Focal Finder

Portraiture of Shayoon Aboo, Jewelry Designer

2012-02-26T18:28:00.000-08:00

2.26.2012 - Yesterday I hit the streets of DTLA. My goal was to capture street life and portraiture, by using the sunlight as Paramount lighting.

After walking in Spring Street and 6th for about 15 minutes, I came across Shayoon Aboo sitting down at one of the cafe's. I briefly looked at her facial features from the sidewalk, and, instantaneously, I knew I had a great talent that I can capture for my subject and story. I had my wife approach her to ease up on the introduction. After explaining what I was looking for, she had agreed to be photographed. We stepped out of the cafe, and next door was a spot I had picked out right away. The light source was just right, a but overcast and diffused light. I noticed there was a glass door open facing towards the light, which I felt might have been a great source of background.

We shot a few poses within less than 2 minutes, I was embarrassed to ask for more time, as I didn't want to take too much. As we were working on the shots, she had mentioned she was a jewelry designer that has been featured in New York Fashion Week, and Bunker Hill Magazine. I quickly tried to adjust my focus to her craft, and having it be prominent in the pictures. As I was shooting, I was thinking about how this would be a great sub-culture portraiture. Here was a woman wearing her art, and being part of the subject all together.

Nikon D80 / AF-S Nikkor 70-300 mm

About Shayoon Aboo

Born in Kenya, Africa she comes from a rich cultural background stemming from India, Pakistan, and Africa.

A Los Angeles resident, Shayoon has worked for top companies and independently for over seven years in fashion PR, marketing and as a stylist.

Inspired by her multicultural upbringing and her desire to bring her authentic, uninhibited, ethereal expressions of the east to the west, each one of a kind piece holds specific character, with it’s own story of origin.

“Primal Couture”, Shayoon’s FW 2012 collection will be debuting at New York Fashion Week as ornaments for the Sachika show.

See her website

Nikon D80 / AF-S Nikkor 70-300 mm

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See Light, See World

2012-02-13T12:22:00.000-08:00

A Street Photographer's Perspective.

Puddle of water reflecting light off windows from sky rise.

To better understand and appreciate a painting, photography, cinematography, one has to really appreciate the value of light. Without light, no story will ever reveal itself. You can keep searching in the dark and get lost in the process, but once you communicate the idea of light into an image, you connect the visual stimulant. The artist delivering the message to you on a specific piece, will reveal the true story of that moment. Feel the emotions radiate to your senses, as it creates a mood inside of you.

Curve side puddle of water reflecting sky rise and light.

"Enjoy every piece of art you come across, either to your own personal views, or appreciating others perspectives."

R.M.

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Grammys Lighting 2012

2012-02-12T21:55:00.000-08:00

Sunday 2012 - NOW just watching the Grammys, and so far, I have been enjoying the performances. Really great lighting setup with some of the talent. Kudos to the designers of the the show.

From the beginning, Bruno Mars performance was really visually pleasing. Bringning a retro style back to coolness.

Chris Brown, really made the colors of the performance blossom. I really enjoyed looking at the various light shows from the blocks of colors.

Photo By Billboard.com

Coldplay, that one really stood out. I loved the how the camera captured the audience with illuminated lights, and then panning towards the stage and opens up a whole different visual stimulant. So much colors, designs, lights. Love it!

Being a fan of light, I feel I've paid more attention to the lighting rather than the music or performance. Strange? Maybe. Just loving the art.

Dave Ghrol had a powerful message about loving the craft, and taking it to the heart and mind. Really inspiring words. Looking at my work, and how I approach it, I feel very connected to the idea of seeking to perfect the craft. God willing!

Russo Mutuc

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Great Meeting With Karl Walter Lindenlaub, ASC/BVK at Cinemills

2012-02-07T17:19:00.000-08:00

Karl Walter Lindenlaub, ASC/BVK and Russo Mutuc - Focal Finder

Some of the bonuses of being the, Director of Online Media, for Cinemills, is meeting the industry professionals.

Last week, Karl came by the office to check out the latest lighting technology Cinemills offers. Karl is testing out some lights for Masters POV Cinematography Conference, and will be instructing some of the latest techniques. I will be part of the event, as media personnel, and will be representing Cinemills via social media channels.

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'Faces Faces' - Street Photography Look at Faces.

2012-01-29T11:18:00.000-08:00

COMING SOON

DIGITAL ONLINE GALLERY!

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Poetry in Reflections - Street Photography 1.24.12

2012-01-28T04:32:00.000-08:00

The image below has a nice story to tell. A rainy night in Los Angeles, left a puddle of water in the parking lot on Hill and 8th Street. Upon parking, you will meet Hector, the attendant on duty. It's been two weeks-in-a-row now that I have seen Hector, and chatted with him for a bit.

Hector doesn't know it, but he has space around him, that attract my visual senses. One of those striking subjects that seems to call my attention is the Orphuem signage. On a good sunrise, you can see the sign create nice shadows along the brick building wall to the left of the image. The combination of brick, light, signage, texture, and the feeling of historical buildings really make the story come together.

On this special day, I knew what I wanted, which was to document reflections from the puddle of water, which the rain dropped in the course of the evening.

A woman walked pass me as she looks at me with awkwardness, while I was shooting towards the water. Her eyes would scan from top to bottom, as if she is checking me out. She makes her way to Hector who kindly explains to her what I've been doing in the last 15 minutes. Hector, his my new friend, since this is the second time he has seen me, automatically, he knows what I'm up to.

The image created from the puddle of water has a unique look. Because water is organically moving, it helps create a sense of poetic reflection, a flow of natures creations, along with structures that help shape the solid foundations. The reflection has a diffuse light source, which softens the image look, eventually, making it warm and pleasing to look at.

D80 18-135 Zoom Nikkor Lens

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Cadillac Coupe DeVille

2012-01-27T04:33:00.000-08:00

The cars the define us, what does it say about you if you drive classic. The sexy midnight black, Cadillac Coupe Deville the classic badass, pimp, and check me out type of ride. I came across this car the other night while driving down Silverlake. Drizzles of rain was starting to come down, the car parked in front of the car wash, as if it was there to be showcased. The owner of the car was not present, so I managed to snap some shots of the car.

The interest that drew me into the car was the awkward parking and how it absorbed and reflected light.

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Live on Set

2012-01-27T03:49:00.000-08:00

Last month, just before the Christmas holiday, I was on set in Highland Park. I was chasing a story for Cinemills to capture the lights in action. The Silver Bullet, one of the company's most durable and most dependable light that was lighting the way for a big gum commercial shoot. Now, I'm eager to see the actual commercial to air on national t.v. soon. I'm speculating, maybe this commercial might be a good candidate to be in the Super Bowl 2012 this year. We shall see...

In the set, I was fortunate to meet some of the industry pros. They were kind enough to show me around and watch some of the scenes that took place. While waiting, I took some shots that looked more like my style of photography, Focal Finder :)

Anytime I'm on set, my eyes are always watching how they use light. You begin to admire the hard work the production team puts together, in order to get that specific look. From what I can understand from watching, the Silver Bullet was the key light that helped give it that warm sunny look. While filming indoors at the mini market. They also used other tricks to make it look like there was moving lights that replicate moving vehicles, like a bus. In this effect, they used big mirrors, which they swayed back and forth.See image below, as the light moves across Lady Guadelupe.

Nikon D80 18-135 Zoom Nikkor Lens

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Inspired By Henri Cartier-Bresson

2012-01-24T17:10:00.000-08:00

On Sunday 1.22.12 I was out and about in DTLA, and I came across a puddle of water, in the parking lot. I starred at the puddle for several minutes looking for the right composition, and that twinkle light that would carry my image to a higher level. I was fortunate to have two other people with me that day. I had practiced the composition I wanted. I had envisioned the great work of Henri Cartier-Bresson. In my mind it was engrave from my memory bank to try and emulate his work.

My friend Jenny Acosta managed to grab the picture that I wanted. I had told her how and where to shoot, as I made myself the model of the image.

So here it is, inspired by Henri Cartier-Bresson. Thanks to masters like him, we are able to study and expand our visions and creativity.

Nikon D80 `18-135 Zoom Nikkor Lens

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Street Photography 1.22.12

2012-01-23T09:34:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I had the chance to spend some time with my wife, and a good friend, who came to L.A. to hang out. They wanted to tag along with me in my photo hunt.

