THE ROCK PHOTOGRAPHY

IE 2010 INSTRUCTORS LIST !!!!!!!

2009-09-18T00:32:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone ,

if you are a photographer and have a huge desire to learn and grow with your photography, then come check out Image Explorations.

We have just launched the official 2010 IE INSTRUCTORS LIST.

If you have any questions please do message me and I will give you the 411 on all our instructors.

Blessings,

Rockie

10 Things to get yourself out of a Slump !

2009-09-16T09:23:00.000-07:00

Everyone gets into a "slump" every now in then. You know... when all your creative juices just seem to dry up and everything you shoot seems to look and feel the same old, same old.

Well here are 10 things you can do to get yourself out of that "slump".

Don't touch your camera for a period of time. Then after a while pick it up. You might find yourself hungry to create.
Chose 1 Prime Lens and spend a week or month just shooting everything with that lens. Or Relearn how to see by using that one prime lens, and photograph one common subject for a good month. And build yourself a good body of work.
Go WIDE ! Get yourself a Wide angle lens like a 35mm or 24mm or 15mm and go out shooting with that. Might have you seeing life alot differently.
Start a Project. Sometimes as photographers we are so busy doing "CLIENT" stuff that we have very little time for "ME" stuff. So plan and start a project. One that will take a good year to complete.
Take a vacation. Go on a cruise and travel the world. Packages are cheap right now and usually comes with all inclusive food and lodging.
Read some new and inspiring books.
Read some new Photographer Blogs
Move to a different country for a good while to get a change of pace and life.
Got to see an EPIC MOVIE ! As you watch, observe the lighting and camera angles. Gain some ideas through it. (movies like: Last Samuri or Pride and Prejudice)
Attend a PHOTOGRAPHIC Workshop. There are a ton of great workshops out there that are being taught by some truly inspiring photographers. Take some time out and sow into yourself by attending one. You will be surprised at how it may inspire you.

Happy Growing.

Rockie

Ruby Lau - Crouching Tiger like !

2009-09-14T09:11:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

So I am finally starting to get caught up on things. But I do say.... "starting to" ! But here are 2 great images from a model shoot I did with Ruby Lau.

These images were very simple to create. So if your interested here is the techy info on it and if your not interested just enjoy the images.

Techy info:

1. single mono head with white "shoot thru" umbrella

2. light was high on camera right

3. f/8 @ 1/125th (100 iso)

4. there was a silver reflector underneath her to bounce light back up to face

5. and a commercial grade fan at camera right blowing hair.

6. background was White Seamless paper, and distance was about 8 feet away from the background so the light fall off will make the white paper turn GREY !

Furniture Fit for Photographers from IKEA

2009-09-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

So if you have been following my Tweets, recently I have been remodeling my office space at home. One of the many things I needed was a much better shelving unit to contain my new work flow, books and general stuff.

So I went to IKEA and found this great little unit called the "Expedit - book case"

These shelves are so great because they come in this med size of 8 Cubes or a smaller size of just 4 cubes. They're deep enough to stack Cd's and DVD's and yet tall enough that you can easily fit books and magazines upright in them. The best part about them is the flexibility it gives you in designing your workflow. you can have them horizontal or vertical and they can be stack ontop of each other to build a much bigger unit.

For me I purchased 1 of the 8 cube units and then 2 of the 4 cube units and then just stacking them.

Then to top this off I purchased these handy tote boxes and the double drawer insert for the Cubes to store my archieval DVD's, client orders, and stationary stuff.

These units where easy to build, looks great and best part was it all came in under $400.00 for everything.

So if you are looking to remodel your office/workspace to improve your workflow and working atmosphere. Check this things out at IKEA.

Cheers,

Rockie

4 Things a photographer should wear in Asia when it Rains

2009-09-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to post this one for a very very long time. In fact this post comes with literal experience.

(edit notes: This pic of Korea is not mine. Found it on Google images. But it is exactly where I was. If you read further you will understand why it was not my image. )

I was in Korea and Singapore in April 2009 this year, a part of Asia I have never been too. Images will be coming soon. Anyhows, when I got there to my shurgrin, it was raining. Go figure.

Now I know what some of you are thinking. Asian guy from Vancouver, photographer... I should be used to the rain ? WRONG ! Because this was not just rain, it was a freakin DOWN POURING !

