Belief

Christmas Festive Food

2011-12-25T15:00:00.000+11:00

40mm (EF 17-40mm f/4L USM) | 1/20sec | f/8 | ISO-400

34mm (EF 17-40mm f/4L USM) | 1/30sec | f/4.0 | ISO-400

Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-25T14:37:00.002+11:00

17mm (EF 17-40mm f/4L USM) | 0.8sec | f/10 | ISO-400

100mm (EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM) | 1/30sec | f/2.8 | ISO-100

100mm (EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM) | 1/125sec | f/4.0 | ISO-100

100mm (EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM) | 1.3sec | f/2.8 | ISO-100

Igloo by the Yarra

2011-11-21T23:42:00.001+11:00

This week is Music Week in Melbourne (which is running from 18 to 26 November) and as part of the celebrations, Melbourne-based creative producers Marksthespot, in conjunction with German design firm Balestra Berlin, have created this open-air live music venue.

17mm (EF 17-40mm f/4L USM) | 45sec | f/22 | ISO-100

Resting in Peace - Two weeks on

2011-04-17T23:25:00.001+10:00

Hope you are resting well up in heaven. You were such a beautiful dog.

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/15sec | f/5.6 | ISO-800

100mm (EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM) | 1/100sec | f/2.8 | ISO-200

Happy Australia Day!

2011-01-26T23:56:00.000+11:00

191mm (EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM) | 1.6sec | f/22 | ISO-100

New Lens - 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM

2010-10-28T22:56:00.000+11:00

Of late, I've been thinking about what lenses I should get. The Canon Photo5 Competition which just recently concluded (and again, didn't have the time to actually enter) made me think about what my next purchase/investment I should make. Since my brother is going to UK next year to work, he wanted to buy an DSLR, so I thought i'd sell him mine and get a Canon 5D and also get the EF 24-70mm f/2.8 L. I did my research, and it seems that both of these will be upgraded. The annoying thing is that there have been rumors about new models of each of these coming out soon, but nothing is set in concrete until the new one is actually out. There have been rumors about the 24-70mm for AGES. In the end I decided to get the EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro L IS USM....

Isn't it a beautiful lens?! I decided to spend the extra for the IS and I'm sure you'll agree it was well worth it. These are some of the test pictures I took a couple of weekends back:

100mm (EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM) | 1/60sec | f/6.3 | ISO-800

100mm (EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM) | 1/125sec | f/3.2 | ISO-400

100mm (EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM) | 1/100sec | f/10 | ISO-100

100mm (EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM) | 1/160sec | f/4.0 | ISO-100

Photo Competition - PLEASE VOTE!

2010-09-24T08:04:00.007+10:00

Not long after I bought my camera, Canon was strongly promoting their new World of EOS site, a place where photographers can exhibit photos; learn skills through the video tutorials; and challenge themselves through the photo competitions like the EOS Photochains and the now famous, yearly Canon Photo5 Competition. I checked it out and since then I've been wanting to enter into the competitions but always thought my photos weren't good enough.

Since coming back from South America, I feel I had good practise while over there and my photos are of a reasonable standard, so I thought I'd enter the Hero Photochain Competition, where the prize is a Canon 550D single lens kit (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS). This is the photo I have entered...

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/4000sec | f/5.6 | ISO-100

Some of you regulars may recognise the photo. This was the photo I took in the Atacama Desert, Chile, while I was over there in December 2009, but I have done a little touch up and re-edited the colour.

If I may ask a favour of everyone......PLEASE VOTE for my picture!!!

- Head to the following link
http://www.canon.com.au/worldofeos/photochains/browse/ChainRowVote.aspx?pc_cid=1&rnum=27#/7/
- If you see another picture you think is better than mine, by all means go ahead and vote for that one! BUT YOU CAN ONLY VOTE ONCE, SO MAKE IT COUNT!!!
- Click on my photo (the one that is above) if you wish to vote for it.
- Sign up to the Canon website (sorry yes I know it's a pain).
- Vote by: 30 September 2010

One Day in September

2010-09-15T18:54:00.000+10:00

Whenever September rolls around, this means its the AFL Finals. Right now we are halfway through the finals series with the Preliminary Finals on this weekend. Getting into the spirit of this weekend early, here are some pictures I took at the Chartered Accountants Football Day back in August.

200mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/1250sec | f/4 | ISO-100

200mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/500sec | f/4 | ISO-100

200mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/1250sec | f/4 | ISO-100

200mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/1000sec | f/4 | ISO-100

160mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/1250sec | f/4 | ISO-100

169mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/1000sec | f/4 | ISO-100

Broken Collar Bone

2010-09-05T21:30:00.002+10:00

I was looking at my 'labels' the other day and thought the 'Grievous Bodily Harm' tag was a bit lonely with only one post (being the photos I took of my heel). Here are the photos from when I broke my collar bone riding down 'Death Road' in Bolivia.

5mm (point & shoot) | 1/60sec | f/8.0 | ISO-200

5mm (point & shoot) | 1/60sec | f/8.0 | ISO-80

Because I am so accident prone (I recently almost broke a toe by walking into the coffee table), I have been given a quota of 1 injury per week by my gf.

My Photo Curator

2010-08-29T23:08:00.001+10:00

Along with most of my posts these days, this is one very very late post. I guess this is what happens when you're studying CA. Around 2 months ago I bought a whole stack of frames from a Sydney based company called The Curator Company. My brother had bought some maybe a year or two before at the Melbourne Design Market and I thought they were pretty cool. This is how they came packaged...

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/60sec | f/5.6 | ISO-200

51mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/60sec | f/7.1 | ISO-200

In my room, I have this HUGE white blank wall which my bed faces. Originally I thought of putting up Country Road frames which I had actually bought more than 1.5 years ago. But after my recent trip, there were just so many photos I wanted to print and put up and enjoy, so at least this way I could put up heaps. My idea was to put the photos in rows right across the wall, but randomly along that row. And this is what I ended up with...

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/60sec | f/5.6 | ISO-200

24mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/20sec | f/4 | ISO-100

So as you can see they are pretty cool. These aren't all of the ones I bought. Once I print more photos, I'll take more photos and show how it would go across the whole wall.

If you like what you see, for more details head to http://www.curator.com.au/

They are pretty cheap at $4 per set of mounts (a packet of 10 mounts will cost $20) and the best thing is that they are removeable without leaving marks on the wall! But note they only come in the size big enough for 6x4 photos. There are plans to make larger ones, but they haven't come about yet.

For more information on the Melbourne Design Market - http://www.melbournedesignmarket.com.au/

Dessert only please

2010-08-01T22:32:00.012+10:00

Going back around a month, I headed to Rosamond in Fitzroy to try dessert master, Pierre Francois Roelofs' new venture. I had actually read about it in the June issue (Issue #68) of The Age Melbourne Magazine and it seemed quite interesting.....something different and new. And it was exactly that!

17mm (EF 17-40mm f/4L USM) | 1/10sec | f/4 | ISO-3200

First course was what I like to call 'Apple Crumble'. It had cubes of really cold apple, not frozen but really cold, with blocks of balsamic flavoured jelly, topped off with ginger infused crumble (not soil, as pretentious chefs like to call it) and micro herbs and rocket. Now you might think that this is pretty weird mixing savoury with sweet flavours, but it somehow all works.

40mm (EF 17-40mm f/4L USM) | 1/15sec | f/4 | ISO-1600

'Apple Crumble'

Second course was 'Peaches and Cream' with a little twist. The cream has bits of rice and was almost like a 'le rice' yoghurt, but was more refined with its vanilla bean flavouring. Again, like the apple, there were really cold chunks of peach. But the surprise factor was the crumble on top which brought some fun to the dessert! These bits, which resembled something like rice bubbles, fizzled and popped in your mouth!

40mm (EF 17-40mm f/4L USM) | 1/30sec | f/4 | ISO-1600

'Peaches and Cream'

To finish off, we tested Pierre's famous flavour tubes. Tonight's was passion fruit pavlova. Basically it's a tube filled of different textures and flavours.

17mm (EF 17-40mm f/4L USM) | 1/30sec | f/4 | ISO-1600

'Flavour Tubes'

So if you like what you see head to 191 Smith Street (the shop is actually on Charles St), Fitzroy. A few words of warning...

Go on a Thursday night between 7 - 11pm, because that's the only time it is open.
Go with only one other person, unless you go early. The restaurant does fill very quickly (only seats around 30people) and can be hard to get a seat if there are more than two of you, but it's an experience you should share with someone else coz it is a bit of fun.
Be prepared to spend. These inventive desserts don't come cheap...

