MDS Images

New Site up now!

2010-07-10T00:20:00.002-04:00

New Site up now!, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

The switch has been thrown and the new and improved MDSimages site is up and running. As with any new site, there will be a little bit of a rough period as I work out all the kinks! Feel free to let me know if you have any loading issues, size problems, etc. I would REALLY appreciate it :)

The new site is www.MDSimages.com.

Check it out!

Oh yeah....about the image....

I uploaded this one a little while ago, but it seemed most appropriate to post it again. I was luck enough to have 3 images chosen for an art exhibit at the Palm Beach Photographic Institutes Infocus Exhibit, and this was one of them. The show opens tomorrow and the hang is for about 2 months. Kinda cool to be a part of it. I look forward to meeting some of the other great artists tomorrow!

Back home - Sunset over West Palm Beach

2010-07-08T23:50:00.002-04:00

Back home - Sunset over West Palm Beach, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

For some reason, those days that I choose to go on a hunt for the image seem to produce the least. I must have driven about 300 miles as I zig zagged back from the west coast of Florida. Just wasn't feeling the vibe ya know. Well, I guess it took gettting back to the places I know.

Stopped for the light

2010-07-07T02:15:00.002-04:00

Stopped for the light, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

I took this (and few more) on one of my cross state trips. Those are always kinda freaky (for the traffic behind me) when I'm creeping along Route 60 or sometimes alligator alley, and while on the constant lookout for subjects, color, and light. I seem to be drawn to those scenes like a mouse to the pied piper. I get that way with music too. I guess thats why I am heading across state in the AM to see a concert that I saw not just 2 nights ago in Miami.

I have been a fan of Jamie Cullum ever since I heard him a little more than a year ago. Just the right mix of upbeat melodic jazz and blues performed with a youthful pop delivery (alright, a music critic I am not.

In the meantime, enjoy the clip from one of Jamie's performances and I'll try to bring home a few cool images from the trip.....cool?

4th on Flagler - Fireworks 2010 - Vibrant green

2010-07-05T00:37:00.002-04:00

4th on Flagler - Fireworks 2010 - Vibrant green, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I left the apartment not even knowing if I was going to snap a frame at all. Those of you insanely dedicated photogs know that sometimes its not that easy to "get in the zone" when with those who don't travel with the excessive gear package. Sure, we are all photographers with our phones, point and shoots, and the like, but you know, some of us are just a bit too involved with the process if you know what I mean. So, knowing I was with my daughter, it was raining, and I didn't really know where I thought I should set up shop, I wasn't giving too much effort into the idea of capturing anything this evening. Sometimes its more about who you are with than what you are doing ya know?

As luck would have it though, I ran into a friend Aaron who also has a couple of girls himself. We decided to head down to a convenient building down on the end of Flagler and take advantage of the overhang. Well, so did a few others, but that was cool. With the little ones content to hang out with each other, I was able to setup the excessive gear and get to work. These shots, however, found this nut job inconveniently just outside of the dry viewing area. Keeping the lense clear of liquid was a constant challenge, but persisnance prevailed!

Here's a couple more that I liked a bit.

Quickly after arriving back at the apartment and looking out at the excessive traffic leaving the waterfront, I once again reminded myself of how great it is to live so close to these events! Happy 4th everyone!

Litli Geysir in Iceland - and a little tip for shooting fireworks tomorrow

2010-07-03T23:29:00.002-04:00

Litli Geysir in Iceland - and a little tip for shooting fireworks tomorrow, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Well, here we are.....the end of the week (alright, its actually Saturday) and the end of my HDR free post series. I end it, of course, with an HDR!

Funny, when I was stumbling around to get this shot, I kinda took a little double take at the spelling, till I remembered where I was. Nothing like traversing the countryside of Iceland whilst looking at a map with towns and roads with names like Vorsabaejarhjaleiga, Gegnisholapartur, and Ragnheioarstaoir. You think I'm kidding, check out this roadsign I had to figure out..... www.flickr.com/photos/mdsimages/4428835990/in/set-7215761...

So tomorrow, some of you in the states might be heading out with the rig in hopes of capturing that incredible fireworks image you always wanted to get. Well, as taken from Scott Kelbys post, here are a few tips:

1. Use a tripod - kind of given there, but just in case you were wondering.

2. A couple of lenses might be nice. A wide angle for establishing the location and a 200mm for some close up details.

3. Click it on over to manual. Trust me on this one.

4. Shutter speed to about 4 seconds.

5. Aperture to about f11.

6. Use a cable release.

This should give you nice sharpness with the aperture and a nice bit of light trail with the shutter speed. Try a few shots and if its over exposed, try speeding up the shutter speed to about 3 seconds.

Bracket a few, be safe, and enjoy your 4th!

Iceland - another lone church

2010-07-03T01:05:00.002-04:00

Iceland - another lone church, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

The process.....login, upload, post an insightful bit of wordage, log off, crash for the evening. Tonights process? Login, post an image, ....... uuhhhh, writers block.....plan B (ramble on about nothing), log off, crash for the evening!

New changes to the site coming soon. I feel it might be an organic process though......we'll see how it goes! I will say this though, the images are going to be ALOT BIGGER :)

Iceland - lone church on the hill

2010-07-02T10:40:00.002-04:00

Iceland - lone church on the hill, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Having taken an HDR break here this week, I guess I'm gonna have to come out of the gate with a good one after this reprieve!

I tend to do this a bit while out on the hunt for images as well. Somedays, the focus is all about finding subjects with fine detail, lighting contrast, and colorful range to capture. The real magic to unfold much later in the digital darkroom. Other times, like in this image, its all about capturing the light with one frame. Of course, I say that now.....but I'm not really sure that it was one frame! I processed it a while ago. Hmmm, lets just pretend that it is :)

One more thing by the way.....naming images.....sometimes a challenge, as well demonstrated by this lame attempt.

Happy Friday everyone....and have a safe 4th of July weekend!

Icelandic Landscape

2010-07-01T00:44:00.003-04:00

Icelandic Landscape, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Continuing my journey this evening on a short break from the HDR routine, I present these few shots. Iceland is well known amongst the privileged few photographers that visit its splendor as a place of unique lighting. It can change on a dime thought so it helps to have a flexible attitude. On this overcast afternoon, the soft even light helped me paint the scene with a kind of lonely blue tone.

Iceland - a calm in the evening

2010-06-30T01:58:00.002-04:00

Iceland - a calm in the evening, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving. ~Lao Tzu

In what I am going to call a little break from HDR and that intense desire to push back color, light, and detail into most every image I post, you will find me posting a few calm ones this week from my Iceland file - the forgotten few.

After last nights post, (see the blog for the video link), I read up a bit from the blog of Tim Ferriss (the author of the book called the Four Hour Work Week). It really kinda hit a cord with me. Vagabonding, wanderlust, directionless travel, bumbling about the planet, nomadic pursuit......whatever you like to call it.....there is a side of me that lives for that. I used to travel every summer in the off season just like that. Just get out and go! For anyone who has popped into this blog from time to time knows that and also knows that I get a bit stir crazy around this time of year. Its hot here in South Florida and the world is calling me, begging me to come out and play LOL!

A fisheye view in Singapore - The courtyard in Raffles

2010-06-29T01:35:00.003-04:00

A fisheye view in Singapore - The courtyard in Raffles, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Wow, I think I finally have it! I spent what could be calculated by any sane and rational man as an eternity over the past few days searching for a new blog theme and layout for my new site and think I finally have it covered. Not sure when I will switch over for sure, but I'll let ya know. Seriously though.....I uploaded wordpress onto the server at least 3 times, had it freeze up, screwed up the permissions settings, had import challanges, couldn't see the images while experimenting with one of the cool themes I liked, you name it. There was one session is which I don't think that I left the chair from about 8PM till 4AM! Not sure if that can be labled as tenacity, dedication, or insanity!

All that being said, the real reason for my Dallas visit was not one of a creative visit, but more about additional education in my real estate investment ventures. My vision of the trip before I had left was to balance out the long and couped up days with evenings of exploration of the Dallas night scene and capture it thru the lense. Well, not so much LOL!

Anyway, I am pretty excited about the new possibilities for the blog now with a totally new look, format, and direction.....so stay tuned!

As far as this image, it was taken during one of those trips in which I DID allow myself to wander about a new a foreign city. Singapore, as is South Florida, is humid.....very humid. This shot was setup and exposed in a pretty cool hotel called Raffles right in the heart of the city. I don't like to overuse the "fisheye" effect, but this spot seemed like the perfect place to play with it!

One more thing....

I came across this video that another blog posted while catching up on my email this evening. Its a bit long, but cool if you are a fan of Tim Ferriss's book called the Four Hour Workweek. I had never seen him speak and was a bit surprised at how good he presented his message live too. Check it out!

Tim Ferriss keynote The Next Web Conference 2010 - Love the Haters from Boris Veldhuijzen van Zanten on Vimeo.

