Symplicity Photography & Design

Giving Back...with time, photos, and smiles

2011-09-23T21:52:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, I had the absolute honour of working with the Self Help Alliance as part of Help Portraits annual campaign. With three volunteers, Ian Spence, Stephanie Truong and Erin Schut from the Laurier Newspaper, The Cord (see their take on the story here), Nick Lachance and I arranged to set up shop at their Kitchener location.

The Self Help Alliance runs peer-support groups for individuals experiencing a mental health and/or addiction issue and runs one of the most innovative suicide intervention programs in the country. Society’s perception of Mental health is one of the last remaining bastions of secrecy. Studies suggest 1 in 5 Canadians will suffer from mental illness at some point in their lives. I have more than one friend who has experienced mental health issues to varying degrees. Maintaining the code of silence only further alienates those who identify. The end result of ignoring the issue is simply not acceptable in a society that has come to terms with sex, drugs, drinking, cancer, etc… The data speaks for itself, in Canada, 12 individuals die by suicide every day. In the Waterloo region, one of the most prosperous areas in the country, there were 52 reported suicides last year.

Given the unique and pro-active nature of the Self-HelpAlliance, they were the perfect group for what Help Portrait offers. Help Portrait “is a global movement of photographers using their time, their gear and expertise to give back to those in need.” Over the 6 hours we set the studio up, we had 15 different participants. I am only showing a few who are willing to share their story. From graduate students to comedians and Trekkies to families the day was filled with smiles.

Early next week I will deliver the CDs and the printed portraits and I’m excited. In an age where most of our photos end up on computer hard drives, there is something so special about a printed photograph. The existence of Help Portrait provided that little nudge we all sometimes need to take a step back, appreciate how lucky we are, and evaluate how we can give back.

As a student at Laurier, I think I can speak for all the volunteers when I say, I don’t have the means to make significant financial contributions to the charities or NGOs I support but my time and skillset is certainly something I can offer. In a world that all too often inundates us with reasons to frown, the excitement that day generated and the earnest appreciation that came through on the faces of both the volunteers from The Cord and those in front of the lens reaffirmed my faith in Humanity.

Back....with McKelvie

2011-08-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

After a long delay, I really wasn't sure how to start this blog again. For a time almost 100 people a day were coming to visit...Though the travelling, the photography, the design work, and the pursuit of a PhD hasn't stopped, the blog disappeared. Being busy isn't an excuse but better later than never. The best way I think, is to work backwards...

AND that begins with the amazing wedding of John and Tracey McKelvie...

I met John 3 years ago when he donned the zebra stripes and joined our Men's league hockey referee association. We got along right off the hop never taking the insults hurled our way too seriously and always laughing in the locker room rather than fishing for the comfort of missed emails and text messages. With Johnny there is always time for a beer after the game.

We did the family shoot first and as you can see from the shoot this family has come together wonderfully. It was here that I first met Tracey and, though John would probably cringe at me publicly announcing this, it's clear by his smile he couldN'T be happier. Tracey and I often joked about how good it was her to take on another child in John but all kidding aside it's also obvious he also knows just the right buttons to push to make her smile.

here is the Engagement, turned family, shoot video:

The Wedding was done right - The kids played a central role acting as bridesmaid's and groomsmen; the speeches short but meaningful; the food was simple but delicious; the dancing was genuine; and the love between John and Tracey clear... With Carla Jean Stokes and Nick Lachance, I think we were really able to capture their special day!

Thanks for letting me share your day...

Terzo in the house....

2010-12-16T23:02:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I had the pleasure of working with Stefanie Terzo

Very few models I've worked with have the facial control and a love of playing for the camera like Stefanie.

The young Toronto model asked if I would take some head shots for her and then continue work on a few other themes - I didn't hesitate. She has an incredible sense of style.

Always edgy and always powerful, the wardrobe is a perfect compliment to her confidence.

As always it's a pleasure to work with Stefanie and I look forward to the next time we find time to get you in front of the camera.

The Faces of California

2010-12-07T15:49:00.000-08:00

In September I had the incredible opportunity to travel across the entire state of California. While words don't normally fail me, I do not have the vocabulary to do justice to the beauty of the state. It struck me that it in many ways the state reminded me of the beauty of Canada - with a more bearable climate, a desert, and a little more glitz.

I am going to post a few of these magical moments over the next little while. but if anything reminded me of home it was the people. It struck me the moment I stepped on Venice Beach the first day. Not long after, I decided to do my own mini project along the way. Below are the Faces of California.

At the skate park on Venice Beach there were at least 60 guys and girls ranging in ages from 4 to over 50 who were motoring around. This young man on rollerblades, saw the big camera and came skating over and said "Hey, Grab a pic of me doing a 360." And off he went. He nailed the jump, I caught the shot, he came to look at, smiled wide in approval and with that the Faces of California was born.

This one is kind of a bit of a cheat. He was actually the bartender in a little shady joint just inside the Nevada Border across from a Casino on the state line. It was late and everything in the desert shuts down at dark except 8 miles down the road across the border. It took a little convincing to get me inside but as I sat at the bar and listened to this man's story from a travelling musician to bartender in a whole in the wall joint, t ended up being a great night!

At the end of the trip through Yosemite National Park I stopped to catch the view looking back one last time. It was a popular spot and I wasn't seeing anything that everyone and their dog wasn't snapping away until I saw this man. The big camera again focused the attention on what I was doing and after a few minutes of chatting I asked this fellow photographer if he would pose for a moment. He was hesitant but soon warmed up to the idea and it is one of my favourites from the series.

All Along the route to Wine country, I saw these stalls. So in the middle of nowheresville California the navigator came to a full halt. This man, from Laos, owns his hut and is carving out his version of the American dream. He had me in fits of hysteria as his broken English point to various pieces of fruit and how they made for great TV food. A memorable random stop that simply makes me smile every time I see this photo.

Though it was far from my favourite wine, there was such an endearing quality to this elderly gentleman as he methodically (a nice mature way of saying slowly) poured out the samples for each glass of wine.

Finally, the coastal road had resulted in many run-ins with surfers along the way but for some reason it wasn't until the last day that I thought to add one to my collection. Because I wanted him to represent all of the surfers I had seen along the way, I chose to silhouette him against the fading California sun.

It was an unbelievable trip and I look back with fond memories often. The sights were incredible but it was the people who really bring back most of the smiles.

I've been away from blogging for almost a month and even still I've had a number of people still checking in so to you I say sorry. I'm in the middle of preparing for the comprehensive oral exams for my PhD and that with the business as well as the influx of marking has not left me with much time. That, however, is an excuse and I prefer not to make those. So I'll be better... Until the next time...

Sylwia in the studio

2010-11-11T16:54:00.000-08:00

Last week Sylwia and I got together for another shoot. She had a few casual and high fashion ideas and I had a few projects I wanted to complete.

I have to say, we shared a lot of laughs that day and it's always good to test out a bit of the new lighting techniques on someone as personable and comfortable as Sylwia.

Sylwia is a science major and a first generation Canadian. Her parents came here from Poland. Though she is short, she has tremendous control of her facial expressions and makes for a lovely print model.

I'm looking forward to the next time I need a motivated subject...I know how to call on.

Thanks for the great afternoon.

Symplicity.ca is live...

2010-11-05T18:46:00.000-07:00

Your Story To Tell...

For almost 6 months anyone who visited symplicity.ca was redirected here. Today I am proud to say that www.symplicity.ca is up and running. I wanted a unique site, a place where I could be proud of the design and the presentation of the portfolio. Though the design section is still a work in progress, the photography section is exactly what I was looking for. (for those with slower computers the Galleries may take a few seconds to load but in this case it was my decision to choose quality of the image over load speed).

I could not have done any of this without the exceptional hard work of Jason Freake, who despite following his numerous music and photographic interests, found time to work with me and my vision. The final product speaks to the talent, commitment, and patience of that man.

I'm often asked when and why I started taking photos...what follows is my story.

A little over 6 years ago I first picked up a Digital SLR. I was teaching English in Ulsan, South Korea and I was visiting a number of these incredible places. I always picked up the postcards where I was but rarely did they capture what I saw. Don't get wrong. They were great photos but we've all seen them. Out of season, or from a different vantage point, or Sunny when you were there on an overcast day. They just didn't represent my story. The small Kodak 3.1mp camera that had served me so well in Rome the year before just didn't seem to give me enough control.

A good friend in Korea, Gareth, was already snapping with a Digital SLR and after a few short times handling his camera, I decided to take the plunge into the world of prosumer photography. I started capturing the beautiful places I was seeing and a funny thing happened - People started asking for prints. I certainly can't dance, sing, play an instrument or draw much better than a four year old but photography gave me that artistic outlet I had longed for and I'm happy I get to share it with you.

Anyone close to me will tell you I dive into the deep end of my new passions and trust that enthusiasm, research, and hard work will keep me afloat. In this case I devoured the topics of an online form - www.photography-on-the.net. Perhaps stereotypically I tossed aside the manual for a more hands on/question and answer approach. Understanding the gear allowed me to capture what I was seeing through the lens. While bringing home personal memories remains an integral part of my own photography, capturing people, families, events, and the moments that mean so much to others soon became my focus.

We all remember the school photos where we had one chance to smile and maybe a second on retake day. But that didn't capture us as individuals, as families, as communities. I started taking photos of families, models and events soon after I touched down in Canada. At Laurier, I worked one year for The Cord to test myself in a myriad of situations. I bought strobes and worked with models to help both of our books but mostly so I could learn my lights - I'm still learning. I did one wedding in 2006 and a number of family portraits. The next year I started working with a Taekwondo Club and local softball club. The following year I worked with a few musicians which really allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and use my vision to help portray their art in images. Slowly growing the company has allowed me the right balance of work, challenge, and education.

Along the way I developed my own philosophy on photography: It's Your Story to Tell. Your family is unique, your activities are your own, your events display your personality. It is my job to capture those moments, not fabricate them in my own vision. In this way I can honestly say, I'm proud of what I put in front of my clients and I've been humbled by those who return time after time to ask me to capture their wedding, their family, their event, and ultimately their story.

Thanks...

Working with Emily

2010-11-03T22:26:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of working with the talented Emily. In her freshman year she played for Basketball for Mount A before chasing her primary passion - Music. She has decided this year to build her modelling portfolio and happened to be passing by my neck of the woods.

Emily is 5ft11 on paper but I think she's taller. The step ladder came in handy to keep up with some of the poses.

She was seeking experience in front of the lens and this was another shoot for me work with my lighting and add to the 3 current art projects I have on the go. Every photographer has their personal projects. Mine are coming along but as always I'm rather shy about sharing them until they are completely finished.

Ironically, Emily is from Nova Scotia and currently finishing her final year at Mount A. She was in Ontario visiting and we were able to meet up for a couple of hours. I look forward to working with her again...

At one point, Kick Start my heart by Motley Crew came on my ipod and both Nick and I looked in shock as she knew the words. The quick witted 21-year old, recognizing the look on on our faces, shot back with "I have a dad." Well played Emily...

Nathan and Tyne Peto

2010-10-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

From Thursday to Sunday last week I was in the small Manitoba city of Brandon. Nathan Peto and I were roommates for a week of our two-week battlefield study tour through France in 2006. Since then we've kept in touch, more so since Facebook linked us up again a few years ago. There are certain people in this world that you just immediately get along with - That was Nathan. In August, Nathan asked if I could come and photograph his October wedding. I didn't hesitate.

Nathan is a member of the Brandon Barbarians Rugby Club

When I arrived in Brandon, it was like 4 years had wilted away and the ease of conversation was apparent immediately. Nathan, his year and half old son, and I went for a walk. As we passed the community rinks, I couldn't help but think of the years my family spent in Kenora and the cold rinks where I first started playing hockey.

I arrived a few days early to spend a bit of time with Nathan and Tyne and was injected into the wild days leading up to a wedding. Though I would normally stay in a hotel, in stereotypical small town fashion Tyne's parents wanted to make sure that everything was taken care and instead I stayed at the family's house. The unforeseen benefit of staying with the Carmichael's and spending time with the guys of the wedding was that by the time the wedding rolled around they were so used to me that the ease and comfort that normally takes a little while was instantaneous. The licence plates in the prairie province read "Friendly Manitoba." Nathan and Tyne, your families and friends certainly proved the province's motto. A special thanks to Doug and Shelly for being such wonderful hosts.

The wedding was beautiful. The bridal party and the groomsmen were all smiles and laughs which made for such authentic smiles. The families were both so proud. Even with over 250 guests, it had a genuine small wedding feel. I'm thrilled you asked me to capture your special day.

click on the video for a larger version

Nathan and Tyne are off to the Bahamas now on their Honeymoon and I sure hope it isn't another 4 years before I get to see them and Noah again.

Little Claire in the Fall

2010-10-03T18:14:00.000-07:00

Every time I'm in New Brunswick, Jessica finds a way to get little Claire in front of my lens. Today was a wonderful October day in Moncton and little Claire, despite the lack of nap, was all smiles.

Though she loves puddles, mommy has taught her that only with her rain boots on is it time to jump in the puddles.

The airplanes whizzed above and the sound was met with an enthusiastic finger point toward the sky.

She really is a precious young girl. After Claire's first shoot, Jessica looked at me and said "You know you're going to photograph her entire life right?"

I don't think I could have anticipated just how serious she was. 22 months and 7 shoots later, It's been a great ride. Because months separate the time I see Claire, there is just such a huge difference in her little personality every time I see her.

Now she is laughing and talking and most importantly always smiling... Until the next time Claire.

Conservative Jake Stewart wins Southwest Miramichi Riding as Tory's Dominate at the Polls

2010-10-01T22:07:00.000-07:00

New Brunswickers made their way to the polls Monday 27th, 2010. the small province of just over 700,000 residents made their collective voice heard loud and clear. Time for a change.

