the hot seat so if my start to the new year is anything to go by, I'm in for a wild ride.

So I kicked things off with two biggies, the Summer X and the Opotiki Rodeo but hey, you've got to love it. The deafening noise, the chocking dust (finding its way into every unprotected camera part) the heaving crowds, it all make for a noisy, dirty series of fantastic pictures.

These are two events I love to cover and the crowds flock to them every year. Despite the extensive de-dusting exercise on all of my equipment and myself plus the sunburn, I get a kick out of checking out the pics on my PC and sharing the results.

The Temperatures Rising.

2010-01-14T18:05:00.000-08:00

Well as you all may have heard, the Beacon is now minus another photographer leaving me here on my own. So far so good with only a couple of really insane days to deal with. This may be generally our slow period as far as news goes but the past two weeks has been the exception with 4 fires a couple of road crashes and a train derailment.

So I guess this will make for a rather interesting environment when this really hot up around here.
Its not going to be easy but am looking forward to the challenge.

Keeping Creative

2009-12-16T00:48:00.000-08:00

http://www.thistonybridge.com/2009/12/01/crossing-the-abyss-of-discontent

Well things are now moving along rather nicely with only one image left to take for the summer arts festival so its panic over for now. Last weekend saw the completion of a picture which had presented itself to me almost 18months ago now when traveling out towards Taneatua to visit my sister. I spied this old chimney standing majestically under a macrocarpa tree. It makes one wonder what its history is and who spent time on many a cold winter night drawing warmth and comfort form its glowing embers. A scout around by my partner produced an old tap that was attached to a cast iron plate, maybe an old water heater. A dirty fork, an old light bulb, rather small and an unusual shape encased by a ceramic surround which by some miracle has managed to survive years without the hoof of a cow smashing its delicate surface.

This place gives birth to many photographic possibilities, with a few spending many an hour being churned and manipulated by my overactive imagination. At one stage I made the effort to drive to Wellington to pick up an old mahogany occasional table I had bought off trademe as a prop for the picture I thought my mind had settled on but after 6 more months and a new idea now in flavor the table now occupies a corner of my lounge gathering dust.

I felt the need to not only create a great image that tells my story but also to do this old chimney justice and maybe give it the opportunity to tell its own story. Tricky as that may seem, I feel I have managed to achieve just that.

While I cant show you the finished picture complete with chimney, I can introduce you to the model who graces the image. She's a natural beauty who has been waiting just as long to take her place in the picture as I have been to take it. I suppose the only two things that have never changed over the past 18 months is the location and my choice of model. Many thanks Michelle for being so waiting so long.

Places like this are full of creative possibilities just waiting to be tapped into. I have been made aware a few times in the past of a poor few suffering from some creative block or a lack of inspiration and I have a small fear of falling into that abyss. I don't see this happening any time soon but there are those who do. I read a fantastic article from one of NZs current photographic greats "Tony Bridge" who wrote about just such a thing. It seems to have strengthened my current position but for those either on the top or bottom of the abyss, its a must read. (refer to the above link) We have to feed the creative mind in order to grow but sometimes its just a case (as with the chimney site) of not trying to over think an idea but to just sit and listen. It wont take long for your surroundings to give you all the inspiration you need.

Most of us including me could be accused of taking our creative juices for granted. Following Tony's advise and re-reading over again and again from time to time will not only help us to keep fresh but remain relevant in an ever changing world.

What Our Eyes Dont See

2009-12-04T18:21:00.000-08:00

Ok so I know things have been a bit quiet around here lately and I do apologise for that but I have been working on my summer arts project which has kept me rather busy. This creative stuff is hard work man.

Anyway, I have spent some time planning and collecting material, clothing and location scouting for up and coming shoots with the big deadline looming. With 7-8 wks left to finalise a collection of at least 6 A2 size prints I am beginning to think I may not quite get them done so I was not to happy to think I was going to have to omit my latest creation from the exhibition. This is surely going to leave me in a rather tight spot time wise so I will have to fire on all cylinders.

The above image is the picture in question. I am showing you this because it's no longer intended for showing in the summer arts festival (all others will remain under wraps till then)

Whats wrong with it you ask?? well firstly its not really going to fit within the image set. It stands out to much, is to strong and with art being as subjective as it is, could lead to some rather negative and harsh interpretations as to what its all about.