Dallas skyline - from the W hotel

2010-06-28T01:10:00.002-04:00

Dallas skyline - from the W hotel, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

The pool deck of the ultra hip W hotel here in Dallas seemed like a cool place to capture the skyline. I musta looked a bit lost and out of place as the 3 or 4 security guards stopped me on the way to what I thought was the pool deck. Lucky for me, they let me up there anyway....as long as I didn't take any interior shots. If you're ever in Dallas, its definitely worth a visit there. Its like south beach chic in the middle of Texas. I warn you though, its worth dressing to fit in!

By the way, the processing really exagerated the clouds in this image. I don't remember it looking quite this crazy. Here, it kinda looks like Dallas is about to be swept off the map!

Dallas - wandering around Victory Plaza

2010-06-26T01:29:00.002-04:00

Dallas - wandering around Victory Plaza, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I saw a few images online of this place while searching flickr for images of Dallas. While traveling into a place I have never really explored, flickr is always a great place to start the search thanks to all the keywords left from my flickr friends!

And about that cone to the left....man, why in the world didn't I just reach over and move it? I guess I could clone it out though......anyway.....

Any great suggestions for a place to catch sunset tomorrow? I think I have one lined up, but I'm always open to suggestions.

Till then, cheers :)

Montmarte' in Paris - a walk amongst the artists

2010-06-24T23:12:00.002-04:00

Montmarte' in Paris - a walk amongst the artists, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Having spent a bit of time in Paris over the years during a few various trips there, I didn't really take the time to wander this remote area called Montmarte' till last summer. Set up on the hill near the Sacre Couer that overlooks this city of light, its certainly worth trecking up there for an evening if you can. A great night usually begins with a bottle of wine and some local cheese while enjoying an incredible sunset from the steps of this cathedral. The tableaux vivant of street performers, travelers, and the like are a great theatrical feast while the Parisain skyline serves as its scenic backdrop. After this "living french" experience, the procession then continues to any one of the various street cafes or quant restaurants just a few enjoyable steps away. While it can feel a bit touristy, the trick is to wander away from the crowds and immerse yourself in ths wonderful area, like the famous artists Salvador Dalí, Amedeo Modigliani, Claude Monet, and Pablo Picasso must have done.

Color in the harbour - San Diego

2010-06-23T00:52:00.002-04:00

Color in the harbour - San Diego, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

"To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted." -Bill Bryson

Nothing balances out being cooped up in a dark ballroom for 8 hours for 4 straight days furthering your education than getting out and exploring the landscape of a city. I did just that when I was out in San Diego a few month ago on a training seminar and I intend to do the same starting tomorrow. This time, I'll be in Dallas for a long weekend. Not sure what I'll find whilst in pursuit of the image, but I am sure I will find out soon. For now, its off to bed....yikes, alarm in 4 hours!

Details from Touch Floral - and a bit about some changes

2010-06-22T00:17:00.002-04:00

Details from Touch Floral, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I've given a bit of thought to my blogging strategy recently. Blogging strategy....now that sound a bit strange doesn't it? Having a few irons in the fire tends to create a stream with no real direction. Perhaps that's ok I guess, but I think I am leaning towards a complete restructuring of things round here.

In an effort to simplify my life, I think I have actually complicated it a bit. Funny how that happens :) Having multiple interests and passions can sometimes find one driving down a few paths at the same time. Lighting, real estate investments, photography, travel...trying to keep it all on the track can be a bit maddening.....yikes!

So anyway, look for some big changes in the MDS site as well as the Hylite site soon. My plan is to keep the 2 kinda separate with their own individual direction and applicable posts. I have a few interesting products, tutorials, and goodies I am working on in the near future with my photography as well. Check out the blog for a place to sign up to be notified first!

As far as the image, I created this collage with a cool preset I created with lightroom. I plan on sharing a few tips like these and others in the newsletter!

Found this on a hike - Zermatt in Switzerland

2010-06-20T23:08:00.002-04:00

Found this on a hike - Zermatt in Switzerland, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

There's usually a moment within the window of time that I give myself to explore the art....a point at which I have to ask myself "Is this a keeper, or am I creating a piece of serious garbage!"

I had a few challenges with this one, I must admit, but when I decided to let go, paint in a few textures, and just enjoy the process....it started to come together. Now, mind you, it could still be judged as a rubbish, but thats ok.....

And for all you Fathers out there....I hope you enjoyed your special day!

Magic hour in West Palm Beach

2010-06-19T00:44:00.002-04:00

Magic hour in West Palm Beach, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

We've all done it. Heart pounding as we race to a place to park the car. The suns dropping like a bowling ball. That light, that incredible light! Its fading fast...please wait till I get the shot!

Then of course, you glance at the LCD screen and think "thats not at all what I saw, where is that deep color, why is the sky blown out, how come I can't see the dark details?"

That is of course why I spend half my time creating the magic in the digital darkroom.

I can't do much about that fading light though. That will always continue to be a race! Unless of course if you are in someplace like Iceland in June, which is of course is exactly where my friend Trey Ratcliff is from Stuck in Customs. Six hour sunsets, hard to beat that!

Matterhorn on a misty mountain afternoon

2010-06-18T00:57:00.002-04:00

Matterhorn on a misty mountain afternoon, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

"The only Zen you can find on the tops of mountains is the Zen you bring up there." -
Robert M. Pirsig

There is something very settling and familiar when exploring about an area like Zermatt. Seems like no matter where you are, one of the most majestic of all mountains called the Matterhorn always seems to be looming off in the distance - like an old friend there to comfort you, ya know. (my gosh, where in the world is all this going?!) Nowhere I guess.......now what?

Hmmm, how about a little about the image?

I had to do a bit of work on this one. The light was kinda flat and even, so I played with painting a bit of contrast in here in there to create more of a sense of depth and texture. There always, at least when I was there, seems to be a mess of clouds around the peak (like the time-lapse I took when I was there). I'll link to it on the blog if you want to check it out. In this case, the sense of mystery helps a bit (I think). Hope ya like :)

Through the window for the shot!

2010-06-17T00:24:00.002-04:00

Through the window for the shot!, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Our final night during a great destination wedding we were lighting in the Bahamas had us staying at this really cool bungalow on the water. As I tossed my bags on the bed, I couldn't get to the 2nd floor patio that was attached to my bedroom fast enough. One problem however, the door handle was frozen...a salty corrosion throughout. Hmm, what to do. Suns heading down to the horizon and it looks like a killer view. Hey wait, the window. And with a little squeeze, I was out the window! (notice the screen on the left side) LOL....

More to come...

The colors of LaBoca - Buenos Aires, Argentina

2010-06-16T09:17:00.003-04:00

The colors of Recoletta - Buennos Aires, Argentina, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I'm thinking about painting the outside of the building, what do ya think? Oh I don't know, slap a few colors up and we'll have a look see!

I didn't really have alot of time to photograph all I wanted to here in Buennos Aires. It was certainly one of those "Oh, I gotta make it back here" places. Next time, I think I'll do a little reasearch!

Speaking of that, I have an idea or 2 I am working on. Has a bit to do with photo locations. As a traveling image gatherer with a focus a few knotches above a casual snapshooter, I am always looking for the "inside scoop" on where to go.

If I've peaked your interest a bit, check out the blog. I have recently added a place to sign up for my future newsletter I am working on as well as a few other possible goodies!

Looking to the west for color - West Palm Beach, FL

2010-06-14T23:31:00.002-04:00

Looking to the west for color - West Palm Beach, FL, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

First off, I sometimes have to remind myself of how lucky I am. As a photographer and lover of light and color, sunsets are one of lifes truley magical experiences. When I get the urge (which should be daily since I am so close), all I have to do is head down, grab the bike, cruise over the bridge to Palm Beaches Bike Path, and enjoy the show. Mind you, not every night is a symphony of luminous design, but its still worth the trip. To get out, clear the mind, and recharge the emotional batteries is essentially the goal. As the skys opened up this evening, however, I had a feeling that a nice scene was about to unfold, and boy was I right. At first, I was a little bit upset that I didn't even have a camera to record the beauty that was about to unfold in the sky, but I quickly realized that the real moment for me was just to see it.....really see it. Sometimes when you are fiddling with the tripod, lenses, knobs, and all that ghack, you fail to really get pulled into the moment. So thats what I did.

This image, however, was from another one of those moments...when I was fiddling about with the gear. Enjoy :)

Austin Capital on a cool Texas evening

2010-06-14T00:48:00.004-04:00

Austin Capital on a cool Texas evening, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

A little gift that I received the other day reminded me of the images I have yet to process from my trip to Austin a while back. A special thanks to Cliff for the cool art that he sent me! Check it out

And, of course, the link to my last piece of performance art!

The last disastrous video LOL!

Star in Austin - and a quick thanks

2010-06-13T00:01:00.002-04:00

Star in Austin - and a quick thanks, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I decided to grab a shot from my Austin, Texas file after I returned home this evening. I had a nice surprise that came in a box from a friend in Austin! I do intend to post a more detailed blog about what I received from a fellow HDR artist tomorrow so check back. For now, a big thanks to Cliff for your kind gift!