Jake's team stares intently at the TV looking for any early signs of the election

I was in Miramichi on election day to spend time with a great friend and conservative nominee Jake Stewart. Since our time in Rome, Jake and I have stayed in contact and our friendship has grown over the years. He played guitar at my graduation party and we both taught in Korea at the same time and with his wife Shannon, we found a way to meet up, experience Busan, Ulsan, and Seoul even though we worked at opposites ends of the tiny peninsula.

Jake as he first heard the news that he was elected MLA for the Southwest Miramichi

As a councilor from Blackville NB, Jake found himself at the heart of an arsenic scare. With his youngest son suffering from various illnesses, Jake found himself taking on the province and the Liberal government. With his son making trips to the IWK and with no answers from the Liberal government, Jake was irate and let the Liberal party know his frustrations through the media and every other avenue available to him. As a result, he has grown a reputation for being quick tempered but this is far from the Jake I know. A kind intellectual and a father of three who is fiercely loyal and will always battle for what he feels is right. The kind of no-nonsense you'd like to see from all elected politicians.

Jake, with 40 other Tories swept into power on Monday and to see the community support was incredible. The biggest cheer during Jake's speech was reserved for his blunt assertion that "I may not be able to do everything you ask but if I can't I will tell you to your face." For a community, and our country for that matter, the honesty of his statement was a welcome change from the usual rhetoric of too many politicians.

Though I'm not usually a supporter of the Conservative party, I am always supportive of friends who aim to make a difference and in this case Jake has a real chance. I look forward to following his political career.

Back...with Mary from Sussex...

2010-09-30T21:19:00.000-07:00

Folks...I've been so crazy over the last two months that I've neglected this blog something fierce. I spent some time in California, at home for just a few short days and then on the plane to the East Coast where consulting, web work, a local election, and more photography (and a great round of golf with friends) kept me busy.

Just yesterday I had the absolute pleasure of meeting up with Mary for a quick Photoshoot. We spent a few beautiful hours on the outskirts of Sussex where she is staying with her parents before she heads back to Korea for another year of teaching.

Both Mary and I spent a considerable amount of our youth dedicated to the sport of golf and her numerous NB teams attest to the skill she displays on the course. It was at this point that our paths crossed a few times but in all honesty I played more rounds with her brother Ron who is an outstanding golfer currently playing on just about every Asian tour.

Lately, Mary and I have chatted a bit more frequently mostly around teaching in South Korea and the wonders of being a way'gook. It was great to see her and have a few hours to just chill and work with the beauty of both the rural New Brunswick fall and Mary. Thanks for a wonderful afternoon.

The Value of Great Assistants: Nick Lachance and Megan Cherniak at Brandey and Colin's wedding

2010-09-08T23:46:00.000-07:00

You're only as good as the people you surround yourself with.

Whether those people directly support you or play a role behind the scenes the same holds true. Last Saturday at Brandey's wedding I had two fantastic assistants that added their eye and their talent to the day and cemented my philosophy on wedding photography and the way I will conduct business from here on in.

I strongly believe that a photographers role is to capture the day, not manufacture and turn it into their own vision with a series of repetitive and contrived poses. Both of my assistants Saturday have held the title of Photo Manager for Laurier's Student Newspaper The Cord. This allows them to enter the wedding from the mindset of an event to be captured. The number one item I preach to my assistants is "get the shot"

Of course there is a degree of posing that must take place but for this I always meet at least twice with the bride and groom to map out their vision of the day. They hire me for my eye but my job is to use that eye to capture how they see their wedding day.

The shot above is a prime example of how well my photojournalist assistants worked to enhance the images we were able to offer to Brandey and Colin. It is one of the best of the day and she was in position, saw the moment and got the shot. I watched as Colin leaned down to help little Lilly with Brandey not far behind but I was too far away to capture the moment and I was in the midst of posing the bridal party. A quick glance to my left and I noticed Megan move into position. Stooping down low enough to frame the image just beautifully, Megan nailed the shot. These candid moments define a wedding.

Nick Lachance has been with me all summer and he was key all day taking photos, emptying the cards and backing up the images (no light task). At the ceremony all three of us were shooting from a few different angles. What I like most about the shot above was that with Nick manning the back of the church I was free to stay close to the front which allowed me to capture this precious moment below.

I don't need to tell any of my readers that weddings are an important day. The moments happen quick and the more angles and eyes you have on those moments the better the final product. Megan and Nick, you were fantastic Saturday.

Colin & Brandey Smythe

2010-09-07T13:14:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, Brandy and Colin tied the knot on a windy and rainy day in and around Hamilton, Ontario. The weather was particular fitting given it was wind that blew these two together while working on a windmill project in Kincardin, Ontario.

I met Brandey in a 2005 graduate seminar on war and memory while we were both slogging away in the world of academia. She was and remains a striking girl with a geeky side and a vocabulary that could intimidate. after she entered the real world our time together was reduced to catch-up coffees when she was in town and a beer when we could find time. When her and Colin were engaged she asked if I would photograph her wedding.

The first time I met Colin in any significant way was during the engagement session. I'm by no means a short man but in his presence I felt knee high to a grasshopper. There is no question when you first meet Colin he's an imposing fella and then I saw the protective and caring nature of his glance at Brandey and I knew she was in good hands. That imposing nature soon gives way to a heart as big as he is and silly side that is equally charming. The speeches at the wedding only solidified that opinion. I'm exceptionally happy you two found each other.

The rough weather may have challenged other couples but Brandey and Colin and their wedding party took it stride, endured a few rainy locations and the results speak for themselves. While perfect weather is nice, less than ideal conditions make for more unique images. Thanks for letting me share in your day! I look forward to watching your family grow.

Photographing John Frieda

2010-08-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

Well not quite the legendary hair dresser but his product line. For the past year or so a graphics group in town has been using me to shoot product for his clients when images are not supplied.

Normally I'm not at liberty to share these images because they are for products that have not yet been released. This was particularly important when I was photographing phones. In this case though, the client asked for images of a combination of already released product for promotion.

It's been a real test of lighting. It's fun working with the strobes in different ways to get the perfect mixture of light and shadows.

Just thought you might be interested in some of the non-people related photography I do from time to time. Have a great weekend folks and you'll see a new post from me Monday.

Jaq and Brian - Pregnancy Announcement

2010-08-16T11:08:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was able to work with some of my favourite clients and good friends again - Jacqueline and Brian. Since I shot their wedding a few years ago, earlier this year we photographed the whole family again and now they're EXPECTING! I'm pretty excited for them and Jaq wanted a special way to let everyone in their family know. So she asked me to come in and take a few shots of just the two of them.

For these, I simply used the soft natural light that was coming from the window. It added a little glow to them

I really enjoyed the natural look to their room. For someone who is used to "cleaning" up the background it was nice to have the two coffee cups (which Brian managed to spill because of his monstrous pontoons he calls feet)

This is the image they used in their announcement to their family. I'm looking forward to documenting the pregnancy and the growth of their family. Congrats to the two of you!

Eye on London

2010-08-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

Over the years I've passed through London a few times and only really stayed in the city for three nights. It's just sooooo expensive. The photos below are from the European adventure with my mother in 2007. I hope sometime in the near future, I get to go back and enjoy more than the quick and dirty tour.

Outside of Buckingham palace, this is a tribute to the navy. The exact name has escaped my memory but the wind ripping through the British sails at dusk really caught my eye. I was thankful I had a tripod on that trip.

You can't go to London without taking in the ceremonial changing of the guard outside of Buckingham Palace. I think my mother said it best, though, when she suggested "I'm glad I saw it and I'll never do that again."

Isn't this just the type of bobby you expect...right out of Coronation Street me thinks...

Can you really go to London and not take a photo of the red phone boxes?

Can't leave out the underground...

I'll end with an unconventional photo. On the River Cruise of he Thames they pointed out this tower. In the early 1920s London had a ban on large advertisements high in the air so the owners of OXO "coincidentally" built the windows to advertise the name.

The Gothic Line - Sample Chapters

2010-08-11T20:44:00.000-07:00

Folks - First off let me apologize for the lack of posting. I have three web projects on the go right including my own website and I've been incredibly busy. Busy is good, but busy hasn't allowed me the time to get to you enough this month - Only two posts in 11 days. You've been a loyal readership though and I promise soon I'll have the brand new site to share with you and some exciting shoots coming up.

A member of the North Nova's gets a moment of shut eye in the slit trench on the Gothic Line

In the meantime I have a little reward for the historian out there and for those with the faintest interest in the Second World War. A sneak peak at the Gothic Line and the Battle of the Rivers guidebook. Here I am posting the first history section and the the first tour section for anyone who wants to download them.

The First History Section Here

The First Tour Section Here

Hope you enjoy...and I'll be back with more of my most recent photography and design soon...

Finally...The Gothic Line has arrived...

2010-08-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

Four years, 3 books (an Italian Translation of one) and the end of a series that tries to do justice to the Men who fought in Italy during the Second World War. From the boot in Sicily to the Rivers of Ravenna these three guide books allow you to trace the footsteps of the D-day dodgers. After a long and arduous process, what Eric McGeer referred to as death by a thousand cuts, I have, in my hands, a final copy of The Canadian Battlefields in Italy: The Gothic Line and the Battle of the Rivers.

Almost a month and half after the first round of proofing ~~it's really great..~~. who am I kidding, it's a massive relief to hold a copy straight off the presses and not see anything major out of place.

The table of contents matches, the colour looks great, the photos look crisp and I don't think we could have done a more thorough editing job on this manuscript.

With the printed version in my hands, this brings an end to the series that started 4 years ago when Terry Copp asked if I'd be willing to try my hand at design and working with Eric McGeer to produce The Canadian Battlefields in Italy: Ortona and the Liri Valley.

It's been an epic journey. The series introduced me to the world of publishing and I've now been apart of seeing more than a dozen books through the process, including 8 this year. I'm certainly thankful to the Laurier Centre for Military Strategic and Disarmament Centre for providing me the opportunity to act as the publications manager. The role has allowed me to combine two of my passions - History and Photography/Design - in a way that is exceptionally fullfilling.

I've saved the last part of this blog for Eric. Eric McGeer holds a PhD in Byzantine History from the Université de Montréal. He is an accomplished scholar and can work in so many languages your head would spin. But what makes Eric so remarkable is his personality. He is the most genuine man I've ever met in my life and I grew up on the East Coast of Canada. I would never have known any of his accomplishments if I hadn't watched them come to the fore over the years. While we were working on the first Italian guidebook it became apparent through the stories I would press him for that the way he managed his way around the remote countryside where the Canadians fought was by chatting with the locals. When he published Words of Valediction, I asked if he had a translator for the various Greek and Latin inscriptions. Shyly he conceded that he was fluent. Just the other day we stumbled across a German language website and, though it should have come as no surprise, I was shocked to see him give me a translation in no time including nuance. The languages are but one aspect of many but perhaps the easiest way to understand his modesty and intellect. I've also had the opportunity to watch his young family grow. After young Sarah came along, we started to meet in Toronto a little more. Since then Colin has also joined Eric and Sylvia and I can look back with fondness on the times that I've spent building blocks and sharing snacks with the two little ones as Eric proofed the text/design.

For us the journey does not seem to be over as it looks like we have another project in the wings. I really hope we find the way to get this to publication so that Eric and I can work together again and we can spend a few more evenings together with his growing family.

The New Website - One Wedding - Jaq and Brian

2010-08-05T17:36:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have noticed that for the better part of the last month symplicity.ca has been redirecting you to this blog. I'm thrilled with the new design and can't wait to unveil it but the process has been arduous to say the least. It is perhaps the worst time for me to be going through a site redesign but it was badly needed.

Now that the negativity is out, one of the unexpected side effects of the web redesign process has been the need to showcase some of my work. Potential wedding clients are going to want to see a wedding portfolio which has been finished now and they are also likely to ask for a sample of a single wedding.

Below is a video of Brian and Jacqueline Ernst who, despite knowing my reluctance to shoot weddings, refused to take no for an answer.

Of course my reluctance to shoot weddings has turned into a genuine interest in providing the visual record of that special day for my clients. There are few experiences more rewarding than seeing the smile of a thankful couple.

You'll notice that this video features Morning's Gonna Wait by the The Wind Broken Stones. I think this song really says something about the moments we all hope to experience with that one other special person.

I have a wedding coming up in early September, another in early October in Brandon, Manitoba and I am already booked for two weekends in May next year. If you are looking for me to capture your special day please get in touch soon.

Eye on Rome: Remembering the study tour and beyond...

2010-07-30T11:48:00.000-07:00

My favourite city in the world is Rome. My first encounter with the fabled city was back in 2003 with a group a fellow students on a 3 week study tour of Rome. I used nothing but a small digital camera on that first trip and certainly wasn't anything close to a photographer. That said, It really was the trip that opened my eyes to a greater world. That allowed for a deeper appreciation of culture and a lust to see more of the globe. Many of those from the initial trip remain great friends today - I can't believe how long it's been since we were all in Rome.

Jake playing the Guitar in the garden during our study tour. Some the best times we had were in this little garden at the end of the day listening to his magical voice and trying to take in everything we had seen.

Since then I've been back 4 times for varying stays but always with my professional camera. As a student of history, the Italian capital has it all. The remnants of the mighty Roman Empire from more than 3000 years ago still play a role in the city today.

The Colloseo Bus stop. Just one of the many examples where the past meets the present

The Renessance and Braoque periods surround you, especially inside the hallowed walls of Vatican but in other places you'll see family emblems and the piazza's with massive and impressive fountains meant for people to gather and congregate. On our tour we certainly did that. Then, and in subsequent trips, I made the required pilgrimage to Trevi Foutain. It is a such a sight at night!