The morning was starting to out to be pretty crummy, the weather had a funky overcast, which no sun was being let in by the clouds. So we made the most of the morning, by taking on the side walk tour. The ladies did their thing window shopping, and me camping out on corner streets looking and starring at faces that catch my attention.

Capturing non-scripted portraiture of a woman standing in the side walk. Her face looks onto the camera with confusion. A morning hunt for street photography, capturing peoples personalities.

Nikon D80 `18-135 Zoom Nikkor Lens

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Let's Catch The Bus

2012-01-23T03:23:00.000-08:00

I'm in a new photo-essay project. I got off the train, per say, and now about to catch the bus.

I was inspired to keep documenting public transportation when I first originally shot my train series, 'Dramatizing Union Station'. It had a good reaction from my social friends, who really appreciated the work behind it. So I move forward with the theme of public transportation.

It took me a while to finally get out on the streets and start photoshooting buses. My first initial thought, a few weeks back was, wow, buses can be really boring to look at. With the weeks I was thinking about the project, I start looking at my strengths. Little by little I would see possible compositions for the bus, with the help from our good old friend, the sun.

Last week, I set fort to hunt for photos of the bus, and having the environment support the images. Buses that I envision would be in metropolitan streets. Downtown L.A. was perfect for me to capture the story of the buses, mixed in with the historic feel of the architecture. On this day, I started around 6 a.m. Its such a different feeling when you're in the city, and life around DTLA starts to move forward for the work day. I scouted my locations for several blocks, until, I ended up around 5th Street and Main. The light was just creeping from the East, as it starts to blanket the side walk trees, and the buildings. The nice warm and soft light made it ideal for me to camp out on the curve and wait for subjects connect with the light.

Sitting down in the curve, I had few trial and errors, shooting hand-held and trying various effects to create a mood. Then when the right settings was found, the composition, light, and subject was coming into the frame.

Nikon D80 `18-135 Zoom Nikkor Lens

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More pictures to come, come check back for updated blog post.

Refresh Look At Downtown LA

2012-01-12T04:18:00.000-08:00

This last two weeks, I've been motivated to get up early, and be part of the morning birds, per say. Last Tuesday morning, I woke up at 5:30 a.m. and made my way to DTLA. As soon as I parked, I noticed there was so much activity going around, even just before the sun rose. Workers from the garment districts, kitchen workers, film crews, street maintenance, etc. where already busy doing their daily duties.

The Taco trucks, parked almost in every corner selling coffee and pastries. As the hour went on, the sun illuminated this golden soft light and started to blanket the buildings and sidewalks. The Magic Hour has officially begun.

The image below was taken two hours after the sunrise. Pedestrians walking about in the city and going on with their business. I stood at the bus stop; in the corner of Broadway and 5th Street. I waited for subjects to pass by and unveil their stories in my camera. The initial composition I had spotted was the buildings and how light was shaping the details. As you look at the foreground building, there is light being reflected from an adjacent mirrored windows. Then light also is being shaped at the right side of the building. I waited a bit for something in motion, like a bus or person. I tried various shots before this subject, and I ended up capturing mostly men crossing the streets, with baggy pants. Those where not as strong compared to the one below. Finally, the right subject came into frame, the way she walked really communicated how her morning was going, happy with a touch of swag. Her arms swungs back and forth, as if she is ready to take on the world. Her body figured also complimented the image, as she was wearing tight clothes, which gave a nice figure to the silhouette.

In my days from theater studies, this felt like a great stage presence, or composition. Without this female subject, this image would not be strong.

Nikon D80 `18-135 Zoom Nikkor Lens

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5th and Main For Street Photography

2012-01-10T12:49:00.000-08:00

Spent the morning walking around the city streets of dtla. As the sun was rising, I was seeking for light to create the story. I came across 5th and Main. I sat a the curbside and waited for subjects to come into the light. If you wait for about 30 minutes, you will be surprised at the amazing pictures you can come up with. There was moments of trial and errors, but do it enough, you will find what you like.

The beautiful glow of the light makes everything so much better. Below is a little street photography, with light elevating the story.

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1.8.12 Street Photographin'

2012-01-08T10:50:00.000-08:00

Early start this morning, my original intentions was to capture fog photography. On the previous night, fog rolled into town pretty heavy, so, I figured, I would probably catch it this morning. But alas, the fog never came around my area, so I decided to make way for my weekly photography vlog, on Youtube. From 5 a.m. to sunrise, video recorded some footage and even managed to get some street photography. Here are a couple of images I took, at 5th and Spring in DTLA. Watch out for the video to come, my Vlog #2.

Typewriter Repair Man, Jesse Flores

2012-01-06T21:25:00.000-08:00

Here is an environmental and portraiture look at one of my favorite projects I shot, 'Typewriter Repair Man, Jesse Flores'.

October 2009

The art of repairing type writers has come down to only a handful of shops within the U.S. Jesse Flores, who's typewriter repair shop still holds fort, is one of the last remaining repair shops.

Walk into the, what I think, is a museum of its own, brings so much history not only in the parts, but also in the room air. To many, it may look like clutter, but to me, its a perfect example of environmental photography at it's best. I told Jesse, "leave it the way it is, don't move a thing."

Sit down a few minutes with Jesse, and he'll tell you stories of his past clients, acclaimed writers, who's hands had struck old and vintage keys of the type writers repaired. Books we know off, had been born from those typewriters. He even showed me, one of his prized possession, 1890's Oliver Type Writer, still in great condition.

From the last time I saw Jesse, he has invited me to the retirement center where he loves to play bingo and dance. His son now runs the place.

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Covering Media For Cinemills At the Master POV 2012

2012-01-05T17:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome bloggers, filmmakers, lighting technicians, photographers, and cinematographers. This year, I have the opportunity to be part of the Master POV. I will be covering media for Cinemills at the event. If you would like to meet up, click on the register button below.

Live tweets from the event @Cinemills

Personal tweets from @RussoMutuc

If you're into lighting, this will be the event for you. See you there!

Video

Behind The Scenes. from The Film Training Company on Vimeo.

Interview With Paul Crouch Jr. - Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN)

2012-01-04T16:41:00.000-08:00

Here is a video we did for Cinemills at the Createasphere Expo 2011. It was a quick setup, we literally took over the walkway around our booth, which made it a bit difficult for participants to walk by. This video turned out pretty good, considering the time it took to light it up. Having the Cinemills Cinesoft LED Luminaires made it easy to dial it the right color temperature, and matched it to my camera, which we shot it within a few minutes.

Here is the Cinesoft lighting fixture, really cool light to have, especially, for those quick setups.

12-30-11 DTLA Sunset

2011-12-30T19:37:00.000-08:00

12-30-11 Taken just a few hours ago at Broadway blvd. just a fewblocks from Chinatown. As the sunset drops from the horizon. The trainpasses under the bridge.

Nikon D-80 with settings f13 iso 800 and saturation at vivid.

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Crash Course on Documentary Short Films

2011-12-03T04:36:00.001-08:00

My first experience in documentary short films, "Capturing Chaos". Produced by my good friend Keith McQuiter. Back in 2007, I was given an opportunity to assist Keith in his project. Documenting two British brothers, working as stringers, in the mean streets of Los Angeles. The film was featured in Current TV, and aired several times throughout the years. Fast forward few years later, I've been inspired by Keith, and now working my way to creating still or moving images of my own.

My Second Photo Featured in L.A. Times Southern California Moments

2011-11-29T19:53:00.001-08:00

I was ecstatic when L.A. Southern California Moments administrator emailed me, and notified me about the posting of my second photo. My image was posted for November 18, 2011.

See my previous posting in the L.A. Times website

Manipulating Your Visual Perspective

2011-11-18T20:27:00.001-08:00

The control I have, over sharing is image, is manipulation and discomfort with your vision. Beware of my control.

Occupy LA November 17, 2011

2011-11-17T16:23:00.001-08:00

Photos from the Occupy L.A. protest held in Downtown Los Angeles.

Several LAPD patrol cars line up the street of Broadway.

LAPD marching in Broadway, to block the protestors.

LAPD getting ready to line up the streets

Woman being escorted by LAPD between Broadway and 3rd street, in DTLA.

