Joe Galian Photography

It's Time To Give Back: Teaching Photography

2012-02-02T02:55:00.000-08:00

I'm back home. This prestigious University of the Philippines' College of Fine Arts (UPCFA) has produced the most National Artists (9 so far-than any fine art college) and is the oldest CFA in the Asia. It is here that yours truly was nurtured (and tortured?) as a young, impressionable artist. Should I wait till I'm filthy rich or an old fart to give back to my beloved alma mater? I think not. Kudos to the heroic and accomplished UP professors who denied themselves the greener pastures of far away lands-in the name of nationalism. Sounds quaint, eh? Well, I'm glad for it. Now help me produce the better, next generation Pinoy artisan photographers. Go, UP, go!

2012-01-27T05:34:00.000-08:00

I'm very proud to announce that our School of Design and Arts students under the AB Photography Degree Program is successfully exhibiting their photo artworks at the prestigious Metropolitan Museum till March 21! It's entitled "One Day In The City: PASAY". We encourage all to see and appreciate what our next generation of photojournalist can potentially offer. Very few artisan photogs-let alone student photogs-can showcase their works in the high temple of this museum-along side the classical paintings of Philippine masters like Hidalgo, et al in the said museum. Kudos to chaiperson, Leo Santos and cheers to all!

Nikon Photography Lecture In Glorietta Mall

2012-01-27T05:32:00.003-08:00

Happy 2012, Folks!

2012-01-15T23:06:00.001-08:00

Yours truly is very grateful to my new year paxs for demanding a January 2012 Strobist Lighting workshop! May you show the world on how to light! During my workshops I usually capture the behind-the-scenes (BTS) and class picture-all in a day. And for this time, I used an ultra wide angle (UWA) lens throughout for a fresh change of perspective-in lieu of my kit lens! Hope y'all enjoy the wide view.

Akari Batt Boy Print Ad

2011-12-23T19:52:00.000-08:00

My first Akari Batt Boy (ABB) print ad. Let's patronize and support Philippine-made products as we are able. Happy Holidays, folks! (Art Director: Fando Culata, Photography: Ador Pamintuan, Producers: Brian Lee/FPPF/Akari)

Billboard Ad Shoot With Speedlights

2011-12-20T19:47:00.000-08:00

Question: Can you shoot a billboard just using Nikon Speedlights? Answer: yes you can! This billboard is now showing at the EDSA Shangri-la Mall facing the EDSA highway. Happy 15th beer-day CCA!

GEARTALK: Nikon V1

2011-12-20T19:09:00.000-08:00

The new Nikon V1 & J1 was released yesterday in SM North Mall (Annex, 4th floor, Nikon Concept Boutique). I like the V1 with it's built-in electronic viewfinder: no need to buy it separately. A new hotshoe is there for external flash, so it makes me wonder how can a strobist play with it with multiple Speedlights off camera. It's not too small or too big in size, so handling it is a pleasure. It has the greatest auto focus tracking to boot! I can't wait on the new lens adapter accessory to come out as it'll auto focus any AF-S Nikon lenses I already have. It's a great backup camera for any Nikon photographer bent on saving precious weight. Many thanks to Columbia Digital Star for the product launch invitation! Wish I could play with it more...

2011-12-20T04:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays to our last 2011 batch of strobist lighting participants in the FPPF! May you show the world on how to light properly. Stay tuned for our 2012 schedule, folks.

2011-12-20T04:02:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas to my wacky FPPF colleagues!

Camerageek TV Webpage Photo & Design

2011-12-06T06:05:00.000-08:00

After completing one season, our Camerageek TV (CGTV) show is now on indefinite hiatus as we recollect on what we have done and where do we want to go from here-as we settle accounts with the TV network channel NET 25. Meanwhile I'd like to reflect on our old URL design that our director Dan Pamintuan maintains. BTW Dan is also a photographer credited for shooting Paolo Solarz and Yours truly in the Masthead design. I shot the lovely Meg and Kate. For compositing the images I used Abobe Photoshop CS5 and for layout: Corel X3. All print materials were done using just these 2 programs. Of course Nikon gears were used for the photography. Thanks to the CGTV team, director Dan Pamintuan and NET 25 for making our dream TV show possible! Just visit our site here to replay those happy episodes. Cheers!

CCA Website Photography

2011-12-06T05:58:00.000-08:00

As a freelance artist, sometimes you and your clients are perpetually busy as bees with one project after another that we all fail to notice and appreciate the completed artworks (hard work) that we all have done. I stumbled upon the Center for Culinary Arts' blog here that has my old photograph as the main visual in the banner of the site for sometime now. There are more print advertising materials I shot for CCA and will post them as soon as they email me my copy for my portfolio. For photography production I always use Nikon gears FYI.

Reminder: Year-end Photography Workshops

2011-12-05T04:07:00.000-08:00

Year 2011 is closing to make way for the new year again! Please remind anyone interested that my Strobist Lighting Workshop will be held on Dec. 17-18. And the world's only International Cruise Ship Photography Workshop on Dec. 13-15. For more info please hit the jump here. Kudos to my great workshop organizer: the FPPF, and many thanks to my participants who attended! May your photography enrich your lives forevermore.

Mass Photography Wedding In Makati City

2011-11-30T08:29:00.001-08:00

Did a mass wedding coverage as main photog along with director Shierds Pamintuan, Jun, Joel and Jeff at the Magallanes Church in Makati city. The noble organizer Piandre wanted it to look like a personalized wedding for each couple, so you can imagine how we had to capture each and every cord & veil, wedding ring, kiss, etcetera...phew! Thank God for the team!

Last November 2011 Strobist Workshop

2011-11-20T06:26:00.000-08:00

This is one of those workshop group that some of the noble participants had more impressive strobist gears than yours truly. Kudos Batch 14! May you show the world on how to light properly.

Celebrating 25 Years Of Sharing Happiness

2011-11-17T07:16:00.000-08:00

Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines celebrates 25 years of sharing happines at the ground floor, Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati city. Their multi-media entitled: The Happiness Project, exhibit runs Nov. 17-20, 2011 in partnership with the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde School of Design and Arts (SDA). Kudos to Coca-Cola, Chairperson Leo Santos and SDA students! Coca-Cola Foundation began a partnership with TAYO (Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations) in 2005. As an awards-giving program, TAYO’s main objective is to seek, recognize, reward and encourage youth organizations all over the country with programs and projects that help their communities. Here are a few contributary photos of mine of some of the noble winners of this year's TAYO award. Congratulations folks-may you never tire in doing good!

Strobist Lighting Workshop Going South

2011-11-03T08:44:00.000-07:00

Vista de Lente Events and Lifestyle Photography presents: Joe Galian Strobist Lighting Workshop in Zamboanga city on November 12-13, 2011. Call 926-2288 or 955-2288 for details and reservation (limited slots). Mil gracias to Vista de Lente team for organizing this event. See ya'll in Zamboanga city! (Photos/posterdesign: Joe Galian)

Happy 18th Beer-day FPPF!