Lets just say that in the the first hour of my walk down this street on the right, I caved in and actually bought an umbrella !

So you can imagine from this experience I "learned somethings" !

"4 Things a Photographer should have when your in any part of the orient !"

1. Tilley Endurables

Completely Waterproof
Light weight
Easy maintanence
UV protection from heat
Floats on water !
LIFE TIME WARRANTY !
Insurance can be purchased also incase you lose it or it is stolen on your trip in some far out place.

2. LowePro Trekker Mini AW Camera Bag

Waterproof and comes with a rain shell for extra protection
lightweight on the back and comfortable
carried all my gear for my whole trip: 2 bodies, long lens, med lens, wide lens, flash, cards...etc.
plust the bungy cords in the back I use for bungying up my a jacket for extra security as I walk around busy unknown places.

3. Taiga Fleece Jackets

New material makes this fleece so warm and light. Protects from harsh cutting winds and totally water proof !
Side note: I have a shell that goes with this jacket but because it was going to be Hot in Korea and Singapore, I didn't bring the shell.
But even after 4 hrs of walking in the rain, I was still completely dry !!!!!!

4. Merrill Shoes

This shoe is completely water proof but has a breath-able material that works with the shoe. 4 hours of walking in the rain and socks were still dry at the end.

Well have fun y'all in your travels and Be Safe !

Cheers,

Rockie

I Think I photographed a Hollywood Actress: Do you know who "Monica Bellucci" is ?

2009-08-17T01:01:00.000-07:00

Ok.

So I confess.

I really didn't photograph the famous actress "Monica Bellucci". But I swear the minute Megan Tealebi walked into the studio, that was what I thought. I was literally so blown away by her resemblance that I even called out to her as "Monica" a couple of times.

Well, she has been so patiently waiting to see some images from our session so I thought I would get a few finally up on the blog.

Check em' out.

Rockie

When A Life Ends Too Short (In memory of Angela Fisher)

2009-08-08T23:21:00.000-07:00

Many of you follow me on Facebook and on Twitter and saw a posting I made a while back about me "feeling quite heavy that even bubble tea can't comfort me". Thank you all so much for messaging me and checking in on me. The following is the back ground story to why I was so "heavy".

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Many of you know I still work with kids. About 5 years ago I did a special Mother's Day Calendar for the parents in my child care facility. Something simple but also something I knew would make a simple calendar look stunning. My goal was to help the parents see their kids for who they really are. How their love and support has been the major influence in the development of thier child. Parents most times live their life 1 day at a time and miss out on the real growth of their child at times not any fault of theirs, because life can get busy can't it ?

One of the families that came to participate was a mother/daughter, Angela and Heather.

At that time Heather was about Grade 4 in our facility. Always had a great time with these two. Like most of the kids, I had the joy of watching them grow up before my eyes. Then about a year later Heather was old enough to move on and take care of herself. From time to time I would still bump in to Heather and see her mother Angela and chat about how they are doing.

S0 you can imagine the surprise when I was told just a short few weeks ago, that Angela had suddenly passed away.

Apparently Angela and Heather were summering up in the interior of B.C. and one afternoon Angela, while in the passenger side of the car, driving with her friend (Thankfully Heather was not in the car at that moment.) when an on coming car from the other lane swerved into their car and stuck them head on. Angela passed away immediately.

I have to confess that I sure have a soft heart for kids and when I heard this, how my heart just ached and my thoughts drifted to Heather. The sudden reality came now with Heather needing to live the rest of her grown up life without her mom .... really really hit me hard.

This sudden event in time really brought all things in a bit of perspective for me. Sometimes I think we really have hard issues in life and then something like this comes along and you realize that it really isn't all that bad.

LESSONS FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lesson #1

One of the many lessons I learned from this tragedy is just how privileged we are to capture moments in time for our clients. Moments that become both timeless and true treasures that no monetary value can ever be placed on it. Just think about it. If your house was going to burn down, what would you grab ? Or what do you treasure the most when a loved one near you passes away ?

I implore all who are photographers, take your career and passion as a professional photographer seriously with the sole desire to do the very best for your clients right at that moment. Live to tell their story.

Lesson #2

If you have not done a family session for your very own family in a long time, then get your ass going a get your family out n the fresh air and hire a fellow photographer to photograph your family. You will not regret it. I promise you.

Thanks for reading along with me. I know this was a long one but one worth writing.