Man speaks in front of the Occupy LA gathering in City Hall, DTLA

Man shouts during the gathering in front of City Hall, DTLA

Man wearing US flag stands in front of LAPD, between Broadway and 3rd Street.

LAPD in riot gear, near Figueroa and 4th Street.

Peace sign in City Hall, DTLA

The Frame That Puts The Story Together

2011-11-15T19:14:00.001-08:00

Last week, I had a photo assignment to shoot self portrait. I found this assignment to be a difficult one, for the reasons of; 1) I don't like being in front of the camera anymore 2) It's hard to focus on the image 3) Can't tell the actual frame and composition 4) Awkward stare from people passing by. 5) Time is always off. Thanks to Amy Oliver, my instructor, I was really challenged into a whole new level.

The images on this blog was my second attempt to capture a different look. I drove around and scouted for something that caught my attention. In my previous blog, you can see me in a natural element, such as the fog, shot late at night. While driving, I had ideas of shooting in the dark streets of the industrial buildings, next to the L.A. River in, Frog Town. While in route, I came across this empty frame, hung on the wall of a liquor store in York Blvd.

At first, I didn't know what I wanted, but as I tested some shots, and then creative juices started to flow. I've envisioned centralizing the idea of using an empty frame, and working my way around it. Instead of composing a typical, hold the frame, and stand inside of it, I wanted to go beyond it and use the frame as the central point to create a deeper story. On the top of my idea was to definitely have a post influence and manipulation with Photoshop. Because I was photographing myself, it took a lot longer than me being in back of the camera. I struggled a lot to get the right composition. It took several attempts to get the right shot. Once I had the system down, I challenged the idea with using various techniques in order to create a whole different look and feel.

Here are more examples of the self portrait shoot.

This next image took three different software to create the look, color, position, etc. After editing the image, it had a stronger impact on the subject, and the original story of the frame.

I have plans to shoot something like this, but on video. Check back here for updates.

Capturing A Rare Self Portrait

2011-11-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

Halloween night, after I spent the last few hours walking the streets of West Hollywood Halloween Costume Event capturing images, as I was driving home and I noticed the fog roll in.

I've always enjoyed shooting at night, especially, when fog blankets the streets. Since these nights are rare and very hard to capture, it was another opportunity to capture treasured still images. 3am I drove the gritty streets of L.A. and ridding along the L.A. River banks. I did a lot of park and go, but very limited time to really setup my scenes (with a tripod) as the fear kicked in a lot more. The fog was so thick and it made visibility very hard to see. I was really nervous someone might come out from the shadows to mug me. Normally, without the fog, I am capable of using my peripheral vision and have stronger senses to see if anyone is approaching me.

Here is my first image I'm posting up from my hunt on Foggy Halloween Night 2011.

Taking this shot, I was really on the edge, I was hearing the noise of shopping kart being pulled along the street, and very unfriendly can collectors stop to stare at me.

See my previous blog on FOG photography back in 2008

Circa 2008

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L.A. Times Socal Moments features "Stealing A Picture from a Picture"

2011-10-22T20:43:00.000-07:00

So my photo was featured on the L.A. Times website on October 22, 2011 for photo of the day.

Chachi Gonzales With Paul Mitchell in World Of Dance

2011-10-21T17:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I shot footage for World of Dance 'WOD' in San Diego. The representative of Paul Mitchell, Samantha, had asked me to take some still shots of Chachi Gonzales while she was being worked on by the hair and make-up artists.

Here are some samples of the work I did for the event.

Dramatic Light With White Balance To Daylight

2011-10-21T17:34:00.000-07:00

Recently submitted my assignment for my dramatic light hunt. The goal for this assignment is to capture various light sources, with the white balance set to sun at all times. For this color temperature, usually its at 5600k so capturing various lights create a whole different mood into the photography.

Here are some samples from my findings using my Nikon D80 with my 18-135 zoom lens.

The image below was a created shot, using Milk of Magnesia, and some creative lighting from my cell phone.

Dramatizing Union Station

2011-10-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

I was on the hunt recently on the ideas of motion. In my photo 6 class, with Amy Oliver, she had an assignment for the students to capture subjects in motion, specifically, blur or sharpness. I took the Metro from Highland Park to Union Station. The images below were additional finds while I was at the Union Station. I got lost looking and seeking for light.

The Union Station has such an amazing light penetrating through the windows, that diffused light gives it that look, specifically, for train stations.

I shot these images with my Nikon D80 along with my kit lens. I changed the settings of my camera to b&w, to give it the feel, while I was in location. In post, I just enhanced the the image with sharpness, highlights, and contrast.

New Design Elements in Photography

2011-10-12T20:40:00.000-07:00

Since the start of the new semester from photography classes, I've been itching to just keep shooting in the streets. This past summer has been nothing but video shoots, and mostly guerrilla style, with very minimal control of the scenes. Having been back on the streets and hunting, the scenes are played out in front of you to capture, and I get to control them and compose them accordingly.

At this very moment, I've realized another slope on the learning curve just raised, and time to challenge myself even further.

The objective of this series is to capture design elements. Looking for lines, contrast, shapes, dots, perspective, texture, balance, and more.

Face

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My Make Shift Magazine

2011-10-12T20:32:00.000-07:00

My ideas and vision of what would it be like if I ran my own magazine, I would call it 'Celebrating Life'.

Once in a while I find myself tinkling with design and color manipulation. This method of discipline has got me to a level of understanding color correction even more.

This image I shot of a woman about a month ago. She had the nicest personality and the warmest smile. So I captured her moment of celebrating life.

A Focal Finder Production.

Creepy Spaces 2: l look at the aging brick and mortar.

2011-09-16T15:26:00.000-07:00

I am long over due to update my Creepy Spaces collection. In this series, I managed to take a few hours out of my busy schedule and just delve back into street life. My escape from the structured norm, and mingle with the unknown. (First series Creepy Spaces)

More to come...

See the first Creep Spaces series, back in 2010.

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Unexpected Results - Photography

2011-09-13T19:33:00.000-07:00

I recently went to an outdoors event and I had my Nikon D80 along with my flash unit. Accidentally, I had triggered the camera and it took a random shot, and this was the result. This amazing light subject really caught my attention so I touched it up a bit in post for brightness.

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Studio Lighting With Cinemills Cinesoft LED Luminaries

2011-09-13T19:27:00.000-07:00

I recently had the chance to lit up a test subject with the Cinemills Cinesoft LED Luminaries It's not much of a still life setup, but with the LED light, it really made the subject come alive. The control features blew me away, especially, with options from tungsten to daylight. From this point on, I WANT ONE!

Captured With Blackberry Phone

Here are some sample images I took with the Cinesoft.

5D Mark II

Check out their Youtube video on the LED light.

Swimsuit Image Featured Top Tear In Etsy

2011-09-11T14:49:00.000-07:00

The swimsuit image I shot for Meshalo has been featured in two of their treasury section. The first feature is the tribute to 9-11 highlighted in green. Theme: UNITED WE STAND! TRIBUTE TO PEOPLE WE LOST AT 9-11

This next section of Etsy features the Americana.

Here is the original image I shot, the models name is Vanessa Sheri.

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Tootsy The Clown Fullfilling Her Summer (Photo Comic Series)

2011-09-10T10:58:00.000-07:00

Tootsy has been on a major get-lost-vacation-mode this summer. We recently caught up with her, and told us what she'd been up to. Ironically, we caught her in the weight scale measuring herself. She does seem to appear a little bigger, which radiates to her unhappiness and very unmotivated look. All she wants to do is watch The Food Network.

We finally realized why Tootsy is so unhappy and unmotivated. Look at all the junk food she has been going through. Apparently, the creative crew (Arnie and Mr. Klop) has been traveling the world and spreading the word. Ends up she decided to just kick back this summer and just eat, eat, eat.

Even her friends; Mr. Giraffe and Ms. Moo Moo came by to see how she was doing. Of course, Ms. Moo Moo being the most outspoken of her friends told Tootsy, "you're too fat!"

Taking it too heart, Tootsy needed to just clear her head, she took a quick ride around the neighborhood. As she was peddling along the side-walk, she came across an ambulance with someone being gurney out of their home, covered in sheets. It was an eye opener for Tootsy. She knew she needed to make some changes in her life. She rushed back home to let her friends know, she's getting out of the junk food craze, and turning in a new leaf. From now on, she is on a mission to exercising and finding the healthiest foods available. She's going Vegetarian! And off she went...