And, as far as you pixel peepers out there, I kinda thought that the noise in the sky added to the stars that are there. Kinda looks a bit milky wayish?

Late night reflections in Paris

2010-06-12T02:11:00.002-04:00

Late night reflections in Paris, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Dance is the only art in which we ourselves are the stuff of which it is made. - Ted Shawn

My little reflection this evening is about art and the need to express yourself. Too often, modern society tends to place little importance on the arts. Not always of course, but the older I get, the more I see how that basic need to express yourself tends to get put way back on the burner for pursuits of money. Art being beaten out of the student to make way for skills to earn a living. Make more money to drive the economy, to buy more stuff, to keep the cycle going. Kind of maddening at times don't ya think? Guess I'm going off on a bit of a tangent here aren't I?

I guess my point is, keep it all in check. Balance it out. You know, its funny. We all pick up the crayons and express ourselves as kids, but somehow those artistic qualities that we are ALL born with become suppressed in that mad pursuit called life. I guess its easy to see why the enrollment in the art clubs, photography workshops, and dance classes is heavily populated by the over 40 crowd. Kind of a calling to get back to something of heartfelt meaning.

After seeing the look in the eyes of my little one this evening.....expressing herself in dance in her very first show....I am reminded of something that is so important. Support the pursuit of passion, for its not all about having the eyes on the prize, its about savoring the journey.....and expressing yourself along the way.

Oh, by the way, thats exactly what drew me into the streets of Paris here from the late hours of the evening and into the wee hours of the morning. Don't be afraid to explore your art and passion along your journey!

Miami - South Beach Poolside

2010-06-09T22:21:00.002-04:00

Miami - South Beach Poolside, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

As the sun started to set and the party started to kick in for an event I was lighting for the Food Network in South Beach, I decided to take the ole' camera and sticks and explore a bit of the area. You know, ya think your cool till ya wander around this uniquely hip area of South Florida! Dork with a camera.....here I come! LOL

Hold on

2010-06-09T00:35:00.003-04:00

Hold on, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

"Patience, persistance, and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success." - Napoleom Hill
Just a quick little shout out to my clients from this past season for all the great events you entrusted my company and I to light for you. For any of you that have happened to pop by this lil' blog o' mine and wonder "why on earth hasn't Mike posted any images from our event yet. I am pretty sure I saw him scurrying about the space just minutes from doors. He's gotta have something worthwhile to post!"

You are indeed correct. Please hold on (get the image now.....hehehe...hehe...he....aahhh....well, anyway.....)

I made a bit of a punch list of shots to start editing over the next few weeks, so keep checking back!

A wet evening stroll in Buenne, France

2010-06-08T00:53:00.002-04:00

A wet evening stroll in Buenne, France, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I had a lot of strange looks as I explored the wet streets of Buenne on this particular evening. Rain, and lots of it, so of course I thought "reflections!" None the less, I still had a lot of "what in the hell is this guy doing out in the rain" looks.

The hardest part about my wet outing in the cute little French village was how to keep the constant spray of that bulbous 14-24mm Nikon lense. Have ya seen that thing?! That things like a magnet for water!

I decided not to fight the color temperature of the city's architectural lighting as I processed this one. Like a post from a couple of days ago, I also used a bit of texture to bring about a little interest to the sky and some of the architecture. I kinda like it :)

Infinate beach in the Bahamas

2010-06-07T00:21:00.002-04:00

Infinate beach in the Bahamas, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

So, unlike the image I spoke of the other night in which I was able to "visualize" the final look I wanted in post as I composed and clicked the exposure, this is quite the opposite. I love creating these other worlds that up until I let myself explore a bit, they don't exist (and thank goodness I suppose LOL!)

Night sky at Raffies in Singapore

2010-06-06T15:29:00.002-04:00

Night sky at Raffies in Singapore, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Alrighty now...

Here's another taste from the Singaporean buffet of images I have. Ok, that sounded kinda stupid.....but I continue....

I waited a bit outside of this rather cool hotel in Singapore called Raffes, or was it Raffies, or Raffles, definitely not waffles.....Aaannnnyway...

There was a lot to explore inside and my memory card proves it. I set up this shot just outside of the front valet area and tried to blend in. Kinda hard with a Nikon D3 and a huge Gitzo tripod, but I tried.

After a bit of processing the images in Photomatix and Photoshop CS4, I had a hard time getting rid of the incredible amount of popcorn sized noise nuggets in the sky, so I tried a different approach. I decided to mess around with a few textures that I combined together until I had a color and feel that I liked. I then used a little radial blur trick I picked up from Trey Ratcliff from Stuck in Customs, used a layer mask of just the sky (remember the noisy one that I wanted to get rid of), and then painted in my own little creation. Sure its fake, but its fun....and looks kinda cool I think!

Thanks for stopping by :)

Freedom Flyer in Singapore

2010-06-05T00:46:00.002-04:00

Freedom Flyer in Singapore, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Well, I'll be the first one to admit that this ones a wee bit of a disaster. Having never really cleaned it up or liked what I had so far, its been staring at me as the first image in my "ready to post" folder for quite sometime now. I tend to work on these images a few at a time but usually like to release only one a day, but that pools getting a bit shallow.

The air here in South Florida has been freaking stifling and incredibly humid lately. I have made several references here on the blog to the humidity in Singapore while I was there as it might be one of the most humid places on earth. I remember taking this shot with a couple of my photo buddies late in the evening as the sweat poured over my glasses and into the viewfinder. We arrived back at the hotel a few hours later, memory cards full and drenched from head to toe!

I hope to post a few more from Singapore soon as I have received some really great comments and possible opportunities from that part of the world. As always, I sincerely appreciate the views, so I'll keep em coming :)

A final look into the harbor

2010-06-03T23:34:00.002-04:00

A final look into the harbor, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

During our final "goodbye lunch" from the marina side cafe called Snappas (I think that was the name actually), I found myself a bit distracted from the conversation at the table. Not that I wasn't fully engaged as we were all in various stages of brainstorming about a million things (I love that by the way), but a scene that was being created just over my shoulder had me leaping from the table mid sentence to capture the foundation of this image I had in my head. I find myself doing that alot more often now (not leaving the table mid sentence like a hound chasing a squirel mind you), but previsualizing the scene and what I intend to create with the shot later.

Visualization and the law of attraction....powerful stuff. I find myself kinda deep in alot of that lately. Ask and it is given ya know. There's a million ways to phrase it, but getting a clear and focused vision of where you want to steer your life, visualizing it, and acting on it. Seems simple really, but it works!

I found myself doing this exact process this evening...with my nine year old. She has had this vision of multiple income streams for a while now. An art teacher that owns a highend cupcake bakery. Very creative for a nine year old I think. So I told her about a little place that just opened up in CItyplace the other day....a highend cupcake shop! She couldn't drag me there fast enough. It was a precious site watching her walk thru and take deep mental notes. After buying a couple of the "competitions" little morsels of goodness and a couple of business cards, she couldn't wait to get home to brainstorm with me and journal all of our thoughts on design, color, business plans, ingredients....heck, she even drafted out a floor-plan of the new place. Talk about visualizing.

Not sure where I am going with this actually, just felt like a bit of a ramble here.

I guess if I had any morsel of parting wisdom, it would have to be.....don't forget to dream! Stop and give yourself those precious moments in the madness of the day to be whatever you want to be. Its free to wander in this other world and you never know where it might actually take you. And in case that finds you running a cupcake shop, I'll have a double fudge please.

And, if you ever read this my little sunshine girl....thanks for those special moments you have given me to slow down and see this wonderful world thru your little eyes. I love you :)

Rich color in the Bahamas

2010-06-02T23:08:00.002-04:00

Rich color in the Bahamas, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I find myself a bit of a confused state this evening. The chosen career path I have enjoyed for the better part of the last 25 years indeed has its spikes of energy, emotion, and focus. I must admit, I have never been much of a nine to fiver.....just the sheer thought of that scares me to pieces! Instead, my schedule takes that path of chaos. I used to blame that on the business itself, but to be brutally honest, I guess I created that for myself. So after lighting an insanely successful weeklong destination wedding in the Bahamas, I am somewhat cursed with the mixed emotions that follow such a rush of focused energy and adrenaline on a project. Exhaustion, exuberance, relief, anxiety, confusion, fear, laziness, sadness, happiness, and of course an incredible feeling of accomplishment. I know, strange isn't it?

More to follow soon from the trip as it seems like a blur at this point.

One thing is crystal clear though. Take a fantastic crew, and mix it with a beautiful location, an incredible event designer, a tent company crew lead that goes the extra mile, a wonderful wedding planner, a happy client, a few golf carts, and a wickedly cool after hours party on a lit lagoon that rivaled the best clubs in Ibiza or Mykinos, and you have lived my life last week. Thanks to all who lived the moments with me!