2011-10-14T08:24:00.000-07:00

Three cheers to the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation, Inc. (FPPF)! Read more about it here. Muchas gracias FPPF for being very compassionate and helpful to new talents like yours truly, and to many more to come! May the sun never set on your glory forever, and may your golden age endure to many generations of artists. Kudos to Ms. Edi Huang for her leadership-there is none like you, ma'am!

Manila Bulletin Newspaper Article Discovered

2011-10-12T08:17:00.000-07:00

Sailing Through the Lens
By Joseph Galian
December 29, 2009

What’s the easiest and fastest way to work abroad, earn dollars, meet many people, and visit exotic places around the world at the same time? Be a professional cruise ship photographer!

Working away from our country as an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) has been a traditional way where Filipinos seek “greener pastures” to improve their lot in life. The international cruise ship industry can be an alternative plan for any Filipino intending to earn dollars without “breaking the bank” while preparing themselves with the necessary education, maritime training, medical checkups, among others. Not everyone has the luxury of time and economic endurance to prepare for some in-demand jobs abroad like in field of nursing, dentistry, education, and electronics. After all, the cruise industry is here to stay and it continues to grow as more ships are being constructed. As long as people cruise, there will always be the need for workers to man these floating hotels. Photographers are amongst these privileged seamen.

Who Can Apply

If you are within the age bracket of 21-33 years old, you are qualified to apply provided that you are fit and healthy, love people and have the passion for photography, and you possess an extroverted personality. There is a minimum height requirement and you need to consult your local recruiter. With these rules, it can be said that exceptions can be made if the applicant can impress any headhunter.

Nostalgic and sentimental candidates don’t stand a chance being hired as a seaman – photographer with work contracts spanning six to nine months of hard work with (typically) no day-offs. In a way, this is not for everybody; it’s up to you to find out if you’re considered to be one. After your contract, you will be given by your employer a 30-day (more or less) vacation till you are notified of your next cruise ship destination.

How To Apply

The first step to be a cruise ship photographer is to hook up with a legitimate recruiter in good standing with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) by checking the POEA’s website. Prestigious recruiters (like www.magsaysaycareers.com) can refer you to the greatest photo concessionaires like The Image Group, or to impressive ships with in-house photo departments like Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, to name a few.

Your recruiter will ask you to enroll in their five-day Basic Safety Course (BSC) program to train you to save lives at sea in case of emergencies. This investment will cost up to Php 10,000. You cannot get your seaman’s book from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) without your BSC certification. Your seaman’s book will be attached to your passport in tandem. Get a you travel passport beforehand plus NBI clearance, authenticated transcript of records, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), letter of employments, resume, workshop certificates for starters.

As a prospective ship photographer, you must compile at least 24 impressive photographs of people’s portraits – as individuals or in groups. Your portfolio must be 8” x 10” in size in a black album to look professional. Owning your own camera gives your recruiter the right impression. Be prepared for a basic photography written exam covering camera parts to fill-flash. There will be a paid and scheduled test (worth around Php 1,000) covering I.Q. test, personality test and high school arithmetic, fractions, problem solving, English comprehension and vocabulary.

If you have all these documents submitted and tests completed to your agency (recruiter), then you can hope to leave the country in less than six months. Just wait for your turn to be interviewed via teleconferencing or an actual visit by the official recruitment officer abroad. The interview can be as simple as question-and-answer forum or can involve practical demonstration with role playing.

Where To Get Cruise Ship Photo Training

Starting January, the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation (FPPF) will offer a three-day International Cruise Ship Photography Workshop for any Filipino who intends to work abroad as a professional ship photographer. Yours truly will conduct the said workshop with hands-on, role-playing photography exercises. The purpose of this unique workshop is to increase your chances of being hired as a professional ship photog.

For inquiries about the next ship photo workshop, please call the FPPF at telephone no.: 524-7576 and look for Karen, e-mail at fotoatwork@gmail.com, or visit http://photoworldmanila.com/workshops/cruise-ship-photography.

GREARTALK: Alternative Umbrella Support #2

2011-10-12T06:54:00.000-07:00

Having a 7 foot umbrella mounted onto a lightstand using a traditional umbrella flash backet still finds me cringing at the sight of the slim umbrella stem curving (slightly) downward. Having posted here before using a two meter mini-boom arm as umbrella support (only, no flash on it) still requires the Speedlight mounted in a separate flash bracket mounted on top of the lightstand: with this old setup, the boom arm rides on the top-most lightstand segment (inset photo, lower right). Thinking minimalist, I've been able to to with just a Bogen reflector arm holder (top photo). Attached at the end of the Bogen is the generic Bowen's mount Speedlight "T" bracket with a SB-900 flash mounted-as counter-weight. The two small clamps of the reflector holder fastens the umbrella's stem at both ends via friction. My new setup #2 with the Bogen arm uses less gear, but do take note that the lightstand will cast a shadow onto the umbrella fabric, so rotating the T-bracket in the 9/3'oclock position should minimize this effect(not shown). After successfully testing this setup for stability, I had a small "eureka" moment there, but ey, lemme know if you guys out there have your own umbrella "stem-friendly" setups of your own.

Operation Restoration: Helping Alvin Granada

2011-10-08T18:14:00.001-07:00

It's time to reach out and be inconvenienced: associate photographer Mr. Alvin Granada needs our help: he recently figured in a freak accident wherein a taxi hit him. Alvin is now awaiting surgery for his leg fracture and he needs financial assistance and our prayers for progressive healing. For those able and willing to aid Alvin, here is his cellphone no.: 0927-256-79-33 and his wife Roselyn's 0919-814-66-61; and may our Father God of photography bless you mightily in return!

Press Release: Camerageek TV

2011-10-01T07:23:00.000-07:00

The Newest TV Show on Photography: Camerageek TV!
by Joe Galian

Do you want to learn more about photography? Want to see on TV professional, famous photographers being featured? How about hobbyists or upcoming talents? Gadget reviews and photo updates, anyone?

Then watch Camerageek TV! This new show is like a photography magazine on television. Shown on channel NET 25 Eagle Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) every Saturday night, 8:30 PM; with replays every Sunday at 2:00 PM. And if you want to watch it online at your convenience, here is the link for you information: http://www.camerageektv.com/episodes.html.

TV hosts Paolo Soler and the lovely Meg Siozon are both crazy for photography. Nikon Pro's endorser, yours truly, manages the photo tutorials and gear review segments while the sister act of Michelle and Karen Bautista make sure that the production runs smoothly. Kudos to Camerageek TV producer and director Shierdan Pamintuan for making this dream of ours finally come true after 2 years in the making!