You all truly inspire me with your friendship, love and passion to capture true memories.

With Love,

Rockie

The Coolest Wedding I have ever seen....

2009-07-26T00:14:00.001-07:00

So who among you who shoot weddings would not have wanted this wedding to photography ?

I almost wish every client was like this .... but then how would still images ever do justice to it ?

I guess that is where the 5Dmk2 comes in handy !!!

Rockie

Wacom Intuos4 med Tablet Tutorials

2009-07-19T10:50:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

Sorry for being MIA for a while. We just wrapped up Image Explorations 2009 ! And if you don't know what that is then follow the link and check it out and make sure you are there in 2010 !

But as for now, I just make a Intuos4 posting on our IE Blog. So if you have the tablet and are having some problems in figuring out how to set the custom settings, goto the link below and check it out. It will help you tons.

More to come with new pics and tips !

Rockie

Link: INTUOS Tutorial

When you get clients who are Beautiful & Sexy but never felt that way ! (Jenn Urquhart)

2009-07-01T22:59:00.000-07:00

Jenn, is one of my very favorite client's and now friend !

Can you believe that when she first called me and commissioned me to do a shoot with her, during the consultation Jenn actually believed that she was not all that sexy !!!! ????? LOL. I don't know about you but all I see is pure sexiness and Beauty radiating all over the place. Judge for yourselves !

Well for all you photography junkies, all of these images were shot with natural light !

Jenn had a sliding glass patio door, so that is what I used for my light source.

I used a good mix of what we would call window lighting, and flat lighting.

The very last image was created once again with an alternate lighting style. I used two 400watt/sec strobe lights from Opus lights. Only the reflector was mounted, with no diffuser. the flash was then literally aimed at her but feathered, and it was only used like a "hot light source" and not triggered as a flash.

More images to come soon on my website ! (http://www.therockphotography.com)

Enjoy !

Rockie

PS. Jenn you are still my most sexiest client ! Where can I find more like you ?

Alternative Portrait Lighting

2009-07-01T21:57:00.000-07:00

So, have you ever had a portrait session where you used your flash right on your camera and your image looked like the image on the right ?

No matter how you twisted your flash or dropped the exposure to soften it or reflect it or diffuse it, the image just didn't seem to come out the way you envisioned it or imagined it.

Images like the one on the right are all to common in the photography. With this image, I simply bounced the flash up in the ceiling to soften the light but as you can see if you look right behind Jenn, there is still a shadow and the image is not really all that pleasing to the eye.

Another problem that I had was the lay out of Jenn's apartment.

It was basically the shape of an "L" and didn't give very many options to the natural eye. This would make creating various images with different looks quite difficult.

So what would some options be ?

LIGHTING OPTIONS ON LOCATIONS

I usually take the time when I arrive to a clients home to have a look at where the natural light is. And if there is no available light, then I start looking for alternative lighting and how I may use it in a portrait or commercial image. (in the following post I will show you how I used the natural light I found in Jenn's home to create some beautiful images !)

In this case, Jenn's home was primarily lit with this lamp you see on her right and a few halogen's in the kitchen. The problem with the lamp though was it's height, which was about 4 to 4.5 ft high. But I think I found a solution that would make for a great image, that I think is better than just flash on camera. Coolest thing is that I pulled off quite a few different poses just from this one area alone all from posing. But we will save that discussion for another time. Have a look for yourself and let me know what you think.

Rockie

The Truth... It hurts sometimes

2009-05-19T09:09:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

Well after all my travels, I have heard and read alot about the economy all over the place. And I have to admit, if I were to only listen to what CNN says I would be depressed too.

I think that is why I don't listen to them as much and instead go on the blog sphere to listen to other people.

Well, here is a little Video clip that should shake the "beegeebees" out of you.

If it doesn't make you wanna get your butt up and get going on your business whether it is photography or not... then maybe you should do what this guys says at the end of the Video ... LOl.

Let me know what you think.

Rockie

So you think a group of 8 is tough hey, try 800 people !

2009-03-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

This is a greeat vid from a photographer named Bert. And it is a very good snap shot at the kind of stuff most photographers have to shoot. Not always so glamourous is it ? Well here Bert has to photograph 800 people for a conference.

Have a look at it and tell me what cha think.