More to come over the next few days and weeks.

View from the pad

2010-05-29T15:08:00.002-04:00

View from the pad, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

This post finds me chilling out on the porch here at the Pirates Cove Tiki bar here in the Bahamas. In just a few minutes, I will be heading out on a boat to another Island to catch a plane to do a fly-over of the event sites we are working on to capture the setup. Should be kinda cool!

As far as the image, this has been our view from the wraparound patio at the guest house my crew and I have called "camp Hylite" for the past week.

With spotty internet service coupled with really long days, my posts have been a bit limited, so look for more updates soon.

Bahamas....day 1

2010-05-26T22:49:00.002-04:00

Well, we are off and running here in the ole' Caribbean. Although we intended on beginning the day first thing in the morning, a bit of a snaggle with the container deliver put us right back on island time LOL. A 1:15PM start put us a weee bit behind, but my stellar team put it into high gear and I think we are back on track. Internet is a bit spotty except for the little bars down by the harbor, so don't expect too many updates. I had this wacky idea that I was going to be able to update with a video post every night. HAAAAA.....not gonna happen, sorry. I am getting a bunch of clips as we progress though, so I can only guess that an epic video might appear on this blog someday, so stay tuned. As I type this, the waves are splashing off to the right side of me and the cool Bahamian breeze reminds me of how lucky I am to have been chosen for this project. More to follow soon :)

A playground of images - wedding details

2010-05-24T23:21:00.002-04:00

A playground of images - wedding details, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I've often referred the the business I am in (providing lighting and effects for special events) as getting the chance to play with a really big toy box filled with goodies. I know, kinda silly, but its felt that way since the beginning. This season, more that average, has found us lighting quite a bit of weddings. It seems only natural that I approach these environments with my camera like a playground.....with goodies to photograph all around me. I know, REALLY silly. Speaking of silly, check out the video I uploaded this evening. I don't know where I could have possibly thought that I would have the time to video blog from the event in the Bahamas we are leaving for in the AM, but I decided to record an intro video this afternoon. Well, an on camera talent I am NOT! As I looked over the clips for a shred of anything useful, I realized that what I had actually created was a bunch of out-takes. Check in out if ya get a chance. Lets hope it gets better as the week goes on!

In the wine caves

2010-05-24T01:29:00.002-04:00

In the wine caves, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

To get away from one's working environment is, in a sense, to get away from one's self; and this is often the chief advantage of travel and change. ~Charles Horton Cooley

I've been quite fortunate to have traveled this great world for both pleasure and for work. Although tonight's post is from one of those carefree explorations of Europe that I love so much, my focus now is gearing up for a pretty cool trip up ahead. I must say, its always rewarding when a client decides to trek our team out of the country, and although the Bahamas is a quick 1 hour hop across the Atlantic pond, its still kinda cool!

Tomorrow will be a bit of a packing, gathering, and a last minute collection of clothes, camera gear, and computer gear for a 1 week destination wedding that we are lighting in the Caribbean. As I did on the last event, I will try to blog a bit as we progress thru the setup and complete the events. I am sure we are in for a few challenges on this one, but thats what we look forward to. Check back soon for more fun :)

A bit of tasting in the Wine Celler - Beunne, France

2010-05-22T00:59:00.002-04:00

A bit of tasting in the Wine Celler - Beunne, France, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I must admit, I'm one of those types that absolutely loves a great glass of wine, but has no real interest in the research that one might take to really understand the art of the product. I just don't have the time. So although I have no idea what I am tasting, that surely should not stop me from exploring the great cellars in France, right? This place in a town called Beunne was really sweet. Barrels placed throughout the various rooms in this dark and cavernous cellar had bottles placed atop with candles to add a bit of ambience. Very cool indeed! The result? As there were not too many tourists there at the time, I received a fantastic lesson and kind of a private sampling of a few "special" wines. And yes, all this before lunch LOL!

Moonwalking in Denver

2010-05-21T01:10:00.002-04:00

Moonwalking in Denver, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

So, while walking on the moon the other day, I ahhh ..... WAIT A MINUTE HERE MIKE... the moon?

Having gotten a brief update on an event I will be heading working on in Denver around mid July, I decided to look over some of the images I grabbed on the last trip out there. On a side note, I could spend the better part of a lifetime processing the vast hard drive of images I have captured from various locals around the world! That being said, I am not really sure why in the world I chose this one.....or where this post is even going actually....

I have this insatiable appetite to explore. To see more of the world is indeed high on my bucket list...way up there! That intense desire is what ultimately drove me each and every morning before call time while working a bit on the DNC event in Denver to head off with the rental car. On this particular outing zig zagging up the Rockies, the air got a bit thin....really thin! As I got out of the car and bumbled about a bit, half gasping for air, I took notice of this particularly strange cloud formation happening over this R2D2 looking observatory. Kinda cool? Maybe not.....

God Beams over West Palm Beach - and a search for enlightenment

2010-05-19T23:21:00.003-04:00

God Beams over West Palm Beach - and a search for enlightenment, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

During one of those o' so few evenings when the South Florida sky just opens up and screams at you, I decided to fly out the door and capture some of natures enlightenment. Sure, the camera sensor doesn't really see what I see, or in this case, what I wanted to see, but thats what post is for. Color, light, great music on the Ipod, and a sense of accomplishment from the day....thats about all you need sometimes.
So, on a somewhat related note, I feel like linking to a video I recieved today. As you must know by now, this blog has never been much of a source for ideas or product endorsements, but I really felt like sharing it. Life sometimes has a way of presenting you with challanges, or as I like to see it, opportunities for self growth disguised as hurdles. Since my divorce, I have been on a full on feast of self growth knowledge. There is no one that seems to cover all these areas that, lets face it, we can all use improvement in, as well as this cat I found called Brian Johnson. His debute product called Philosophers Notes (google it), is a buffet of knowledge and selfgrowth wisdom. Kind of like a cliff notes creation of 100 of his favorite reads while on a sabaticle in Fiji (man, thats sounds cool doesn't it?), he indeed pours his heart into this product. It has been my "Go To" folder on the ole' Ipod for sometime now. In fact, I can't think of a better way to start the day that with one of his delicious 20 minute morsels of insight. A great fuel for the mind for sure. Well, as you can see from the link to a video below, he has an other product out that looks kinda cool too. So, I ask you, what have you fed your mind today?

http://www.optimalliving101.com/why

Driftwood on the Talbot

2010-05-19T00:25:00.001-04:00

Driftwood on the Talbot, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Hey....sorry....I snuck off for a couple of days! I guess I should have mentioned it. I appreciate the daily visits by those who do, so I promise to keep em coming this week.

I stumbled a bit about this coastline while on our event up in Amelia Island and although the lighting wasn't perfect, I knew there was an image or two I could create in post.

More tk......

Exploring Paris

2010-05-15T00:20:00.001-04:00

Exploring Paris, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Moroccan Party Collage

2010-05-12T23:47:00.002-04:00

Moroccan Party Collage, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Everyday brings its little challenges. I like to look at them as opportunities to learn and grow. That's of course easy to say when everything works out in the end as today did. Actually, it was a smashing success I must add. Lighting an event of any size on the beach has its obvious obstacles, but the biggest one of course when the sun sets at 8:30PM and the event starts at 6:30PM. There's no easy way, at least not one that I know of, to dim the sun to check lighting levels and focus. So of course, thats when you rely on your gut and do the best you can. As luck has it, we hit this one out of the park!

Thanks team. You all rocked out there today!

Colors of the night

2010-05-12T00:50:00.002-04:00

Colors of the night, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Set it up....four hours later, tear it down. Done so many times it all becomes a blur.

I created this image from an event we are on this week. Tomorrows event sets up in a few hours, (on the beach mind you) and well, I still have a bit o' late night work to get done so....till then, hope you like this quick lil' creation :)

Here a quick and noisy video from the event as well. I'll post a few more images soon, so check back later :)

Sunset on the Talbot

2010-05-10T22:41:00.001-04:00

Sunset on the Talbot, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

There's a beauty in decay if you look for it.....and this evening, I found it. This cool area up here near the site we are working at has a lot to explore. Not sure why the beach is so populated with these full size trees that appeared to have been ripped off of the fragile coast. Massive trunks, root systems, twisted branches and complete trees.....some in what appeared to be their prime. Kinda strange, but they seemed happy :)

A colorful end to a colorful day

2010-05-08T23:50:00.001-04:00

A colorful end to a colorful day, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Seems like I'm on a constant quest for light. Whether its from an instrument I use to paint with light in a room for an event, an image I capture in my travels that I refine and fine tune in the digital darkroom, or a philosophy that I embrace from my library of self growth books and CD's, it seems to be a constant theme here.

