To Be Continued Vol. 2

Last time I posted in this series (here), I had just acquired a new 50mm F/1.8 lens. This time around, I recently purchased the all new Photoflex 72 inch white umbrella. This won't be a review of that certain product, but I am currently working on that. Quite a bit has changed since that day on Mt. Lemmon and I couldn't be happier about it. Compared to September 2013, I have completely (for the most part) changed my approach to outdoor portraits. I used to wait for a cloudy day, shoot in the shadows, and purposely overexposed backgrounds for the sake of my subject being properly exposed. Now if there isn't any good light where I want to shoot, I bring it with me. Bringing light with you invariable has certain consequences like battery power, cables, stands, lights, and modifiers. While all of that gear may seem excessive, the results clearly speak for themselves. This time around the location would be a semi lit but overall dark parking garage. This time the story follows Vol. 1, Lolita is being taken out for the night after a day of swimming. She always gets what she wants, and has set her sights on the attention of a certain male. I pretty much never get involved in the modeling side of things because I'm usually the one shooting. This was a fun departure from that, being on both sides of the lens, similar to back in my excessive skateboarding days. Constantly filming, being filmed, and editing, it's all good fun. As I've stated in the past, working with other creatives is always such a good time. I think the end product justifies the effort put in by both parties. Overall it was great shoot and I was happy with the whole experience. Until next time

All images shot with a Canon T2i body and Canon 18-55mm, 50mm, and 70-200mm lenses.

The all new Photoflex 72 inch umbrella. Three Speedlite flash units fired simultaneously for maximum power output and faster recycling times. The 72 inch umbrella is an absolute monster, this setup rocks. Note the red gel applied to the speedlite used for rim light.

Pull up to the scene

RED

I really like all the dynamics with this image. Clear Winner

How could I resist b&w with all those deep shadows

Red gel on a bare speedlite for the rim light, very happy with this photo.

Personal Favorite

Fin

Real Deal

Mexico is the real deal. I had the opportunity to head down south to Puero Penasco, Sonora Mexico. Otherwise know as "Rocky Point". Upon crossing the border it's painfully obvious you are entering a third world country. Small shacks with wooden windows and tin roofs pose as houses. Most of the streets are dirt and trash is everywhere. The locals only need one look at my ass to realize I am clearly not from around here. It doesn't matter really, I am not one for hiding or running, not when street photos are on the line. After reaching our destination and checking into the hotel, it was time for dinner. After munching on delicious fish and shrimp tacos it was time to shoot the sunset over the ocean. I had traveled down with my friend Jack and he was ready to show me his property near the ocean. After driving well north of the main area of Rocky Point we arrived. Being so far out in the middle of nowhere truly has it's benefits yet drawbacks at the same time. No electricity, running water, or help when needed. The time of day meant it was low tide, the ocean had receded far out to bare the soft squishy silt. I decided I wanted to get in the water and experience this silt for myself. After what seemed like forever, I finally arrived at the water. It was warm, inviting, and most of all, soothing. I reveled in the lack of noise pollution and burned one down with the birds. Considering the last time I had been to Rocky Point was ten years ago, a lot has changed, and so have I, but some things stay the same. Talking with locals provided information revealing truly how many cartel members there are. Some things stay the same indeed. Overall I had a great time, took a lot of photos, experienced new things, and most importantly, made it back safely. Until next time

Ready to leave

Desert travels

International Border

Declare yo shit

Puerto Penasco

Hotel Posada La Roca

Street

El Malecon

iPhone 5s pano

Long Exposure

18mm,  4 sec,  F/8.0,  ISO 100

Welcome

Easy like sunday morning

LS2 powered Chevy truck

Policia

Local skaters

Pano Sunset

Seagulls

200mm,  1/4000th sec,  F/4.0,  ISO 100

Personal favorite

Going Green

Low Tide

Primo digging for clams

Birds and Silt

Le Chao

Poor Tortuga

Seashells as far as the eye can see

Street Performers

View from the Beach Bum Bar looking over the ocean and El Malecon

Fin