Camerageek TV's advocacy is photography education for all Filipinos, hence, is produced by DSHEP (Doing Scholarship Health Education Programs) Foundation, Incorporated. For inquiries please email at: camerageektv@gmail.com.

Celebrating 1 Year of Strobist Lighting Workshop

2011-09-25T20:13:00.001-07:00

It's time to thank the unsung heroes that have made this FPPF's newest workshop a success:

Pablo Beltran-FPPF Project Director for believing in yours truly and the vote of confidence. Thank you, sir, for being kind to new talent.

Brian Lee-FPPF Project Manager for producing this monthly workshop by "hook or by crook"! A veritable strobist himself, Brian makes this workshop viable.

Ricky Ladia-for recommending to the FPPF a two day workshop ('twas just 1 day workshop for the 1st batch). Thanks much, bro!

Strobist Model: Ms. Nicole, thanks for quietly bearing with participants and giving them stunning poses. Salamat!

You-the participants who subscribed to our workshop! Thank you for spreading the luv of lighting and photography.

Kudos Team FPPF! And congratulations to the lovely Batch 13's Michelle Morelos (3rd photo, from top) for winning the OTS strobist photo contest! Cheers y'all!

Finally: The 1st DSLR Video Workshop

2011-09-03T06:51:00.000-07:00

Kudos to organizer Mr. Dexter De Guia for starting up such a much needed video seminar! More on this topic soon...

FPPF Photography Workshops With Joe

2011-08-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

The 4th quarter of this year might find me posting fewer articles in this blog of mine, due to a hectic schedule ahead. I'm mandating certain rest days just to charge my batts and garner my wits. Nevertheless, here are the official posters the FPPF had me made and revised for the duration of this year. For my Cruise Ship Photography workshop, please call the FPPF to confirm the dates at telephone no.: 524-7576 and look for Rizza or Brian. Many thanks for your continued patronage!

GEAR TALK: Nikon DSLR's Winding Motor

2011-08-16T20:24:00.000-07:00

For Nikon D300 and D700 photographers (moi included), the photo above shown is what I call the "winding motor" of our respective DSLRs share. It's responsible for cocking our shutter curtains and pushing the mirror of our viewfinder down after the brief "blackout" you see during exposure-taking. This mechanism has moving parts (obviously) and, hence, good for just around 150,000 actuations. But it will show signs of "wear and tear" at around 100,000 actuations by failing to push down your viewfinders' mirror-every now and then. Other DSLR models differ in winding motors' durabilities. As the wear continues, you will experience mirror blackouts more often. When this occurs, I usually turn my D300 off to force the mirror to return, or hit the AF/AE lock in tandem with the shutter release button. What a hassle! It can cost you up to Php14,000 for this winding gear's replacement, so be sparing during your trigger-happy moments FYI.

CameraGeek TV Show On Channel NET 25

2011-08-09T08:41:00.000-07:00

Channel NET 25 has officially placed our show on every Saturday 8-8:30PM starting September 10. Also our new Camerageek TV website is up. Here, shown above, is our ad placement flyer-contact Dan at this official mobile number: 09474299388. Please refer this ad rates to potential sponsors-thanks in advance! You know, it's never a walk in the park producing your own TV show, thus, I can only deeply thank Shierdan Pamintuan for helping me out in our endeavour. May the God of photography bless you more, Dan! Please pray for the success of this-our show-which is also your show! Unlike other Pinoy photography shows, our program can feature even amateurs/hobbyists, camera clubs and more! Truly a show for everyone.

Advertising Photography With Nikon Speedlights

2011-08-07T06:34:00.000-07:00

Yes, professional advertising photography can be done using Nikon Speedlights. This shoot for the prestigious Center for Culinary Arts (CCA) college should have their print ad campaign circulating nationally for the remainder of this year. Many thanks to team CCA and to Creative Director James Banal for the photo project-and kudos to such great concepts!

Transformers Movie Themed Party

2011-08-07T05:52:00.000-07:00

Mr. Ziggy celebrated his 7th birthday party with a blast from the Transformers robots! Everything was just picture perfect including the hosting of famous, wacky Tito Shay. Ziggy, stay cool, dude!

Print Ad Campaign: Manila Doctors Hospital

2011-08-02T19:14:00.000-07:00

Advertising photography IS possible just using Speedlights. I just want something to prove to my photography students that I practice what I preach. With this setup, a strobist photog MUST know his technical limits-for his own good, and the client's. Many thanks to Daniel Trinidad for the soft copy-finally!

Nikon Pros On Video!

2011-07-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

I'm all about the ART.

I like it SMART.

NIKON is my TOOL.

Strobist Lighting Workshop For July

2011-07-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

Congratulations guys! May you show the world on how to light!

PLDT Lens Club Strobist Lighting Workshop

2011-07-23T06:53:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the Philippine Long Distance (PLDT) Lens Camera Club for learning how to light with small Speedlight flash units! May you show the world on how to light. Thanks to the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation, Inc. (FPPF) for organizing this photo seminar. Practice makes perfect, guys!

DIY Flashpoint 86" White Umbrella Bracket

2011-07-14T22:46:00.001-07:00

After several weeks of waiting, my Flashpoint 7 feet super umbrella finally arrived yesterday! I've always needed a bigger fill light modifier in some of my corporate and advertising photography needs as smaller fill light mods tend to faintly cast shadow. Now fills should always be soft and omni directional visually, casting zero shadows-as a rule-of-thumb. A big mod means softer light. It also deserves a sturdier yet flexible bracket to justify it's great potential.

This Flashpoint umbrella is too heavy to mount on typical umbrella/flash brackets in the market as the umbrella's weak, hollow shaft bends a a bit (too much for yours truly) where it enters the hole of the bracket. Solving this bending shaft issue has moi mounting the Flashpoint onto a to an independent, 2 meter mini boom arm, with a modified umbrella/flash bracket at the tip of it (near the center of gravity of the Flashpoint, left inset photo) bracket. A small Velcro strap secures the tip of the shaft (right, inset photo). An added small counter weight can be seen in the top main photo. With this DIY flash bracket, you can control the distance of the Speedlight to the umbrella's plane via the boom's variable telescopic arm. Here, I use a generic Bowens mount T-flash bracket with a small umbrella parabolic reflector mounted. Junior light stands won't do so I used my old Manfrotto 052B as a lighter compromise in lieu of heavy stands like the Matthews stands etc. Will post some artworks soon using this humongous umbrella of umbrellas, so please stay tuned!

I'd like to thank Joey Alvero for helping yours truly secure this beast of an umbrella. And Mr. Alvero has always been very helpful to other people as well-a truly unsung hero and a great photographer on his own right. May your tribe increase, sir. Mil gracias, amigo!

The Nikon Pros Officially Announced

2011-07-09T09:08:00.000-07:00

Kudos Nikon Club Philippines!