The Famed Trevi Fountain from the side. What a wonderful place to spend the evening!

The more recent history including the Vittoriano, representing the unification of Italy and the reign of Mussolini all find a place in the history of Rome and the scattered remnants of those eras in the not too distant path are everywhere in the city.

An artistic take on the Vittoriano, also dubbed the "wedding cake" because of it's size, shape and whiteness.

The Italians sense of history, the innate understanding that good or bad, the past is not to be buried but showcased or at least allowed to exist as a reminder is apparent everywhere.

Thousands of people congregate to watch Pope Benedict XVI Give Mass at St. Peter's

I have thousands of photos of Rome including all the hot tourist locations but I thought I would show you an artistic variation of what came to my lens during my time in Rome. Pick pockets aside, it is probably one of the safest cities in the world and with the ability to enjoy a bottle a wine outside at anyone of the main fountains and piazza's. As the summer fades and I realize that this year, for the first time since 2005, I won't have the opportunity to step foot on European soil. With that I end my July posts and I hope you've enjoyed a tiny glance at Rome.

Sylwia in the Archives

2010-07-28T09:54:00.000-07:00

Not long ago I was doing some work for Trade Secrets at Hamilton PC on a door hanger full of coupons that they are using to promote different services. On of the benefits of having worked with a number of models in the past is that I have a bank of images I can draw on for my designs. We used this smiling image of Sylwia for the bottom coupon offering new clients a 15% discount.

That shoot was aimed at trying a few different lighting strategies with using a black seemless paper backdrop (9.5 feet wide) and one light.

The shoot was a ton of fun because Sylwia is an absolute pleasure to work with and game for trying various poses as we played with the light.

Sylwia, who is entering enrolled in sciences at university, has a personality that just begs to be photographed and at her urging we played around with the lab coat, the textbooks, and the protective eye wear.

And I saved my favourite for last and also a lesson on why I rarely delete any of the photos I've taken. The first time I went through these images I completely missed this image.

Sylwia and I are planning getting together for another shoot soon and I'm looking forward to the results.

The WMGSA

2010-07-25T23:17:00.000-07:00

I've been really busy in the last 6 weeks with the Waterloo Minor Girls Softball Association. I've been working with them for 4 years now and I can't say enough about the association. They are run with a smooth efficiency that belies most organizations.

The girls that play competitive ball all seem to carry this air of confidence that is refreshing. It's nice to see a young group of girls so committed to the game.

I've grown tired of the standard team shot and like I've mentioned before, the WMGSA are great at allowed the artistic freedom to create images like the one below...

I look forward to many more years with the girls. It's fun because now most them know me and within minutes their true personalities come to the forefront... It really has been a joy this year!!

Viktoria with Moves and a Martini Glass

2010-07-23T18:33:00.000-07:00

I've decided to let you all in on one of my personal projects. I'm not really sure where the inspiration came from and I'm surprised this idea even popped into my head but it did: "The Personality of the Little Black Dress." It seems all the women I know have a little black dress. Sometimes it's a fall back option when nothing else works, other times it's their go to number when the night is important.

My concept involves that favourite black dress, a martini glass (a martini is also always available if the setting is right), and a hobby/profession all rolled into one or a series of shots...

I've worked on this concept on and off for four years but the others didn't seem to come together as I had hoped (that's the one thing with personal projects is too often they find a place on the back burner unless you make a concerted effort to stay true to the concept). Today was the first time "The Personality of the Little Black Dress" came together as I envisioned it on that hazy Saturday afternoon in 2006.

One of the first people I approached with the concept was Viktoria. Viktoria is a phenomenal dancer and that skill has taken her around the world. She certainly knows how to move to the music. Almost three years ago we started scheming on how to bring it all together. Europe, cruise ships, and last minute hiccups (mostly on my end) foiled our previous attempts but earlier today we finally managed to get together for a shoot.

We didn't stop there though and with her friend Sarah providing a myriad of one-liners we spent a couple of hours laughing and shooting away.

It's amazing how quickly people get to know one another and modesty goes out the window when the strobes are firing and the personalities match. Before long, it was like hanging out with old friends.

With Viktoria's open mind we were able to try a few concepts with water that really turned out well too and meant that the floor got a bit of a cleaning too

Great fun today...Hope we find another time to work together...

A River Runs Through...

2010-07-19T20:40:00.000-07:00

I like to play with the camera...The image I'm posting below is neither the best one I've ever shot or terribly interesting. But just the way the street light was reflecting in this stream as it meandered toward the Halifax Harbour across a few exposed stones forced me to look again. I just like the serene feel of the water here...

Eye on the Louvre

2010-07-18T14:03:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while I take you on a trip through my eyes. Today I'm taking you to the Louvre. After visiting Paris a number of times but never making it to this artistic heaven, I finally entered the hallowed grounds a couple of years ago. Originally a fortress built in the 12th Century, the building housed the French Monarchy until Louis XIV moved permanently to Versailles. During the French Revolution, the Assemble Generale decreed that the palace be turned into a Museum to display the artistic treasures of the Republic. It has largely remained a museum since and its collections continue to grow. It is virtually impossible to see all of the Louvre in one day and really it is censory overload to even attempt it given there are 8 section - Egyptian Antiquities; Near Eastern Antiquities; Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Antiquities; Islamic Art; Sculpture; Decorative Arts; Paintings; Prints and Drawings.

It is exceptionally difficult to do photographic justice to the masterpieces housed at the Louvre and often I found myself just taking in the scenery without even taking the lens cap off. the sheer size and profound effect would be lost in any photographic attempt I would show here. That said, I made sure to visit the famed Mona Lisa

and chart through the living pieces of Napoleon III. I also wanted to take home with me how I saw the outside of this impressive building.

I'm looking forward to my next visit and taking on a new wing of artistic eye candy.

Stones into Schools: Promoting Peace with Books, Not Bombs, in Afghanistan and Pakistan

2010-07-17T23:15:00.000-07:00

On June 9th, I wrote about Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time.

On June 12th, I wrote about the generous and humbling gift Greg Mortenson sent to me - two copies of his newest book Stones into Schools: Promoting Peace with Books, Not Bombs, in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

I finished the book that week in June but I have been exceedingly busy the past month or so and haven't had a chance to give the book the thorough review it deserves. For those that are just coming to this now, essentially Greg and the Central Asian Institute (CAI) have made building schools, especially aimed at the education of girls in the most remote regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan. Mortenson abides by the axiom that when you educate a boy you educate an individual but when you educate a girl you educate a village. He also builds schools under the motto of the last place first. Hoping that his schools will serve as a catalyst for other aid groups to eventually make their way to these remote regions of the world. From his first school and the $12 000 he raised to build it to managing a $4 000 000 yearly budget.

On a personal level this book is deeply satisfying. It goes into much more detail on the individuals who make up Mortenson's team in Afghanistan and Pakistan that he affectionately refers to as his Dirty Dozen - a third of which cannot read, two have multiple wives, and critically they are equally divided between the three rival Islamic sects: Sunni, Shia, and Ismaili. Without the work of the CAI, there is virtually no way these men would be sharing tea. What they do share though is a commitment to educating young girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan, a commitment that could cost them their lives at any point.

This book is even better written then the first. The drama and newspaper feel of the first is replaced by an earnest story about the personalities involved and the mission they are all on. As Canada gets ready to wind down their military commitment to Afghanistan, this book is an interesting way of looking at what might be able to be done if we focused more of our efforts on enabling villages and the people instead of spending on the military effort. In the end, Mortenson is doing more to win the hearts and minds with 4 million dollars a year than the Canadian Department of National Defence who operates on a 20 billion dollar annual budget, nevermind the US budget.

While I admire his approach and the effort Mortenson has put in, in the last 16 years I can't help but be disgruntled by the state of progress (and yes I know progress is a dangerous word but I think an appropriate one when it comes to basic human rights) in Afghanistan. Case in point - This repressive law that was passed a little over a year ago by the Afghani Parliament. That we are almost a decade into our mission to allow a form of islamic democracy in Afghanistan and we are still "celebrating" the Kabul Women's Garden where women are "allowed" to remove their burkha's and wear high heels and makeup seems like we are going backwards. Shouldn't this be part of the society by now and it seems that in a society that featured the following stats pre-taliban:

60% of teachers at Kabul University
50% of students at Kabul University
50% of civilian the government workforce
70% of school teachers
40% of doctors

that we should be further along the way helping this country achieve it's own goals.

but I digress...

What Mortenson is doing is nothing shy of amazing. He is engaging the local populations and they are the ones who provide the land, build the schools, and employ the teachers. What Mortenson provides is much needed cash. That locals complete the construction and make th decisions make The CAI a unique NGO. Instead of forcing their will on the local population they are engaging the population and building schools to lay the foundation for future generations. I support his mission both on here and through a small monthly donation and I hope you find a way to at least read the books...

The Wind Broken Stones Live Tonight with the Irish Descendants

2010-07-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

Tonight the Wind Broken Stones are opening for the Juno Award Winning Irish Descendants tonight at Norma Jeans. This is fantastic opportunity for the band and a perfect match musically, ear candy if you will.

The better part of a month ago, we had a photoshoot with the Wind Broken Stones and I've also been responsible for producing their designs. After a series of discussions on how their digital download cards should look, we came up with the designs you see in this post.

We combined some modern crisp imagery with a 70s bubbly folky type font. Each card has two of their songs available for digital download but I think these will be kept for a long time after the files have landed on the computer.

While I love the music blaring from my home speakers, I appreciate it even more live. I'm really looking forward to covering their show tonight. It will be phenomenal!

For those in the London area tonight it would be a shame to miss this one!

Softball and Lemons...

2010-07-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

As the softball girls that I photograph get older, their game times also get later. Games that start at 830pm give me about 45 minutes of effective light before the big ball park lights flick on. The challenge of minimal ambient light, dark backgrounds, fast movement and the harsh overhead flood lights really keep you on your toes.

My philosophy in difficult lighting and weather has always been the same...To borrow an apt cliché, when life serves up lemons, make lemonade. of course you have to understand your camera to squeeze the most out of those lemons but I really like the use of light here and incorporating the big floodlights into the final product.

Without delving into a world of camera geekdom, the equipment I'm using allows me to push the edge of technology and come up with some pretty creative results. before the older teams have shied away from team photos with me but this year as the girls I've worked with for at least three years age and their parents have become accustomed to the type of photography I provide, the teams have stuck with me. As a result, the girls know me and the big camera has been apart of their ball experience for so long that they are instantly themselves. That I spent my childhood around a team environment allows me to interact and meld into that group setting where teasing equates to admiration and respect. The results we get are as much a part of their comfort and ease as anything else!

Claire in Halifax

2010-07-15T01:08:00.000-07:00

While I was in Halifax working with my web team on our various projects last week I had the opportunity to work with Claire. She is a fantastic young model who spent a good deal of her life dancing and now models for Redken. Her enthusiasm in front of the camera was fantastic.

Claire has such a genuine smile and maturity beyond her years. The day we planned for the shoot was touch and go weather wise but the rain mostly held off and her enthusiasm never dampened. At one point Claire looked at me and said something to the effect of "what a gorgeous day, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

Too often many of us spend our days in a state of waiting; wishing we were somewhere else partaking in some other activity. On a hot muggy day with the sun slowly falling from the sky amidst periodic showers, Claire was embracing the moment. That sort of energy is contagious and it was a joy combining my personal artistic projects with her vision and spontaneous creativity.

The cloudy day (or what we refer to as the softbox in the sky) provided nice even light and we strolled through two gorgeous outdoor locations just outside downtown Halifax. I can't wait to work with Claire again.

Family Photos with Elise

2010-07-13T14:25:00.000-07:00

I met Elise in France last year on the Cleghorn Battlefield Tour that I helped lead. Elise is quite smart and, with Vero, helped to bridge the gap between the French students from Montreal and the English students from Waterloo on the tour.

For a while now, Elise has asked when it would be possible for me to capture her 11 year old Daughter and 8 year old adopted son from Ethiopia. Only charging a lot more for travel would have allowed that to happen and I figured at some point I would be passing through Montreal on my way home so we waited. It just so happened that we crossed paths in my parent's home town of Shediac, New Brunswick.

Her daughter, Isuelt, is a little sweetheart and absolutely loves the camera. She picked out a special hat and her little white dress for the shoot. She loved to be directed and contributed her own ideas and modelesque looks.

Dawit, on the other hand was not as open, to the idea of having his photo taken at first.

But as the shoot progressed he became more comfortable and by the end was directing the shoot.

This is one reason why I like taking my time with families and letting them interact in their own way. So many parents want their child to listen to the photographer. Quite frankly I would prefer if the opposite occurred. I'd rather be chasing them in their element acting as themselves then directing a hardened, shy, embarrassed, or unhappy young one in front of the lens. When I shoot models, I often tell them in our contact beforehand that I should be chasing you and then I'll stop you if I want a slightly different angle etc... the same works wonders with family shoots. I always start by introducing myself no matter their age, getting down to their level, making eye contact and talking to them while holding my camera but never firing a single shot. Then I always encourage the kids to start out doing what they want and from there I can direct their pose a little more, shift them slightly to a better light. Once they are into the process and you've created that trust, the images come naturally.

Iseult with her hat and her dress on the beach in Shediac

Jasmine Star, a very popular wedding photographer, runs her business on the motto that couples (brides in particular) buy a photographer not photographs. I follow the same strategy for all my shoots from weddings to models to family moments.

Dawit with the Big Lobster in Shediac

Working with Ash and the Benefits of Having Personal Projects

2010-07-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

I mentioned a few posts ago that while I've been on the East Coast, I've also been working with a few models on some personal projects and to build my image database for any of my design work. In return, the models end up with a few images for their portfolio and their facebook pages. When I shoot commercial projects where I need a model, I always use those who have worked with me in the past - the rapport alone makes it worth it.