Cheers,

Rockie

SuperHeroes Rise in Tough Times

2009-03-20T17:03:00.000-07:00

Just caught this article from Cnn.com on how the love or fancination with "Super Heroes" is on the rise once again.

It seems in the past when times where tough because of economics, people turned to "Super Heroes" for hope and inspiration. It seems that more than 70 years ago during the depression and beginnings of World War II, that such heroes as Superman, Batman, Wonder Women and Captain America became Legends. And it seems that it is again coming back.With the Success of Batman and Ironman recently, other Hero movies have been scheduled for production such as Captain America, Avengers, and Thor.

Guest Curator Jerry Robinson was quoted as saying ... ""I think heroes are back. I think you can almost chart it. The times are not so good -- we're looking for heroes."

So here are my thoughts for the end of the week.

Who are your "Heroes" right now whom are bringing you Hope and Inspiration ?
How might the public looking for "heroes" translate to something special with your career or business ?

Post up your Comments. I would love to hear What you all have to say.

Rockie

Diet Coke and Mentos !

2009-03-12T10:17:00.001-07:00

Ok... just saw this on youtube and man this is hilarious. you gotta check it out !

Rockie

NEW: Pocket Wizards New TTL Flash Triggers !

2009-03-10T19:48:00.000-07:00

For those of you getting interested in off camera flash photography and those of you who are already doing off camera flash photography, you need to check this new product out.

This is Pocket Wizards new TTL flash Trigger. It has the ability to Hyper sync which basically means that you will be able to chose any shutter speed you want out side of your natural in camera sync speed.

And to top that, you now have the ability to trigger your off camera flashes with the tried and true pocket wizard radio wave and not just an infra-red sensor ! Makes for some pretty amazing photography in any kind of condition.

Have a look a the vid and see what you think. I know I can't wait to get my hands on a set of those !

Rockie

Did you know your Canon 30D can do this !

2009-03-09T17:43:00.000-07:00

Notte Sento (English subtitles) from napdan on Vimeo.

So... a fellow photographer I know, Bandele, posted this great video today about a short romantic movie of a girl who misses her train to Milan and is set to wait overnight in Rome until Dawn.

What blew my mind about this short story was how it was made from 4500 + photographs shot on a canon 30D ! Thats right !!!! A canon freakin 30D !!!!!!!!!!

Folks this goes to show that there really is no limit as to what we can do as photographers if only we would think "out of the box".

Have a watch and let me know what you all think.

Cheers.

Rockie

Vanessa Sequeira

2009-03-07T18:28:00.000-08:00

Here are some images from a session I did with Vanessa. All these images were done in natural light with no flash or reflector. Believe it or not, the images look like we shot on a warm day but it certainly wasn't as both Vanessa and I cand testify. It was so cold, and I do mean freakin' cold that we were only able to stay outside for an hour and that was really pushing it ! What a trooper Vanessa was !

But hey we got some great images though and that I must say was worth it. Oh and check out Vanessas dress... now is that hot or what ??? Gotta love it. More images to come.

cheers,

Rockie

10 Things you could do better today

2009-03-07T17:28:00.000-08:00

Chris Brogen posted this a while back. I love it. Why? Because it is short and sweet and straight to the point.

When life gets busy for us, really we have only have 2 options.

Stay status quo
Make changes and better our life

(more on this in my next post about HABITS)

So have a look at the list below that Chris posted. Are there at least 1 that you can focus on in the coming next moth to better your life and your busines ?

Rockie

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10 Things You Could Do Better Today

Improve your response time to requests.
Improve the brevity and simplicity of your email correspondence.
Connect with five new people and seven existing colleagues or friends each day.
Inspect your business process cycle from start to finish for improvements.
Rethink your approach to helping others succeed.
Increase the amount of times you connect others together to build new relationships.
Resolve three pieces of unfinished business, no matter how painful.
Live closer to your goals and your main points of focus, and less by reaction.
Take time to thank the people who make your life possible.
Rest and unplug.

Vegas Workshop (Part 3)

2009-03-02T00:49:00.000-08:00

Ok.. LOL.. I promise this will be my last post on my Vegas Workshop !

What can I say... I had a blast there with all my photog friends and took some wonderful images to boot. But here are some more for ya.

Thanks so much for dropping by. Don't forget to leave a comment.