2011-07-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

Still one of the best camera clubs in the Philippines at three years young! If the mighty God of photography permitting (i.e. no conflict of schedules, emergency shoots, etc..) -I shall celebrate with you in both body and spirit! Salud!

The Ancient Galian Family Crest

2011-07-09T08:53:00.000-07:00

Known in Spanish as the Escudo de Armas or family crest, our Galian family has a long history beginning in the humble fields of Armenia before the 15th century. Our family has now grown but there are scant records detailing the voyages of our small yet worldwide clan. It's my ardent hope that any philanthropic family member will take the pains and worries to consolidate our family histories , adventures (misadventures) and family tree into a book. Till then, I present to you the coat of arms our forefathers waved during the Crusades!

Columbia & Nikon Partnership

2011-06-20T18:42:00.000-07:00

Yours truly is humbled when Columbia Digital (Nikon Philippines' official distributor) contracted as moi as one of their newest photographer endorser. My family is inspired! Since I saw a Nikon film camera TV commercial way back in (circa) 1980, I feel in love with it right away! After college, I bought my first FM2 body. And my first DSLR was the D70 with kit lens in 2004. No regrets! Clearly, Nikon is superior in technical image quality-with or without my endorsement! It's THE only camera brand name-made by photographers, for photographers! Kudos to CEO Andy Tan and Nikon, thanks for the many blessings!

May 2011 Strobist Lighting Gang

2011-05-25T09:46:00.000-07:00

Congratulations guys! May you show the world on how to light.

Cebu Basic & Advance Photo Workshop

2011-05-17T04:41:00.001-07:00

Just a few slots left for my Cebu city Basic/Advance Photo workshop on May 18-19, 2011 at th SM Cebu mall. Please contact Ms. Cheryll referred to in the poster attached for more info. See you all there!

Majestic Mount Mayon Volcano in May

2011-05-16T09:16:00.000-07:00

Time and again, the locals of Bicol romanticize their perfect Mt. Mayon as a moody muse when it comes to capturing her image on film. My workshop team and I were said to be very lucky whenever we would pullout our DSLRs to do a group shot with their dutiful muse in plain sight as background. Because we just had minutes in spare time to just snap a shot with her, we all counted our blessings. And she cheerfully obliges-most of the time! After our workshop concludedby 5:45 PM, our super gracious organizer in Caroline Madelar, quicky took us to a spot where the volcano is best seen. With fading twilight I got this best-effort shot at 6:53PM. Specs: Nikon D300 on a ledge (no tripod), 24mm, f/5.6, ISO 200, 25 seconds of exposure and tripped with a self-timer. Locals say that the best time to capture her grandeur is in early morning-after a night of light rain. Nevertheless, thank you Mt. Mayon for this shot! FYI the her crater glows red at night-so be forewarned...

Bicol Basic Photo Workshop

2011-05-16T08:09:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Aines Vibar and family for being such great, great Bicolano hosts to our workshop team! Great food, great fun and fellowship...we all wished we could stay for a solid month in your beautiful place with your beautiful family! Happy birthday to one of our boss, Ms. Aleck Mutuc! For all our workshop participants: may you be the best photographer you can ever become!

Just For FPPF Wedding Photography Grads

2011-05-08T10:27:00.001-07:00

It's good to know that my wedding workshop will have been a year old next month. It is now the FPPF Wedding Photography workshop. I hope my legacy with the FPPF stays forever...including the Cruise Ship Photography workshop and the Strobist Lighting workshop. Soon: Basic Videography workshop! May the God of photography (and videography) conspire to bless the fruits of our labor. Kudos FPPF!

Basic Photography Workshop in Makati

2011-05-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

Bicol Basic Photography & Lighting Workshop

2011-05-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

Watch out Bicol! Joe Galian along with Joey Alvero and Alecks Mutuc will be conducting an exciting photography workshop there! It's called: Basic and One Light Set-Up Workshop Saturday, May 14 at 9:00 am - May 15 at 2:00 pm, at the Amphi Theatre, Bicol University College of Nursing. Cost is P2,500 only. For inquiries please contact Alecks at 0915-671-73-71, or just befriend her in Facebook. See y'all! I also hope to meet my first cruise ship photography student in Custer Cano who is himself a noted Bicolano photographer.

GOOD NEWS:

2011-05-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

On May 6, 2011 at the Saisaki-Dad's Restaurant in the Glorietta Mall, Makati city, Akari formally launched their new 3000 mAh rechargeable batteries! With yours truly as image model, we demonstrated to the media how powerful AA batts have become: with model Erika, I shot some poses with her using large studio light mods. Wish I had more 3000 mAh pieces to power four more Nikon Speedlights. Kudos to Akari for venturing into "green" rechargeable batteries! We can be proud as it's Philippine made. Here's a link to the press release. Mwah!

Going Where No Speedlight Dare Tread

2011-05-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

Digital photography is such a powerful, "green", tech revolution! Compared to film, digital imaging is slightly more sensitive to light and looks "cleaner" visually-especially in the shadowed areas. Thus, yours truly is in the process of modifying several large and bulky light modifiers that are traditionally territory to heavy, electric studio flash units. Will post sample photo projects using these monster mods soon. Digital photography is getting better and better!

Hot, Hot, Hot Mossimo Fashion Shoot

2011-05-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

Let's post some raw, unedited fashion photography I did for Mossimo apparel. Many thanks to fellow-photog Carlo Bajandi for helping out immensely with our fashion workshop logistics. Yes, it was also a modeling workshop (AM session) on educating some of Mossimo's models on how to pose and work with photogs. After lunch it was just shooting their portfolio all the way till sunset. 'Twas exhausting under the blazing summer sun but we all had a blast! Good work, guys! Thanks to Pablo Beltran also for the cool project.

Mounting Your Potato Smasher With Dignity

2011-05-02T09:59:00.000-07:00

I luuv my Nikon SB900 so much as to use it as less often as possible. Looking around for other flash units to "wear and tear," I got an old yet powerful Sunpak 544 hammer-type. For those of you strobist with such unit, here's a dignified way to mount your beasty flash: buy the umbrella flash bracket that comes with an extra screw mount (inset photo). Then, attach the hammer's bracket on this extra mount. Tip: bring the bracket closer to the flash head by loosening its bracket screws. Second tip: point the bracket towards the center of the umbrella (photo, above). Now I rest my radio receiver on this plastic bracket with its built-in screw mount. Viola! This way, you can hold the hammer's grip naturally when adjusting the whole umbrella setup! Lookin' good, eh?

Quickie Summer Fruit Juice Poster

2011-05-02T09:50:00.000-07:00

Shooting and designing for print has always been in my first love-visually. Here's a 12"x18" summer poster I did for a restaurant inside the Fort Santiago, Intramuros. All aspects of the final layout where pre-approved because of limited budget and a tight time frame. Ey I was even the food stylist. Salud!