The personal projects allow me the freedom to make mistakes, play with new lights and lighting strategies, try unconventional lenses, and break the composition "rules." On the processing end, I get to play a bit in the digital darkroom. Essentially I get to shoot and process consequence free (not sure why I felt the need to link the Great Big Sea video but somehow it feels appropriate on many levels). Today I'm showing you a few from my shoot with Ash.

Ash was a blast in front of the camera. I always like shooting with someone who has a sense of humour and doesn't take themselves too seriously and this is Ash to a tee. She has her head on her shoulders and over the course of two shoots was absolutely wonderful to work with. In an instant she could go from laughing and joking to pulling off a look like the you see in these photos. I think we managed to capture some unique head shots that all tell a different story or convey a different image.

I would be remiss not to thank David Connell for letting me use his studio in Saint John. Conzie joined us for the first half of the shoot and it was fun to throw around some ideas and see how he worked with Ash. He had also worked with Ash in the past and that helped to all but eliminate the tension you sometimes feel when you're working with a new model. Thanks Conzie...

I know I've been a bit cryptic about the nature of the personal projects but until I'm ready to share (or really if I'm ever ready to share) you'll only get references to them on here. Like a songwriter who is in the concept phase with a few lines and half a chorus, my two artistic endeavors are still in their skeletal form...

50 years...

2010-07-06T23:11:00.000-07:00

Just before I made the trek out east, I was near Primrose Ontario for Urve and Lew's 50th wedding anniversary. I met Urve (photo on the right with her arm around her grandson) back in 2003 when I was part of an intersession in Rome. She and Nancy, a dear friend of hers and now mine, decided that they would audit the intersession. You might be inclined to think that having two ladies well into their 60's with us might hamper the party or at the least exclude them from the late night activities. On the contrary, they led the party as often as they followed and stayed out with us many nights, joined the sing along in the Garden and added an integral element that only wisdom and experience can provide.

the Internet allowed us to keep in touch as they made their way to Guelph and most of us back to New Brunswick. We kept in touch via email and in Korea they kept up with my sporadic blog/emails. In the summer of 2005 we all went to Jake and Shannon Stewart's wedding.

Lew with the Champaign

Our relationship really started to grow in the fall of 2005 when I started my Masters at the Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo. Only 35 minutes form Guelph, we have managed to keep each other apprised of our lives and meet up for a lunch or a supper when time allows. I know this is a lengthy introduction but these ladies are just so special. They live life to the fullest, travel like they're 29 and most importantly experience the places they travel like they're 25.

Lew and Urve as their wedding song played behind them

When Urve asked me to photography her 50th anniversary I jumped at the opportunity. It's wonderful to be able to provide a nice memory of the day for her and her witty husband. The spread they put on, the live music they provided and the scenic country locale made for a fantastic afternoon. Congrats Urve and Lew on 50 years. You really are a special couple.

The Beautiful Tent - Urve hand made the colourful napkins you see

The Delicious Apetizers

One Last shot of the 50 years... :)

Another Family Shoot...

2010-07-05T00:55:00.000-07:00

After a great weekend in Halifax, I was back in Saint John Sunday afternoon to shoot again. I worked with Kevin and his family earlier this week. Because Trevor was getting married this weekend (Congrats Trev, hope you're enjoying Moncton), a good deal of the The extended Family on Kevin's mother's side had arrived from all over the country. Tracy called me and asked If I could help capture the moment.

When Tracy (mom #2 on the right) asked if I was available to shoot their extended family this Sunday, there was no way I could say anything but yes. She had prepared so many of my meals, had taken me to a number of our games and practices and endured our late night entrances when we were finally of age.

I spent a good deal of my youth in the Scott house. Kevin and I spent almost a decade playing hockey together and as blue line partners for a good number of those years. He played that left side with a vengeance and when it came to a one on one I'd still put my money on Kev to come up with the puck. There was more than Kev at the Scott house though and often we'd find ourselves engrossed in some sort of sporting competition with Trevor and Ben. From launching to golf balls high over the trees to the Tennis court and the road hockey games we were always on the go and we were fiercely competitive. Perhaps none more than the never-ending mini hockey games that would last until the wee hours of the morning.

When it came time for photos, this family was all business. having spent a good portion of the previous day posing in wedding photos they had their looks down pat. Though they wanted a nice memory, they also wanted to be done quickly. In less than an hour we were able to shoot the family from a few individuals to the whole group.

One of the nice parts of shooting a family that is practically yours is the connection you already have with most of them and the beer and food they serve you after you're done...

Personal Projects: Working with Monica

2010-07-04T00:36:00.000-07:00

When it comes to photography, I'm not alone in the belief that personal projects are an essential component to the education and growth of a photographer. I have a few artistic projects I'm currently perusing and I try to use local models when I can. So coming home I got in touch with Monica through Model Mayhem.

By day (or night depending on when she is called) Monica works in Moncton at a home for the elderly. In her free time, she enjoys being in front of the camera. She is naturally beautiful and has a certain "je ne sais quoi" when the shutter starts firing. With an open mind and a free spirit, Monica was happy to collaborate.

We decided that the only way to get a location suitable for our needs was to drive slightly out of Moncton up Hwy 126. Just off the road was a lovely little secluded area with water, rocks and trees. After we had a few great shots, I was able to experiment a little with different lenses from angles I wouldn't normally attempt during a paid shoot. This is certainly one of the benefits of working TFCD (Time for CD in the industry). Much like musicians, these models are use to the camera and relish the opportunity to have fun in front of the Lens. Here are a few from the shoot (this is not the forum for my artistic projects but if you're interested in what I'm working on send me a quick message).

I think we really captured a few winners here and perhaps Monica and I will have the chance to work together again.

Sunday night at 9pm, with help of Dave Connell at his studio in Saint John we have another artistic shoot coming up. If you're interested in knowing a bit more about my artistic projects or perhaps becoming involved, let me know...

The Hupman Brothers, an impressive ECMA, and Enduring Friendships

2010-07-03T07:48:00.000-07:00

Last night I spent the evening taking in the sounds of the Hupman Brothers. Their sound can only be described as original and their lead singer will blow you away with his range. They claimed the 2010 East Coast Music Award for blues recording of the year. The band is comprised of brothers Scott and Ryan Hupman with my childhood friend Mike Carroll. Mike is an amazing music talent who regularly tours with Jessica Rhaye and Matt Anderson among others.

A photo of the Hupman Brothers...

Our friendship harkens back to before Mike even picked up a drumstick, to those awkward teenage years where you sort through the Rolodex of life's options and emotions. As my dad puts it we spent the better part of 5 years in our parents basements playing random video games, board games, sports, walking trips to McDonalds when it first opened in the Kennebecasis Valley, etc... I remember when Mike first started banging on the drum kit and his modesty meant that I never fully understood just how talented he was becoming.

Mike on the Drums...

We chose different universities and geography made that friendship more difficult to maintain. Ironically a few years later we met randomly in a bar in St. Andrews, NB where I was drinking with a group of fellow history geeks and he was playing. It was great o catch up and we spent a good few minutes of that evening chatting away. We saw each other again in Fredericton a little over a year later when the University pub booked them but we largely went back to our own lives. When I went to Korea, Mike followed the travel blog and sent a few e-mails to catch up. It wasn't until last night though that I had the opportunity to see him in the flesh again. Like with Kev, as if the years apart had been mere days, the conversation flowed, the jokes evoked genuine laughter as we laughed at some of our teen activities...This past week with Kevin and Mike has sure sent me stumbling down nostalgia lane and it's been great to spend time with those friends that will always be close no matter where our lives go...

Mike's Brother-in-law Jason (and my web guy) shooting the Hupman Brothers

Mike is now a full time musician, playing with the Hupman Brothers and picking up work with several of the East Coast's top musicians. I can't wait to continue to follow his career.

Working with Kevin, Erica, and Kiona - My Approach to Capturing Family Photos

2010-07-01T22:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had the pleasure of photographing the Scott family - Kevin, Erica and Kiona.

Over the last two years, I've developed my own style of capturing families, especially families with young children. The primary lesson is gaining the trust of those you photograph - with friends this is easy and generally the adults who hire you are on board right away but young children need to feel this way as well. For this reason, I often take the first 20 minutes or so to interact with the little ones, get down to their level, play peek-a-boo, and just let them get comfortable.

You can only capture the true essence of a family by letting them interact as they would without the lens around. Often my clients are surprised by the images because they felt as if it was just another day at the park or a moment where they could just sit, colour, throw a ball around, go for a walk and just enjoy each other. Truth is...that's what it's all about. The uniqueness in my images comes from the different ways families interact and co-exist.

I've met Kiona only once before. She's a little doll. It's amazing to see how she has grown - both from the obvious physical changes but also the little personality she is developing. No one who knows Erica will be surprised at just how particular young Kiona is and it's certainly endearing. During one shot, I moved the books slightly closer to her to better frame the image. She looked at the different placement of the books, looked up at me, looked down at the books again...she was not impressed with the new placement of the books and after pausing for a half second, she pushed the books back to their original place. I didn't dare put them back in the more esthetically pleasing locale...Kiona had made it clear this was not her preferance and in my books only a happy kid makes for a good photo. Happy Kid, Successful Shoot...

Geography, adult responsibilities and age have meant that there are fewer times Kev and I get to see the bottom of a beer bottle together but childhood bonds find a way of rising above all of that. The two minute man call - phone conversation - meant that even before the handshake things were going to be like they always were and always will be.

With Erica expecting again, I look forward to working again with the Scott's as their young family grows...

For those of you from the East Coast looking to get photos done, I'm here for another week and then back briefly in August and it looks like there is a swelling of clients asking for early October dates. If you want to get your photos done, please don't hesitate to contact me - matt.symes@symplicity.ca - we'll certainly arrange something.

Happy Canada Day

2010-07-01T11:18:00.000-07:00

I'm in Shediac NB on this Canada Day...Thought I'd post a photo from Vimy Ridge to wish everyone a Happy Canada Day... Though the actual history is far less conclusive than modern day memory and our "creation myth." Vimy, because of cost, location, Pierre Berton, and the nature of the First World War, is largely known as our beginning. Whatever your stance, The two World Wars pushed Canada along the road of independence on the international stage.

Happy Canada Day...whatever our problems, they're minuscule in comparison to the rest of the world and we have a great way of sorting them...

Happy Canada Day...

Sunrise on the Saint John River

2010-06-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

After shooting a 50th Anniversary party for a dear friend, I left an area close to Primrose, Ontario (a rural town about an hour and half north of Toronto) at about 5pm to embark on the long journey home to surprise my mother at her 50th B-day party.

Weaving through "La Belle Province" and especially the single lane highway in the easternmost part of the province is rarely a treat as the Transport trucks whip past. The full moon left the night with more luminance than you would normally expect. As I passed Edmundston the sky produced the first hints of morning. The darkness of night gave way to a shade of blue that lightens as dawn approaches. Just past Grand Falls I glimpsed into the rearview mirror and saw an orange glow appear in the clouds over a small mountain range. As many of you are aware the TransCanada highway in Northern NB weaves over and around a portion of the great Saint John River and to add to the scene the morning fog was slowly lifting from it's night time stranglehold atop the waterway.

I debated how I could capture this moment...but I knew that I needed to be on the other side of the highway, going the opposite direction. The orange glow meant I had about 20 minutes and though I've driven the TransCanada many times I wasn't sure I'd find another break in the tree-lined highway before the sun had risen. So, on the car-less highway, I whipped around in one of those police roads between the east and west lanes and headed west to recapture the scene.

The photos almost look like paintings and though I've done a little retouching to better capture the colours I saw there, there is but the scantest post processing work on these. The tree lined mountains took on a blueish hue from the moonlit sky behind me and the trees that appeared dark, slowly revealed their greenish colour as the sun rose even further...

I'm at home now and have a number of assignments but I'll do my best to keep this blog updated... I have a few family shoots and a few artistic shoots lined up that I'm really excited about...

Behind the Scenes...

2010-06-25T19:45:00.000-07:00

The last little while, I've been taking an assistant to most of my shoots. It's really helpful to have a second camera in an alternative position and a second set of eyes to see some little things and make suggestions. Nick Lachance is a talented photographer in his own right. His comfort zone is in the world of journalism where he has to compose and frame on the fly. This adds a welcome element to our shoots. One of the added benefits are the images he's caught of me in the action...thought I'd share those...

Eye on Whistler...

2010-06-23T18:39:00.000-07:00

Even on a Cloudy and Hazy day in June Whistler is an amazing spot... Thanks to my Aunt Donna on the way back from South Korea in 2005 I was fortunate enough to stop in Vancouver. I remember the trip like it was yesterday, my uncle and I went out golfing one day which was a tremendous amount of fun. The next day we headed to see great uncle Joe, a Korean War Vet who has since passed. May he rest in peace. I can personally attest to the fact that his sacrifices have left the people of South Korea at a standard of living far beyond those in the North could ever even dream of.

Later in the trip we went to Whistler. These were taken only 6 months after I started shooting with a DSLR. It's as hard to describe the beauty of Whistler as it is to capture it in a photograph. I did my best at the time but mostly you just stand there in complete awe of the endless mountain range.

We traveled up the hill on a Gondola. What a wonderful view in all directions as we climbed toward the top.

Snow at the peak in July, a temperature drop of more than 20 degrees between the bottom and the top. Despite clearly seeing the white peaks, I was wearing only a soccer jersey. Recognizing that was not nearly enough, Donna snuck in and picked up a nice whistler sweater for me. below is a rare photo of yours truly when I was only sporting the goatee.

My only regret on that trip was not taking more photos of the beautiful British Columbia landscape on that wonderful trip! I will next time to be sure but for now here are few from the top...