Blessings,

Rockie

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This is Tiffany. One of our many beautiful models who not only graced us with their presence but were so patient with us as we practised on them. The only Model I never had a chance to practise on surprisingly was Nancy ! So Nancy, your coming up to Vancouver so we do Vegas Part 4 !!!

[Tech info: back lit the subject in broad daylight. No flash and no reflectors]

This Wonderful couple were not even our MODELS ! LOL. What had happen was Scotty and I were talking about this concept for this shot, but at that moment all our models were occupied. So when this couple walked by I asked them if they would be willing to stop for a few moments and model for me ! Man was I blessed. ! What cha' all think ?

So I loved this concept so so much that when I saw Tiffany not doing anything I shouted out to her to come on over and I went and recreated this once again. Only this time I just could not decided which color tones I wanted to finish the image with so I did both.

Which one do you Like the Most ? Post me a comment.

[Tech info: both these 2 with Tiffany and the couple right above were created with secondary lighting. I used a 580ex flash, and the ST-E2 infra-red flash trigger to bring the flash off camera. Brynn from Vancouver held the flash on the Left hand side and the rest was just finding the right exposure to match the back ground with the subject. Also these images were takin' in broad daylight outdoors !]

This final shot of Tiffany is one of my favorites. I am such a sucker for "prayer" poses ! When we had all arrived and I saw these super cool big huge Bronze type doors, and then saw the saree that Tiff was wearing I knew I need to get a "prayer" pose.

[tech info: this was all natural light shot, and hand held.]

Vegas Workshop (Part 2)

2009-03-02T00:39:00.001-08:00

Here are some more images from my Vegas Workshop I took this February with Scott Robert Lim. Scott by the way is our wedding instructor at Image Explorations Workshop. Unfortunately his class is already sold out, but if you want to be put on the waiting list for 2010, just contact our office at: don@macgregorstudios.com and request to be put on the list for 2010. Just remember that a deposit must be made for spot to be held.

Enjoy Rockie

Vegas Workshop (Part 1)

2009-03-02T00:22:00.000-08:00

I was recently in Vegas taking a workshop from famed wedding photographer Scott Robert Lim. And let me tell you, it was a blast ! Not only were we in Vegas (a place where I have never been), but I also met some of the best up and coming photographers around ! (more on them shortly) I was blessed to say the least.

Check out the follow images I made while down there. Some were from the Neon Boneyard (kind of a neon sign graveyard) and the others where made at 2 different hotels.

It was an investment that was well worth my time and money. More Images to come !

Blessings and enjoy !

Rockie

Success is linked to 10,000 hours !

2009-02-28T14:46:00.000-08:00

One of my fav reads this winter has been this book called "Outliers" by Malcom Gladwell.
In essence, this book is about Success, and people who have become successful. But what makes this book different from all the others is how Malcom brings it down to 3 main components that all successful people have in common.

Once of the main common denominators with all successful people has been 10,000 hours.

It seems that everyone who has become successful in their craft, skill or career, has committed to over 10,000 hours in their field. In fact Malcom mentions how Bill Gates and the Beatles even invested themselves in well over 10,000 hours.

So here is the just of the story I am telling.

We often view success and failure from a view of what I did right or wrong.
What if it is merely the fact that you have not finished your 10,000 hours ?

When I think of all the successful people in the world right now, I find it hard to think that they had gotten to where they are merely by accident or because they were just so gifted. I think the fact that they invested and worked hard at their craft and skill helped in getting them there.

So as a photographer, where are you right now ?

Are you one who has finished his/her 10,000 hours and if so, are you maybe ready for a "swing change" much like Tiger Woods, and take your game to another level ?

Get this book and have a break. It will not only inspire you but give you much food for thought during this time where the economy is rough.

Peace,
Rockie

NEW UPDATES AND IMAGES COMING !

2009-02-24T10:12:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone...

Sorry it has been a long time since I have posted. Things have been just crazy ! I was pretty much away for all of Feb doing shoots. Some of which I will be posting up for you to see. Also I have been trying to finish my wedding and portrait website and blog so stay tuned for that.

I just recently got back from Vegas from doing a very awesome Scott Robert Lim workshop ! Those images will be coming soon !

Anways, hope you are all doing well. Keep the Peace and Stay in touch.

Rockie

Nicole DeMarinis - Second shoot !

2009-01-17T22:29:00.000-08:00

So don't know if you remember me introducing you to my fav italian model... but here she is once again in another great shoot. Enjoy.