Cheap Lee Filters in Hidalgo Street

2011-05-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

Lurking in Hidalgo street is a photographer distributing "Strobist Fliters" set to photo stalls there with a Php 350 price tag-which I came to realize was a bargain! The set totaled 16 pieces of sundry filters measuring 14cm x 4cm. Allow moi to itemized them for you in random order:

101 YELLOW
205 12 CTO
246 1/4 PLUS GREEN
206 1/4 CTO
244 PLUS GREEN
182 LIGHT RED
203 1/4 CTB
201 CTB
63 PALE BLUE
209 0.3 ND (1 STOP)
124 DARK GREEN
113 MAGENTA
128 BRIGHT PINK
210 0.6 ND (2 STOPS)
204 CTO
202 1/2 CTB

Because the 14cm length was made to accommodate velcro at both ends (to adhere to the flash head), I found my SB900's filter holder adequate (photo below). For my hammer units, yours truly just clipped the length to 8.3cm-which just slides into the Sunpak's holder. This set is cheaper than buying individual pre-cut sheets. Kudos to that mysterious Pentaxian supplier (whoever he is)! Buy them quickly as stocks seem to be erratic in supply.

Camera Geek TV Revisited

2011-04-05T18:12:00.000-07:00

Our previous photography TV show name "Maximum Exposure" has been replaced with "Camera Geek TV". My partners hope to launch this show early this year-if there are no glitches. Producing and independent TV show is tough! Now meet the zany gangsters hosting our show:

Joe. Yours truly will just be a temporary host until a suitable debonnaire can be hired for cheap. Besides, broken-toothed photogs for show biz must repair their pearly whites immediately. LOL

Tooney. Known freelance wedding photographer with a knack for TV hosting plus good looks are always welcome in this industry. Her lovely, telegenic presence compliments her photography skills, and enticing personality.

Ahh, we have an unknown host I call "ninja" who will go on assignments and review gears. This dude will appear on the show wearing a black ski mask (or a 9" reflector, above), so please warned the studio guards and parking attendants to chillax when the ninja cometh.

Meg. The angel of our photography show. An advance amateur, this lady photog is the perfect host to all kinds of interviewees with sundry temperaments and ideosyncracies. Her wholesomeness keeps our feet firmly on the ground. Welcome aboard, Meg! May the good God of photography finally bless our efforts!

Meet The Strobist Gang For April

2011-04-03T05:23:00.000-07:00

Congratulations, guys! May you show the world how to light-properly.

Lady Ambassadors Learn Photography

2011-04-03T05:15:00.001-07:00

Regrets always happen in the end, and when I met and taught a bunch of lovely mujers from the many Spanish nations on earth some Adobe Photoshop, I immediately felt so sorry for myself for taking for granted my college Spanish language subjects! Learning a second or third language well opens the door to more opportunities! Little do Pinoys realize that there are many Spanish speaking nations. Ten verguenza!

Should Photogs Work For Free?!

2011-04-03T05:02:00.000-07:00

Here's funny and serious chart on insights about working for free-or not. By Jessica Hische. Happy reading!

Join The First ANNUALE 2011!

2011-04-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

The 13 AB Degree Programs of the School of Design and Art (of De La Salle University-College of St. Benilde) present a first-ever multi-sensory exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Arts & Design (MCAD), March 30 till April 13. Checkout our very own AB Photo Degree Program's photo exhibit there too. Kudos to the many organizers and our to our beloved chairperson Leo Santos for this! Admission is gratis, except for shows at the Theatre and the Blackbox. For inqueries, please contact the SDA office at tel. no.: 536-67-52 loc. 135-138 or email serranor@dls-csb.edu.ph.

New Image Model For Akari Batteries

2011-03-19T19:46:00.000-07:00

The Akari name brand is known for household light bulbs. Little do Pinoys know that this Chinese-Filipino (Chinoy) company is into rechargeable batteries. Their 2011 print ad campaign chose moi as their first-ever image model! And yours truly is very grateful and feels "unworthy". The concept was to choose a heavy battery user, thus, freelance strobists like moi seemed like the candidate. Being a FPPF and DLSU-CSB SDA photography lighting instructor proved invaluable.

Guess who was the advertising photographer who took my shot? It's none other than Ms. Edi Huang! Edi is one of the pioneer lady photogs in the Philippines advertising photography. Thanks, ma'am, for my fab look!

Jason Evert In Manila

2011-03-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

A funny yet educational symposium for teenagers entitled: Pure Mind Heart was conducted by the renowned Roman Catholic Jason Evert in the Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon city. The auditorium was jam packed! Hot issues of the heart, virginity, Reproductive Health Bill, dating, petting, etcetera were addressed in light of doctrine and social and medical statistics without sounding pretty preachy. Jason's funny anecdotes helped a lot too. Kudos for that, sir!

I did setup my strobist's lights but the spot light was more than enough to capture Jason in motion. I used my Nikon D300, aperture-preferred mode, 50mm, 1/100 sec., f/2.8, ISO 400, AWB.

This event was organized by Youth For The Family, PAREF Woodrose Chapter in cooperation with UA&P Center For Social Responsibility. Congratulations!

EDITORIAL: Super Quake Rocks Japan

2011-03-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

Shock and helplessness are my initial reactions to the super tremor and tsunami that hit Japan. Our prayers and sympathy go out to all the victims of this calamity. This should be a warning that all maritime dwellers: that they must eventually move to higher grounds inland. Because the earth is mostly molted rock at its core with, comparatively "thin," floating tectonic plates (cooler earth crust) on top of it, thus all land masses will eventually experience earth quakes in various degrees of intensities-sometime. I hate mentioning this: what happened to the Land of the Rising Sun will happen to the Pearl of the Orient some day (again) as long as our isles rest beside the Ring of Fire zone. Prayerful alertness and action plans must be firmly established by all concerned-now.

Advance Photography Workshop

2011-03-08T04:58:00.000-08:00

Yours truly lectured on advance photography with The Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation at the posh De La Salle University in Dasmariñas, Cavite on March 4, in conjunction with the DLSU’s Annual Calabarzon Graphic Design Convention. 'Twas a hectic but fun day as participants even held an on-the-spot photo contest after the lecture series. The organizers were very thoughtful and polite. Kudos! (Photo: Chris Malinao)

Revisiting Graduation Photography

2011-03-01T04:10:00.000-08:00

When videographer Dan Pamintuan offered moi the opportunity to do seniors' photography ("grad pic") I couldn't resist getting reliving the past as one of the last studio photographer for the great, late Toch Arellano-the dean of Philippine grad pic. Here are some samples which yours truly shot and retouched for the Adventist University of the Philippines. Because tech progress, a tethered Nikon D300 with a Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 was used in tandem with my netbook. For the first time, yours truly used-not studio lights-but small, old Nikon SB27 Speedlights for the hair and background lights. I could have gone full, portable "strobist" studio lighting if Dan challenged me-but that means I'll hafta charge him a little more for my gears in use. Thanks much Dan!