I've kinda struggled a bit lately with the real direction of this little blog of mine. It started out as just a little dumping ground for images and thoughts I felt like throwing out there from my travels and work projects, and well, that's what it still is. I guess there's nothing really wrong with that. I do have a vision of a few little tutorials I might create in the not too distant future as well as a little bit of a peak into that self growth library of mine. Seems like so many people I deal with are at a point in their lives......be it from life changes, divorces, setbacks, career changes, financial challenges....where they are stepping back and looking into what its all about. You know....your true purpose, life vision, deepest wishes, spiritual direction, real calling....you know, little things like that (lol!) I guess I notice that a bit more, cause well, I'm there too.

They say, when the student is ready, the teacher arrives. Perhaps I have had my head in the sand for the past 15 years or so. Totally focused on work while I let part of the real me suffer. Do I have all the answers yet? Well, of course not.....does anyone? Having said that, I hope to share a few thoughts and recommendations over the next few weeks or so from my journey so far.

So I guess its pretty clear now....light, light, and more light.....hope u like :) (and of course a few random rambles about nothing at all!)

A walk in Shanghai

2010-05-04T00:30:00.001-04:00

A walk in Shanghai, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

During my visit to Shanghai, the city was in the process preparing for the Worlds Fair and Expo. Its kinda cool to see all the images coming out of that part of the world now. Cool new structures, vibrant colors, and technical wizardry to say the least. What a great destination to head to over the next few months!

While the world stage was being set, I decided to dig a bit deeper into the grungier part of the city......in Old Shanghai.

Banyon on the Bike Trail - and a Sunfest 2010 wrap-up video

2010-05-03T00:11:00.002-04:00

Banyon on the Bike Trail - and a Sunfest 2010 wrap-up video, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Well, the end of another great Sunfest weekend has about come to a close. I can honestly say that I enjoyed this one more that any I can recently remember. Although the music was quite lame and the food had a lot to be desired (unless you actually were looking for a full on artery block.....I mean, is it too much to ask for a fruit, vegetable, or salad ANYWHERE in this festival?) sorry, I'm back.....where was I now? Did I finish that sentence? Never mind...

For me, it was a few things. The time off (finally), the art booths (I always love seeing artists give their gift to the world, and of course best of all, the precious time with my child. I look forward to next year!

Here's a quick little wrap up of the fireworks finale' of the event. Enjoy :)

Phillips Point in West Palm Beach

2010-05-02T00:52:00.001-04:00

Phillips Point in West Palm Beach, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

"Tension is who you think you should be, relaxation is who you are." - Chinese Proverb

That being said, its been really great taking a few hours here and there to really unplug, hang out with my little one, and bumble about the local arts and music festival. Although the music hasn't really been my cup of tea, the precious time spent with a loved one is what its been all about for me. (guess I'll have to head to Europe to catch the music I REALLY want to hear LOL!)

As far as the image, its a little taste of downtown West Palm Beach.....home of Sunfest 2010!

End of the day from the Society of the Four Arts - West Palm Beach

2010-04-30T23:52:00.001-04:00

End of the day from the Society of the Four Arts - West Palm Beach, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Having a music and arts festival called Sunfest happening just steps from my door this weekend, I feel like a few more posts of my beautiful city might be a nice way to finish out the week. Although I shot the base images for this one a few months ago, they waited o so patiently on the hard drive for their moment to be played with. As I processed this one tonight, I tried a few techniques. I first blended 2 differently exposed HDR tonemapped images. I then brushed in a little bit of an effect from a Nik filter I like called glamour glow. And finally, a bit of Topaz simplify was mixed in here and there for a more painterly look. Hope ya like :)

Time for Sunfest!

2010-04-29T19:01:00.001-04:00

Time for Sunfest!, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

My love of music has previously had me running off to places like Roskilde, Montreux, Copenhagen, and Rotterdam. Just so happens, this week... music, art, food, and people come together for a pretty cool festival in my town called Sunfest. I must admit, its kinda cool to be living about 2 blocks from the gate! My earliest memories of this festival were of my own rock band playing at one of the stages. In retrospect, we were kind of a mess....but we had good intentions and ALOT of energy. Although this event has kind of evolved from a jazz and blues festival to more of a free for all collection of musical styles, its still a great place to chill. In fact, what am I doing here.....time to wander over there!

Unwinding

2010-04-27T23:07:00.001-04:00

Unwinding, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Whilst searching for an image for the daily upload, I have to admit its quite difficult to conjure up anything of value to ramble on about as the hotel TV off in the background blasts off a seriously hilarious rerun of the "Office".

The Moment? - winding down and making the attack plan for tomorrow

The Plan? - a site survey up here in Amelia Island for an up and coming event here in a couple of weeks

The update? - a million things to get together for this event and one right after it

The concern? - the million things I have to get together

The short term wish? - to get up in the AM and catch a nice sunrise with my camera and eyes

The question marks? - not sure.....what's with those Mike!?

cheers :)

An evening in Montmarte, Paris

2010-04-27T01:30:00.002-04:00

An evening in Montmarte, Paris, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

There are many places that just seem to have that "I'm in the center of it all" feeling. You know, like you are at the point in which all around seem to gravitate to. This is one of those places. Montmarte' in Paris. This place has long been the hangout of artists and musicians, and although it can feel a bit touristy at times, its still a great place to explore.

And, for the musical journey.......

At the dock

2010-04-25T23:08:00.001-04:00

At the dock, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I took the foundational image for this piece while on a site survey for an up and coming destination wedding we will be lighting towards the end of May. These remote location events are quite the challenge as you cant just pop on over to the shop for a missing adapter. More on this as the event unfolds.....

From the Patio at the Oasis in Austin

2010-04-24T23:31:00.002-04:00

From the Patio at the Oasis in Austin, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

Wow, could it actually be? It seems like I have been blogging for over 2 years now. Yes, over 2 years of random thoughts and verbal diarrhea. What on earth have I rambled on about for the better part of 25 months!

I must say though, my usual blog time (between 11PM and 2AM) has yet to find me in the sharpest of cerebral moments. A million times a day, I find myself saying to myself "oh, thats a brilliant perspective...I should blog about that". These moments of course seem to get flushed out of the mind a couple of hours before I find myself in from of the keyboard attempting to recall a morsel of anything entertaining......and well, this is what ya get. LOL....just me, and rambling on about nothing.......

The image? Taken and processed during a workshop in Texas with the one and only...Trey Ratcliff from Stuck in Customs. I loved those cool shadows raking themselves across the deck...very cool :) .... ya like?

Hope you all are enjoying this wonderful weekend!

And of course, the video link below has not an ounce of reason to be here....other than this band rocks. If there is one performer I could see touring with, Jamie Cullum would have to be up in the top 5 for sure. This clip was from the North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam. Three days of some of the worlds best music. Enjoy!

End of the day in the Cote' D'Azur

2010-04-23T22:44:00.002-04:00

End of the day in the Cote' D'Azur, originally uploaded by Photomike07 / MDSimages.com.

I absolutely love train travel! For me, some of the best tracks around are the ones that trace the coast of the Mediterranean. Here in the South of France or specifically....the Cote D'Azure, there are endless little pockets of goodness to explore about. Yummy! Pick a train, pick a random stop, and go!

And on a totally unrelated note....I got chickens...lotsa chickens! I paid a little surprise visit to one of my newly acquired rental properties today and took a peak around back at one of the units and .... well...there was this cage, with what appeared to be about 5 or 6 chickens. Actually, looked like mix of roosters and hens, very strange non the less.

So, now that were rambling here a bit, here's something even more unrelated.....

Just a quick clip of a pretty cool "fire effect" we created for an event this evening. Worked out pretty cool actually. As always, my rock star crew helped make it all possible.. Thanks everyone!

Now, what to do about those chickens........hmmmm......

(more on all this later.....)

Village hopping around the lake - Lake Como

2010-04-21T00:34:00.002-04:00

Village hopping around the lake - Lake Como, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover” – Mark Twain

Warm thoughts of Italy - Lake Como

2010-04-19T23:00:00.002-04:00

Warm thoughts of Italy - Lake Como, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

"A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving." - Lao Tzu

In my typical haphazard way of bumbling about Europe, its actually a miracle that I eventually made it to my destination here on the lake. One wrong train and bamb, your 5 hours off track. Well, like I have said before, its all about the journey.......so that of course, I embraced it :)

In an effort to cut back on my usual HDR style posts, I decided to present a few tamer shots. Its a nice change actually. Hope you enjoy!

Afternoon color around the lake - Lake Como

2010-04-19T01:01:00.001-04:00

Afternoon color around the lake - Lake Como, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Bella Bella.....

You know, its kinda funny. Hearing the reports of stranded travelers in Europe over the past couple of days from the Icelandic volcano eruption actually seems kinda nice. I guess its all perspective. About this time of year, when the season starts to tank a bit and head fast into the dog days of summer, I can think of nothing better to do than get lost in the European rail system. Grab a plate, throw on a little bit of Norwegian Fiords, Greek Islands, Summer music festivals, Spanish beaches, Swiss Alps, Italian Lakes, and French Villages and you have yourself quite a meal!