Rockie

NOTES About the Comparison Test !

2009-01-13T20:35:00.001-08:00

Ok......

So there you have it. The images and Vid's are up and running. Now here are some side notes and things to think about.

BASIC NOTES:

click on the images to see a big view of it and hopefully see the digital noise.
once again the noise is found in the shadows to dark area so look there.
all cameras were tested with the 24-70mm L 2.8 lens, HAND HELD.

DXO MARK LABS:

The following is also a link that you should look at. My buddy Michael Iwasaki, another photographer friend of mine found this from a great company called DXO Mark Labs that did the very thing I did, and put the cameras to a test. What makes there end result better is how each of their 4 major tests is charted out on a graph.

If you run your mouse at the very Right Hand Side of the Graph, you will see an image show up and as you scroll your mouse up and down, you will see the exact effects of the iso on the image as I have been seeing. It really will give you a better feed back to the exact test results that I have been getting.

FINAL COMMENTS AND SUMMARY OF THE TEST:

All 3 cameras handled well and performed well.
Not one of them out shone the other.
Clearly the 5Dmk2 and 1DSmk3 have a better Dynamic range than the old 5D, but not by much.
The best iso performance seems to be around the 3200iso range (based just from the parameters of the test). In reality I have photographed as high as 6400iso and have not seen much noise. Could be due to the variance of light in the background.
The catch is that in most real cases, the high iso range of 6400iso, seems to give you the same amount of digital noise at around the 3200iso of the old 5D.

What I am now interested in testing is whether zooms or prime lenses have an affect on the resulting digital noise in the cameras performance.

Let me know what you think.

Rockie

Canon Comparison (6400iso)

2009-01-13T20:26:00.001-08:00

Canon Comparison (3200iso)

2009-01-13T20:02:00.001-08:00

Canon Comparison (1600iso)

2009-01-13T19:44:00.001-08:00

Canon Comparison (800iso)

2009-01-13T19:30:00.000-08:00

Canon Body Camera Test

2009-01-13T01:28:00.000-08:00

So after a number of forum chats about the difference btwn Canon's 5D, 5Dmk2 and the 1DSmk3, I decided I would conduct a little test of my own to see if there really is a huge improvement with the sensor chip and whether the digital noise has been really improved with the new 5Dmk2.

The following is the Video intro for the Testing. This is actually the second testing for it. I will post up the first one shortly. But this one just had a lot more background as to the set up and was a little more practical of a somewhat typical portrait setting.

In the first test I really put the cameras to an extremem test to see how they will perform. More on that in further posts.

For now, here is the video intro. Have a watch and leave me some comments on what you think. In the following post I will show you the image files and settings to the cameras.

Cheers,
Rockie

Susie Lee

2009-01-13T01:19:00.000-08:00

Hey all..

This is a super great friend of mine.. Susie Lee. She is an actress, and TV host for a new show coming your way. Will let you know once it airs on TV. These images are from a recent shoot for her New Head shots. Check em out. You can view more images on my web shortly.

Cheers.

Rockie

5Dmk2 : NEW Firm Ware

2009-01-13T01:05:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have recently purchased the new Canon 5Dmk2, I have not doubt you have already read the many articles about "vertical banding" and "black dots".

Well, as expected, Canon has released an update firmware for the camera. So if you have the new 5Dmk2, just follow the link and down into your camera.

Cheers,

Rockie

Pia

2009-01-13T00:53:00.000-08:00

These images are from a session with Pia. Kept it very simple and just really focused on Pia's personality. So sweet she is. I live the one where she is giving a super cute look. This came about because during sessions, when my clients and models start to get a little stiff in the mouth I tend to ask them to do something silly. Actually that is a great idea, I am gonna have to post up a "silly pose" posting. You'll crack up at how many times we actually do this in a shoot.

Enjoy.

Rockie

Finally Back !

2009-01-13T00:51:00.000-08:00

Hello all...

First of all HAPPY NEW YEAR !
I know I am a little late but hey, better late then never.
Well, I was a way this year for a good rest down in Mexico. While there I did alot of testing on the new 5Dmk2. Great camera and will post images and videos for you soon.

So stay tuned for more to come!

Rockie

NEW CAMERA RAW Plugin for CS4 !

2008-11-28T01:05:00.001-08:00

Just read this off of DPreview and thought you all might want to know about this if you haven't.