Starstruck With Starball 2011

2011-02-13T02:47:00.000-08:00

My fourth Philippine Starball Dance show since its inception. Again, many thanks to Carlo Villongco for hiring moi as his third photog with his Geronimo Photographico team. As with previous Starballs, no flash photography is allowed, except during the awarding ceremonies. This year's event was less stressful as the organizers did away with actual competition-the floor teeming with dancing pairs simultaneously, roving judges blocking my view, wardrobe failures...

For the wedding/portrait shutterbugs, it's a good idea to know (understand) dancing genres so as to come up with artistic poses that compliments any pair. Herein lies secrets to great poses some master photographers glean from!

The show was also covered by ABS-CBN channel 2 and will be aired on May 8, around prime time-so don't miss it. Kudos again to Pinky Puno, along with an international cast of dance champions for putting on such a grand show! Gracias to lens man Richmond Sarreal for snapping my photo above.

FPPF Batch 6 & 7 Strobists

2011-02-06T16:32:00.000-08:00

May you light up the world with love and beauty. Congratulations to the FPPF Strobists participants! Many thanks again to Brian Lee for going above and beyond the call of duty to make this workshop a success. God bless you, man!

PhotoWorld Asia 2011 Group Shot

2011-02-04T07:12:00.000-08:00

Finally!!! My first group picture with the PWA 2011 delegates. Can you find moi wearing a beige camera vest with red, inner shirt? Man, I should be ever-present during this grand, annual photo session. LOL

(Photo: Kathy Chua of Ad Photo for the FPPF)

Hanson Fong "Unplugged" At The PWA 2011

2011-01-31T20:25:00.000-08:00

PhotoWorld Asia 2011 is a resounding success! Kudos to the FPPF's Edi Huang, Lito Beltran, Betty Lalana, and many nameless volunteers for producing such a successful event, thus, raising the bar in Philippine photography even more.

The main speaker in Hanson Fong-America's premier wedding photographer (WPPI) made a great impact on yours truly. Unlike most famous photographers, Hanson divulged shooting techniques in great detail regarding posing (body types, facial imperfections...), and lighting (strobist, mix lighting, etc.) by hand-picking less-comely PWA audiences for solo portraits and group shots on the spot! Thank those brave souls for bearing up to Hanson's brutal, artistic, public critique! But ever the gentleman, he's also a diplomatic comedian-so everyone had a good time!

His artistic styles, post-processing workflow and marketing tips are eye-openers indeed. Mr. Fong was honest enough to reveal how he learned from many master mentors along his journey. A million thanks, master Fong! Thus, it evolves my photography and workshops.

Three cheers for Ms. Huang for making Hanson's third Philippine appearance possible! Forget not Julieanne Kost for the creative pointers using Abobe softwares. Filipino photographers got more than what they bargained for!

GEAR TALK: Speedfire Your Speedlights!

2011-01-19T20:17:00.000-08:00

Now you can shoot with your Speedlights (ideally, indoors only) without worrying if your AA batts were charged the day before! The reason to celebrate more is that this AC power supply is made here in our Philippines! Hit this link with joy! Many thanks to fellow-strobist Bobby Parhizkari for the heads up. Kudos to inventor Mon Castillo!

Good News To Aspiring Freelance Photogs

2011-01-13T07:11:00.000-08:00

From Napoleon Beltran: "I am launching the Professional Group of Photoworldmanila (PGP). It will be a network of photographers who share the same values as photographers and believe in the four elements of photography, which are creativity, technical excellence, design and service. Photoworldmanila has just turned PRO."

To my understanding, PGP will evaluate prospective photographers according to specialization and match appropriate clients that approach the FPPF for imaging solutions. BTW it's also open to FPPF faculty and former FPPF students. Now budding shutterbugs have a veritable springboard into the pro industry. Kudos to Nap and the FPPF!

Happy, Happy, Happy 2011!

2011-01-06T05:57:00.001-08:00

Greeting everyone a happy and prosperous new year again! 'Twas a hectic December 2010 with weddings to cover, photo workshops to conduct and too many more to mention. Hence, my neglected blog. I guess that's how my net life will play out, regarding year-end entries.

Now shooting fireworks definitely requires you to bring a bulky tripod. But this past New Year's eve I had no intension shooting fireworks near the Mall of Asia park. But when 2011 came, I had no choice but to dutifully (try valiantly to) record the fireworks display. So, I just laid down on the grass and leaned my Nikon DSLR with kit lens on my palm and forehead, then fired away. Ey, they look okay...even semi-hand-held! Thanks to Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) camera technology.

My settings: ISO 100, manual focus (focused to infinity) f/13, 4 seconds, AWB and JPEG Fine. Here's a tip: it's always best to shoot fireworks with a sturdy tripod and in RAW format.

Cheers!

Strobists For November & December 2010

2010-12-12T00:02:00.000-08:00

November Cruise Ship Photography Workshop

2010-11-06T04:20:00.000-07:00

Ahoy maties!!! For those young guns who think that they what it takes, then, here is your opportunity to prove it: earn U$Dollars, travel around the world and meet new and interesting people. Be a professional cruise ship photographer! Only the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation, Inc. (FPPF) offers it now in our islands: http://photoworldmanila.com/workshops/cruise-ship-photography. The next Cruise Ship workshop will be on Febuary 2011. Cheers!

GEARTALK: For Manual Focus Maniacs' Eyes Only

2010-11-06T03:30:00.000-07:00

Being a crazed manual-focus oriented photographer, I "feel" much more fulfilled at heart knowing full-well that my human fingers helped created that image. But yours truly isn't blessed with 21/21 vision. And as a DX (cropped-framed DSLR) user it's hard to achieve perfect manual focus all the time without the aid of our in-camera's focus dot indicator helping out. Recent purchases of the Travor split image focusing screen and Seculine U-13C universal magnifying eyepiece is a boon to OC photogs-like moi. These accessories, coupled with in-cam focus indicator has upped my sharp focusing accuracy to approximately 60% (from 30%). With the 1.3x magnification of the U-13C I can confidently look at a slightly bigger viewfinder coupled with the aid of the split-image screen. BTW it takes guts and a steady hand to remove your focusing screen, and attach the new. Now to muster the cojones to manually focus during an actual paid project (static or slow-moving stuffs only)! I'm just curious if there's a 2x angle finder in the market that can improve my batting average? I forsee that liveview wth a 4x digitally magnified center area (only) can be very promising.