1 course - $20pp
2 courses - $30pp
3 courses - $40pp
Tubes - $9/each

Lastly, these desserts are really quite inventive and are not for everyone and change each week, so be prepared to be wowed.

For more info - http://www.pierreroelofs.com/

Ginger Boy

2010-07-26T22:57:00.001+10:00

Over the weekend, we took my dad to Ginger Boy for his birthday. As I am really just a beginner to photography, I like to take photos of everything to get more experience. So going out to restaurants is always a good opportunity to practise my food photography. But in reality, restaurants have been some of the worst places to take pictures of food. They are always so dark and Ginger Boy was no exception. So I actually found myself taking photos of everything else...

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8) | 1/50sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

The Laneway

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8) | 1/50sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Stary Lights

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8) | 1/50sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Lantern

Freeway Light Trails

2010-07-03T19:11:00.000+10:00

Since I got my camera, I've been wanting to take photos of the freeway on a slow shutter speed to get the light trail effect. I had tried it on a point and shoot but it never turned out that well. Taking the bus back from work, it drove over the bridge near my house that crossed the freeway and gave me the idea. I would take it as the sun was setting giving awesome blues and oranges in the sky. Then, as it would be getting quite dark, the cars would have their lights on giving me the light trails I was after and the freeway flood lights would be lit, looking like a line of stars in the sky.

So one evening probably 1 to 2 months ago, I saw my perfect opportunity and quickly grabbed my camera and ran down to the freeway. This is one of the photos I took.

37mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 4.0sec | f/22 | ISO-100

One of the things people have been asking me is if photoshop the photos from my trip. And no, I don't really edit those photos that much. Just enhance colours and contrast etc. A lot of those who have asked, also comment on how they think it is bad that people photoshop photos. I used to think that way, but the more I have developed my own photos, I have come to realise it is a neccessary evil. At the end of the day, people are going to use what is available to create their art. The photo is just the base for something awesome. And to prove my point is the exact same photo below that has been "photoshopped". I think it looks pretty cool, don't you?

37mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 4.0sec | f/22 | ISO-100

Up, up and away

2010-06-20T22:05:00.004+10:00

A couple months back, my day started like any other. I got ready and then headed upstairs for some breakfast before catching the bus. But this time, turning around and looking out the window I was greeted by a pleasant surprise. This is what I saw...well the balloons were slightly lower, but you get the gist.......

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/50sec | f/7.1 | ISO-100

I had actually seen balloons taking off a few times before, but there was only ever one balloon in the sky and it didn't make for a good photo. And this time the sky had nice colour too. So I raced down to grab my camera and took a few shots.

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/80sec | f/7.1 | ISO-100

It was actually lucky that I was heading into work early, otherwise I would have missed it altogether. They move quicker than you think!

Where Amazing Happens

2010-06-20T21:22:00.001+10:00

After the recent lot of rain we've been having, I decided to wander into the garden to take some photos. It always looks at its freshest after a good watering and there was a nice surprise waiting for me.

200mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/160sec | f/4.0 | ISO-200

Mushroom

I had actually seen a mushroom a few months back, but when I went out into the garden a few days later to take a photo, it had disappeared. So this time I wasn't going to miss my opportunity.

192mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/200sec | f/4.0 | ISO-100

New Zealand Rock Lily - Arthropodium

When I first saw the leaf, I actually wanted to take a close up of the three big water droplets in the center. But without a macro lense it turned out to be quite hard. In the end this is what I took. Actually pretty happy with it in the end.

LAX - Home in sight

2010-06-14T18:29:00.000+10:00

Despite breaking my collar bone, what an awesome trip. Going to South America was everything I could have hoped for, a true adventure. Hopefully my photos have given you guys a reason to go!

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/160sec | f/10 | ISO-100

43mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/30sec | f/7.1 | ISO-100

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/30sec | f/5.6 | ISO-200

Brazil - Beaches, Balls (soccer) & Bikinis

2010-06-14T17:31:00.002+10:00

Last stop of our 2 month journey was Brazil. Out of all the countries that we had gone to, this was probably my most favourite. That was not to say that the others weren't good, they were awesome too, but I could actually see myself living there. After all the sightseeing and hiking we had done over the 8 weeks prior, I was looking forward to taking it easy on the beaches and after watching the City of God, taking a Favela tour.