Adobe has just released an new Camera Raw Plug-in for CS4. For those of you who are interested, CS4 was designed to help in utilizing quad-core capabilites for your desktop. The new Camera RAW 5.2 gives support to the newly released 5DMk2 due out in stores this month and the Panasonic DMC-G1. The update brings enhanced color profiles, output sharpening and a NEW targeted Adjustment too. In addition, users can save all images adjustments and settings as a single snapshot for future reference.

For more information and details goto Adobe.com

Power of Prayer !

2008-11-18T23:49:00.000-08:00

I created this image for a friend of mine who comes from a super family who have a special calling in prayer. So when I saw Mark put on this hoody I immediately knew what I wanted to do.

Some have thought this image is too dark for a "prayer" type of imagery. But for me I see the Strength and Power in it. It feels like this is a dedicated warrior who understands the power and art of Prayer for Righteous means.

I love it.

Just wanted to share. Hope you like as much as I do.

Peace.

Rockie

Do you need a LIFE COACH ?

2008-11-17T02:10:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but every now and then in our lives, things seem to get a bit confusing and even blurry. Life issues arise, Life Changing circumstances coming out of no where turning everything in our lives upside down. Or maybe it is the fact that we feel lost, or directionless.

I've been there, done that, and bought the t-shirt.

Thankfully in our society today, there are some extremely gifted men and women who have that skill in being able to help us through those pockets of our lives.

As a photographer who loves to photograph weddings and portraits as well, I have also had the privilege to photography absolutely loving families and couples. Yet sadly to say, I have also been involved in seeing relationships that started out with such love, fall apart for what ever reason.

It is in these areas where Life Coaches come into play in our lives.

Paul Vermes has not only been a my best friend for a life time, but a brother to me. I wouldn't even have the space nor time to tell you stories upon stories of how he has helped me in my life. And I believe he can help you through what you are going through too. If what I just described above some what resonates with you. Give Paul a call. What do you have to lose, except a more rewarding and full filling LIFE !

Rockie

Headshots for your web and biz

2008-11-17T01:44:00.000-08:00

One of the areas I love about my biz are headshots.
I find that I meet some of the most amazing people through this work.

Take for example Charity. Charity is one of the hottest (and I don't mean just looks) hip hop and break dancers I know of. I always wonder why I have not seen her on "So you think you can dance USA" ?

Then there is Patricia. A beautiful person whom I have had the chance to work with,who is also an actress. She's been in some shows on TV, such as "Psych".

Then there photographers such as Michael Iwasaki whom I have photographed. Here is a great story actually. I was the photographer who photographed his wedding. And ever since then, we have been such great friends. One I am so blessed to have in my life. Michael has a super great company called "Image catelog" . Image Catelog is a great place for photographers to post up images that can be purchased by companies for use in their brochures, webstites or other promotional material.

These are just a few stories from some of the many headshots I have done. For more Headshot images, visit my website under Headshots in the "my gallery" section.

Prices are also available on line.

Come by for a headshot and share with me your story.

Look forward to meeting you.

Rockie

Nicole - My favorite Italian model

2008-11-17T01:36:00.000-08:00

Here is another headshot for ya.

This is a good friend and one of my favorite "muses" in my photographic life.

My dear Nicole is just one of those who has such striking eyes that it is so hard not to see the true beauty that is deep within her. Not only has she been a great friend and model to me, way back when I was just beginning as a photographer, she has always been such a great support and encouragement to me too. These are the kind of friends we all need more of.

This is just a little teaser for now, as more will come of Nicole shortly. But until then, check out her beautiful eyes. Aren't they beautiful ?

Rockie

Claire Robertson

2008-11-17T01:26:00.000-08:00

Claire is another true beauty. Once again another plus size model who exudes beauty all over the place. Claire and I actually met because we were working together in helping a make up artist do some action shots for his port. So these images came as a part of that shoot. If you're a photographer and need a great plus size model, check out Claire Robertson.

Here are some images from that session as well as a headshot.

Cheers,

Rockie

London Andrews - my gypsy model

2008-11-17T01:04:00.000-08:00

During the summer months I try and spend time working with models on very unique creative projects. I especially love working with Plus size models. Why ? Because there is in the public a perception that skinny is the ultimate beauty. I would disagree with that.