This image would need to much explanation for the viewer to understand where I am coming from and by the time that's done, ones mind may have already taken it to literally. That's just what people do with photography,and yes that is ever so slowly changing. In the grand scheme of things the art of painting has a very long, bright and interesting history where as the art of photography is still a child just sometimes with a mature voice crying to be herd.

This image is not meant to portray a violent act or to depict the end of a life, its about the restrictions we put on ourselves, we become tied and dependent on our physical and mental comfort zones, come to beleive we cannot when we can. One cannot hope to succeed in less we break away from our self imposed bindings then push to challenge ourselves. This image is the tragedy of succumbing to normality, contentment and in the end, leaving this world without finding out who we really were or what we could have done.

Deep aye.

I realise this interpretation may be to deeply embedded within this picture. At the end of the day is this just a photograph? and if it is, can we see past what lies in front of us?

2009-12-04T18:00:00.000-08:00

I love being asked about photographing toddlers. They're not camera shy, run around and do there own thing leaving me to fire at will. This always results in random, spontaneous images the are sure to please mum. I also love the chance to include the parents in the hope the interaction between them will lead to some great shots.

These two bring the picture to life. Claire and little Paige.

When attempting to photograph tiny tots, you cannot go into it with any preconceived ideas. Its the child that dictates the terms here so just let them go and fire away. If they're not in the mood, cut your losses and try again another day. Lucky for me, Paige was a little star.

Chasing The Sun

2009-11-12T01:05:00.000-08:00

Some images just happen, when things come together and fall into place to create an picture that the subject can be proud of. This picture to me is a great example of what quality afternoon light can achieve, there is no substitute for it, you cant hold on to it, and in a heart beat its gone. All images subsequent images lacked that little piece of magic.

The image was shot on Waiotahi Beach. Expect to see this model grace these pages again sometime in the future.

Yeah Im Still Here.

2009-10-25T19:44:00.000-07:00

Well you may think things here have been rather quiet over the last month or two and for that I do apologise. Behind the scenes I have been flat out working on a new project for the Whakatane Summer Arts Festival which runs in conjunction with the Molly Morpeth Canaday Art Awards. As a guest exhibitor I have been developing a new series of images that reflect the trials, changes and emotions we all experience throughout life's journey.

No, sorry but I cannot give you a preview just yet as its a series of six to eight images I plan to keep under wraps until the festival so you may just have to come along to the show in January next year for a look. All I can say is that these images are a new and exciting development in my photographic journey which I hope will prove to be better than anything captured to date.

See you there.

Kodak Gold Awards 2009

2009-10-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

Well the results of the 2009 National Kodak Gold Awards are in and this Whakatane photographer has scooped a silver award for Weddings and a Gold award for portraiture.

After achieving three silver awards in last years competition, the gold was a sort after and now a welcome addition to the trophy cabinet.

Silver Wedding Award: Russel and Anna at Ohope Golf Course.

Fantastic day and many thanks to you both.

Gold Award winning portrait of Tasha.

Taken at the White Cross Orchard.

She was a great model and a pleasure to photograph.

To Be a Boy

2009-09-20T21:16:00.000-07:00

I feel very lucky to be able to say I had a fantastic childhood. Yeah there were a few major trials to over come due to the ever so complicated lives of grown ups but as far as being a kid was concerned, it was a real adventure. I was rarely around the house suffering from the common affliction that seems to torture the youth of today when the PlayStation breaks down, no I was out all over the country side exploring with my older brother. With over active imaginations we climbed, ran, laughed and cried with each passing summer day.

It was then no surprise I loved the American movies with kids as the main characters, off on adventures always accompanied by a white dog with a black patch on one eye. The little rascals is one such film which I could always relate to and so just as that film inspired me as a boy, it inspired me to make the images below. I may not be a kid anymore but I can honestly say I still have have that sense of adventure and an over active imagination.

I see my self in these images so is was an unusual feeling to be standing there as a man photographing what seemed to be a reflection of myself as a boy.

I treasure that playful youngster that still lives within me and hope Little Harry (above) has as much fun as I did at his age and as I do now at mine.

Pics Pics Pics.