Before I end this post, I should also note that a few days later my younger cousin Alecia and I ran ruck-shod all over my uncle and aunt in a game of pick up basketball... I hope Corey is around next time I get out there and I can't wait for the rematch!

Jane Carmichael

2010-06-22T00:48:00.000-07:00

I mentioned in yesterday's post that Nick Lachance and I had a second shoot over the weekend and this one was at sunset on Sunday evening just off the 403 on the way to Simcoe, Ontario.

Jane Carmichael and I worked together two years ago. She was one of the first musicians I had the chance to work with and she remains one of my favourites. This time we were working to capture images for her upcoming CD. In an earlier blog, I spoke of her infectious smile. Nick, I think, summed it up best when after 20 minutes of shooting he turned to me and asked "Is it possible to take a bad photo of her?" No Nick, it is not.

If her smile and beauty catch your eye, it's her voice that commands your attention. James Reaney of the London Free Press describes Jane's music like this:

"...rock songs that sound tighter and tougher each time you listen, while the sensitive ballads sound stronger and more haunting..."

Musicians are usually most comfortable when you just let them get lost in the music. For a good portion of three hour shoot Jane, with the help of her ukulele, serenaded us with a combination of her own music as well as her own take on a few other popular tunes. Give your ears a little gift and visit her myspace. A few of the new tracks are posted as well as a number of the older tunes.

The first time we worked together Jane provided me with a few images of other artists she liked to give us a starting point. This time she provided me with only photos of her wardrobe, a link to her new songs, and creative freedom to "get it right." Working with artists who are familiar with the stage, not shy of the camera, and most importantly willing to put their trust in you to deliver images that suit the music is both exhilarating and inspiring.

We actually made a last minute location change. On Saturday night, I made the trip to Port Dover, Ontario to watch the Wind Broken Stones take to the stage. For those of you familiar with the roads in Ontario there is no "good way" to get from Waterloo to Port Dover. I took the 24 the whole way and as soon as you pass Cambridge, the open space and rural feel is omnipresent. As I made the short zigzag along the 403 to meet up with the 24 again, I was struck by the beauty of the setting sun as it glistened across the fields. the long shadows and soft orange glow coupled with the many fields and an abandoned barn got the wheels in motion. The trip home, the next morning, confirmed that and I made the call to Jane. A less trusting musician might have been more wary given the timing but Jane didn't seem put off at all and soon fell in love with the location and what the images could say about her music.

It was a fantastic weekend working. I wish I could show you the homeruns, but I'm only able to show you a handful of the photos that weren't chosen or are already published!

What's been really great over the past 2-3 years is the number of clients who are coming back for photos. It is always rewarding when families hire you to capture their growth or models hire you to fill out their books. That said, there is something special when Musicians, fellow artists if I may classify myself that way, come back again because they have faith you will deliver the crucial visual compliment to their own musical creations. New customer's will see the photo on the CD cover or the images on myspace before the sound will ever get to their ears. That's a lot of trust. Thank you for your confidence and faith once again.

The Wind Broken Stones

2010-06-21T07:02:00.000-07:00

I love what I do. This weekend, with the help of Nick Lachance, I had two great shoots with musicians. Today's post will focus on The Wind Broken Stones, an amazing band just about to release their debut album. For those Stan Roger's fans out there you'll recognize their name as a lyric from 45 years.

Their music is truly something to behold. Though I usually like to personlize my thoughts on their music, the bands own description is perhaps the best way to understand what they are about

the band is a collection of seasoned musicians from dramatically different backgrounds. This is the place where folk meets hard core; where classical precision meets the loose soul of a campfire. All of this floats above a foundation of passionate songwriting and complex vocal harmonies. The songs can at times be gentle and poetic and other times fierce and desperate. The Wind Broken Stones live in the untraveled space between dream and nightmare and weave their live shows back and forth over that line.

The Wind Broken Stones chose sunrise for the shoot. One of the real moments of anticipation for me is when my clients get to see their images. We were all excited by the end results. At the risk of sounding like a member of the intelligence services, I'm not at liberty to share the best captures from the shoot because they will be used for their new album, the dust jacket, and for other promotional materials. But I can share the ones they have released.

Here is one from the wee hours of the morning, a time when the light is magical as it dances across the landscape

Given the tight schedule of the band, we combined the sunrise shoot with an all night studio session starting at about 10pm Friday. I wanted colourful and crisp images to contrast with the natural sunrise images we would be capturing later. We spent at least an hour with each band member. Since we are all good friends the level of comfort is not an issue but large lights and the studio setting is always intimidating at first. Within minutes though, every one of them slid into their role and their true personalities came to the fore! Let me use the studio captures to introduce the band:

Lead singer and guitarist Jarod Parlee from Quispamsis, New Brunswick

Lead Guitar, Kick Drum, and vocals - Jason Moir from St. James, Manitoba

Their Amazing violinist Chelsea Wright from London, Ontario

On Bass and vocals Luke Henderson from London, Ontario

On the Mandolin and behind the Mic, Katie Toy from Windsor, Ontario

Some of you will remember that I did some work with Jarod on his solo album Winter Take All. It remains one of my favourite projects. Some say it's difficult to work with friends on a business level but in almost every way our working relationship is only enhanced by our friendship and mutual respect. The projects where I'm given more artistic freedom are really inspirational. I can't wait to work with them through the process of developing their CD and in the future as our artistic careers continue to collide.

It was amazing to work with this group. They are such a driven musical force and from the final album masters I've heard, you would be doing your ears a serious disservice if you miss this release.

On July 16th, The Wind Broken Stones will be sharing the stage with Juno Award winners The Irish Descendants. Be sure not to miss them at Norma Jeans in London.

Softball Scenes: The Moment of Action

2010-06-17T21:57:00.000-07:00

Over the last few days I've been at the diamond for more hours than I can count. Softball is a game of intense action followed by periods of inaction. My job is to capture those split second rushes; the moment the pitcher releases the ball; the point of impact of the bat; the slide home; and the catch... I've put together a series of bar images that capture all of these. They are crops from larger images that I hope sell well when parents get to feast their eyes on the whole gallery. Hope you enjoy the artistic take on Softball...

Those young ladies can really whip that ball in there. This particular team is undefeated in league play this year and their pitching plays a big role in that success...

Their catchers stand tall behind the plate putting that glove to great use...Any coach will tell you a good offence starts with a solid defence.

Focusing on the pitch in the on deck circle. they sit there and read the pitcher, time their swing as if they were at bat and mentally prepare for their opportunity to face the opposition...

I watched this team run through the line up three times in the third inning. Hit after hit after hit after hit kept me busy behind the lens...

This girl was absolutely amazing at bunting. Without fail she advanced the runner and laid down a few that allowed her to speed her way to first...

Fathering a Publication...

2010-06-15T22:04:00.000-07:00

Today I spent virtually the entire day in the middle of the Editing Process.

As some of you are aware, I am the Publications Manager and Webmaster at the Laurier Centre for Military Strategic and Disarmament Studies. As publications manager, a manuscript in a word document and illustrations often come to me and from there it is my responsibility to make it into something visually appealing and take it through the final proofing stages. This involves a series of edits by a number of keen academic eyes.

This particular Manuscript - The Canadian Battlefields in Italy: The Gothic Line and the Battle of the Rivers - is exceptionally well written. The author, Eric McGeer, holds a PhD from the Université de Montréal, speaks and reads five languages including Latin, and is able to construct English prose like few others. Even with such an accomplished writer, it never ceases to amaze me that invariably there remains a myriad of tiny corrections and inconsistencies we continue to catch on every edit. Every new eye manages to point out some tiny inconsistency and the process is akin to what Eric comically referred to as Death by a Thousand cuts. It certainly feels that way at times.

At the sight of the final printed product, Authors, Designers, and Editors often feel a great sense of trepidation. We look at the front and back cover for any major gaffes, filter through the inside for any major problems. Some compare it to birthing a child. I think a more apt comparison, though I have no personal experience to draw on for this, is watching your child blossom into an adult. You no longer have control over their actions (no longer able to make changes to the book) and they are subject the judging eyes of the critical world (the eccentrically critical world of academia). Only when we're relatively sure that we've done a good job as a parent (when we, ourselves, can find no major flaws in the text) do we feel a sense of relief and then perhaps a bit of pride. Many around shower us with pride but just one negative review can sting. Like a proud parent, your instinct is to defend and fight back but most times the hollow pages of some obscure west coast journal does not allow a forum for such a rebuttal and it would just be petty in any event. So you stir a bit, try to focus on the positive and move on. The really uplifting moments though for Eric and I so far with these Second World War Guidebooks, come from veterans of the Italian Campaign and their sincere gratitude. It certainly makes it all worthwhile, like I might imagine an elderly member of society commending you on what a fine parenting job you've done!

We're not there yet with this book. One more round of editing at the Centre before we send it off and wait for a final proofing print in the form of a mock book from the printer. Once I sign off, we wait for the final product. I have full confidence our final guidebook in the trilogy will be as well received as the last. Terry Copp has suggested that this is the best of the three he has read. The incredible war art, the never-before seen period photos, the modern day stills, the Google Earth satellite imagery, and Eric's poetic pen make this one to be proud of. Let's just hope the ISBN number is correct on the back...

Catch 22 - When Art and Sports Photography Collide

2010-06-14T22:35:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the first night of shooting softball for me this season. For some girls with the Waterloo Minor Girls Softball Association, this is the fourth year I will be their team photographer. It's been fun watching these young girls grow and become really solid ball players...

I love to shoot that which is a bit more abstract. Not surprisingly, most people don't want an abstract photo of their daughter playing ball and I can't blame them. They want a great action photo of their child hammering a pitch to the outfield or sliding into home. My solution to this problem is to try to do both. Because the abstract can help accentuate the literal.

The benefit of having worked with the WMGSA is they are willing, in fact encouraging of a more creative approach to sports photography. They, too, are sick of the rapid-fire-point-and-click-school-photo-day photography that is all too common in this business. I count myself as very fortunate to have clients who appreciate the creative art of photography and look forward to what this year brings. Thanks!

Eye on Thailand: Quite a Trip...

2010-06-13T15:48:00.000-07:00

For this post I went back to my first set of DSLR photos. These photos are from a 2005 trip that I went on with Coman and where we met Tanya, Trystan, Cindy, Katarzyna, Owen, Macca, and Colin. It was perhaps the most relaxing sojourn I've ever taken. Camped in small cabins just off the beach with access to all the amenities you could ever ask for.

If you remember, this was only months after the Tsunami that left the country crippled. Donations were flooding in but tourists were still slow to come back. We were on the opposite side of where the main thrust landed and saw virtually no damage.

We did have an amazing time. Snorkeling, climbing up to see an amazing falls, taking the trip over to Sunset Beach, and just embracing the food, the weather, and the excellent company. I'm a big fan of Black and White photography and alot of my work veers that way but in Thailand it's very difficult to do justice to the lush colours of this beautiful land in that medium. Here are some of the photos from that trip more than 5 years ago...

I've learned a lot since these photos were taken but some of these remain among my favourites. Hope you enjoyed them as much as I did...

The Power of the Internet and a Humbling Gift that is Much Appreciated

2010-06-12T22:12:00.000-07:00

I'm now reading Stones into Schools thanks to a generous gift from author Greg Mortenson.

I got a call on Friday from the Laurier Centre for Military Strategic and Disarmament Studies that a package was waiting for me from Amazon. I had no clue what it could be so you can imagine my surprise when I made my way there later that afternoon, opened the box, and saw there were two copies of Greg's most recent book and a personal note from the author.

I struggled with how to write about this or even if I should but I think it's a telling gesture from a private man who makes a number of decisions based on his gut feeling. Those who follow regularly will remember this post a few days ago - http://symplicityphoto.blogspot.com/2010/06/three-cups-of-tea-one-mans-mission-to.html. In the personal note attached, it is clear that Greg scrolled down and read a bit more about the work we've been doing recently with the Centre and the publication program we run as well as the library of war and society literature we have available to students and the general public. From the description in Three Cups of Tea I can picture him doing this from his home office while taking a break from the incessant email and administrative demands he must have or mounds of reading he surely has on the go. At the Centre, our informal library works mostly on accountability and trust, a little like the operations they run on the ground in Pakistan and Afghanistan. All you need to sign a book out of our library is a piece of ID that we photocopy and write down the titles you've taken.

I'll be honest, my blog is not exactly a site that attracts thousands of hits a day so I was a little surprised that this even registered on his radar. The Central Asia Institute now runs on an operating budget of over 4 million dollars a year and the small monthly donation I committed to after reading the book wouldn't even register on their charts. But this is typical of the introverted Greg Mortenson who I've come to know through his co-author's words in Three Cups of Tea, his own writing through the first 200 pages of Stones into Schools as well as what other's have written on the web. In the preface of Stones into Schools he talks about a Colorado town that clamoured to hear him speak and donated $125,000, the majority of which came from small donations. He deeply appreciates the support that is given to his operation to educate girls and provide hope in that poverty stricken part of the world.

Greg with school girls in Pakistan - Taken from the CAI Website under Media Images

For my part, I have now lent my copy of Three Cups of Tea out and have many eager to borrow it when I get it back. My mother went out the other day and bought copies for those going to the dinner party they were hosting. I can't stop talking about the inspiration those pages are laden with and more importantly how fundamentally crucial his mission is if there is to be any hope of peace in that region. Here is someone who is doing 'nation-building' the right way - by providing the means for villages to build their own classrooms and all the educational tools for young boys and most importantly girls in the most remote regions of the Middle East.