Tootsy is on a mission to get her stamina back. While in the process of looking for healthy foods, she would ride in the city in hopes of finding a place to eat. Her friends came out to support her. "Go Tootsy!" Says Mr. Giraffe.

Tootsy is really in the zone, here she is working up the cardiovascular with some of her neighbors at a local park. She's out to burn some major calories today.

Mr. Giraffe working with Tootsy, and making sure she stays on track with her exercise, more importantly, staying off the junk food.

Oh no! Looks like the wolf-pack gang is out-and-about and looking for initiation victims. Story goes, these four legged animals are out to hunt and eat you for dinner. Could it be, Tootsy and Mr. Giraffe just ended up in the wrong place and the wrong time? Let's hope not. They need to flee out of there quickly.

Tootsy and Mr. Giraffe manage to outrun the pack, but as soon as they turned the corner the alpha dog was there waiting for them. I hear this big white ferocious beast has a killer under-bite, and could snap a neck with one try.

To be continued...

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Video Featured In DUB Magazine and World of Dance

2011-09-03T21:31:00.000-07:00

The video [Youtube] I worked on and the footage I shot is smack front cover of DUB Magazine's website. I helped shoot the video for Street Kingdom, in the summer of 2011. I brought the video team in two different locations, and finally ended up here in DTLA. The lighting setup was relatively easy, use 2 cars and point directly at the artists. The background was already lit from the normal lighting from the building.

Here is the Youtube video.

Chinatown Summer Nights - August 28, 2011 'Celebrating Life'

2011-08-27T21:36:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we went over to Chinatown to experience the Summer Nights event. It seemed like a perfect night to be out-and-about and taste some local foods and chill amongst my fellow Angelinos. The vibe in general was very chill, and it was all good times. The event planning seemed in order, and the whole thing went off smoothly. I didn't come across any issues that night.

The one area that I truly staked out was in front of the KCRW DJ stage, the music was on point with soul, reggae, and a fusion of other jams that tickled your ear to move.

As you can see from the sweaty and smiling faces of the people, it was a great night. To be in Los Angeles in this time of age is exciting. It seems like the whole DTLA and Chinatown look has revived itself and re-invented to a whole new culture. L.A. has so much to offer, the local artist and communities are coming together to make these events really come alive. I can't wait to see what's ahead.

Walking The Streets of San Francisco [Culture and Personality]

2011-08-24T18:05:00.000-07:00

I recently came back from San Francisco after filming for World of Dance in Vallejo Friday, Saturday, and Sunday morning. Sunday afternoon I had the chance to get out to the city, and capture a few images. I had a goal in mind to shoot loads of street photography, with the remaining time I had in San Francisco, and connect with the local street photographers. My original plan was to meet some of the artist and interview them on video about their work and the locations they shoot at. After WOD, I was trying my best to gather as much energy to get in the mood of shooting. Ultimately, didn't have enough time to shoot videos, instead, took a few hours to walk the city and just capture what I can get, still images. [See more FocalFinder.com ]

I was fortunate enough to get in contact with a good friend who has recently moved to the city, and had tips on places to go.

This first image below, I captured in Little Italy, there was a mini-alley event with local crafts being sold. There was soft light from the sun that was illuminating, and really blanketed the walls and the painting.

The image below was taken in front of a restaurant. It's not one of the best photos, but my objective was to practice my psuedo journalistic approach and catch people off guard. These days, having very little time to actually shoot photography, I find myself a little more timid and soft when it comes to approaching people or capturing the raw moments. So this image helps me train my senses and capture the moment, even though it's not the most represented of. So the practice continues.

The next day, I had the privilege to use the rent-a-car to roam around the city, and explore other neighborhoods. We discovered some amazing coffee shops around Castor and Mission area. Escalated up the hills of Twin Peaks, and boarded some vintage trams.

My Tribute To Alexander Graham Bell

2011-08-12T10:02:00.000-07:00

These days I long to get out and capture something that inspires me, street photography. Last night, I had the chance to just unwind and enjoy the masses at the Art Walk DTLA. I took my Nikon camera, but only shot one image of street. Tho I enjoyed people watching, I was not motivated to shoot them, perhaps due the the volume and clutter around the streets.

Heading towards Persian Square and nearing towards the Metro, I came across this payphone. I've shot other payphones in the past, but this one stood out. The yellow handset, and the combined two phones in one location caught my eye, in conjunction with the texture and lines around the subject.

I took my flash unit and asked my wife to hold it on a low angle from the side. This is the result

Nikon D80
Lens 18- 135
f 8/15
Speedlight unit

Having a background in Telecommunications, it seems fitting to tribute my work to Alexander Graham Bell. Voice communication has certainly gone a long way.

When you look at this image, you can't help but notice the impact it made in society and where it's leading to. As you stare at it, there is a sense of comfort and/or discomfort, fear, and at times disgust. Imagine a block without payphones, how dull and boring? Having these units around, there is a sense of connectivity, and the idea of someone behind the microphone. Even tho there's a big percentage of society that hardly use these units. Respect and enjoy them visually while they last.

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Distinguishing A Style

2011-08-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

In the words of marketing talk, "why should I use you?", or "what makes you different from the rest?". For years I have been trying to define a style of photography and now motion. I knew what I like to shoot, and how to shoot it. But now, since I come across the pool of collective and saturated artist in the field, I find myself competing for work. Whereas before, it was purely for a hobby. Recently, I was asked again on those questions that makes my style stand out. Then all of a sudden it hit me. L.A., shadows, light, night shoots, angles, and investigate shoots. So from this point on, I consider my work a psuedo L.A. Noir like feel. So I guess I'm sticking to that for now. See some of my images and let me know what you think, noir or nay?

Here is an image taken by a friend, the goal was to capture me in an environment and doing some investigative work.

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Robert Vargas Presents - Red Zebra

2011-08-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

Last week I was invited to film an event along with the 'major' of Art Walk DTLA. Robert Vargas hosts a monthly event called Red Zebra, an installation of creative artists in one roof. I referred to this evening as a visual stimulant, as it had so much to offer for a free event. Live painting by Robert Vargas, burlesque show, fashion show, tattooing, photo booth, live band, DJ, dancers, and so many other performers. I had the privileged of being in front of the action and having access to the best vantage point.

Here are some images from the event. 90% of the images where shot by Duane Than, I just corrected the colors to give it that extra ump. I mostly shot video that night, and in the process of cutting it.

Want More Pics From The Event?

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Behind The Scene Swimsuit Fashion Shoot July 2011

2011-08-06T22:02:00.000-07:00

Here is a video produced by Devin Lockett. I was on site shooting photography for Meshalo and their summer line of swimsuits. Here are some images I captured from the project.

Devin was on site capturing the mood of the shoot. I've got some cameos on the video with the back of my head. Enjoy.

Credits
Meshalo Fashion
Devin Lockett (Video)

Focal Finder.com
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Disciplining My Editing Techniques

2011-08-02T12:34:00.000-07:00

Every few months, I find myself re-editing old images. This is so I can visually see my progression into editing. I spend roughly between one to two hours per day practicing. I can really tell the advancement I've been making in my touch ups.

The image below was taken in LACC in 2010. I came across this student, which I really liked her look. I took her just around the corner where she was hanging out from. I got lucky in scouting the background so quickly, otherwise, I would've lost the opportunity to shoot her.

Here is the latest update on the edit. The light is a lot more complimental to her skin tone, considering it was shot around 1p.m.

Nikon D80
ISO 100 or less.
f 22

:::See complete list of my style/model photography:::

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Photo Essay: MOS WANTED MONDAYS

2011-08-02T01:13:00.000-07:00

Weekly Monday dance classes Featuring the top choreographer’s from Mos Wanted Crew,

the community and television. Experience and learn new styles and moves from our weekly teachers

and end the night with a freestyle dance session with everyone after class has ended.

Also, you never know who might just drop by to hang out!

GRAND OPENING MONTH!

MOS WANTED MONDAYS: AUGUST LINEUP

08/01 D-TRIX (ABDC Season 6 Judge / SYTYCD)

08/07 CHACHI GONZALES (ABDC Season 6 Champion / I Am Me)

08/15 BAM MARTIN (Mos Wanted Crew / Movement Lifestyle)

08/22 CHARLES NGUYEN (ABDC Season 5 Champion / Poreotics)

08/29 JET LI (ABDC Season 5 Champion / Poreotics)

Quest Center

11976 Artesia Blvd. Artesia, CA 90701

Registration check in begins at 7:30pm.