2009-08-29T16:18:00.000-07:00

Well here is a treat for me and I hope for you. Yes, portrait shoots two weekends in a row. This is how life should be, out there just doing it, making pictures.

This time around I had the good luck to stumble across two enthusiastic young ladies whose mum was willing to put there faces on the line for the camera. So every one, here is Mary and Rongorua.

Portraits can be a daunting prospect for some. Most would rather a gun be pointed in there direction than a camera. Having said that, I do believe everyone has a great picture within them, its just a matter of bringing it out. One important attribute any photographer needs to have when photographing people is to be able to relate and relax there subjects. It seems that's not as much of an issue with children but as you move up the age scale the tendency to shy away form the camera increases.

I do worry about how the effect of so many digital cameras floating around these days have on peoples perceptions of them selves. With so many bad pics floating around people only ever see themselves in unfaltering images with not much thought into how those pics were taken. When they reluctantly get dragged in to portrait session with a pro, the photographers job of making the unwilling subject relax is almost an impossible task.

Another problem with a camera in every ones pocket is people get so used to looking a bad pictures that they become accepted as the norm so when portraits or even weddings need to be photographed, its uncle Bob or cousin Steve who is talked in to taking the pics because he has a flash camera. Well I have to point out here that its always the person behind the lens no the camera itself that makes the difference.

So get out there and give a pro a try. Your may be supprised how great you really look.

2009-08-23T03:32:00.000-07:00

Well the school ball season has come and gone and so it was off down the road to photograph Tasha before she rocked the night away under bright lights and loud music. (pic below)

A week later while driving home I spotted an orchard on the side of the state highway with row upon row of fruit trees in full bloom capped with masses of pink flowers. My first thought was of Tasha, her ball gown and these beautiful pink blossoms. So off we went and managed to capture some great pics before the rain set in.

The camera really seems to love Tash so expect many more pictures of her here in the future.

WHO ME??

2009-07-30T23:42:00.000-07:00

I think the most difficult project I decided to undertake was my first self portrait. The thought had crossed my mind several times in the past but for some reason that's all it did, cross my mind. It was as though for some reason I knew the time wasn't right so put it off for another year or so. After a while a switch switches (as switches do!!) and hey, today's the day.

Now that may sound a bit theatrical I suppose but for me taking a picture of myself was not just a daunting prospect but I knew it would involve looking closely at myself (again), my past, and what it was that made me who I am. The most time spent was spent doing just that as well as thinking of a way to make it work.

Photography by its nature this a thing to be shared, shown off even. Its a way of communication (even if we all may differ in what we think we are being told) but this is a self portrait, it feels so personal. We are in the business of getting our images out there to all, but this? I am not sure whether it was because this was my first and there for the hardest or whether it contains more of me than any image I have taken to date but I have had trouble showing this one off. Its almost like walking around naked.

Like most who consider themselves artists, works rise from inspiration, experience,passion and maybe a touch of soul. We know what our creation means, what it's trying to say while at the same time encouraging the viewer to generate there own interpretation. Art and photography is so subjective and that's what it's supposed to do. This image is different. It has alot of specific pain and triumph, mainly personal victory (yeah, where you ask). It may not be open to subjective interpretation so yes, its like walking around naked.

I took that image two years ago and the cycle has begun again, I'm thinking about another, maybe.

Why put the flash on the camera???

2009-07-30T14:38:00.001-07:00

Using flashguns as mini studio lighting can really help open up the creative possibilities for those left wanting for more. Its a good way to learn the basic setups required for real studio lighting and you will have a blast in the process. There are a mass of accessories available for flashguns these days such as diffusers, barn doors, soft boxes, snoots and honeycomb grids to name a few. I still believe good old natural daylight is the best but it can be rather inconstant at times so mixing it with some of the artificial stuff never hurts.

A decent home made snoot (spot lighting) is to roll up some card and tape it to you flash gun. You can vary the length the vary the effect and even cut up a heap of straws to about 25mm lengths and glue them into the end of your snoot to mimic a honey comb or grid effect. Making the straws longer will enhance the effect. For the financially starved among us you don't have to spend mega dollars on top end studio gear to get great images.

http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/

The above blog link is a endless source of info to satisfy the strobist in all of us.

Mans Best Friend.