Until recently I wasn't sure how I was going to focus the efforts of my blog and then I stumbled on a podcast where Jasmine Star was interviewed. Jasmine made it very clear that her blog and twitter account were her way of allowing her clients to get to know her in a more personal way. A window to her thoughts etc... She felt this helped her clients get to know her and it reflected her personality. It's also my personality to want to share and to want to teach and so her example served to clarify the direction of my own blog.

For now I'm going to go back to reading this book. Look for a fuller review soon. Thanks Greg.

David Francey - A Moment of Time and Reflection

2010-06-11T11:35:00.000-07:00

Taken from David Francey's Official Website

Last night Hayley asked if I'd join her to see a film on David Francey followed by a performance from the man himself at the Princess Theatre. Somehow I had never heard of this brilliant Multi-Juno award winning Canadian artist. He is an absolutely mesmerizing lyricist and fantastic short story teller...or as Ron MacLean put it "One of Canada's outstanding poets, songwriters, and storytellers."

A strong desire to cover my insurance and subsistence life costs was the only thing that stopped me from emptying my paltry bank account on the seven records available outside. That said, I felt compelled to buy the film Burning Bright, the 47-minute DVD skillfully put together from over 50 hours of footage by Tony Giardin so that my friends and family can see it. Since getting back home last night, I've been devouring what I can find of his music online including buying a few of solo songs on itunes.

Burning Bright a film by Tony Giardin

Somehow I wish I had the skill of April Cunningham, Mike Brown, Nick Lachance, Dan Polischuk, or Lauren Millet to convey this all in a more readable fashion but I hope you enjoy my thoughts regardless.

In that 2.5 hours, the modesty and the sincere self deprecation of Francey's humour casted a spell of admiration and intimacy over the crowd. The shyness, so obvious by his hands firmly glued deep inside his pockets, is both genuine and endearing. I'm not sure if this lonely post will ever meet his eyes but it doesn't have to, to have meaning. He did to me tonight what makes him so successful. He sang about what's real, what's around us everyday, and what we all think about for at least a passing moment as we go about our lives. He brings you into that very private sphere of his inner most thoughts, thoughts that bring you, as the listener, back to a time and a place in your own life.

And so I'm about to take you through some of the moments he so powerfully brought me back to with his music tonight. Everyone who knows me, knows I wear my heart on my sleave and there is virtually nothing I won't share after a few beers and an honest question. I originally intended this to be a photo essay of sorts and in some way it is because the rest of the photos are mine but in other ways it has provided an outlet to acknowledge some of the amazing people who have been part of my life journey - because of the nature of the songs not every important person came flooding back tonight but I was surprised by what did.

He sang a beautiful song tonight of his departure from Scotland at the age of 12 - "The Parting." The boat journey out to the massive black wall of rivets that was the Ocean liner set to take him across the Atlantic. Aside from thrusting me back of the three times I've said goodbye to all that I've known (leaving for university, South Korea, and Ontario), it reminded me of my times in the beautiful Scottish Highlands and gave me an excuse to go back through those photos...

The Scottish Highlands - There may not be a more beautiful spot in the world

In Broken Glass he sings with the heart and passion of a 14 year old who wants so badly for the opposite sex to take notice - "When you hear a sound like broken glass, that's my heart every time that girl walks past." It wasn't high school for me, but grade seven. One girl took my breath away and she's now a dear friend and a member of Canada's finest - the RCMP. Here's to you Bev. Francey is absolutely head over heels for his wife now and I love that he's able to so openly share these past stories with her and his audience. We are the sum of our life experiences.

He sings another song called "Only you in my world" about his many travels...on a train or on a plane where you have a finite amount of time with one other person, usually of the opposite sex. Both people know it is going no further than the time of that journey. But for those passing minutes where it is only you and that person something is intensely real about that moment. Given my travels, I've experienced that on numerous occaisions but I my time with Samantha Robichaud sticks out. we chatted for the full time and I didn't realize how talented and accomplished she was as a musician until the last possible moment. the finite period of time we shared was fantastic and I've followed her career since.

Perhaps his most popular tune "Skating Rink" reminds me of the days that I played with Kevin, Jon, and Ian (Jon, Ian and I played for almost a decade together from mite to high school). Later trolling the blue line with Chuck, on the power play with Cork, Hammer, Dickie, Hurley, Mullet, Dunphy, Carp or Cook while dawning the blue and white of the KVHS Crusaders. Tervor and so many I just named in Juvenile; Thorne that overtime goal in Atom and your energy in Fundy when too many feared stepping on into that High School game; That Midget Championship with Blair, Rooster, Bodaly and Shane McDonald. Shane that year of bantam when you explained the idiocy of youth at times and that final year of senior with younger brother Mark.

The passion with which The Chief Engineer is sung and the story of that man reminds me of what David Francey does on stage with his music but, like the movie did, it also induced a mental flood of images of friends who so passionately pursue their own music careers.

Jarod, your first album Winter Take All still captivates me. We went through that album and the lyrics of that album made us ask the tough questions in our own lives. But it is perhaps one song that is not on that album that I come back to the most. A song about life, a song I think you should play more often - Homestretch. Fortunately the recording is still available here - look at the last song on the list. What you're now doing with Chelsea, H, Luke, and Katie is something really special. I'm looking forward to the finished Wind Broken Stones CD.

Hollywood and Jarod and the London Music Club

Hollywood... You persevered through Jarod's first album adding guitar rifts and base lines that just seem to flow to your fingers which made that album all the more powerful. You are now an integral part of Wind Broken Stones and the emotive stories that emerge in their music. That said, it's your own thoughts, your own song "One Day You", that still blows me away!

Jake Stewart. You, my friend, are now the conservative candidate in Miramichi and I look forward to following your political career. But it was your music in Rome, your own melodies, that I can no longer find online but have heard you sing in your living room that make me smile. You're still playing many gigs in the lead up to the NB Provincial election and I'm jealous of those who get a chance to hear that voice on a regular basis.

Mike Caroll. I remember giving you a case for your drumsticks on your birthday years ago. Only two days apart, we celebrated so many of those youthful aging days. You've now also won an East Coast Music Award with the Hupman Brothers. You've played in everything from Heavy Metal bands to a Jazz bands to a Beatles Tribute band. Your skills continue to impress me... Playing where you can find work, doing what you love, that continues to inspire me.

Shane Bannister, it's almost like you greedily took all the musical talent in the family because the rest of us are completely incapable of clapping to a beat, nevermind play just about every musical instrument and sing. That song you sing about coming home pops into my head virtually every time my Toyota Yaris crosses the Quebec border into NB.

Jane Carmichael, I'm constantly amazed by your music. You have such a lovely voice and an infectious smile that draws in your audience. I've heard a few of the new songs and I can't wait to hear the rest.

Finally, Songs from a Room...you guys are the epitome of doing it your way - eschewing a 9-5 life in favour of odd jobs and musical passion. The world is better for it...Brayden, Dustin, Nick, and Craig - impressive! Can't wait to get my hands on your next album! it's always fun to share a beer as we chase the impossible, that every day seems a little more attainable.

All of these artists just see the world differently. Those fleeting moments in life that we all blaze through, they take note. Like a fine scotch, they slowly drink in their surroundings, they capture it and sing it back to us. Sometimes they slap us in the face with memories we've packed far away, at times they just make us think about things a little differently, while other times they gently hold our hand down memory lane and that, I think, is their job. I'm certainly glad they're around to do that for us!

Thank you David Francey for the trip last night...

Eye on Philly - The City of Brotherly Love

2010-06-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

I try to go back through my photos every once in a while from the many different parts of the world I've visited and highlight a few of the non-conventional and conventional shots. I love black and white images and that's what you're seeing here. A few months ago I sneaked away to Philly for the weekend. It was great to walk through the Italian Market - the shop below in the deli was in the heart of little Italy and the placed was full of Rocky photos at various stages of Sly's career. I saw the Liberty Bell and where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Here are a few of the photos from that adventure...

The Liberty Bell cost 100 pounds, was 12 feet in diametre, and cracked the first time it was tested...

Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace...One School at a Time

2010-06-09T12:37:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading the most inspirational and informative book: Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace . . . One School at a Time

In a nutshell, Greg was a mountain climber and found himself 2000 metres, as the crow flies, from the summit of K2 when he could go no further. As he made his way down the mountain he was separated from his porter and stumbled into Korphe, a remote Pakistani village that had never seen a white man before. They helped nurse him back to full strength and when Greg was able to retrieve his pack he used what medical supplies he had left to help the local villagers.

He was inspired by this culture that had so little, wasted nothing and lived in such tough conditions that he plegded to return and build a school. With no money, no sponsors, and only a nursing degree he returned to America with a singular focus. the book charts the course of his life, the trials and tribulations of that first school, the rise of the Central Asian Institute and his mission to promote peace in the Middle East through the education of the youth, especially girls.

Far from condescending, the easy to read book explores the beauty of the cultures in the mountainous terrain of Neighboring Pakistan and Afghanistan through the worldly eyes of Greg Mortenson. The schools are NOT aimed at promoting Christian or western or even completely secular ideals but at the moderate education supported by the highest powers of Islam - the same moderate ideals that the vast majority of the Muslim world subscribe to.

I am generally not a supporter of NGOs and the vast majority of the work they do. Simply put, too many of them are singleminded in their aims and are only worried about their mission regardless of the damage they may be doing to the larger picture. the Central Asian Institute is not like this. In order for a school to be built it has to be the desire of the community, those in the village must contribute the land and help build the school and it must be supported by the local mullah. In this way, the community owns, feels proud of, and protects their schools. Though schools are the primary function of the institute, sometimes there are greater needs that must be solved first like a bridge to the outside world as was the case with Korphe or clean running water. CAI has also established women's centres continuing its mandate of empowering women. For an indepth article on Mortenson see what Outside Magazine said: http://outside.away.com/outside/culture/200812/greg-mortenson-afghanistan-1.html

Greg has written a second book Stones into Schools: Promoting Peace with Books, Not Bombs, in Afghanistan and Pakistan that I have put on my list to read when it comes out in paperback.

If you'll allow a moment of academic geekdom, I've spent most of the last 4 years reading war and society literature over the course of an MA and 2 years of a PhD and I have to say Greg Mortenson with the journalistic help of David Oliver has produced a brilliant book that should be mandatory reading. It is already recommended reading for officers in counterterrorism courses in the Army, Navy, and Marines. The fact that a 6ft4 American has been able to walk around Pakistan and Afghanistan in this international climate and has been able to do so much good in cooperation with the locals should be a direct indication that peace and collaboration is not only possible but at our fingertips if we pour the resources into the proper channels.

I have reallocated a bit of my tiny budget to make a monthly donation to the institute and I would encourage you to find a way to do the same here. For teachers and those involved in the education system they have an amazing program called pennies for peace that is a great way to involve students in the process. Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Journey to Change the World... One Child at a Time ( The Young Reader's Edition) is a version aimed at young readers. I hope many of you take a moment to pick up this book. You won't be disappointed.

A few more of Cindy and Jay

2010-06-08T18:24:00.000-07:00

It seems everyone really enjoyed the first batch of photos, so I thought I would throw a few more up there for everyone to enjoy a bit more of their day.

Jay and Cindy

2010-06-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was in Niagara to capture a very special wedding. Cindy and Jay have been together for 16 years and just last year they got engaged. The two have long eschewed the big splash and the large gatherings. Their wedding was no different. They decided to jet off to Niagara. They had a second couple join them and act as a witness and asked if I'd make the trek from Waterloo to document their day. Aside from a co-worker of Cindy who had to prepare the bank draft for their ceremony, only those in Niagara knew the purpose of their journey. I've done more than a few weddings now and they all have their own charm, but this wedding was special. It was perfect, it suited their personalities and the smiles that adorned their faces from the moment I met them Saturday night until the final glass of Champaign Sunday was so charming.

This story has a personal connection. From here on I'm going to add a bit more detail and allow those who read to get to know me a little more through my posts...

I've known Cindy for more than 18 years. Her younger brother and I were the best of friends when they lived up the hill from my family in Rothesay, New Brunswick. A few years later, Jason started coming around. We were a lot younger but Jason and Cindy always treated us like we were essentially their age. As we all aged, geography separated us. One day in the fall of third year in a bar in St. Andrews, NB I ran into Mike, whose band was playing there (tiny little St. Andrews of all the places...). Mike and I got back in touch that year as best as email would allow. Two years later I left for Korea and began mass emailing everyone about the adventure. Mike forwarded the email on to Jason, who by now had become quite a web developer and he suggested I start blogging. before blogger and wordpress and the myriad of other free options, Jason created a lovely blog that allowed me keep an online journal of the adventure. Since then Jay and I have worked on a number of other web projects for my clients and share both of us share a passion for photography. 18 years later, the relationship is as strong as it ever has been and it was an honour to be part of their wedding.

The couple is now in Toronto for a few days and then off to the beautiful West Coast of Canada. I look forward to seeing them when I'm in Halifax next month.

Claire & The Swing

2010-06-04T15:02:00.001-07:00

I have been shooting Claire since before she was born. Jessica wanted photos of her every three months. Down the road, I'm going to upload a little storyboard of those photos. For this post though, I thought I would feature Claire on the swings...she has always loved going back and forth on the swing and now she thinks she's a little adult and always wants to get on the big swing. Jess is precious with her, always allowing her to experience and satisfy the curious mind of an 18month old. It's lovely to watch the two of them and my job is to stand back and capture the memories...

J and Shai

2010-06-03T16:25:00.001-07:00

I traveled to Milton on Sunday to shoot J and Shai. J is one of my closest friends, we work out together often and I do some graphic design for his new hair salon in Hamilton - Trade Secrets Hamilton PC. J's Girlfriend, Shai is 8 months pregnant and Sunday I did a shoot with them. Here are the photos...