There is such Beauty in every person I meet. And apart of the joy and fun that I love as a photographer is finding that true beauty in everyone.

Well, London Andrews is one such model. There is such beauty inside of here that it just oozes out the minute you meet her. I found London on Model Mayhem, an online web gallery for models and photographers. After finally working out a project idea and scheduling a session date, London and I finally met.

What blew me away about London was how she drove up to my studio in a beat up ford mustang having literally driven right across America and Canada doing photoshoots everywhere she went ! Everything she owned was literally in her car ! I loved it. And to top that, London is just such a sweet heart and gentle in spirit. And a superb model. I am blessed having been able to work with such talent and beauty.

Anyways, here are a couple images from our session. I don't know about you, but if the world thinks plus size is not beautiful, I would beg to differ !

Rockie

Speechless... Video action ! Parkour Rocks !

2008-11-11T23:44:00.000-08:00

Ok. So this really has nothing to do with photography but hey can you blame me? After you watch this you just may feel the way I do.

I have always been a hug admirer of this urban extreme sport called Parkour. It is a combination of martial arts and running and gymnastics all put together, but in an urban environment.

If you ever saw the movie Casino Royale, in the opening scene where James Bond is chasing after this guy through buildings, that was parkour. So that being said, check this out and just sit back and enjoy.

New updates of images and photography stuff comin soon so stay tuned !

Rockie

What I learned from Tiger Woods

2008-10-30T09:51:00.000-07:00

Tiger Woods. Don't know about you, but I am just blown away at how gifted this golfer is. Not sure if there will ever be someone like him who will dominate that game the way he does. But for me I believe that Tiger's continued success was helped by him making one major decision in his career as a golfer and that was to "change his swing".

After knee surgery in 2002, Tiger knew he needed to change his swing otherwise his knee was not going to hold up for another season of golf. So he, to the shock of the golfing world, fired his swing coach Butch Harmon, and proceed to make adjustments to change his swing.

What resulted was no wins in 2003 and 2004. Yet through this time Tiger never seemed to second guess his decision. Then finally in 2005, he won his first open, the Buick Open in January and from that point has continued winning.

I love this quote from Tiger, "Have I ever second-guessed it? No," Mr. Woods said in early ‘05. "I took some steps backward to go forward, to make some giant leaps forward."

I have followed Tigers example and started to restructure my business this fall and winter. And I am excited by the steps I have taken. To some it may seem futile, but then again that is what people seemed to feel about Tiger changing his swing and coming back even stronger.

So here's my question for the day.

As a photographer, what do you need to "change" in your game to see improvements and growth and a sense of life come back again ?

Do you need to be open to a new photographic style or grow in your photoshop application to your style ?

Do you need to start a blog ?

Do you need to update your website?

Do you need to update your prices ?

Give it some thought.

Will talk more about Change in Life tomorrow.

Blessings,

Rockie

How Are You Feeling ??? !!!

2008-10-27T03:28:00.000-07:00

Not sure about you, but as I am winding into our Christmas season I am finding myself absolutely busy ! So much so, I am not even sure I am getting much sleep as of late.

I guess that is just a part of life hey ?

Well, what ever you maybe doing, I pray that you are getting more sleep than I and you are having fun each day !

I will get back to posting up some New images and things I am reading that you may find interesting, shortly.

Blessings and Rock On !

Rockie

Cool Flash Image

2008-10-13T12:31:00.001-07:00

Just found this on google. Pretty cool image.

Rock

5D mk2 Coming Soon !

2008-10-13T01:57:00.000-07:00

Well, I am sure that you all have heard of the 5Dmk2 from Canon coming soon. If you haven't and you are an advid photographer you might want to check this camera out. I would say that the benefits to this camera is the high iso rate but with absolute low digital noise. But the killer feature is that you can also shoot HD Video on the camera too ! How cool is that !

Check it out and see for yourself.

Got to these links.

Vincent Laforet created a small movie with the camera here.

For ISO comparisons check out here

Rockie

Hello and Welcome !

2008-10-10T15:59:00.000-07:00

Well, this is supposed to be the start of my Blog postings ! But as you would have it I am in Toronto and don't have access to my images that I have been so longing to post up for ever !

So.... stay tuned as I have a ton of images to display for you all. Please feel free to write comments as I love to interact with people and new photographers and models.

I look forward to catching up with you soon !

Rockie