Please arrive early, as classes will fill up fast.

Class begins at 8pm.

***PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT OUR BRAND NEW CLASSES***

Follow them on twitter for up to date news about Mos Wanted Mondays!

Twitter: @WorldofDance

For any questions and need more information please email:

Myron@worldofdancetour.com

BLOG BY:

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Not A Propaganda, Just A Community Of Them

2011-07-30T12:41:00.000-07:00

I recently created a new Facebook page, well more like a group. Instead of the Like page, I've created a community page where other like minded or viewers can connect. Composition, A Photographer's Story (Join Group Stories) This a place for an International Affair, a group of people looking to network and learn from each other.

Years back, I had a big Myspace group called, International Traveling Bums. Here no holding back on real-to-real conversations about traveling and backpacking. Here was something we helped start, represent your place.

So make sure to come and represent your place.

Facebook Group Page

Facebook Like Page

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Walking Tour Of Downtown And Kits Beach Vancouver, Canada. Fantasizing I'm A Travel Magazine

2011-07-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

A month later I blog about my trip in Canada. It's been a busy summer, but all great opportunities. So to back track, last month I was invited to be part of the film crew for World of Dance, Vancouver, Canada, or also known as Van City. It was a very interesting experience, to say the least, mostly due to the hurdles we came across with. Aside from many of the technical difficulties, the one true experience was to get out and see the city.

Below are some images capture within a few hours time frame. We started out in Downtown Vancouver, and then made our way to Kits Beach to watch the sunset.

The city of Vancouver has so much to offer, as a visual spectator, I couldn't stop looking and hunting for visual treasures. A mixture of old and new, there was always something stimulating my mental f-stop. I was only able to see the city for a few hours, and each block I walked, I was able to capture some interesting aspects of the city life.

So as I strolled along the streets and beach of Vancouver, I had thoughts in my mind fantasizing I'm capturing images for a travel magazine. So here are my make-pretend travel magazine like images.

See more images on travel on my website.

Kits Beach, there is something there that I can really appreciate. Having to sit down at the beach and watch the tranquil cove style waters, it reminded me of the same experience in Uruguay, the opposite side of the world. The people seem generally happy, especially, during the warm season. People took in the beauty of this magnificent view and it's oh so, lazy like breezes. You can sit and just take it all in for hours as the sun would set around 9 p.m.

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I Just Got Schooled On The Physics OF K.R.U.M.P. Dance

2011-07-25T19:05:00.000-07:00

I was recently asked by WOD ( World Of Dance ) to shoot a mini-video promo for their San Francisco event. The group we filmed was called Street Kingdom. They had been part of MTV's Americas Best Dance Crew Season 6.

Shooting the video I was the DP for the project. I had brought WOD, and the dance crew, to some of my best and secret locations within L.A. Not really a secret, but mostly places where the average Angelinos would not be hanging out at. Bringing my street photography into the film world, per say.

The video shoot was really interesting. I had known about this project two days prior, and did a little research about the crew. I noticed they would do a lot of foot stomping, so right away, I was already thinking of camera angles. I wanted to see if I can try and film them using elements (water or dirt) to enhance the look. I did some shopping and tried some new tricks for camera angles. I will post up the outcome once the video is published on WOD Youtube channel.

This is my second shoot for talent from MTV's ABDC, see my other shoot with We Are Heroes.

Specs:

Canon 5D Mark II

f 22 ISO 1600

Tapping Into The Sex Appeal

2011-07-25T18:41:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks back, I was inquired by a fashion designer to shoot her line. Apparently, she had a photographer cancel on her on the last minute, and she needed me to help with the shoot. All this happened the night before. After surfing through their line, it seemed like a fun project.

On this shoot, her new vintage swimsuit line needed some commercial look. She had invited about ten models and four photographers. The location was near LAX, at the beach. I had agreed to shoot the event for exposure, but my only issue was the time of the shoot. They wanted to shoot from 11pm to 3pm, the worst kind of light. I asked them if they had a diffuser because the light would be really harsh.

So here are some sample images I took from the event. If you notice there are parts of the body with minimal light, so the shadows and the way the model hovers over creates this unwanted shadow. I currently don't own any speed light flash, so I was only working with natural and bounced light.

Specs:
Canon 5D Mark II . f 11 . ISO 100
Silver reflective bounce

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Romancing The Canon 5D Mark II With DTLA Street Lights

2011-07-25T18:06:00.000-07:00

The street lights in DTLA offers something more than lighting up the streets. In my eyes, it romanticizes the not only the surrounded architecture, but the living beings that walk them every night. The lights have this old diffused look to it, which helps softens the skin tone on human skin tone.

DTLA has a new breed of people, it hasn't seen this type of night life in over 20 years. Now that new urbanization is taking into effect, more color, contrast, and stories are unfolding.

Using the Canon 5D Mark II it really captures a unique look to visual aspects of the film.Shooting at shallow depth of field, I decided to always isolate the subject from the background, this way the focus is always on the face, especially, the eyes.

Below are some image capture from the raw footage, as you can see, many of the images has beautiful soft lighting. In conjunction with shadows, it really adds to the look and feel of the moment.

See the first web series on Street Style DTLA June 2011

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New Video Web Series, Street Style DTLA

2011-07-19T20:07:00.001-07:00

I have a new web series I have been working on in the last month. Originally, I was going to call it Street Fashion, but as I filmed more subjects, I felt the fashion did not quite describe the actual project. So I re-named it to Street Style. I have been going out and filming almost every weekend. The object of the film is to really capture the raw moments of people walking the streets of DTLA. Creating a visual experience on how it feels to be in L.A. and capturing the noir like backgrounds. Using my approach on cinematography. Here I get more of a natural and really clever responses from people.

I've done this project before internationally in Costa Rica and Guatemala, but it didn't have the same intensity as it does now. The key part of this documentary is the substance people have in them, most of the subjects I came across with had a little more 'loose' approach on the interview. Perhaps it's the feeling of a good Friday or Saturday night, in combination of fluids in their system. They felt more comfortable the camera was is in front of them as time went on.

Check back often for the premier of the film. The June series is going to be entertaining, but the July one has got some really interesting people. I believe it's within a week that I will launch it from my website. I am still working on the final touches on it, plus the landing page. I'm hoping I will have some advertising on the site, depending on the time I have to shoot the images for some items to be sold such as high-end purses, shoes, and wrist bands.

Above is the old promo page I made, soon I will change it to the Street Style look.

As always keep up to date with my work with:

It's Official, I'm Now Part Of The Model Mayhem Network

2011-07-19T19:50:00.000-07:00

It's been a few weeks since my last post, and in those few weeks opportunities came in abundance. So I will try my best to catch up on my blog.

I've opened up an account with Model Mayhem and it took about a week to approve them of my page. Interesting setup they have, it felt more like an elite community I was applying for. But once I was approved I started to work on my portfolio. I dug up a lot of my psuedo 'model' photos I shot in the last two years. Really, I only had about 2 people, Marta and Karla. Within a week of having the account in Model Mayhem, the models started to reach out to me. They seem to connect with the style of photos I create. The first in the inquiry was a model named RJ, which I will post up more images on a later time. As the days went on, I had more and more models inquiring for a TFCD short for Trade For CD. There was other acronyms I came across, which I had to take a few hours and study the whole new languages of the site.

So here it is, my official site in Model Mayhem

I also went ahead and created a landing page on my website, here users can have a little bit more information on my work, and get a better idea on my style. Check out the video I recorded yesterday. I'm preparing myself to be more connected with my viewers.

Geek To Sexy At The E3 Expo 2011

2011-06-09T18:07:00.000-07:00

My first experience at the E3 Expo held in L.A. Convention Center I was blown away by the amount of geeks, I mean gamers, in the event. I look at myself and how games have evolved into peoples lives. I feel so out dated. I gaze at my gaming console and think, I am O.G. the very first Nintendo System, still alive and kicking.

My invitation there was not originally the gaming experience, but to actually document a dance group, in a big movement into the mainstream cultural event. World Of Dance has been in the scene to bring in the grassroots of dance from across the U.S. and create a platform for creative street dance artists. This was one of their events that they were part of, and I was able to capture about 10 minutes worth of footage to help with the videos.