What would you do if you could just pick up and go? I love quizzing people sometimes. Its great to see someone's reaction when I ask them "if money were no object and you could wake up tomorrow with not a responsibility in the world, what would you do with your life?" That seems too stump a lot of people. Not sure why. For me, I am sure there would be ALOT more travel.......yes, bumbling thru Europe sounds like a great idea!

Look for more images from around the Lake soon :)

Street life in Old Shanghai

2010-04-17T10:23:00.001-04:00

Street life in Old Shanghai, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

A curious traveler from the west, exploring the back alleys of Old Shanghai. A simple click.....a memory...and off he goes to soak in more. In the words of Anthony Bourdain "Its a beautiful world out there.....and I want it al!"

An evening on the Seine in Paris - and a really cool project from Pat Metheny

2010-04-15T22:58:00.002-04:00

An evening on the Seine in Paris, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

I've always been fascinated with artistic pioneers. Those who plunge forward with a vision of their art, reguardless of the critiques, naysayers, and acceptence of the masses. When in Paris, of course, its hard not to feel and embrace the the presence of the early masters of impressionism.

Similarly, a musician I have followed for sometime now and a pioneer in his own right was my inspiration as I worked on this image tonight. Check out his new creation below!

Bird....big bird....really big bird! (Blue Heron perhaps?)

2010-04-14T23:45:00.001-04:00

Bird....big bird....really big bird! (Blue Heron perhaps?), originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Just seconds after firing off a few exposures, this winged beast took flight. Guess he had more important things to get to?

You know, the nice thing about a slower economy and housing market is the opportunity for these critters to enjoy their native habitat a little more. There has been a lot of insanely selfish over development here is South Florida over the past few years. Neighborhood after neighborhood built on precious land full of houses that the end buyer could never afford in the first place, but I am sure you are quite aware of all that. I must admit, its nice to see it slow down a bit.

As far as this image, I did a little experiment with a couple of textures and a little Topaz filters. Hope ya like :)

Trecking about the Swiss Alps (gasping for air and thirsty as a dog!)

2010-04-13T23:46:00.001-04:00

Trecking about the Swiss Alps (gasping for air and thirsty as a dog!), originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Yeeeeup, I might have kept this one on the ole' stove a bit too long. Overcooked as it is, I still kinda like it.

I spent a bit of time on this hike, partially from not being in tip top shape, but also because there was so much to see. The clouds change up in a flash providing a constantly evolving feast for the eyes.

Isolation in the San Juan Islands

2010-04-11T22:41:00.001-04:00

Isolation in the San Juan Islands, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

"A man travels the world in search of what he needs and returns home to find it." - George Moore

Is it me or are these weeks just flying by! Seems like our season just started out and bam....summer plans are being made, the South Florida events schedule is winding down, and....(insert third item for sentence balance...sorry, I can't think of one...)

I tell ya, if it wasn't for weddings, I don't know what we would have done this year. Of course, I have a little bit of a back log of images to get to, so stay tuned :)

Speaking of weddings, tomorrow finds me hopping over the pond a bit to the Bahamas for, yes you guessed it, another wedding! This is just quick look see at the event space to fine tune the logistical plans for the tech side of things. If all goes well, it will be a nice destination event for us towards the end of May!

Hope you have a great week and hope you like the quotes. My time recently has me searching a bit in the self growth area as you might have guessed. More on that soon too :)

Stumbling about the beach in the San Juan Islands

2010-04-10T20:54:00.001-04:00

Stumbling about the beach in the San Juan Islands, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

And on a totally unrelated note...

"Remember that after browning the fish and then placing the pan in the oven for 20 minutes, the metal handle is really not quite ready to grab after just 1 minute on the stove top. I indeed have the burn marks to prove it after this evenings fiasco in the kitchen."

(just a little nugget of insight for ya)

Cheers everyone :)

Colorful muck along the shore in the San Juan Islands

2010-04-09T01:13:00.002-04:00

Colorful muck along the shore in the San Juan Islands, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Feel like taking a walk in the nuclear sludge? Its no secret that HDR really pulls out the color in a scene....color that may or may not have actually been there! As is so often the case, its all up to the artist...or in this case...me :)

I remember not a couple of short years ago, a fellow photographer and digital artist in an attempt to apparently speak his mind at a training class shouted out something like "of what value is this HDR stuff? You'll never see it in any publications or ads!" Wow, kinda shortsighted indeed. Just the other day in fact, I opened up a copy of National Geographic Explorer and counted over 15 images that were obviously tweaked. From ads to feature stories, lets face it, HDR processing is now a widely accepted technique as well as art form.

As promised this week....music to enjoy the image by. (could you imagine tuning that thing by the way?!)

Palm Beach - a special place

2010-04-08T00:29:00.003-04:00

Palm Beach - a special place, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Sometimes I forget how lucky I am. In fact, just the other day I took a knee jerk reaction turn and headed over the beach with my little one after school and pounced about in the sand (not here as this is the intracoastal.....beach is much cleaner!). After spending a few wonderful moments there, I had to stop and wonder what in the world has prevented me from taking the 7 minute trip from my place over to this paradise recently.

In continuation of my little theme this week, I am posting a link to the music that inspired my creation of the image this evening. I first heard Josh Varnadore perform this live last year at a church that we were lighting a Passion Play in. I hope to hear more from him someday! Very catchy tune and a wonderful message. Hope you like :)

A hike in the Swiss Alps - Zermatt

2010-04-05T22:59:00.003-04:00

A hike in the Swiss Alps - Zermatt, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

I've been searching for "themes" of sorts to tie in my blog posts for the week, or at the very minimum....nuggets of wisdom. Not sure if any of that makes sense in the slightest, but yet I plunge forward....

Music is powerful. It is quite often the catalyst for setting the mood when I head out for capturing the feel of the location and......(good grief, this is going absolutely nowhere....)

aaaanyway, hope you like what I created in post. I applied a bit of a painterly look with Topaz and of course, photoshop. And as far as the music that drove the mood? (I guess thats the theme of the week....The music that drove the mood!)

In a spiritual place - St. Pauls Cathedral

2010-04-05T00:33:00.001-04:00

In a spiritual place - St. Pauls Cathedral, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

My posts of recent seem to find me searching through the ever deteriorating file of finished images in a desperate search for the "Image of the day." I guess this one works as this evening brings a close to one of the holiest days of the year for Christians.

I have designed, programmed, and operated lighting and effects for countless passion plays and church performances over the past 25 years. Today was no exception. I must admit, it doesn't matter how many times I run the ques, I can never quite make it thru the run of the play without viewing a portion of it thru tear filled eyes. When the synergy of the stage drama, music, sound, costuming, and lighting all come together in its beautiful harmonious blend, we're in the zone. Its with that passion that I embrace the art of "painting with light". How wonderful to be able to apply this gift with such a wonderful message. Thanks Robert and all the great folks at The Covenant Center for allowing me to be a part, once again, of such a wonderful presentation. I look forward to the next one!

An infrared look in Jupiter, FL

2010-04-03T00:25:00.001-04:00

An infrared look in Jupiter, FL, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

"When my daughter was about seven years old, she asked me one day what I did at work. I told her I worked at the college - that my job was to teach people how to draw. She stared at me, incredulous, and said, "You mean they forget?" ~Howard Ikemoto

How cool is that quote? It is so true. I have frequently said, that we are all born artists. Its a shame that somehow, just beyond youth, life seems to get in the way while our current society tends to beat that out of us. For the lucky few, the journey eventually brings you back to that opportunity to speak from within.

A brilliant display to end the day - West Palm Beach, FL

2010-04-02T00:24:00.001-04:00

A brilliant display to end the day, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

"Everything in creation has its appointed painter or poet and remains in bondage like the princess in the fairy tale 'til its appropriate liberator comes to set it free." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

The intense color of Iceland

2010-03-31T01:05:00.001-04:00

The intense color of Iceland, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

"I soon realized that no journey carries one far unless, as it extends into the world around us, it goes an equal distance into the world within." - Lillian Smith

I frequently look to travel quotes to help express some of the deep feelings I have about this passion of mine. I've often taken the time to wonder about this. How or why I have taken such a liking to totally detaching from who I am to wander somewhat aimlessly in the world at times still eludes me.

I often play that mind game for fun. You know, the one where you wonder what you would do if you could do anything. Forget money, work, physical restraints, responsibility......freedom, total freedom. You are free to do with your life WHATEVER you want....starting tomorrow. What would you do. Really, what would you do. Who would you help, what would you create, where would you go, who would you spend time with, what would you want to see? Its fun, try it!

So, think about it.....are you on that path now? What steps are you taking to create those dreams? Are you taking the time to create those dreams? What's stopping you?

A warm and cozy overlook of the Blue Lagoon

2010-03-30T00:33:00.001-04:00

A warm and cozy overlook of the Blue Lagoon, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

And indeed, warm and cozy it was.....inside of course! Just outside of those incredible floor to ceiling windows was another experience however for this Florida boy. After a quick change in the locker room and a pre spa shower, I was ready to brave the cold. Nothing like walking out into the frigid tundra whilst completely dripping wet to get you wondering where exactly you left your sanity! Once in the warm therapeutic mineral waters of this world class spa however, it was simply heaven!