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/250sec | f/10 | ISO-100

Rio Blanketed by Haze (view from Sugar Loaf)

Some of the sights at the famous beaches of Copacabana & Ipanema

29mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/640sec | f/10 | ISO-100

St. Sebastian Day (Ipanema Beach)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/60sec | f/1.8 | ISO-100

Curious Kids (Copacabana Beach)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/80sec | f/2.8 | ISO-800

Beach Soccer (Copacabana Beach)

Rocinha, the largest favela in the City of God

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/160sec | f/10 | ISO-100

Slum City

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/500sec | f/5.6 | ISO-100

Spot the Kite

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/50sec | f/3.5 | ISO-400

Artist Workshop

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/400sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

OH&S Hazard 1

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/200sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

OH&S Hazard 2

29mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/125sec | f/4.5 | ISO-100

Drummer Boys

24mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/50sec | f/4.0 | ISO-400

Three Stooges

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/400sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Rare Innocence

Enjoying the performers of the Paraty Cultural at our final stop in the tourist paradise

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/200sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Street Stalls

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/80sec | f/1.8 | ISO-1600

Spray Paint Artist

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/60sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Fire Juggler

Argentina - Latin culture at its best

2010-05-17T22:57:00.006+10:00

It has been a while, but for a number of reasons (including work, celebratory events and Masterchef) I haven't had much time to edit and put up photos. I also got myself a copy of Adobe's Lightroom2 to help edit photos and that has taken up a fair bit of time learning how to use it. But one thing I continued to do was take photos, so there are still lots to look forward to after this journey through South America is finished. Anyway, back on my trip...

When I got to my photos of Argentina, I was actually a bit disappointed. There were a few good shots, but overall there weren't too many photos to pick from. I guess we weren't there for very long, and not too much really happened there. These are two things that really stood out (and I actually took photos of)

the performers of San Talmo Sunday Market

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/200sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Tango Dancers

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/200sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Starting Young

37mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/100sec | f/4.5 | ISO-100

Performers for life

the mighty Iguazu Falls with its just as spectacular flora and fauna

27mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/400sec | f/10 | ISO-100

Amongst the Might

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/160sec | f/10 | ISO-100

Tree-top View

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/250sec | f/10 | ISO-100

Rainbows

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1600sec | f/5.6 | ISO-100

34mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/2500sec | f/5.6 | ISO-100

Devils Throat

Patagonia Part 2 - Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, Argentina

2010-04-22T21:10:00.006+10:00

After going to Torres del Paine in Chile, coming across to the Argentinian side of Patagonia just didn't seem as spectacular. It just didn't seem quite as picturesque as what we had already seen. For one, it was foggy for a lot of the time we were there. I guess after having already spent 5 full days being immersed in it in Torres del Paine, the wow-factor had worn off a bit. Having said that, it was still quite amazing. Maybe if we had gone there first and spent more time hiking, I would have appreciated it more.

first stop was El Chalten

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1600sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Welcome

23mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/125sec | f/10.0 | ISO-100

Border Defender

28mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/4000sec | f/9.0 | ISO-100

Power - one of the few services avaliable

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1600sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Lupins

some of the scenes while hiking El Chalten

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/160sec | f/10.0 | ISO-100

Harshness of Mother Nature

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1600sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Harshness of Human Nature

(Sign Reads: "Monument to a careless trekker. This was caused by a cigarette butt.")

after the disappointment of Torres del Paine, Mount Fitz Roy showed itself from behind the clouds

32mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/800sec | f/9.0 | ISO-100

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/640sec | f/10.0 | ISO-100

Laguna de los Tres

before we knew it, El Chalten lived up to its name and the fog set in again

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/500sec | f/10.0 | ISO-100

Laguna Torre

heading back to El Calafate, there were some amazing cloud formations and couldn't resist taking a few snaps through the bus window

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/400sec | f/9.0 | ISO-100

Toilet Roll

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/400sec | f/9.0 | ISO-100

20mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/250sec | f/9.0 | ISO-100

36mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/400sec | f/9.0 | ISO-100

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/400sec | f/9.0 | ISO-100

Dragon

after returning to El Calafate, we experienced the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1600sec | f/5.6 | ISO-100

Icebergs fresh from the galcier

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/2500sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Crampons & Ice Axes

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1250sec | f/9.0 | ISO-100

On the Ice

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/4000sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Freshest Coolest Water

Patagonia Part 1 - Torres del Paine, Chile

2010-04-10T11:39:00.003+10:00

One of the major reasons why I've wanted to go to South America for a while now is to hike in Patagonia. When I found out that I had broken my collar bone, I thought I had shattered my dream along with it, but luckily it wasn't over. With the help of those around me, I got to live out my dreams and see Mother Nature at her best (and worst). Hopefully the pictures speak of the beauty for themselves.

23mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/80sec | f/10 | ISO-100

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/100sec | f/10 | ISO-100

Gateway to Torres del Paine (Canal Señoret Fjord, Puerto Natales)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/2500sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Cuernos del Paine (Lake Pehoe)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/3200sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Lago Grey

20mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1600sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Rocky Shore (Lago Grey, Refugio Grey)

27mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1600sec | f/4 | ISO-100

Icebergs (Refugio Grey)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/1600sec | f/2 | ISO-100

Purple Flowers (Paine Grande)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/2500sec | f/2 | ISO-100

(Paine Grande)

24mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 4.0sec | f/4 | ISO-100

Refugio by Midnight Light (Paine Grande)

27mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1600sec | f/4 | ISO-100

(French Valley)

43mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1250sec | f/5 | ISO-100

Avalanche (French Valley)

43mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1250sec | f/5 | ISO-100

(French Valley)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/40sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Orange Marks the Way (French Valley)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/250sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Pebble Beach (Lago Nordenskjold)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/10sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Outdoor Hot Tub (Los Cuernos)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/10sec | f/22 | ISO-100

One of the Many Streams

45mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/320sec | f/5 | ISO-100

Fields

21mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/320sec | f/10 | ISO-100

Bittersweetness (Las Torres)

We also met quite a few interesting people during our 5 day hike in Torres del Paine.

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/640sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Carving (Pablo our Porter, French Valley)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/25sec | f/1.8 | ISO-1600

Show Me the Money (Sebastian, Chileano)

Chilean French

2010-04-06T21:30:00.002+10:00

Like in any city, there is always awesome food around and Valparaiso, Chile was no different. The quality of food had definitely picked up as our trip progressed from the poorer parts of South America, Peru and Bolivia, to the more wealthy, Chile, Argentina and Brazil. After a recommendation from Alecon Fine Hostel owner, Alberto, we went to French restaurant, Le Pastis.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/60sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Le Pastis was one of the best meals I had all trip and was great value. After the 10% discount that Alecon guests enjoy, for a three course set menu, it was only CLP$8500 (US$17), including tips.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/100sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/80sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Onion Soup

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/80sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Beef Bourguignon

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/80sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Apple Tarte Tartin

So if you're travelling to Chile, pass by Valparaiso, for some great French food that won't break the budget like back home in Melbourne. You'll find the restaurant situated on Cerro Concepcion on the corners of Calle Abtao and Calle Concepcion.

Chile - South America's Most Disliked

2010-04-03T16:20:00.151+11:00

Following a slight delay in Bolivia after breaking my clavicle and being stuck in hospital for an extra 2 days, we got back on track and headed south into Chile. Talking to locals in Peru and Bolivia, I already got the sense that Chileans weren't the most liked amongst South Americans. The tensions stemmed from the 1879-1884 War of the Pacific between Chile and Peru/Bolivia in which Chile seized control over the entire Bolivian coast and invaded Peru, destroying cities and occupying the Peruvian Capital, Lima for two years. In more recent times, Chile has continued to try and exert its dominance over boardering nation, Argentina, by threatening to fire missles from Santiago. Despite this, it is still a great country with beautiful scenery and amazing people and culture.

catching sunset in the Atacama Desert on the Chilean side

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/30sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna, San Pedro de Atacama)

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/4000sec | f/5.6 | ISO-100

The Italian (Valle de la Luna, San Pedro de Atacama)

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/4000sec | f/5.6 | ISO-100

In Conversation (Valle de la Luna, San Pedro de Atacama)

discovering the colourful culture the town of Valparaíso had to offer

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/2000sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Graffiti (Av Alemania, Cerro Concepción)

23mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/640sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Walkways (Paseo Atkinson, Cerro Concepción)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/800sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Port City (Cerro Concepción)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1.3sec | f/3.5 | ISO-400

Wednesday Night Lights (Cerro Concepción)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1.0sec | f/3.5 | ISO-400

Habour Moon Light (Cerro Concepción)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 0.6sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