2009-07-26T01:14:00.000-07:00

Well we all have mates and I would like to introduce you to one of my closest who provides me with unlimited entertainment.

Here is Mr Bill.

He is a bit of a ladies man and followed my mother around like a bad smell until she passed away and now its my partners turn and has now acquired another shadow. This is one photographic subject who may not run from the camera but can be rather unpredictable when he wants to be.

He has a love relationship with sticks

And an unusual hate relationship with our swing??

Eye to Eye II

2009-07-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

When it comes to manipulating light taking the flash off the camera really opens up the creative options. TTL cords do the job but are to restrictive with the damn cable either in the way or to short. Pocket wizards are they way to go for the ultimate in quality, reliability and control but at about $3-$400 there is a cheaper option that works. Trademe has a few wireless radio trigger options priced around the $80.00 mark for one transmitter and receiver. The operational range is respectable, there are very few miss-fires and with a couple of units you can have a small portable studio. Its amazing what can be done with a couple of speed lights. These can only be used in manual mode but this also means there are no issues with aftermarket flash guns.

The receiver locks onto the cameras hot shoe and the receiver can be mounted on a tripod with the flashgun on top. Its easy to use and the results can be fantastic. If you remember my past post with Alex on the Harley, (below) those images were all taken using two radio transmitters with Nikon flashguns.

It's easy to see how the two flash guns were used here. A simple but effective setup. One small problem I encountered was light reflection off the chrome causing lens flare in a few early test images but with some minor flash angle changes, the problem was solved.

Eye to Eye I

2009-07-24T00:16:00.000-07:00

Once photography has hold of you something strange happens. You begin to look at the world in a vastly different way, as a photograph. You start framing things with your mind. You look at peoples faces, the way they stand and move. Trees, grass, water, its all a picture.

The above image I saw driving down the service lane behind Whakatane Pack n Save and there it was, wire with a flash of graffiti behind it. Now I have a real bad habit of saying "wow check that out" and driving straight past but not this time (great to have my ass in check). Its a classic example of an eye forming an image in the mind even if it was a split second. This is something I would have previously just driven past. Its great, it deepens ones appreciation for everything.

And then there's light, oh wonderful light. The most mundane object takes on a new life when just the right type and quality of light baths it with all its glory. Andris Apse is a master of patience. This is a man who will go to extraordinary lengths access a location and then he will wait. If after say a week the light is not right he will pack up and go home without shooting a single frame only to go back sometime later and try again.

One day I sat out on my deck looking out over the grass laden fields, watching a sea of greens and browns waving in the evening breeze (romantic aye). I sat there looking out at a picture my mind had already taken when that late afternoon light changed and the whole area came to life with amazing vibrant colour. I had everything set up by then except my unsuspecting partner who was busy indoors carving up a pumpkin for dinner. She was suddenly dragged outside and over the fence fighting every step of the way to a prepared spot in the long grass. I thrust a paint brush in her hand, blurted out a few instructions and ran for the camera.

And here it is. I love this pic and yes I am biased. Mandy is an artist so I had to create an image that would tell the world all about her. To me the composition may not be perfect but in this case I dont care as she is now a part of me. This image is a few years old now but for me it was a reminder of just how important light is. With photography, it starts and ends with light. Get a handle on how it works and how to manipulate it and you half way there.

2009-07-20T23:32:00.000-07:00

SMASHPROOF VID

Some of you may remember not to far back to the images I took while location scouting and during the filming of the new Smashproof vid. Well its all done and up on the net for all to see.

Check it out, it rocks

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJ410LlOpXY

2009-07-20T00:55:00.000-07:00

Photojournalism IV

Hey its a photo blog right??

Enjoy.

http://www.whakatanebeacon.co.nz/

2009-07-15T23:43:00.000-07:00

Photojournalism III

Me and water seem to have a love hate relationship so I tend to keep a wary eye out when on the job. One early incident, despite the wary eye nearly ended in disaster, then I suppose for a photographer, in a way it did. On occasion, off shore storms can cause some rather large surf so on one such day I was off to the heads to hopefully capture some action.

After 10 good minutes standing on the shore to spot the best and safest place to shoot from, off I went working my way across the rocks and driftwood. After about 15 minutes and a crowd of people well behind me all gathered to watch the waves, I setup, dropped my kit and got into it.