Everest - Disney Style

2010-03-28T23:14:00.001-04:00

Everest - Disney Style, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Seems like every year about this time when the season starts to quiet down a bit, my mind starts to wander about......where to wander off in this wonderful world of ours! Lucky for me, just a short trek and a couple of hours up the turnpike is a pretty cool place to get away.

Those Disney Imagineers have quite the knack for detail don't they? Recreating the worlds largest mountain is certainly no easy task, especially when it houses a pretty cool roller coaster at that. Wanna take a ride? Lets go :)

Deep skys in Palm Beach

2010-03-27T00:22:00.001-04:00

Deep skys in Palm Beach, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Yikes! There are days that I kinda glance out the window and kinda yawn at the even tones in the flat sky, and then there are days when I do a double take, yell out "Oh shit, look at that sky!", and stumble out the door with the camera and tripod. On this particular day, it was time to race over the bridge to Palm Beach and capture what I could.

Pull up a chair and have a bowl - Shanghai surprise!

2010-03-25T23:48:00.001-04:00

Pull up a chair and have a bowl - Shanghai surprise!, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

I gotta tell ya, I love a good bowl of soup like the next guy. And a great conversation with a complete stranger in back alley Shanghai? Count me in for sure! A stomach of steel might be needed here though, waddya think. The more I look at this, I'm not really sure where the line between food containers and vessels of mystery fluid begins and ends. Good grief!

I gotta few more from this little back alley adventure. Look for a few more to come.....oh, enjoy your meal :) .... try a little from the sawed off 55 gallon drum on the right if ya dare!

The Louvre

2010-03-24T00:21:00.001-04:00

The Louvre, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Ah yes....Paris, at night, with camera,........ wandering about in the city of light......nuff said really. :)

The colors of Provence

2010-03-23T00:18:00.002-04:00

The colors of Provence, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

My post this evening was somewhat inspired by a pretty cool show that was on this evening. I don't frequently slow down enough to allow my mind to absorb the mindless chatter of TV, but when I do, there is one show I do enjoy. Anthony Bourdain and the No Reservations crew were in Provence, France this evening. Having spent a little time there this past summer, it was time to dig around in Lightroom and see what I had from there. Not exactly the flavor that the geniuses behind that show so cinematically displayed, but a few images non the less.

Enjoy :)

A pretty cool event in Miami (and more to follow soon)

2010-03-21T23:58:00.001-04:00

A pretty cool event in Miami (and more to follow soon), originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Just a little taste of things to come. Here in South Florida, we have been hopping a bit providing lighting for some pretty cool events. Although the season isn't breaking any records, there are still a few events keeping us busy. I plan to roll out a few multi image posts of some of these events when I get a few moments to process a few from the files. Looks like that time might come as early as next week, so stay tuned! I'm actually looking forward to working on these as the details, as always with our incredible clients, have been quite stunning!

This is a sneak peak from a show we did for the Food Network in Miami Beach during the Food and Wine Show in February. Ken Ryan and company created a rather cool and ingenious custom water screen that was suspended over the pool when the guests arrived. We then rear projected a video graphics loop onto the water fall. Awesome work Kenny!

More soon....

Lobby in the Driskill-reverse and repeat

2010-03-20T00:02:00.001-04:00

Lobby in the Driskill-reverse and repeat, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

I've been pretty luck to have gotten to stay in some pretty cool spaces over the years in my travels. Having never been to Austin (surprisingly) before, I was pretty excited to experience it. During Trey Ratcliff's....aka Stuck in Customs...aka, the grandfather and top dog of all things HDR......aka, a pretty cool cat.....(all right Mike, we got it)....

All right, what was I saying?...... oh yeah....

During a workshop in Austin in January, I got a chance to explore about the hotel I was staying at. A pretty cool place called the Driskill Hotel in downtown Austin. Definitely a place to check out when you are in Austin. I hear the Christmas tree is awesome there by the way.

Hope ya like the effect I decided to apply. I kinda like it :)

Boca Resort Lobby - wandering about in the late evening

2010-03-19T01:02:00.001-04:00

Boca Resort Lobby - wandering about in the late evening, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Sure I get a lot of strange looks from the late night staff, but there's nothing like wandering about a hotel like this at 2 in the morning with a monster size camera and set of sticks. After a nice long 20 hour day lighting an event, I can think of not a better way to relax and chill (other that of course, sleep!) LOL......

Anyway, enjoy :)

Kinda strange that those 2 columns are different now that I think about it. Hmmm....

Worth waking up early for!

2010-03-18T00:59:00.001-04:00

Worth waking up early for!, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Catching and photographing a great sunrise for me now is like shooting fish in a barrel, or perhaps like hunting deer from the house (don't laugh, my brother actually did that once. Actually, I think he shot a deer FROM INSIDE the house. Don't quote me on that one though. LOL)

Anyway, every once in a while, those conditions are just right and magic appears in the sky. It was nice to be able to roll outta bed to catch this one. And no Dave, I didn't see any dear wandering downtown!

Somewhere in Cali

2010-03-17T00:15:00.001-04:00

Somewhere in Cali, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Wow, I'm kinda wondering why I didn't just roll down the hill, bounce off the grass, and frolic among the tide pools when I was here. Looks like there were a million areas I could have...., well....., frolicked. (how does one frolic by the way.....and how weird would that have been?)

Yeeuuup, dats about it....tide pools, frolic, hill....I think I've covered it all.....

Along the Oregon Coast

2010-03-14T23:30:00.001-04:00

Along the Oregon Coast, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

I took so many images on that trek up the coast that I faintly remember this one. I will tell you however, it was not the traditional multi exposure HDR creation that I tend to be known for. This was created and processed with one single raw image with several techniques painted in to create more drama, contrast, detail, and color to the scene. This artistic endeavor took place during a few commercials of this evenings new season premier of the Apprentice of course. A TV head I am not, but that's one or two hours I am gonna try and catch every week. And speaking of weeks, have a great one. Create a magical one as you are the artist of your own life canvas! (Geez, that sounded corny didn't it?!)

An explosion of color at the Tampa Convention Center

2010-03-13T23:37:00.001-05:00

An explosion of color at the Tampa Convention Center, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

While on an action packed week of events for AOPA in Tampa this past November, I had to stop for a few moments to capture the energy and color of the night. Over looking the Bay, the opening night was an appreciation party for the vendors about to welcome the conference attendees for the week long program.

Iceland - Landscapes forever!

2010-03-13T00:41:00.003-05:00

Iceland - Landscapes forever!, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

My evening scan of images has me a bit in a reflective state. I guess the usual punch of color and screaming detail I usually present via HDR can take a back seat for a night or 2.

Iceland, wow...

I was chatting a bit with a long time client and friend today about our awesome opportunity to make it over there last year. For me, anytime I get a chance to actually leave the country is in essence, a license to unplug from any real responsibility. I guess I have a bit of a split personality. Although I am an entrepreneur and need to be running my own ship for most of the time, it sure is nice to jump of the gang plank and abandon ship. I can remember bumbling about Europe a few years ago during one of my first trips over there. Just before leaving, I let Carl (the guy I left in charge) know that I would check in often. Well, 3 weeks later, I finally got around to checking in. I kinda miss those days without internet and cel phone. Kinda hard to REALLY escape these days. There's must be some place thats virtually unreachable on this planet. Guess I gotta do a little more work finding that place perhaps....LOL!

Ah yes, the feeling of wanderlust....

The images below were from just one of those kinda trips. Unplugged, exploring, and loving it in Iceland!

A perfect night for a new beginning - Wedding at Turnberry

2010-03-12T01:44:00.002-05:00

A perfect night for a new beginning - Wedding at Turnberry, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

As I type this post while glancing out at the deluge of rain we are getting here in South Florida, I am reminded of the risk one takes in planning an outdoor event here. On a great night however, there is nothing quite as special as a wedding outdoors. This one we worked on a few months ago was for a long time clients daughter. Just another from the stack of files I have yet to get to! I am often asked just after the event if I can forward my images. Sounds easy, but its really not. I shoot them, but its not really my gig. When I eventually get around to digging back thru to process them, its easy to get a bit overwhelmed. Take this one for instance. After merging 9 exposures in photomatix, I set the clock. After merging, tonemapping, cropping, blending in layers in photoshop, painting in a few sky textures, adjusting curves, and sharpening...well, about an hour passed. Yeah.....hold on a second.....I'll get to those images from your event soon....hang in there... LOL!

Just before the sky's opened up over Reykjavik

2010-03-10T01:10:00.002-05:00

Just before the sky's opened up over Reykjavik, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

About 2 seconds after the image here was captured, like outta no where.....instant waterage. (My gosh Mike, what kinda sentence is that, yikes!)