Judging At The Camera Club Of The Philippines

2010-10-16T08:41:00.000-07:00

When the most prestigious and oldest camera club in the land invites you to judge their monthly photo contest, then get ready to work hard and fast! Their entries are voluminous and of high visual impact. I'm talking about the vaunted Camera Club of the Philippines (CCP). From the posh Rockwell Club in Makati city, to the quality photo entries, to their famous guest model (Maui Taylor) for the night's photo shoot...it's a tough class act for any camera club to emulate. Did I mentioned the CCP's elite members? Many thanks to the gracious Dr. Castro for inviting moi and art director Frando Culata (foreground). I found the atmosphere politely impressive. Kudos to the photo contest winners!

More Graduating Photographers This October

2010-10-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

The Federation Of Philippines Photographers Foundation, Inc. (FPPF) produces around 200 new, learned photographers every month. What a record! It's the largest and most popular provider of photography workshops in the Philippines-ever. It's an honor for yours truly to regularly lecture, and be a one of several photo contest judge the graduation day of Basic Photography. So, congratulations to the Weekday Basic Photography (October Batch 12) participants. May you spread the luv of photography far and wide. Mwah!

Exclusive TKL Strobist Lighting Seminar

2010-10-16T07:57:00.000-07:00

The Team Kicker Light camera club through the FPPF invited moi to conduct a one day Strobist Lighting workshop for their esteemed group. It's tough on my part to come up with new lighting techniques for this people for they are a mixture of advanced and beginner strobist. So let's learn from each other and have fun in the process guys!

Soon To Come: Two Stops Over

2010-10-13T08:39:00.000-07:00

Eeyyy! The Philippines' first-ever TV show on photography will be airing on November 7, 2010. Please check this out: www.twostopsover.com! Let's hope and pray for more photography shows like this as they spur our creative industry and contribute to nation-building. B-)

A Master Photography Director Passes Away

2010-10-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

Jose Emmanuel Chua (or just "Jo") passed away on August 26, 2010 due to the cumulative effects of his asthma. He was the photo/creative director of (defunct) Shadow Visual Design Group, Inc. located in Makati city. His ash remains are in the Christ The King Seminary (in the Garden of Divine Word), along E. Rodriguez, Quezon city. I was belatedly informed by Jo's nephew Jandric. Master Jo, thank you for allowing moi to have my practicum stint in your cool photo/design studio! I learned many techniques during this summer job. Rest in peace now, sir, and enjoy the heavenly buddies there.

October Wedding Photography Workshop

2010-09-25T01:34:00.000-07:00

Read all about it. Yours truly and Jomel Gregorio be the main speakers for this photo workshop. Please refer to interested friends. Thank you.

Nikon And Epson Workshop In Davao-GRATIS!

2010-09-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

The best things in life are truly free! Check this advertisement out.

Photo Safari In Corregidor

2010-09-24T20:24:00.000-07:00

Y'know, it breaks my heart that I couldn't attend this open invitation from the dear folks of the Nikon Club. This photo safari collides with the FPPF's Strobist Lighting workshop in Intramuros, Manila that yours truly will conduct. Nevertheless, hope springs eternal...

Thanks To NPC, CDSC, JR Bobifacio And Epson

2010-09-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

Turning Your Hobby In Photography To Business

2010-09-16T07:29:00.000-07:00

The Nikon Club Philippines (NCP) is pleased to announce the next Monthly Seminar Series this September 2010: Photography Commerce with yours truly as guest speaker! It all starts 9:00 AM to 12:00 NN at the EPSON Head Office, 8/F Anson's Building, 23 ADB avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig city. Thanks to Columbia Digital Star Corporation and Epson Philippines for the invitation. See you there!

FPPF's Cebu Photo Workshop Highlights

2010-09-12T18:13:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to the efficient Iggy Salazar-one of the FPPF's national organizer. Our workshop ran so smooth without a hitch. Ador Pamintuan and Joey Tanedo along with moi powered the lecture/demo series. New to my repertoire was the Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS)! Many thanks to the Cebuanos' magnificent hospitality! We hope to be back again! I just wished someone would take some beauty shots and videos of moi at work heh, heh, heh! Never mind.

Laguna Photography Seminar Poster

2010-09-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a poster I shot for the Sta. Rosa, Laguna photo workshop. I convinced Penny Calalang-one of the FPPF's national organizer to post printads, posters and a billboard announcing any workshop beforehand so as to have as many participants possible. FPPF's art director Frando Culata did the final layout. Now, Mr. Calalang, wasn't it all worth the while? I intend to put out new visuals (of my own) for the FPPF's wedding and cruise ship photo workshops...stay tuned!

The 1st FPPF Strobist Graduates 2010!

2010-09-04T07:57:00.000-07:00

Humble beginnings are often a steep, uphill climb with roadblocks litering the way. Such was the 1st FPPF Strobist Workshop last week. Twenty-three paxs attended the lighting seminar. Many thanks for Brian Lee (man behind the umbrella) who single-handedly produced the logistics necessary to launched this seminar. What a selfless FPPF executive, indeed, who went over and beyond the call of duty. Credit also goes to Columbia Digital's Andy Tan, JR Bonifacio and Ricky Ladia for providing the Nikon gears for students to try. Also muchas gracias to the sexy model in Joan Mazo. Let's hope this workshop snowballs into a huge, rolling success. Congratulations all participants especially to the OTS winners in Ricky and Rhoda! Aside from their medals, they won an 8Gb Sandisk Ultra CF card-a first in FPPF gift awards! May you spread the gospel of strobist lighting in our country! LOL

Photo Lecture With FPPF Grads

2010-09-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

Every graduating Basic Photography Workshop batch of the FPPF allows moi to empower these future pro photogs to become even better by lecturing on their last workshop day on the following topics: Digital Workflow, Strobist Lighting and Basic Adobe Photoshop CS. Too bad there is no more real estate spaces on their FPPF Certificates of completion for me to sign on due to sundry lecturers' signatures crowding the said certificates heh, heh, heh! Goes to show you that the FPPF has many experts nurturing these artists-hence, the best photo workshop in the Asia-bar none! Congratz to Batch 22-may you be one of the best photogs in the world guys!

SOON...

2010-08-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

September Strobist Lighting Workshop Here!

2010-08-22T21:00:00.000-07:00

Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation, Inc. (FPPF) is holding a Strobist Lighting Workshop this Saturday, September 4, 2010 at the FPPF Studio, 302-Annex, 3rd Floor FEMII Bldg., A. Soriano St., Intramuros, Manila. Yours truly will be conducting the one-day workshop which will feature various portable lighting techniques, using the off-camera flash to create eye-catching photographs. Please visit this link for more info. Those interested to join may call the FPPF at 524-7576 to reserve a seat. Workshop fee is P1,500 only. You may REGISTER ONLINE. See you there!