Brandey and Colin

2010-06-01T22:54:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I made the long trek almost to Chatham, Ontario about an hour past London to shoot Brandey and Colin. I met Brandey while we were both completing our MA at WLU. For the next few years we both worked on our Master's and volunteered and worked at the Laurier Centre for Military Strategic and Disarmament Studies. I have taken a number of shots of Brandey over the years we've known eachother and when she got engaged, Brandey asked if I would shoot the wedding. All of my wedding packages come with an engagement shoot. It was great to meet Colin and more importantly see how happy they were together. I loved the way the shoot turned out and here are few teasers... I look forward to shooting their wedding.

Capturing Moments...

2010-05-31T16:57:00.000-07:00

Despite the circumstances for going home, it was wonderful to see all of my family and to make it up to see the aging Claire at a whopping 18 months. Fin is now almost 3 and the other little one in the photos is about 2. When sitting behind the camera for children so young I prefer to let them wander and play with their parents. They are all curious about the world around them and I sit back and try to capture that intrigue. It's far too boring to bring them into a laboratory (or a studio) and wave a little stuffed animal above my head for a fleeting moment of happiness...This way I stand back, give only minimal direction and then capture the moments....here are a few of the teasers as I work my way through the editing process...

Headed East

2010-05-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

Folks,

I'm headed east and I have already booked a few photoshoots but if you're interested in Photos and are in Moncton between Thursday May 20th until the following Monday or Saint John on Tuesday May 25th we should be able to work out a time. I'm looking forward to working with little Claire again...should be fantastic...

Looking forward to getting back for a few days...

Family Photoshoot

2010-05-15T23:02:00.000-07:00

Almost two years ago I shot Brian and Jacqueline's wedding. Today I was back with Jacqueline's side of the family for a big family photoshoot. They are such a genuine family and it was so nice to see all of them again.

Because there were 11 of them, including the dog, I brought Nick Lachance along to assist with the studio portion, to capture some more candid moments outside and to take photos from a few different angles on the posed shots I set up. Their yard is lovely and leads to a beautiful path and that gave us plenty of options.

Today was also a beautiful day which was for the most part overcast - the big softbox in the sky allows for a lot more flexibility...As always, the young kids stole the show... here are a few from today.

Brian and Jacqueline

(one of the many wonderful candid shots Nick was able to catch)

www.canadianmilitaryhistory.ca

2010-05-14T19:03:00.000-07:00

The past two weeks have been hectic. With my good friend Jason, I have been spending countless hours on developing, readjusting some code, and mostly populating content for a new website for the Laurier Center for Military Strategic and Disarmament Studies.

I knew what I wanted, and between Jason and I we were able to come up with a template that is clean and simple and most importantly does everything the Centre needs.

With the new site we plan to generate more traffic and keep it current. To do this we have put up a blog that will be updated frequently - with over 60 associates, our current schedule has a guest blogger every week over the course of the summer and I'm sure that with the talks and other events we'll be posting 2-3 times per week. This will allow those who follow the activities of the Centre a chance to follow what our many associates are working on.

We have a key spot for videos and I think now that we are recording all of our guest lectures, it will give those who because of schedule or geography can't make it, a chance to see the talks.

Right now we're working out solutions for the archives and back issues of the journal but for now we have a link back to the old setup which is actually pretty user friendly and a testament to the efforts of the webmasters who came before. Anyway I hope you take a look and stay up to date on what we're doing to push the medium of history into the 21st Century.

I'm excited that this project has turned out so well and I can't wait to keep working on it throughout the year.

The Private Photo Collection of Ian Tate

2010-05-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

Over the last 8 months I've really narrowed the focus of my business to include three main services. Photography, Design and Research. I have some clients who require an overlap of those services. Roger Sarty, one of Canada's most prolific Naval historians, had recently hired me to track down the private image collection of Sub Lieutenant Ian Tate. Today we traveled to Port Hope, Ontario and were greeted by his son Davidson. Tate was an amateur photographer and one of only two officers to survive the sinking of HMCS Valleyfield, the only Canadian frigate lost during the war. The images that he captured are, according to Roger Sarty, the best he has ever seen outlining the Battle in the Gulf of the St. Lawrence, where German U-Boats wreaked havoc on allied shipping for a good deal of 1942. The collection was printed in a series of 4 scrapbooks which also contain detailed dates and captions. These photos allowed Roger to gain a more concrete understanding of the times and places. It was great fun to watch him fly through the photos with the excitement of kid in a candy shop. He highlighted the shots he needed and with the help of Davidson, I took down the captions and scanned the original photos. I had a brilliant scanned shot of the convoy that I wanted to put up but it has never been published and so instead I'm putting up the photo of Tate aboard 0-0064, October 2, 1942. He is escorting the Gaspe-Rimoski convoy. With over 100 photos in our collection for the book, today was a brilliant day. Because of the connection, Sarty's soon to be released book on the St. Lawrence will feature never before seen photos of one of the closest war ever came to Canadian soil during the Second World War.

Operational Military History series

2010-05-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

At the Conference we launched an Operational Military History series. For students, this is a gold mine of information in a small booklet that is very affordable. These collections are an essay ready to be written or add valuable statical data and context to an argument. The first in the series gives a brief introduction British Army Operational Research. At the very least these books highlight that detailed analysis of a problem has a way of discrediting long held "truths" about military operations. In any event, as Terry Copp quite rightly points out, no military would even think about engaging the enemy without a operational research team in place.

21st Military History Colloquium

2010-05-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend the Laurier Centre for Military Strategic and Disarmament Studies held the 21st Annual Military History Colloquium. The conference, which was the first of its kind for military historians in Canada, always attracts the who's who of military historians from essentially the Easter part of Canada through to Ontario. It's a fantastic event which provides an outlet for graduate students and professors alike to present their latest material. It also allows for book launches etc... In honour of this weekend I'm posting one of the photos I've held back in a series called "The Enduring Memory of War." Hope you enjoy it.

I really haven't been as active with my blog or my camera over the last month, but that is all about to change with a few family photoshoots lined up over the summer. Also I plan to get out a bit more and just experience my new camera and the waterloo region.

"This Ain't no Picnic, It's War"

2010-04-20T21:34:00.000-07:00

Another book title out - Cyprus 1974 "This Ain't no Picnic, It's War": The Combat Diary of Alain Gaudet, Canadian Peacekeeper edited by David Kielstra. This is a wonderful look at the thoughts and the sentiments of a 22-year old Canadian Paratrooper who maintained a diary of events as he saw them. The forward is written by Major-General Alain Forand and although Gaudet is not always aware of the bigger picture, the general adds that "it is rare and extremely interesting to look and live an operation through the eyes of a soldier. It is refreshing to read Corporal Gaudet’s experiences straight from the heart and sometimes with “undiplomatic” comments concerning the on-going activities of his peers, superiors, the fighting adversaries and the unfortunate civilians caught in-between." (p.8) For this reason alone it has been a fascinating book to work on and one of the few that I have read cover to cover.

The book is also the first in a new series - Laurier Military History Series - prepared by the Laurier Centre for Military Strategic and Disarmament Studies. The series is sure to produce a number of excellent short booklets between 40 and 100 pages. It continues the mandate of the Centre and works well with the desire of Terry Copp, the Centre's Director and WLU Professor Emeritus, to see quality work from academics and graduate students in print..

Florida

2010-04-19T20:56:00.000-07:00

It is really quite nice that about once a year my family manages to get together for a little vacation. This year, like last, we went to Florida. This year was my 30th Birthday and my bother and father planned a pretty special trip to play the TPC at Sawgrass. On the list of courses a golfer would love to play before he dies, in no particular order, includes Augusta National (not bloody likely when presidents have a difficult time getting a slot), the old course at St. Andrews in Scotland, Pebble Beach, and the TPC at Sawgrass. Sawgrass, of course, is home to the fabled 17th hole, a devilish 125 yard par three that you either hit the green or your add your ball to the 120,000 their hired diver retrieves yearly. My father, a 12 handicapper in his prime, found the middle while my brother, myself, and Evan the hooters tour professional we were paired with all found a the water. My second shot landed dead centre and I calmly made four. The real highlight for me came at the par 4 18th and the menacing tea shot. My brother captured a great photo of me coming through the golf ball and it was likely the prettiest drive I hit all day. A 296 yard tea shot that left me 131 yards from the pin. Only one person has ever recorded a birdie on the 18th enroute to the players championship.

The highlight for my brother was deep sea fishing. I would rather jump in a tub full of scissors than spend an afternoon on the Gulf Of mexico trolling for grouper. As tasty as they are fresh, the act of fishing holds no enjoyment for me at all. Here is a photo of the crew minus me at the end of the day. Mark and James are holding the prize fish of the day.

Looking back for a client

2010-04-17T11:47:00.000-07:00

I found a shot from one of my shoots ages ago. I was hired to design an ad for a Hair Salon and that sent me searching my archives. The client wanted an edgier shot and the I thought of the shoot I had with Stephanie...I really enjoyed working with Stephanie - she had that spunk and a real willingness in front of the camera. Often when I'm shooting models I have to provide much of the direction but the really great ones make me chase them. Here is the image and when I have permission I'll post the final Ad.

Arctic Sovereignty edited by Whitney Lackenbauer and Peter Kirkket

2010-03-29T22:41:00.000-07:00

I mentioned a while ago that alot of my time recently has been spent on the graphic design end of things. Since coming to Laurier in 2005, I have worked with the Laurier Centre for Military Strategic and Disarmament Studies. Under the leadership of Terry Copp, the Centre is a always alive with guest lectures, a library of Military history offerings, a place for policy and DND representatives to recruit, and our ever expanding publication wing. This year I have taken on the role of publications manager at the Centre and we will have pushed out 8 books by the end of April. Part of that role involves designing the covers. The next book out is Arctic Sovereignty edited by Whitney Lackenbauer and Peter Kirkket. The book might be my favourite cover design yet. The book is hitting the market at a time when the arctic and who owns what parts is being questioned. the melting away of the ice coupled with an estimate that 1/4 of the worlds natural gases and fossil fuels may be found in this region is certainly important news and sure to be at the forefront of the Canadian agenda moving forward. Though I've been through the process a number of times and seen the proofs, I still love the moment you crack that first box and see the printed copy.

Until next time and I hope that is a lot sooner than last time...

A Take on one of the Greatest!

2010-02-03T09:53:00.000-08:00

On Pablo Picasso's way of art...he is of course one of the true masters and they say imitation is the finest form of flattery...Upstairs in my house there hangs a picasso like I've uploaded here...He painted. I derived mine through digital art, starting with a photograph from my archive and working with it to create the lines and colour and abstraction of identity while maintaining the shape... He has given his a textured background and muted colours. I've only put the most basic of textures to a pretty solid red background and mine is full of loud colours. I like his better, but I'm proud of what I've come up with here. I hope this does not shock too many of my regular viewers...

To The Top...

2010-01-17T23:30:00.000-08:00

Of the Arc de Triump...I saw this and borrowed a friends camera to capture the view...enjoy!

The Constructionists

2010-01-16T13:27:00.000-08:00

While I love to use my camera, the bulk of my business lately has come from the graphic design end. The most recent project I completed was a poster for The Constructionists, a London based band. It is a real treat to work with other artists, because they always seem to be extraordinarily appreciative and supportive of the artistic community. Listen to their music here.

One Man's Journey is back...

2010-01-14T23:54:00.000-08:00

I started this series ages ago and picked 25 photos that were not your standard fare from the places I've seen around the world. It's the reason I picked up the camera in the first place...I wanted my own memories from the places I've visited around the world...The newest addition was taken when I was atop St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican with my mother. This is Number 3

Portrait of a Hockey Player

2010-01-13T15:55:00.000-08:00

When I first arrived in Waterloo 5 years ago to do my Master's, I decided to shoot for the Cord - the Student Newspaper at Laurier. That year Mike Brown and I made the trip to Brock to cover the Women's Hockey Team. The Laurier team is a powerhouse, winning the last six OUA Championships but with the exception of the year before I arrived, they have finished second at Nationals. Since that victory at Brock, Ironside has been apart of three more Provincial Champions and gone to Bejing as part of the Canadian University team at the 2009 Winter Universiade in Harbin, China, February 18-28. I still shoot sparingly for the Cord and yesterday I had the pleasure of shooting her for the profile piece they do on the athletes called Behind the Hawk. The last one is an artistic take on her last crack at a National Championship. Best of Luck Andrea!

Going home...with an Irish Mate

2010-01-03T14:26:00.001-08:00

Folks,

Been a long long long while...but it's time to try this a little more consistently...Niall, a friend from Ireland, came for a 13 day visit just before Christmas. Instead of the usual flight home, I chose to drive to give him a bit better view of our country and a chance to see a few must-see's in our Canadian Landscape. We hit Niagara, the CN Tower, St. Jacob's Market, A hockey game in Ottawa, as well as a very cold quick peak at our parliament buildings at night then the next night we stopped in Quebec City before making the rest of the voyage. Below are are a few images from Ottawa and Old Quebec.

The Parliament at Christmas...they do a nice job!

The War Memorial...

Old Quebec

The Trip Back to Waterloo...

2009-08-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

I was alone for the long drive from Shediac, NB to Waterloo, ON. I chose to stop in Fort Kent, Me - just across the border from Edmunston, NB, well actually Claire but who's keeping tabs on a town that small - over night because my brother works there and it breaks up the drive a little bit. I figured since I was on the way by myself I would stop and periodically and document the drive home with my camera. It was a ploy to keep me alert and made for some fun shots! The second day I had more kms to travel and less time to stop so there are fewer images as the trip dragged on... Hope you enjoy!

The 2 West...much to my chagrin I was headed back to Onterrible

Farmer's fields just past Peticodiac, NB

In New Brunswick we drive at a reasonable speed...

Gotta love the Moose Signs...

Don't you??