The Morning After (Cerro Concepción)

watching locals go about their business and enjoying the fresh seafood in port city, Puerto Montt

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/3200sec | f/2.2 | ISO-100

After Hard Days Work (Av Diedo Portales, Puerto Montt)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/500sec | f/1.8 | ISO-100

Oyster Hatcheries (Angelmo Fishermen's Wharf, Puerto Montt)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/500sec | f/1.8 | ISO-100

Muscles, Mussels (Angelmo Fishermen's Wharf, Puerto Montt)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/500sec | f/1.8 | ISO-100

The Palafittes (Angelmo Fishermen's Wharf, Puerto Montt)

Bolivia - Land of the White Stuff, Salt and Cocaine

2010-03-21T23:21:00.031+11:00

After 18 days taking in the sights of Peru, including the famous Machu Picchu, we headed around Lake Titicaca to Copacabana, where our South American journey continued through to Bolivia, which used to be one of the world's biggest producers of cocaine. This is just some of what we tasted...

exploring the towns and cities, seeing what's on offer

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/500sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Aerial View of Copacabana (Cerro Calvario, Copacabana)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/4000sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Mountain Shrines (Cerro Calvario, Copacabana)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1600sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

"Highest World Capital" (Killi Killi, La Paz)

meeting more awesome people along the way

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/200sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Jump - Chresten, Me, Luri, Mike (Cerro Calvario, Copacabana)

waking early to catch beautiful sunrises

24mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/250sec | f/4 | ISO-100

Sunrise (Isla del Sol, Lake Titicaca)

engaging in crazy activities such as mountain biking down the world's most dangerous road

5mm (point & shoot) | 1/320sec | f/2.8 | ISO-80

Madness ("Death Road", La Paz)

taking in the amazing nature of Uyuni

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/2500sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Rain at the Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni, Uyuni)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/3200sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Karate Kids (Salar de Uyuni, Uyuni)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/2500sec | f/4.5 | ISO-100

Reflections (Salar de Uyuni, Uyuni)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/1000sec | f/4.5 | ISO-100

Mystical (Laguna Cañapa, Uyuni)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/2500sec | f/4.5 | ISO-100

No S.U.L. (Laguna Ramadita, Uyuni)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/500sec | f/8 | ISO-100

Geysers (Sol de Mañana, Uyuni)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/4000sec | f/5 | ISO-100

Hot Tub a la Naturale (Agua Brava, Uyuni)

Peru - Land of the Incas

2010-03-14T23:22:00.091+11:00

So this is where our 9 week journey started, here are some of the highlights...

sandboarding & dune buggying at Huacachina, on the outskirts of Ica

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/320sec| f/3.5 | ISO-400

Oasis of America (Huacachina, Ica)

70mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/200sec| f/4 | ISO-200

Sunset at Sand Dunes (Huacachina, Ica)

bird & animal watching at the Ballestas & Guano Islands, Paracas

70mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/500sec | f/8 | ISO-100

Taking Flight (Ballestas & Guano Islands, Paracas)

200mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/2500sec | f/4 | ISO-100

Wing Span (Ballestas & Guano Islands, Paracas)

70mm (EF 70-200mm f/4 IS) | 1/4000sec | f/8 | ISO-100

Flying in Formation (Ballestas & Guano Islands, Paracas)

taking in the local night life in the various cities

28mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 0.8sec | f/4 | ISO-200

The Sillar City by Night (Cayma, Arequipa)

mixing with the locals - people & animals

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8) | 1/4000sec | f/2.8 | ISO-100

Peruvian Kids (Chivay, Colca Canyon)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8) | 1/4000sec | f/2.2 | ISO-100

Llamas (Chivay, Colca Canyon)

200mm (EF 70-200mm f/4) | 1/1250sec | f/4 |ISO-100

Sweet Nectar (Chivay, Colca Canyon)

doing the touristy thing and site seeing

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6) | 1/800sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Morning Sun Rising (Machu Picchu)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6) | 1/4000sec | f/5.6 | ISO-100

Sun Ring Phenomenon (Machu Picchu)

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8) | 1/4000sec | f/3.2 | ISO-100

Lizards Sun Baking (Machu Picchu)

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6) | 1/1250sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Uros Sailing on their Reed Boats into the Sunset (Lake Titicaca, Puno)

Greater Faith in Humanity

2010-03-12T00:25:00.007+11:00

Sorry to those who have been checking my blog over the last three months and especially since I got back from South America for the lack of posts. (For those who don't know, about 1.5 months ago I came back from a 2 month journey to South America - Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil.) Finally I'm getting off my arse and will start posting photos from my trip!