The shot above was one of many waves to bounce of the heads so as I framed this through the viewfinder, my minds voice was saying "yeah that's the one, Great". As I lowered the camera and saw the wave (yes the one above) roaring towards me, I realised this was a bit bigger than the ones previous. "Great quickly turned to "SHIT". With only enough time to brace myself, the wave hit and swept through at knee height, myself on the verge of being swept off my perch.

After the water had shot passed, feeling damn lucky to still be standing (lack of swimming skills) my first thought was to get the hell out of there. I spun around reaching for my camera bag only to find it was no longer there, Once again "OH SHIT" (just louder) and there it was floating out in the channel. Waiting for the water level to drop I managed to wade out and hook it with a stick and yes, when I opened it up I thought I saw a fish swimming around in my 70-200. $5000 worth of gear drowned and to add to the heart break, I now had to tell the boss.

2009-07-14T21:49:00.000-07:00

Photojournalism II

I love what I do. The challenges I face day to day is what motivates me to do better. It can become hard to make something great out of virtually nothing but that's a skill one has to develop. It's important we don't become to reliant on setup shots to get ahead so spot or hard news is essential in keeping all tools in the shed sharp (when one can get it)

I have been told in the past that kiwis photogs are the masters of setups but I hope I don't earn a rep for heading down that road. Having said that, here is a few to checkout.

http://www.whakatanebeacon.co.nz

Day to Day.

2009-07-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

Photojournalism

This is what I do 40hrs a week and I love it. Its only been about four and a half years but it would have to rate as the best job ever. Its challenging, drives you to improve not just the quality but the eye and the mind. One minute you're shooting girl guides selling biscuits and the next you're at a murder scene or natural disaster and hey, variety is the spice of life. Photography is the ticket so what better way to develop the craft than to be out there every day snapping at everything that moves and my personal work has shot ahead in leaps and bounds as a result. How many of us get a job actually doing what we love??, well I only know one person who would fit that bill.

I have just read a column in the Photographer Mail about US Journo photog Jim McMillan (Interesting read if you get a chance). This guy is the real McCoy (unlike my gig with a small town community paper) and has been kicked, punched, tasered, was shot in the head, survived two car bombs, 3 road side bombs and on many occations having to shelter from shelling and small arms fire.

My rather tame environment can involve tasks I would rather avoid. Car accidents are one thing I would avoid if I had the choice so its a case of blocking out the carnage and getting on with the job. Its only after the event that one gets a chance to reflect on what you have seen. To all the unfortunates out there who may be unlucky enough to be involved in an accident!! if a photographer turns up you can bet he wouldn't have if he had a choice. I suppose the biggest event that had the most effect on me was the Matata floods. I was rather new to the journo camera thing and the shear scale of what I saw effected my sleep for a couple of days. By some miracle no one was killed but the experience was amazing.

These are images I shot but copywright goes to the Whakatane Beacon. http://www.whakatanebeacon.co.nz/

Gold Please.

2009-07-13T01:03:00.000-07:00

Well its that time of year again, Kodak Gold time. The awards are not that far away so its time to dig out my best and pray for gold.

Wish me luck.

2009-07-12T21:13:00.000-07:00

http://www.easternmotorcycles.co.nz/

Great promo shoot for Eastern Motorcycles this weekend despite last minute dramas in my failed search to find the right model. Enter a work mate who obviously, sick of my pitiful display of "what am I going to do" while on my knees, hands raised to the heavens, kindly provided me with the perfect young lady at the last minute and save my butt.

This was a first time modeling gig for Alex and the camera just loves her. Early nerves quickly disappeared and she really settled into what she was doing. A big thanks to her for the stunning pics and I hope we will see you here again in the future. Another big thanks to Georgia for bringing her in and saving my butt and I cant forget Jason from Eastern for the Bikes. If these pics help him pull in some punters who have bikes and want pics or Jo public looking for an awesome shot on a Harley then let me know or pay Jason a visit. He's in Gateway Dr Whakatane or just hit the link above.

