Last night...

We had our monthly meeting last night at SPPP, this was the 3rd session for the sketching activity but it was my first time to actually try sketching a portrait figure. There were several experts who visited and participated in the activity. I was amazed with the skill they had and achieved various outputs based on the artist's perspective. Here are some shots of last night's activity.


...and here is my first attempt to sketch. (I know...It's my first try so I hope to improve in the future :D) I ended up shooting some portraits of our lovely model, Joy.



You may also check Leah's Blog, I guess she did a better job than me! :D
Aside from the new activity we had our monthly portrait contest and I would like to congratulate the winners: Jesse, Robert Lester, Angie and Lito!

Here is our beautiful contest comittee head announcing the winners, Leah Taas

Masters of Wedding Photography and title holders "Photographer of the Year" Buddies Lito Genilo and Robert Lester Aliscad enjoying the victory!

In our forthcoming Christmas party, we will have first hand lecture with the Master Magicians in the country headed by our own member Boy Samson, can't wait for that! :D

Illuminated Elegance

This is my latest write up from Hot Occasions just featured recently. Click here to view the article page. Other previous write ups were at Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect section last August 2007. Here is the cover:

Why Nikon?

I've been using Nikon systems for several years starting off during the film era and I found this to be the most reliable tool in my work. Shifting to digital in the early stages has brought a lot of frustration in capturing and post production due to the lack of refinement in technology. But nowadays, the cameras and softwares are capable of producing results even far better of than film. In fact the only limitation is the creativity of the user. I'm currently using my Nikon D2h and D200. Among my arsenal of Nikkor lenses my favorites are the 17-55 mm f2.8, 70-200 mm f2.8 VR and 24-85 mm f2.8-4 macro. With the integration of Nikon's CLS (Creative Lighting System) into my technique, this makes photography a lot more exciting!

The CLS basically allows the photographer to set the small speedlights as he would normally do in a studio, with the portability and wireless capability with remote control in hands-reach which is great flexibility and convenience easily brought on location! (Wheeew!) Joe Mcnally is one of the world's most important photojournalists and is the current endorser of this product. He was able to demonstrate the potential of the Nikon CLS in various applications. I use the CLS in capturing portraits and scenes in weddings as well. Here, I took portraits of Margaux using my SB-800s were we did it inside the house without any softboxes and heavy wiring that causes delay in preparation.

Margaux's portraits

Naomi's 3rd birthday

Roselle & Vira - September 18, 2007