Our Legacy Project Is Still In The Works (Again)

2010-08-22T20:48:00.000-07:00

If all goes well, Dan Pamintuan and moi will launch the Philippines' 30-minute TV show on photography entitled: Maximum Exposure. Please pray with us that this will broadcast this year. This brainchild of ours is two years old now in the making. Lack of capital is our main challenge. Ironically, this show is supposedly meant to energize the local creative sector-financially and artistically. Oh well, it's still perfectly legal to dream dreams. But I know that there are similar projects by others that must succeed for the greater benefit our industry. Good luck to all of us!

FPPF Workshop Going To Davao This August

2010-08-22T20:42:00.000-07:00

Watch out Davao residents! The FPPF will be gracing your land to conduct a Basic Photography workshop there. You may register online at: www.photoworldmanila.com. See y'all there!

FPPF's August Wedding Photography Workshop

2010-08-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the participants of the FPPF's Wedding Photography Workshop of August 16-19, 2010 held in Fort Santiago Park, Intramuros, Manila. May you be one of the best wedding photogs in the world! Many thanks to pro wedding photog in Jomel Gregorio for helping out in the FPPF's wedding photo workshop. Also to Fr. Arthur who posed as the wedding priest. He's a real priest who hails all the way from Rome, Italy! God bless you more Father Art!

Nikon's Camera Club @ 2 Years

2010-07-20T09:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a camera club that charges the least amount of yearly dues in the Philippines: Nikon Club! Php 750 per annum-why pay more? Please inform moi if any camera club charges lower. It's the perfect camera club for everyone-actually...celebrating two years of existence. Were it not for my Cebu weekend workshop I would gladly witness their celebration! Congratulations Nikon Club-more power and creative longevity to you! I'm with you in spirit bebe.

Alternative Fine Arts Photography Exhibit

2010-07-17T20:09:00.000-07:00

My great photography mentor, Dr. Joey Tanedo-asst. dean of the College of Fine Arts of the University of the Philippines (Diliman, Quezon city) launches another solo exhibit. This Filipino master of photography can blend the old and new school of imaging seamlessly. His quiet demeanor and quiet presence in the photo industry belies his artistic fire within. A generous and educational drinking buddy, he is a spectacle to behold when this grand master launches into an academic, intellectual, artistic discourse (on the arts-of course) in alcoholic stupor. Congratulations yet again sir-let's drink up to that!

The FPPF Workshop In Cebu City

2010-07-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

The FPPF will hold Cebu Photography Workshop 7 (CPW7) on July 23-25, 2010 at the Sacred Heart Center in Cebu City. CPW7 is Basic Photography workshop covering topics that include digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera operation, composition, elements of design and basic photographic lighting – using studio strobes and available light. Venue for CPW7 is the Sacred Heart Center along D. Jakosalem St. in Cebu City. The workshop fee of P5,750 includes meals for the 3-day event. FPPF photography instructors (including yours truly) from Manila are flying in to Cebu for the workshop. See y'all there!

News: Fashion Photography TV Show Soon!

2010-07-12T09:34:00.000-07:00

Rumor has it that a famous Filipino fashion photographer has started to shoot the Philippines' first-ever fashion photography tv show early this month. It is said to be aired early next month. It goes to show you that the Philippines is a portal of creative energy in the fine arts. More on this topic in the future. Keep your fingers crossed. Mabuhay ang litratistang Pinoy!

Farewell To The Cool Dude With A DSLR

2010-07-12T09:04:00.000-07:00

My Fine Arts college batchmate in Edwin Bautista passed away last week at the Medical City hospital in Ortigas due to a massive heart attack. Words fail me to praise and describe this very vibrant soul. His family, relatives and many, many friends paint a bright image of Edwin. All I can say is that he was one of the good guys on the planet with a very contagiously happy and intense aura. My last project with him (as team leader) was shooting the SM Parisian line during the Philippine Fashion Week this year. Oh my-how ad photography became of this him (this Pasig restaurant entrepreneur by night) in less that two years! Here is my portrait of him last year using my Nikon DSLR with an old Nikkor 50mm f/1,2. Truly a worthy, compassionate titan of advertising photography in Shutterbug Inc's corporate history in Makati city. What a great colleague and friend indeed. My heart is always moved by the mere mention of his name. And he is sorely missed-what a cool dude! Bye for now Edwin...see you someday!

Making Democracy Work For Us Again

2010-06-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

Participating in the recently concluded "digital" election made me feel nationalistic once again. We all hope and pray that the next president of this Republic will not be "swallowed up" by the cancer of corruption that's inextricably embedded in all our government institutions. Any incremental improvements in the economy, peace and order, unemployment and inflation will definitely be a boon to our local photography industry. A good president's six year term is too short to rectify generations of abuse-so let's cut him a lot of slack. Let's prove to the world (again) that we Filipinos are still worthy of the many individual and collective freedoms of a Democracy.

Philippine Fashion Week Posts-Not Yet!

2010-06-01T08:43:00.001-07:00

Well, I was requested to delay posting here the Super Mall Department Store (SM) fashion photos I took from the recently concluded Philippine Fashion Week at the SMX building. Meanwhile enjoy these photos. Along with the Shutterbug studio team (inset photo with Edwin and Monching), we were assigned prime spot infront of the media horde-but just for the SM Parisian fashion line. And a requested backstage photo studio setup was made in the dressing room for the models to pose for before walking down the catwalk. Wow! What a production by SM!

Rustan's Many Splendored Ladies

2010-06-01T08:41:00.001-07:00

Rustan's Many Splendored Ladies in-store exhibit featured some of the best national costumes worn by Pres. Cory Aquino and some First Ladies of the past presidencies. Due to mixed lighting indoors I found it necessary to use my two Nikon SB Speedlights as main lights to minimize the cross shadows of available pin lights and other light sources.

Steel Cabinets & Vault Doors Shoot

2010-06-01T08:30:00.000-07:00

Shooting heavy steel cabinets, vaults and steel doors for a local manufacturer proved to be my limit. That's around 60 products with two variations in a hot, humid, noisy, dusty factory environment that stalled my Nikon DSLR, slowed down the laptop and affected my circulation! My production assistant was heroic in Mark Lidio-thank you, sir, for not quitting on me when my gears did! Many, many, many lessons were learned even more. When I look back all I can say is "whew!"

Mr. Nikon's Caffe Ti-amo

2010-06-01T08:16:00.001-07:00

Mr. Nikon (Andy Tan, bi-spectacled gentleman, right) has something for all you lovers out there: Cafe Ti-amo. It sounds like love cafe (in Spanish?)...or i love you. Located at the SM North Annex, ground floor, bring family, friends, et al to enjoy sweet treats to compliment your fellowship. Thanks for the opening invitation, Andy!

Illustrated Diaries Of James

2010-05-30T09:32:00.001-07:00

Creative Director James Banal tasked me to digitally "preserve his unique, illustrative diaries with my Nikon DSLR. Between 2001-2004 he had this creative "urge" he knew was very rare and temporary: to illustrate daily entries in his diary. So watchout for an exhibition of his private masterpieces in the future! Kudos James!