2009-06-28T21:00:00.001-07:00

SMASHPROOF VID SHOOT: DAY 2

http://www.movethecrowd.co.nz

Check them out

A very wet and cold day 2. The crew had to work a bit harder to find the magic but with some fantastic locations such as Minginui (Many thanks to the locals out there) there was gold to be had. A real big thanks to Maureen who warmed us up with hot coffee and a stint by the coal range. For those who haven't been out there it can get bloody cold. Not more than two days prior to us arriving they were experiencing bone chilling -10 deg temps. That has my knees knocking just thinking about it.

Keeping the camera dry took precedence over the operators so by the end of the day we were left with a very hungry, wet and tired film crew. The final cut should be out there in about two to three weeks so everyone keep your eyes and ears open for Smashproofs new single "Ordinary Life".
Thanks to my Cuz (Kirk) for getting me involved in it all as well as Andy, Andrew and James (the crew) and my talented partner Mandy. Was a great experience.

2009-06-26T23:51:00.000-07:00

Smashproof Vid, Day One:

Great day in Te Teko. Lots of interest and the locals are keen as mustard to help out. There was a general brief to go by but nothing could really be planned. Fortunately everything fell in to place with some great moments caught on film.
We are off to Opotiki and Minginui tomorrow so with fingers crossed for no rain, it should be a productive day. The video is being shot on 35mm film so should have a great tonality and feel to the finished product.

2009-06-25T02:54:00.000-07:00

Check out the above image. No its not mine and no its not scanned from a fashion mag. This damn fine pic is a self portrait taken by my 13yr old neice. FANTASTIC. I have to show it off. I am talking about a family that all have amaizing talents and are rather creative with mind as well as hand. Great effort Melissa.

2009-06-25T01:54:00.000-07:00

Forgive me folks for neglecting you for so long but I am alive and kicking. I have read in the past that the progression from stills to video can be a part of the natural progression of things and I must admit it has crossed my mind now and then but as soon as the thought of the $$$$ its all over. Playing cards should be the sport, hobby or passion of choice as at least you don't need a hefty bank loan to get started. Anyway, I have a Cousin in the big NY who works for one of the worlds biggest record labels. He had his rather humble beginnings in South Auckland working after school in a record shop and with alot of hard work has achieved his dream. He credits good old NZ for his successes and chooses to give something back to the NZ music scene with his label (Move the Crowd Records). One group getting their start under this label is "Smashproof" (checkout their single "Brother" on YOUTUBE, it rocks).

I have been given the task of scouting out music video locations for their up and coming single "Ordinary Life" so after many hours on the ph and driving around the bay its all on this weekend. I am rather interested in seeing how the whole process develops and comparing it with the finished product. All you Smashproof fans, keep an eye out for the bay making its way.

2009-06-08T00:19:00.000-07:00

Photographing kids compared to photographing other subject matter, has a unique set of challenges. Nothing can be setup, planned or expectations set. So with this in mind and I will admit, not a wealth of experience with children, off I went to shoot an over active 18month old farm lad.

Every Body, Meet Dylan.

This little fella is tough as old boots. During the shoot, he had a rather nasty tumble and with only a minute of tears was back into it boots and all (see above haha). This little man was all over the place, so the best strategy with kids is to present them with things of interest, encourage parental input as much as possible but after that, its all up to chance.

The last image inspired me. It took me back to my own childhood with old colour snaps taken in the late 60s, myself bottle feeding my pet lamb, wearing leather sandals, stubby shorts and an oversize woolen jumper topping a rather unique collection of ill-fitting country-ware. I remember those pics well with rounded corners, subdued colours and a slight cross processed appearance.
Life as a kid in NZ was a great experience (as I am sure Dylan will testify to when he's my age). With an over active imagination and a tonne of energy, I was off in all directions exploring. Any new environment had to be checked out thoroughly. Even to this day I seem to have managed to keep my over active imagination which I am sure helps me maintain a good sense of humor and creativity my photography. I will have a dig around and see if I can find and scan a few of those old pics to post here.

2009-05-19T01:14:00.000-07:00

OK, Here is a break from the norm. For a bit of calm and relaxation there's nothing better than a bit of a fishing. Only 15Min's from home is all the piece and quiet you can handle as well as a good supply of trout. This little brown trout weighed in at 3lb, tasted like a rainbow, the fillets had the colour of a salmon and it tasted great.