Below are some image capture from the videos Focal Finder has shoot. The dance crew We Are Heroes were winners of a big dance competition with MTV.

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Still Life of a Street Biker

2011-06-07T19:48:00.000-07:00

On June 5th, 2011 I was with a couple of friends and my wife. We decided to head to Olvera Street to go people watching and mostly to keep the ladies entertained. I came across a group of street bikers, and I saw this light that was radiating from the West. So I asked this guy if he can do a bike jump near the light, and here is the result.

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Introducing The Newest Member of Big Stuff Adventure

2011-06-07T19:36:00.000-07:00

Adventures of Tootsy The Clown.

Recently I came across an outpost vintage store in Mt. Washington. My intentions were to go out and capture street art. While I was driving down Figueroa, I noticed a 7 feet long shark in front of the store. So I checked it out, and instant, was hooked on this store. I roamed the store for about 20 minutes, until I can across this clown on a bike.

So purchased her for $10, and then walked about a block away and started playing with composition. Here are some samples from that day.

Tootsy ridding with the critical mass bike ridahs.

Tootsy riding along with the clouds.

Profile shot of Tootsy.

Tootsy riding along the river banks of L.A.

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The Isolated Purple Flower

2011-03-27T10:56:00.001-07:00

It's a lazy Sunday, and just working on meditating with some of the tranquil images from the rain. Lately, L.A. has been getting it's share of of H20. Spring is here, and nature is popping.

See more images on my Facebook page.

Little Shop of Horrors Has a New Face

2011-03-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

Here my rendition of Audrey from Little Shop of Horror. I had starred at this image for quite a bit to get the connection with the face.

See more images from my Fabebook page.

Life and death, all bunched up into one.

2011-03-23T09:08:00.000-07:00

In the recent weeks, Los Angeles has been having it's share of the rain. It's been a long time since the water measures has met its goal. With the downpour, I took advantage of the amazing subjects.

Lacking rain boots, I just strapped on some sneakers and started my hunt. I was also equipped with an umbrella that was a clear covering, which allowed light to come in through the umbrella and into my camera.

I walked around my neighborhood, and after an or so, I was able to find amazing compositions and subjects. See more images from my nature hunt. Focal Finder

We've got a very interactive Facebook page, come by and say hello.

Black and White Calendar 2011

2011-03-22T17:23:00.000-07:00

Last year, one of my assignments from a film class was to shoot, process, develop, and create images from black and white prints. I chose the subject iconic liquor stores signage. Documenting aging signs appeals to my taste at the moment, as gentrification and new development take over the history of that store.

Camera: Hassleblad
Film: 120 Kodak

It was a year ago I started this project, it's strange to see a couple of the stores close down since then. It's sad to see them go, I just hope they never tear down the building or take down the signs.

Here is one of the image/month from the calendar. I had scanned all the 12 images and posted on my website. Focal Finder

Visit my Facebook page for more up-to-date image works.

I'm a tree HUGGER

2011-01-06T19:02:00.000-08:00

Well more like, a tree documentor. I find seasonal leaf less trees to be great subjects on walls. Lines, shapes, shadows, and how it leads into different directions entices my focal point.

Yesterday, while in break from class, natural light was nicely lit, as it shine slightly on the tree, it also covered most of the brick walls. It had a nice warm and slightly diffused light from the partially cloudy skies.

More images on landscapes >
Nikon D80
Nikon DX 18-135mm

Ever heard of Bird Man?

2011-01-05T20:37:00.000-08:00

Here is the real Bird Man. An activist for pigeons, this great person showed me a little bit of what he does. While I was driving to school, I came across this man pushing his kart, filled with bird food. So I stopped to ask him what he was doing, and why? After a brief synopsis of his work, I was really intrigued into what he does. An actor, private investigator, activist, security guard, and many more.

I managed to capture people acting in their natural elements. Strange to others, but for a photographer, it was portraiture art. I find it fascinating capturing people doing things outside the box, per say.

See more image on portraits on my collection >
Nikon D80
Nikon DX 18-135mm

New Light Subjects

2011-01-05T20:34:00.001-08:00

I was eating in El Pollo Loco restaurant, and while scuffing down my chicken burrito, I can across this light shape coming from the seat divider. I played around with the composition, and here is what I came up with.

See more images on Light Subjects >

My New Vague Profile Photo

2011-01-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

I have very little pictures that I take of myself, considering, I am usually the one in the back end of the camera. Here I saw a night light, and I told my wife to try and capture it. She did a fantastic job in capturing the image.

So, I present to you, ME!

Nikon D80
Nikon DX 50mm

Still Life Photography - What's around my house

2011-01-05T20:24:00.000-08:00

As much as possible, I try and practice my still life photography. Whenever I see a composition around my house, I shoot it.

On this day, the dishes where piled up, and the light was just coming in through the small window from the kitchen. After I ate, I placed my own plate on the sink, and it capture the composition into my eyes. So here is what I came up with.

See more images from my still life collection >
Nikon D80
Nikon DX 18-135mm

Moving On - Vacation Location #2

2011-01-05T20:16:00.000-08:00

On the second day of my mini-vacation, I took the family to Big Bear Lake. We lucked out with lush powder. Snow, snow, and even more snow. So much snow we got caught in a think blanket of it, and had to try and wait it out. Traffic was backed up to Las Vegas. We took the back roads to Big Bear via Victorville area. On the way back, that is when we got caught into the insane red lights of thousands of cars. A span of 1 mile took about 1 hour.

In route to Big Bear, we stopped for a bit so I can capture some desert personalities. the image below was taking in the time span of 5 minutes. I was trying to see what I can come up with, once I arrive in this type of scene, and what is around. I was pleasantly surprised to discover and reveal so much personalities in the desert. Thanks to the sun peeking out of the clouds, in between rain and snow. Here are the first set of pictures from our drive to Big Bear.

Desert personality.

See more images on my travel section >
Nikon D80
Nikon DX 18-135mm

My first vacation of the last year

2011-01-05T20:06:00.001-08:00

So I manage to squeeze some time off, and took my wife and mother along with me. Decided to stay local and rented a car. I had planned on driving as far as I can go, everyday. On our first day, I took them to Salton Sea. I have always been intrigued by this man-made disaster or a lake. The pictures I have been seeing has been something that has always interested me. Dark, mysterious, and plenty of content to document.

I was only there for two hours, on the best time of the day, sunset. I managed to capture some breathtaking images, which I feel has suited my long need to come visit this place. I was so impressed, and I am looking forward to coming back, and really focusing on a deeper photography connection.

Here are some of the first images I had edited.

The image above was something I saw, and really wanted to focus on. at first, I took some shots from below, but after a few frames into it, I saw in my viewfinder the amazing composition this displaying in my view dslr. I was very pleased with the outcome, considering the light was decreasing.

I always have a 'thing' for shooting angles that requires me kneeling and unable to view my view finder. It's a form of gamble photography. I set my focus points first, and then try and compose vertical or horizontal. After a few shots, I managed to pick an image that really communicated to what I was looking for. Above is the image I came up with.

One word, tranquility. In the breeze of dead fish smell, the sight overshadowed the foul smell.

See more images from my travel section >
Nikon D80
Nikon DX 18-135mm

2011-01-05T20:03:00.000-08:00

Did some recent tinkering with photos from my cousin Jessica's wedding. In 2008, I was invited to shoot her wedding in Hawaii, here are some of the images I took from that wedding.

Mike and Jessica, congratulations on the marriage and the addition to the family!

More images from weddings >

Nikon D80
Nikon DX 18-135mm

The Flamenco Dancer Dances At Solo Sol Restaurant

2011-01-05T19:56:00.000-08:00

With my on-going documentation of the Flamenco Dancer, she has been hustling working with local business to create a unity of art. In Boyle Heights, they are starting a huge push for an Art Walk in front of the Mariachi Plaza train station. In collaboration of Solo Sol Restaurant, the local artists are uniting to make this growing thirst for art come alive.

This shot was taken while in performance, the event was a huge success. Considering the it had limited space, it was enough to capture the mood and theme. It really felt like we are in a tapas bar, in the corner of a Spanish street.