Actually, I'm sure that it wasn't really "outta no where - am I spelling that wrong?." There's no real telling where my head is whilst in hot pursuit of a cool HDR setup.

On a completely different note, I was lucky to have one of my images chosen for a travel book showcasing the Palm Beach County area. Front Page of the book! Kinda cool. I saw a mock up and it looks awesome! They may use an image on the back of the book as well.

On a completely different unrelated other note (there he goes again!)....

I get alot of email about how I finish off my images. First off, I welcome those. I know when I was learning, there were alot of people I looked up to, learned from, and cherished the mentoring that I received. With that in mind, I hope to ramp up my site soon with a new look and a little bit of a tutorial section, perhaps with videos as well. Can't promise when as I have a few irons in the fire, but stay tuned for that.

More on all of this later :)

Austin sunset

2010-03-09T00:24:00.002-05:00

Austin sunset, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Dabbling a bit with textures, my intent was to create a more painterly effect on this image. I posted a different variation of this a while back, but I kinda like the linear motion in this one.

Wow, feels like a Sunday evening to me as I just arrive back home after a rockin weekend in San Diego. So, here's to an awesome week! I'll leave you with this quote:

"No one realizes how beautiful it is to travel until he comes home and rests his head on his old, familiar pillow." - Lon Yutang

Tracks in San Diego

2010-03-08T01:06:00.002-05:00

Tracks in San Diego, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Wearing headphones is indeed not the most intelligent thing to do while hanging out on the tracks during a time exposure, but it helps make the time go buy. After another day chock full o' education, inspiration, and motivation, I took a couple of hours to wander the city of San Diego to clear the mind and take a break from the ballroom. It was indeed a cool experience to be in the room with like minded investors as well as being a part of the launch of a really awesome application called Freedomsoft. More on that soon!

Cameo on the streets of San Diego

2010-03-07T02:07:00.002-05:00

Cameo on the streets of San Diego, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

After what ended up being a 10 hour day packed full of so much information I thought my head was about to explode, it was time to head out....camera and sticks in tow, and clear the mind while searching for the light. As always, I like to set a cinematic mood via the Ipod, and tonight was no different. After packing the memory card shots from several locations, on the way back to the hotel I had this idea in my head of what I thought was gonna be a cool cameo of your truly sneaking into the shot kinda Hitchcock style. Well, this is what I got LOL!

More from the evenings outing in weeks to come :)

A view from the room - San Diego

2010-03-05T02:43:00.002-05:00

A view from the room - San Diego, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Upon checkin, the usual question that seems to be the first to be asked is would you prefer a king or 2 double beds? I say screw it, give me a beanbag chair, as long as I can get a cool view. And a cool view I was able to get!

My morning routine this morning had me in a bit of a confused state. While anticipating the excitement for todays session, I actually found myself sitting by the window in a relaxed state during sunrise, attempting to meditate whilst catching a glimpse of the rising San Diego sun painting the morning cityscape, while at the same time......and get this.....stretching, tweeting, checking emails, and chugging down a cup o' joe. Yeah, a little too much to actually focus on the meditation. LOL. Lets see how tomorrow goes!

A walk about the harbor - San Diego

2010-03-03T22:48:00.002-05:00

A walk about the harbor - San Diego, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

After a slightly uncomfortable flight across the country sandwiched between 2 overweight passengers, I decided it was time for an attitude adjustment. A late lunch of sushi down by the water, a 90 minute massage at the spa, and a trek about the marina around sunset was indeed just what the doctor ordered!

Nightfall on the Lake at Varenna

2010-03-02T23:19:00.002-05:00

Nightfall on the Lake at Varenna, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Bleary eyed and scrambling to pack a few things for a trip I am leaving for in the AM, I decided to take a few minutes and post an image. Now for the hard part.....verbage. That moment of realization that I have no real information to pass on, no morsel of guidance, and no insightful words of creative description for what this image means or why I even picked it! Geez, this blog seems to be heading down like the Titanic! LOL.....

Yeah, I know, the posts have been quite lame haven't they? Sorry bout that....

I fully intend to get a bit caught up with the goodies soon.

We have been quite a bit busy around here in the event lighting world. When the smoke clears and I take a few minutes to sort thru the images, I promise to post a few. Till then, well, its a grab bag!

I realize lately that my attention has shifted a bit. My spare time has me laser focused on a goal and mission that really has nothing at all to do with lighting, travel, digital imaging, or what I originally intended this blog to be about. With that in mind, I hope to take a few little outings while I am in San Diego to do just that. Clear the mind, chase the light, and focus on the art of the image again. As far as the other opportunities I am focusing on? Well, more on that some day soon :)

Warm night under the banyon tree

2010-03-01T00:44:00.002-05:00

Warm night under the banyon tree, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Wow, what a nice little blog break that was! Our events schedule this past week made it virtually impossible to live anything close to a normal life, but thats ok. Those who know me best understand that I kinda like a random and somewhat chaotic schedule. My only regret, especially after taking a peek at the closing ceremonies tonight, was that I didn't get to watch the Olympics more. Oh well, there's alway 2014.

Anyway, I hope everyone had a fantastic week. I have a lot to drone on about, but I'm a little beat now......so more on all this later.

I hope to post a couple later in the week from a couple of the events that I was able to capture. Until then......

Grab a chair and your favorite beverage!

2010-02-23T23:44:00.002-05:00

Grab a chair and your favorite beverage!, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Whaddya say we just kick back for a few and enjoy the beautiful Texas sunset here for a moment shall we? This might be my last chance to enjoy the quiet for a few days, so I'm glad you could join me :)

Not to destroy the moment or anything, but you might not be hearing from me in a few days. You see, in the events industry here is South Florida, we are blessed and at the same time cursed with an unpredictable flow of work. Barely anything one week and then BAM, slammed the next. Off and running we are indeed into one of those weeks.

So far, we are off to a good start. Tomorrow gets a bit trickier however, taking us into a crazy Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. As always, my team and I area up to the challange!

I am not sure if I will even be able to post until next week, so stay tuned. If you are so inclined, you can follow me on twitter or friend me on facebok however, as I may post from time to time on the job sites from the good ole Iphone.

Here's to a fantastic week!!!

"Hy-Lite Productions.....Illuminating the world, one event at a time."

Chasing the light in Iceland

2010-02-22T00:23:00.002-05:00

Chasing the light in Iceland, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Iceland. Light, beautiful light.....everlasting light in the summer. Endless landscapes, waterfalls, color, mountains, glaciers, ......a quiet and unique environment to escape and create. Nuff said.....

Colorado Rockies National Park

2010-02-21T10:53:00.002-05:00

Colorado Rockies National Park, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Nothing earth-shattering to report. Just taking the day to get caught up, clean up, and rest up for the up and coming slaughter this week. Having 8 events in one week is a little bit of a juggle, but all systems are go. More on that as the week progresses!

And for now.....yes, its time to take down the tree...the CHRISTMAS TREE that is. Yes, on February 21st, its time to say goodbye to this crispy little fire hazard!

Waiting on a train in Avignon

2010-02-19T23:31:00.002-05:00

Waiting on a train in Avignon, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

The power of lavender.....

I had never bumbled about this part of France until last year. Provence. Great food, incredible wine, lavender fields, rolling vistas....there must be something to this place to have attracted many of the great artists and writers, and I wanted to find out.

While researching this area before I left, wonderful images of vast lavender fields seemed to dominate the collections. How silly of me to realize that they are in full bloom in the early summer...of course after I arrived in September!

My idea for tonight's image and post was sparked by a little routine that my daughter and I go thru. As is always the case when she is with me, out little ritual before her bedtime consists of using a little lavender pillow spray that I bought for her while in this region. She loves to spray this just before I read to her at night. Just before we dive into the story of the evening, we both lie there and breath in the scent a few times and clear our thoughts. What a great time of the day!

Anyway, just a silly little insight to tonight's search for the image. Hope you find you own ritual to share with your loved ones!

Austin - State Capitol

2010-02-19T02:17:00.002-05:00

Austin - State Capitol, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

Having been somewhat buried in work and other opportunities I am working on, I must say that my image creation and posting has taken somewhat of a back seat. I know, the world continues to spin, no great loss right?

My thoughts this evening before I turn in though, are with a few unfortunate in Austin. How sad that for the actions of one unstable pinhead, the lives of several stable, law abiding, tax paying, families will forever be effected. I read the silly little rambling off of the pdf on CNN's site from this jackass just this evening. The real tragedy in my opinion is evident in the shallow perspective that this murderer possessed. How sad to have not truly embraced the opportunity that this country presents to every one of us!

Proudly describing his work

2010-02-17T00:40:00.003-05:00

Proudly describing his work, originally uploaded by Photomike07.

So after the excitement of the implosion was over, it was time for Kevin and I to of course get a closer look. Most impressive was the neat little pile of debris that this 30 or so story structure created. Sheer brilliance in execution for sure.

Here is a shot of a member of the team discussing a few detail of his craft with Kevin.