2009-05-11T22:33:00.000-07:00

Well I had submitted four Images to the PSNZ Canon national exhibition a while back and after a long wait I finally have my prints back. With high hopes for a Medal or even a honours, it was not meant to be. My disappointment has been off set by the entry and award statistics that arrived with my prints. There were 1639 entries with only 473 in all categories accepted (of which I had two) and only 43 of those received medals. So after looking back over those figures, its not so bad after all. I have a few ideas that will hopefully get me on top next year so cant wait to get stuck in.

2009-05-05T03:35:00.000-07:00

Well I cant believe it, 3 posts in the same night. Enjoy the rush while it lasts.

I finally managed to get some picks shot on the weekend so that photo fix should last me about 2 hrs. It was a chance to experiment with some concepts I wish to incorporate into another image I have been planning for the past year. (good things take time). The model, Tasha is a real gem. She's not just beautiful but keen, tough and seems to have a natural ability to works scenarios without too much prompting. I always know good pics are on the cards when she steps up to the plate.

The above image has some elements which need work but keep an eye out as they will hopefully crop up again soon (ironed out) in a long awaited image/s.

2009-05-05T01:51:00.000-07:00

There you go. I thought that after my last post, a small selection of wedding images was needed.

Enjoy.

2009-05-04T23:41:00.000-07:00

PART II

Surrounded by reluctant subjects had me wondering "where to next". There are a few twists and turns in ones career and mine came when a friend asked me to photograph there wedding. I was rather hesitant but reluctantly agreed. After a few hours of research on the net, I realised I had made one very big mistake but "TO LATE", cant back out now. So off I went, in an attempt to prepare myself as best I knew how. As it turned out, this was to be one of the most challenging and stressful missions I was to undertake.

The big day came and all hell broke loose. Firstly a rouge confetti block hit the groom in the back of the head causing him to lurch forward, standing on the brides dress and ripping it. The formal pictures were over sooner than expected when the best man left to find a missing relative and never returned. Before long, most of the wedding party left never to return as everyone seemed to be off looking for everyone else. The next issue was my stuff up as I neglected to re-set my colour balance at the beach and all the images from that point on were blue (thank you God for RAW format).

With elevated stress levels and a misguided belief it was plain sailing from here on in the intoxicated best man failed in his attempt to complete his speech and with a spilt beer, proceeded to suck up the puddle from the carpet then just as I'm heading out the door, a young over enthusiastic boy falls off a chair, cutting open his chin and is shot off to hospital for stitches.

I believe this to be a rather hard baptism of fire but undeterred and six years on, I am photographing weddings as often as I can and loving it. Its a world of privilege for a photographer to be invited to photograph one of the biggest days in a couples life.

Wedding photography is described as the most demanding form of photography there is and shouldn't be entered into lightly by anyone but for those looking to give it a go, I encourage you to do so but you have to put in the hard yards to educate yourself about whats required. It really is hard work but with massive rewards. Its a magical opportunity to seek out amazing images and be involved in creating memories which will last the happy couple a life time.

2009-04-29T22:19:00.000-07:00

"Vision is hard, craft is easy" defines the amateur.

"Vision is easy, craft is hard" defines the professional.

When you can easily do both, you are a master.

The above quote I picked up from a blog on the Tony Bridge website and it has stuck with me ever since. To me it really sums up not just the raw talent and skills needed to become a great photographer, but the endless journey one embarks upon when choosing photography as a career. Of course to choose such a career path takes much more than the need to make a living through hard work as the above clearly indicates. So it seems that no mater how long I take pictures or how hard I want to learn, the road to greatness (I wish) will be an endless trek. A bit disheartening really but hey, at least it will be great fun taking all those photographs along the way.

http://www.thistonybridge.com/

I started out getting up early with all the enthusiasm I could muster at 4:30 in the morning and travelling in the hope I would arrive in time to catch the sun rising, shoot to my hearts content and the magical morning colours have faded then off to the local cafe for breekie and a coffee. Those were the days but it wasn't going to last forever. There comes a time when photographing landscapes wont cut it and photographing people seems like a much more interesting prospect.

This change in my photographic evolution can be quite an intimidating prospect. The thought of adverse reactions and invading a persons privacy buy shoving a camera in a persons face (even from a distance) can rattle the nerves. My family, friends and even pets suffered as they faced a lens around every corner so it didn't take long to wear out my welcome.