See more pictures and full document updates here >

Canon 5D Mark 2

Costa Rica Flash Back

2011-01-05T19:52:00.000-08:00

So I manage to get around editing my 2009 pictures from Costa Rica. When I was there, I shot the wedding for Alonzo and Kim, at the same time, took it to the street and tried to capture the culture and personality.

More wedding images >
More travel images >
Nikon D80
Nikon DX 18-135mm

Jam Sessions, Flamenco Style

2010-12-16T10:40:00.001-08:00

Rocio and Kai team up to jam practice at her studio. Focal Finder follows the story of the Flamenco Dancer from Boyle Heights.

bou.tique speciality orders

2010-12-16T10:33:00.000-08:00

Focal Finder collaborating with a talented Beverly Hills designer. New images from the latest still life shoot.

The Flamenco Dancer - Teaser

2010-12-08T20:29:00.001-08:00

Film Shoot With the Flamenco Dancer (Los Angeles Style Spanish Steps)

2010-12-06T01:58:00.000-08:00

Our first exterior film shoot along with stills turned out great. The Flamenco Dancer, was showcasing some of her best moves, many spectators came to what was going in this famous steps.

Concept Worx - Transmission Breakdown

2010-11-16T04:36:00.000-08:00

More Concept Images>>

Actor/Model: Jesse Yamasita

L.A. Street Art 2

2010-11-16T04:09:00.001-08:00

Here is the second sets of images I took a few months ago. Finally got around to editing them.
More images>>

West Hollywood Halloween Costume Carnaval 2010

2010-11-16T03:27:00.001-08:00

Santa Monica, CA. - The famous yearly Weho costume party was in full effect. A sea of paraders filled the streets with entertaining costumes.

Here are some images from the event.

More images and video>>

The Flamenco Dancer

2010-11-16T03:19:00.001-08:00

In conjunction with Spanish for Success, we have teamed up with one of Los Angeles' famous Flamenco Dancer. Rocio Ponce

Rocio brings traditional Flamenco dance to the heart of Boyle Heights. Classically trained, she mastered the famous Spanish dance, and has closely perfected her techniques.

More images and video>>

Reflected Light from Rear View Mirror

2010-10-27T21:17:00.000-07:00

Still life - light coming in from all angles of my Toyota Tacoma. Objects hanging from my rear-view mirror.
More Images >

Mole Richardson and Panavision Day

2010-10-26T18:54:00.000-07:00

A SMPTE Sponsored Event coming this Fall 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, October 25, 2010
Mole-Richardson Company
is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of motion picture lighting fixtures. They design and produce the industries’ innovative lighting products from their facilities here in Hollywood. Their sales and rental facilities are located throughout the world. You can’t go to a studio in Hollywood without seeing their fixtures, painted in their distinctive Mole Maroon color, hanging by the hundreds from any sound stage or studio grids. Mole-Richardson Products are the standard to which all other lighting companies strive to attain.

Hands-on Louma Crane Demonstrations of PANAVISION Camera Systems courtesy of PANAVISION and J.L. Fisher

This year PANAVISION will be on hand showing off their latest PANAVISION Remote Camera Systems and accessories. J.L.Fisher, makers of premiere Camera Dolly systems, will also be on hand showing off their products as well. The two systems will be combined and students will have the opportunity for hands-on demonstrations of both products. Due to the high demand for this hands-on demonstration, there will be a separate sign up sheet for this event. If you’re planning on becoming a camera assistant or camera operator, this is a must attend event for some hands-on experience in your chosen field. Sign ups must be done in person beginning at 10:00 A.M.

(Visit Focal Finder for more images)

Steve Krul talks about Panavision cameras and cranes.

Rolf Mendez with students

Preparing to dolly the camera.

Rolf Mendez controlling the camera

Nikon D80
Nikon DX 18-135mm

Waves

2010-10-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

Next Image >

“Down by the seashore, where life is a little easier!"

More travel images >
Nikon D80
Nikon DX 18-135mm

Recap - CicLAvia 2010 (Image Set 1)

2010-10-12T02:58:00.000-07:00

On 10-10-10 CicLAvia cruising the streets of Los Angeles.
Focal Finder.com

Next Image >

Volume 163, Number 2

2010-10-12T01:06:00.000-07:00

Enhancing the portfolio with published content via The Collegian.
Collegian Oct 210 Volume 163, Number 2

Rocking From Side to Side

2010-10-04T04:16:00.000-07:00

マシンを溝への歓迎

(MORE IMAGES)
ENTER

Still Life Cognac

2010-09-29T19:58:00.000-07:00

Documenting the articles in my possession. The sexy Cognac I bought in Paris, 2001. Never been opened, now a subject for my still life practices. Along side our 15 yr. old drinking glass.

Light setup was all natural and a reflector.

Creepy Spaces

2010-09-13T04:23:00.000-07:00

In the heart of Pasadena are spaces that reflect the history of the city.

Food Finder Blog: J-Town

2010-09-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

My attempt to blog about LA foods. Go to Food Finder for complete photo essay.

Focal Finding Street Art

2010-08-31T22:16:00.000-07:00

Sleep deprived for almost 20hrs, I was testing my ability to find a focal point in light and subject. I stumbled across street art that captured my attention. It was really challenging trying to find the right composition and lighting. But somehow, most of the shots I took I played it safe by shooting 'point-and-shoot style' with the exception of a few of them, which I manage to find unique composition utilizing light source.

More samples of Los Angeles personality images.

From Editing Snob to Addicted User

2010-08-31T01:41:00.000-07:00

Photoshop, does it upgrade or downgrade your images? My infantile days into the DSLR, I was sold on the idea that images should not be manipulated, to the point the original Raw or Jpeg will lose it's true intentions. But the honest truth, even with other users, we REALLY Suck at Photoshop. We convinced ourselves and our viewers editing is a bad thing, and it devalues your creative image. For a long time I snob the idea of editing images to make it look better. The images came out somewhat decent, and did not have the 'pop' reaction to them.

Flash forward to 2010, I was a hypocrite to think editing devalues your images, where in fact, it really enhances it. If the images where focused on journalism, then, there are standard rules that apply for light editing. With the goal of finding the focal point into photography, the story in the subject can also be discovered in the editing mode. Levels, fades, and filters all add a mood and style. Editing also has it's form of creativity.

So now I'm an Adobe believer with intentions of story telling through images. -Focal Finder-

Understanding Light Source

2010-08-31T01:21:00.000-07:00

After almost 2 years, the phrase, "It's all about the light," started to register in the mind, especially, in this complex and expensive art of photography. Understanding the light source and how they create a mood, makes a HUGE difference in your images. 'Wow!' The initial reaction when you actually register it on the spot.

The days of multi-frame shots is no more. Having gone back to the basics of film, it has truly narrowed my way of selecting a subject and isolating it. Moving forward, there is still much to learn, hence, I have crossed over the NERDville of photography.

Focal Fin der [d ot] com

Sample light subjects - http://focalfinder.com/gallery/light/

Spirits from Casualties of War

2010-08-12T09:51:00.001-07:00

Stop The War Rally - Hollywood, CA. 2008

My approach to student photojournalism. I tweaked some images to B&W, and a few I left in color. Re-opening up some of the images and editing them a bit has been somewhat full-filling, as I reflect when I first started to use my dslr (Nikon D80). Most of the images are being updated on the Focal Finder website.

www.focalfinder.com

York and Ave. 52

2010-08-11T21:09:00.000-07:00

Took a drive over to HP after dinner, I came across this fantastic light in York and Ave. 52. Lately, Ive been documenting Highland Park and its personality and culture. This area is also seeing its share of change. Many artist are moving to the area, as most have seen the prices soar in Echo Park and Silverlake. Highland Park has so much to offer in documenting in images.

See other light subjects taken August 2010

Highland Park Light Subject August 2010

2010-08-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

For years, I've always had this feeling of coming to Highland Park, and I would be shot as soon as I turned into york coming up to Figueroa. That may be the case 5-10yrs back. But just like many areas of LA, most of the historical places are going through changes, this time for the better. As the site of the new name change, "Paseo Figueroa," it's bound to attract a lot more tourist. So it's only fitting to try and capture some of the personality of the light source before it goes through mass tourist traps.

I went out the other night around 4am to see what I can capture. The night was somewhat interesting, I figured, at 4am in the morning there will be less shenanigans going on. There was hardly anyone in the alleyways and streets. My only curios spectators was the LAPD, which was a good site to see.