Stopped off at my Alma Matter - The University of New Brunswick

The Company that received sooo much of my hard earned money for gas!!

Fort Kent, ME - This is the end of Route 1 in the states!! that's NORTH!

Everyone Loves a Blizzard!!

Even the washrooms along the highway adorned the Fleur de Lis

Hit Montreal at about noon - which put just in line to hit Toronto at 5pm...instead of waiting an hour in traffic, the Lovely Veronique joined me for lunch in MTL...Thanks Vero

Ten minutes from my exit I ran into this log-jam...I know construction is neccesary but did it have to be that night and just in front of my exit??

A Wedding for fun...

2009-08-15T14:18:00.000-07:00

As my time comes to an end on the East Coast, it is not images of its beautiful scenery that find my photoblog. Instead, a close friend, Chris McCully, was married the last weekend of July. It was one of the nicest weddings I've ever seen. The outdoor ceremony, the tented reception, the excellent food and the Canoe of Beer was great!! I hope you enjoy the images...

The Bride and Groom

Brad - The Best Man - with Chris

The First Dance

A Family Affair - Chris flanked by his father and brother.

The Canoe of Beer

Some Craic in Ireland!!

2009-06-17T15:16:00.000-07:00

Ireland… I’ve visited this fine Island three times now and I fall further in love with every visit. This time, without a question, has been my favourite voyage to the land of four leaf clovers and leprechauns!

In the past I’ve spent a good portion in Dublin. Though thoroughly Irish, Dublin suffers from the same fate as most major cities in the Western World – say London or Toronto – there is a hint of the local culture but some of the magic is lost in its cosmopolitan make-up. In Galway, though, where I spent the majority of this stay, the Irish spirit is alive and
well.

I landed on a couch at a fellow Korean English teacher’s, Coman Duke’s, flat in Ornmore. That week, though, his mother was running in the local election and I was injected into the vote and the aftermath of municipal elections in Ireland. I had never been involved in a Canadian political campaign let alone spending an afternoon taking down posters of Josette Farrell, a labour candidate and Coman’s lovely mother, after an ever so slight loss in the polls. This of course allowed me to see rural Ireland and the all the outposts in a way that provided a new spin to my trip to the Green Country.

The mountain sheep - No Good for Nuttin' Coman said as they forced the bus to come to a screeching halt

Ireland, Coman insisted, is a lovely country if you could only put a roof over it.

Rural Ireland is pretty unique. The country of four million people, is bursting with sheep, donkeys, horses, and cows.

This donkey came right down to pose for the camera...

But the views are unique. Even coming from a picturesque province like New Brunswick you can’t help but marvel at the landscape. Especially on the west coast, where, facing the Atlantic, the Irish have to deal with perhaps the harshest weather conditions coupled with a terrain that until modern technology refused to produce much more than additional rocks. The continuous rain produces a vibrant green that few other areas of the world can truly understand without experiencing it first hand. Even in the dreary overcast skies that routinely dominate the horizon, the crisp greens greet the eye and leave all but the most negative visitor in awe.

Beautiful Ireland

Ironically, there were really only two days I had to endure the rain.

Niall, another teacher from Korea who now lives in Dublin and Owen, also a fellow English teacher from Ipswich, England, joined us for three days and two nights of legendary craic (The Irish way of saying fun)! We all played soccer together in Ulsan for the Won Shot Wanderers and that bond, perhaps more than others, has stuck! I remember writing in my final Korean blog that I would miss a good number of the foreign teachers from all over the globe because never again would we face the adversity that we had in Korea and as a result rely on such a special group so much to keep our lows in check and our morale high. I went so far as to suggest that though we, as world travelers, would undoubtedly cross paths it would never be the same again. While that may still be true, the bonds of that soccer team are incredible. To put it in perspective, I had seen Niall three years ago in Ireland where he played host, Owen stopped by my place in Waterloo for two nights and Colin joined him. I hadn’t seen Coman in over four years and Owen hade not seen either Niall of Coman since he had left Korea. Yet, it took all of four seconds for us to be taking the piss and launching insults in a way only close friends can.

Together we visited the Cliffs of Moher. A dangerous set of cliffs that provide a natural barrier to the Atlantic Ocean and also rank highly on the must-see landscapes in Ireland!

The Cliffs of Moher

The beautiful view was diminished only by the Irish weather that included vindictive clouds that decided once we had reached the furthest point from the car to unleash the full assault of rain and wind on unsuspecting tourists. We did what any reasonable individual would do in that case. Abandoned the sightseeing for the inside of a Pub in Lahinch. We couldn’t have had more fun! The people who cam in seem to congregate around the tom foolery that was us!

Owen, Coman, Niall, and myself in Lahinch

Lahinch - the next day. It is a seaside tourist surfing town

With time to kill the next day before Owen flew out, we stopped at a pitch and putt. It was a sight to behold as the normally athletic trifecta of Owen, Niall, and Coman played some of the worst Golf I have ever witnessed. You would have sworn they were building sandcastles as they tried to get out of the bunker. After 11 holes they were done each having already swung enough for the price they paid! Great Craic again!!

Owen - A Disaster in the Bunker at the Pitch and Putt

I ended my stay in Ireland driving the country of Galway county with Coman taking the sky road to see more beauty!

Great friends, Great Beer (yes I drink Guinness with a smile now), and Great scenery… The Irish grasp on what is important in life is so refreshing. Even as they toil to carve out a life for themselves they never forget the important friendships, the laid back lifestyle, the value of an afternoon in the pub, and the dry humour that comes instinctively to a population so oppressed by Mother Nature and English domination.

A little bit of the Irish Humour - A monument to nothing...

Lishboa (Lisbon)

2009-06-16T07:21:00.000-07:00

At 5am bus number 206 pulled up at the central hub in Lishboa. In a whirlwind 23 hours, we trekked up and down 4 of the capital’s 7 hills, first visiting the important tourist stops then back to Marco’s girlfriend’s sister house to prepare for the biggest festival of the year. When I arranged to meet up with Marco in Portugal, I had no idea that June 12th was the largest celebration of the year in honour of St. Anthony, Lishboa’s patron saint. St. Anthony is also the saint of matchmaking, so at night there are pots of basil everywhere, decorated with paper carnations and hand written love poems. Marco picked up one for his Else, his girlfriend.

Marco and Else at 6am

The celebration was nothing shy of insane. Only in the subway in Tokyo during rush hour and the Paul McCartney concert outside the Coliseum in Rome have I ever come close to encountering that many people. The streets were so packed that on occasion our group of six had to form a human train to maneuver through the crowd. At times others would join in at various spots as the train turned to a traditional Portuguese dance. Everywhere food tents as well as red beer stalls worked ferociously to quench the thirst and hunger of those who stopped. At 1 euro for a beer (a very small beer but a beer nonetheless) we stopped often. But this festival was so much more than beer…

One of the many streets of Lishboa at 5am

Lishboa, the city on seven hills, allows for stunning panoramic views. At the top of each hill, the city takes on a new look - some looking out to the fishing and industrial ports on the Atlantic, others offering a lavish view of the housetop terrace’s and café’s that cascade the horizon. As we made our way up and down the hills we crossed through street parties where entire neighborhoods were shut down for the festivities. Marco had several invites and we made our way to a couple. At each place food and liquor greeted us in plentiful quantities.

I love revisiting cities that have grown on me, like Rome and the hamlets that dot the Norman coast of France, but landing in a new country always sparks different kind of wonder.

Portugal offers a unique European experience. Lying on the south western coast of Europe, Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is closer to the Moroccan capital Rabat than Madrid. As a small colonial power without many of the guns of the bigger European power, my host Marco elegantly said, Portugal was forced to copulate with the local populations of their imperial acquisitions. As a result there is a great deal of African and Brazilian culture embedded in the Portuguese experience. Portugal is also one of the few remaining affordable European destinations. Exotic Meals with all the seafood you could EVER dream of complete with many bottles of outstanding Portuguese wine will cost you no more than 20euros.

Although I alluded to the outstanding hospitality of Marco Rosa and his Girlfriend and her sister Lena, it really deserves more of a mention. I met Marco at a history conference earlier this year at the University of Southern Mississippi. From there we spent an extra two days travelling around with Colin Colburn (I met Colin on the Sicily and Southern Italy Battlefield Tour last summer and he lives in Southern Miss.). Marco, Colin and I travelled to Mobil, Alabama to satisfy our historical geekdom and walk aboard one hell of a big battleship and then we landed at the party of all parties: Mardi Gras in New Orleans. In New Orleans Marco insisted that we really must come and visit Portugal – a true ambassador for his country! Being so close in Europe I took him up on the offer. Conscious of the mere two days I had we made the most of it! I can’t wait to play host to them in the vast landscape of my beloved Canada!

Washington

2009-05-18T06:51:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month I was in Florida and as we drove back with my grandmother, we stopped in Washington and Boston. Here are a few from the night tour...

The Washington Monument

The Jefferson Memorial

The Korean Memorial

The Marine Corps Memorial in Arlington

Jane Carmichael

2009-03-28T02:42:00.000-07:00

Last week I had the opportunity to shoot the talented and lovely Jane Carmichael. For those of you fortunate enough to hear her smooth voice live it is a real treat. Jane recently released her debut album One Sided. I strongly encourage you to take a minute to check out her music. We worked together to update her photo portfolio and try to give her some visual options to complement her excellent music.

Korea At Night...

2009-03-09T22:24:00.000-07:00

Sticking with the land of the morning calm, I'm putting up a few images of the bright lights of Ulsan. These images were all captured while I lived there over the span of 14 months from 2004 to 2005.

This is one of the main drags in Ulsan during the darkness of night...the florescent colours are everywhere, each light competing for your attention and ultimately your cash.

Random Fortune teller at night, giving his findings to a young couple. Behind him, the construction site waiting for the morning workers.

This image, is a copy of Dave Harvey's original - he is a fantastic photographer. I was just starting out and I saw this image in one of the Calendars he was selling in Ulsan. I bought the calendar, but when I started shooting my own memories, I wanted to have this image and I also wanted to test my photographic skills. His work continues to be an inspiration.

2009-03-08T21:05:00.000-07:00

This Monument read - For the Brave Sons of Canada you will not be forgotten. This memorial looks over the UN Cemetery in Busan, South Korea and the final resting place for over 11,000 soldiers, including 378 Canadians

For those of you do not know, my Grandfather fought in the Korean War and was part of the heroic stand at Kap'yong where the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry were awarded the Presidential Unit Citation. The citation is conferred on units of the armed forces of the United States and of cobelligerent nations, for extrodinary heroism in action agains an armed enemy. The unit must display gallantry, determination, and esprity de corps in accomplishing its mission as to set it apart from and above other units participating in the same campaign.

The only other Canadian unit to be so decorated by the United States Military is Canada's elite special operations unit as part of Joint Task Force 2's mission in Afghanistan from 2001-2002.

For the children...I love this image of these kids, looking at the monument that thanks all UN Nations that came to the aid of South Korea from 1951-1953. Their life, which for the most part does not include the destitute poverty and constant threat of starvation that continues to kill many in the North, is infinitely better because of the UN interevention. IN the Background, you can see the modern buildings and the large cranes, a symbol of continued growth and development in a country that already boasts some of the worlds leading businesses - Samsung and Hyundai to name but a few.

Brothers at War

2009-03-07T14:09:00.001-08:00

Soeul, South Korea at the War Museum one of the most moving monuments is that of 2 brothers, one from the North and the other from the South meeting on the battlefield. It is a striking reminder of the more than 10 million Korean families that remain separated by the Korean War. It was common for Families to send one brother to the North and the other to the South to ensure that at least some part of their family fought for the winning side and with that a chance at a life after the war - Surely an impossible predicament for the families of the peninsular country.

For those of you interested, there is an excellent Korean film - Taeguki, that I'm sure you'd find in the international section of Blockbuster or Rogers, that deals with this very subject.

It's also interesting to note that even in such a moving statue, there is a message of the South's superiority. The older, perhaps wiser, larger and better equipped brother is from the South while the younger, smaller brother is from the North.

One Man's Journey - The Scottish Highlands

2009-03-06T09:40:00.001-08:00

Folks, this is number 2 of 25 in my first series - One Man's Journey. It is a photo from the Scottish Highlands from when Shannon and I were in Scotland this past summer. As we were walking to see the ruins of one of Scotland's oldest castles, I noticed this scene and had to capture it. The sky, the bridge, and the mountains all reflecting in the perfectly still water that once acted as a protective moat for the 11th Century Castle.

The Real Reason...

2009-02-27T23:59:00.001-08:00

I went to the Southern United States of America was to present at the International Security and Internal Safety Conference at the University Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg. The Conference, titled the Silhouette of War allowed me to present a paper - The Personality of Memory. Here are a few of the photos from Mississippi. With Lee Windsor giving the key note lecture and my own paper, one of the professors commenting suggested we were building a Canadian Beachhead in Mississippi. Perhaps so, but it was a unique experience with international presenters from Portugal and South Korea.

The Mississippi State Flag - anyone notice the confederate part of this flag? The South will rise again!!
A photo of Colin! Great Times... Hopefully we can get him up here to Canada

Mardi Gras in Nawlins...

2009-02-26T16:24:00.000-08:00

So with Colin and Marco, we had the chance to experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans (or Nawlins as the locals say it). It was quite an experience walking down Bourbon and St. Charles street, drinking a grenade, than a Hurricane, and then a few beers to finish the night off! It really is utter madness but fun madness for the most part! Here are a few of the images I caught with a friends smaller digital camera...preferring to keep mine at the hotel!

The Broken Beads on Bourbon Street

World Famous Bourbon Street! What a wild street and a great sunset!

One of the Many Balconies on Bourbon Street - It was not empty later that evening!

Where we go our Beer - nothing like store that sells liquor and gifts and Jambalaya