Incurring the wrath of family was much easier to cope with than that of a stranger but with my photographic subjects all worn out it was once again a fast looming possibility. Those who pickup a camera for the first time and a new reality dawns as the passion takes hold, must surely be faced with the same issues. This is how it starts and possibly how it ends. The journey is always going to be about pushing the limits, (mentally and technically) learning to see, visualise and create. Then there's the ability to communicate, visualise and manipulate and all this is only just the beginning. OK so now its obvious its not an easy road, and if you turn pro, not and easy way to make a buck but it in my book it surely rates as one of the most satisfying of occupations.

I really cannot speak for everyone else but its the best thing I have ever done.

How many people have the opportunity to make there passion there job???

Its fantastic.

To be continued

2009-04-24T01:01:00.000-07:00

PATIENCE!! One of those lessons we all have to learn and to be honest, its not easy at times. All I want to do is be out there shooting and once I am there and doing it, it flows naturally. My partner is an artist and and a dam good one but man do I envy her. She has the ability to pull up a canvas when ever she wants and go to town. Not me. What I want to do relies on close co-ordination with other people to get the timing, weather and all those little details that have to come together at the right time so to not be out there shooting when ever I want can be frustrating.

That's all I have to say about that. I don't want to be accused of harping on to much about time and the lack of it so I may have to become an artist I think, so here is my first painting.

Yeah OK so it may not be what you were expecting but back in my school art class days, I had a bit of a rep with a pencil, but as soon as the colour hit he paper, all visual hell broke loose. Peoples long held anticipation of what was to be turned into what they wished they hadn't seen. So there's not alot of paint if any in that image.

2009-04-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

Well its Saturday, I am not working and have no pics lined up. Here I am complaining about lack of output and I have failed to act when I have time to shoot. I do have a couple of nieces heading over this way for the week end so will see what chances there are for a few portraits. I know there mother is always chuffed when she walks away with images of her two girls.

Portraits always seem to have something missing. Yes I know its the person in the raw and with no distractions one cant get more of the person in an image than in a portrait. I suppose I'm wanting the subjects personality to really shine through or even for a piece of that persons life to be shared with those who choose to look.

Here I have three portraits that are what could be called good representations of the persons involved, but lack any insight into the people themselves. Who are they? what information about these individuals can be extracted from theses images? What do these images say about these people? Besides the obvious things such as the emotional content, hair and there general appearance, there's not much else to see if the viewer goes looking.

The two images above give the viewer little more to work with. These were a part of a series of life portraits aimed to add that little bit more into each image. They were aimed at capturing a fragment of each individual, something that featured strongly in there lives.

I would like to take this a step further one day, to be able to sit down with someone and talk about the major events they believe have shaped there lives so as to add this to each image. Its the essence of an individuals personality that makes them who they are, there journey through like. I want to find a way of capturing that, to invoke an emotional response for the subject when discussing there life and once again when they view the image. After all, isn't that what portraiture is all about??

2009-04-15T23:41:00.000-07:00

Hey there, Been a while since my last post but before I start, here is an updated image of the little guy in my previous post but this time without the kitchen sink.

Photos or the lack of is my problem at the moment. I have had a bit of a kick in the pants with the job situation as of late so have decided its just the nudge I needed to push hard on my personal work but do you think I have been able to get just one image shot?? NO WAY. Models are in short supply, being a male means no trendy clothing and the lack of time all add to result in no pics. So yes the frustration builds.

I would like to start a TFP (time for prints) group here in Whakatane in the hope of really opening up the photographic possibilities for all concerned. I have had an expression of interest from a local hairdresser a while ago and have approached a local fashion designer but nothing has come of that as yet. I did meet an artist in Tauranga who often seeks out models for her to photograph for painting purposes but with no photographic knowledge, I have offered to step in, in the hope we both end up with good material to work with. As you may have guessed I am keen to build an extensive portfolio showcasing a variety of portraiture, fashion and conceptual images so will post some if I ever get there. Commercial work has me on the go so I have no time to get onto trouble.

The artist. She was glad to be able to update her profile picture on her website.http://www.lisachristiansen.co.nz/

2009-03-31T23:47:00.000-07:00

Thought I would throw this one into the mix. This is about 1yr old but love it. This is my godson Charlie on a visit down from Auckland. Classic.