Click link/pic below to jump to the photo essay.

http://focalfinder.com/gallery/light/highland-park-light-subject-august-2010/

More images from Highland Park
Images of Los Angeles Culture and Personality

New Focal Finder Website

2010-08-09T11:39:00.000-07:00

A long overdue website was in the works, so I have FINALLY built and still in work-in-progress site. I have yet to pull out the images I want to post, and edit it to the right specs. Most of the images are pulled from the Facebook sites, which has compressed all of them. But for now, its live, and ready to go.
Focal Finder.com

San Francisco on Foot

2010-02-06T10:20:00.000-08:00

To visit this city for two days, it's a teaser. This melting pot of culture, food, art, music, and its international flavors of people, would truly enjoyed, if I had about 1 month doing walking tours.

Here are some, 'tweaked,' images of the very tourist traps, and the corner streets of San Francisco. Spent 6-8 hours eating, napping, window shopping, and a bit of walking tour with Marta and some friends.

Image Worx Blog Content

Guatemala Mini-Walking Tour 2009

2010-01-26T02:47:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure of traveling, as a volunteer, with OTAY Group Charity, in Guatemala. We delivered about 1000 shoes and flip flops to an orphanage, in the town of Chimaltenango. In route to the town, I manage to snap some shots of of culture and personality of the surrounding communities. I wished I had another few more days to capture the music, foods, style, art scenes.

Transmission Failure

2009-12-08T01:44:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I last posted on my latest content creation and management. Currently finishing up my last two weeks of the semester, and in my Photo 10 class, my Final's requirement was to create a change of story, a photo essay per say. Considering my limited on time trying to create the story, I only had one day to prepare and try to look for the story and the subject. Yesterday, December 6, 2009, I was rushing to get a male subject to be part of the idea I had. I wanted to re-enact the the scenes in Office Space, when the guys where beating down the fax machine. Consider I had one sitting at my office, this was a great opportunity to break some machine, and have fun shooting the Final.

Considering it was a Monday, it was hard to get anyone to come out and play for a few hours, and be in front of the camera. But luckily after going through several friends list, Jesse Yamashita was able to volunteer. Thanks Jesse!

So here is the a sample of the work that is due in Film, but I manage to also capture it in digital, to share my blog followers. I played around with some editing on it, to make it a little more appealing. I meshed two interesting images together, to capture some of the emotions that is about to portray.

Highland Park

2009-10-17T02:40:00.000-07:00

Job Rated

2009-09-20T03:45:00.001-07:00

San Pedro, California

2009-08-19T21:47:00.000-07:00

Industrial Neighborhood Personality

2009-07-24T19:02:00.000-07:00

See my other BLOG images in Tourista Style and Blog Journalism

L.A.’s Largest Mixer XI July 23, 2009

2009-07-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

July 24, 2009 – A day after the event, I recently went to this event invited by the representatives of Conexion (Edgar and Jorge). This is my first time with this specific event, and in the past, I had attended study abroad fairs hosted by California universities. At first I didn’t know how it would benefit me in relations to working for a business and a non-profit. Prior to attending the event, I read the website thoroughly and tried to study what can be the angle I can learn and get from the event. As I entered the event, I was overly surprised with the volume of participation from various companies. I was thinking to myself, there must be something here representatives and attendees gain, especially, these events have been ongoing for years.
With the first few booths visited, I looked over and determined how beneficial it is for the organization I represent; Spanish for Success - Study Spanish abroad programs, Spanish for Medical – Medical Spanish programs, OTAY Group Charity – Non-profit organization. I continued onward to scope out the whole facility and tried to pin point certain business that would be a good networking potential, or possibly do business with. I then began to realize smaller businesses are the groups I would need to network with, because of the ease of communicating, and sharing ideas such as business strategies. Booth by booth, I scanned the whole facility looking for small businesses, communicating and exchanging contact information. More importantly, I was getting to know the owners, even though our business might not have direct interaction.

I finally realize the gain from this even, having networked and putting a face to other businesses, I can connect with them in the social media network. I met some real interesting people working for these companies (company here) I also managed to speak more in depth with a few of them about the non-profit organization OTAY Group Charity and how we can collaborate on future projects.

With the new networked contacts, I hope to further connect with them, perhaps share ideas on how businesses are surviving in this challenging economy in the USA. More importantly, we can now refer our services with other future clients. Overall, the event was a rewarding experience for me and the organizations I represent. I look forward to future LA Mixers.

Here are some images I took while at the event.

Focal Finder

Portraiture of Shayoon Aboo, Jewelry Designer

See Light, See World

Grammys Lighting 2012

Great Meeting With Karl Walter Lindenlaub, ASC/BVK at Cinemills

Karl Walter Lindenlaub has an impressive resume, a lot of his work I've seen throughout the years.

One big movie I can remember was, "Independence Day". Just to reflect on the movie, and now visualizing the cinematography, the man next to me made that art come alive. Really fascinating work.

As a student of the craft, and fanatic on lighting, I'm looking forward to being part of the conference and learning a lot more from the pros.

'Faces Faces' - Street Photography Look at Faces.

Poetry in Reflections - Street Photography 1.24.12

Cadillac Coupe DeVille

Live on Set

Inspired By Henri Cartier-Bresson

Street Photography 1.22.12

Let's Catch The Bus

Refresh Look At Downtown LA

5th and Main For Street Photography

1.8.12 Street Photographin'

Typewriter Repair Man, Jesse Flores

Covering Media For Cinemills At the Master POV 2012

Interview With Paul Crouch Jr. - Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN)

12-30-11 DTLA Sunset

Crash Course on Documentary Short Films

My Second Photo Featured in L.A. Times Southern California Moments

Manipulating Your Visual Perspective

Occupy LA November 17, 2011

The Frame That Puts The Story Together

Capturing A Rare Self Portrait

L.A. Times Socal Moments features "Stealing A Picture from a Picture"

Chachi Gonzales With Paul Mitchell in World Of Dance

Dramatic Light With White Balance To Daylight

Dramatizing Union Station

New Design Elements in Photography

My Make Shift Magazine

Creepy Spaces 2: l look at the aging brick and mortar.

Unexpected Results - Photography

Studio Lighting With Cinemills Cinesoft LED Luminaries

Swimsuit Image Featured Top Tear In Etsy

Tootsy The Clown Fullfilling Her Summer (Photo Comic Series)

Video Featured In DUB Magazine and World of Dance

Chinatown Summer Nights - August 28, 2011 'Celebrating Life'

Walking The Streets of San Francisco [Culture and Personality]

My Tribute To Alexander Graham Bell

Distinguishing A Style

Robert Vargas Presents - Red Zebra

Behind The Scene Swimsuit Fashion Shoot July 2011

Disciplining My Editing Techniques

Photo Essay: MOS WANTED MONDAYS

Not A Propaganda, Just A Community Of Them

Walking Tour Of Downtown And Kits Beach Vancouver, Canada. Fantasizing I'm A Travel Magazine

I Just Got Schooled On The Physics OF K.R.U.M.P. Dance

Tapping Into The Sex Appeal

Romancing The Canon 5D Mark II With DTLA Street Lights

New Video Web Series, Street Style DTLA

It's Official, I'm Now Part Of The Model Mayhem Network

Geek To Sexy At The E3 Expo 2011

Still Life of a Street Biker

Introducing The Newest Member of Big Stuff Adventure

The Isolated Purple Flower

Little Shop of Horrors Has a New Face

Life and death, all bunched up into one.

Black and White Calendar 2011

I'm a tree HUGGER

Ever heard of Bird Man?

New Light Subjects

My New Vague Profile Photo

Still Life Photography - What's around my house

Moving On - Vacation Location #2

My first vacation of the last year

The Flamenco Dancer Dances At Solo Sol Restaurant

Costa Rica Flash Back

Jam Sessions, Flamenco Style

bou.tique **speciality orders**

The Flamenco Dancer - Teaser

Film Shoot With the Flamenco Dancer (Los Angeles Style Spanish Steps)

Concept Worx - Transmission Breakdown

L.A. Street Art 2

West Hollywood Halloween Costume Carnaval 2010

The Flamenco Dancer

Reflected Light from Rear View Mirror

bou.tique speciality orders