I've been doing some thinking as to how i should post up my photos. If I posted all my favourites in one go, it could end up being pretty huge (and I know people tend to have short attention spans!). So I've decided to post by countries over the coming weeks.

Anyway the point of this first post is to say thanks to all the awesome people I met along the way and especially those who helped me after my accident. (For those of you who don't know, I actually broke my collar bone mountaining biking down "Death Road" in La Paz, Bolivia and had to have a metal plate and 7 screws inserted to repair it) I was really touched by those who helped me along the way, pretty much all of them being complete strangers. Special thanks to...

Helen (a surf life saver from Sydney) - who helped me straight after the accident while still on Death Road;
Monica & Daniel (two Jewish Bolivians) - who actually spoke English and helped me to talk to the nurses while in hospital, also brought me warmer clothes and bought me a calling card to call my parents;
Jo and Dave (a physio and doctor from Melbourne) - who we met on our first day in South America and then again in Valparaiso where they took out my stitches in the hostel;
Olly & Dave (a British couple living in NY) and Tom & Ai (from Sydney) - who were on our tour of the Salt Flats in Bolivia and were just great support straight after my accident; and
Mike - my travel buddy, for being there at every tough stage!

I'm sure I've missed a few, but to everyone that I met along the way, thanks you so much for making it such an memorable trip!

I also have to say thanks to my family and girlfriend Vi for all the support they gave me while I was away. Without their undivided support, I probably wouldn't have continued my trip.

These photos are for you all...

Vincent, Antoine, Me

The two French guys I hiked up Waynapicchu with (Machu Picchu in the background)

Mike, Chresten, Lucinda, Luri, Me

The Dane and two Brazil girls we met in Copacobana, Bolivia (Sunset over Lake Titicaca)

Mike, Dave, Me, Tom, Olly, Ai

Hanging off our 4W Drive on the Salt Flats, Bolivia

Dave, Mike, two random Chileans, Jo, Me

The randoms who lent us their internet and phone on NYE in Valparaiso, Chile

Pablo, Mike, Me

With our porter, at one of the miradors along French Valley, Torres del Paine, Chile

Mike, Me, Tendai

Reaching the Torres Mirador at 5am to see sunrise (which was clouded out...)

Random Israelis, Mike, Me

Just a few of the many Israelis we met in South America (Lake Capri, El Chalten, Argentina)

Einy

2009-11-17T15:30:00.001+11:00

I've been wanting to take a photo of Einy for a while. He was born with a weak heart which means he won't grow to full size and probably won't live too long, but he is very cute. He stays at Boronia Vet Clinic where my brother works and enjoys lots of love.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/100sec | f/1.8 | ISO-200

On his back while my brother scratches his tummy

Sunset at St Kilda

2009-11-11T18:00:00.004+11:00

Some of my friends studying dentistry just finished their exams and to celebrate they headed down to St Kilda for some beach and sunshine. I decided to follow them down and take a few pictures.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/4000sec | f/1.8 | ISO-100

Lying on the beach with my feet up

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/4000sec | f/5.6 | ISO-100

St Kilda Pier

The beach was pretty busy given the weather and there were people doing all kinds of things...

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/1000sec | f/5 | ISO-100

One of the many running

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/800sec | f/5 | ISO-100

Hanging out with friends and playing in the water

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/250sec | f/5 | ISO-100

Taking photos of the beautiful sunset

But the day had to set along with the sun...

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/200sec | f/2.8 | ISO-800

Uni Friends - Thank you for the memories!

2009-10-31T11:20:00.010+11:00

I know I haven't finished my Radin post yet, but thought this was more pressing......

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/1000sec | f/1.8 | ISO-100

OCC - South Lawn, Last day of Uni

(PS. if you guys want me to take this down let me know)

Wanted to say a huge thanks to all my friends I have made during uni, whether it be from Chinese class, hanging out in dental common room, tutoring, trip to China or US and just other random introductions. Thanks for getting me through the tough times, especially earlier in the year, but also for all the fun filled memories I'll take away with me as I leave Melbourne Uni and join the big bad corporate world. I know I'll miss you guys a lot. Keep in touch.

Joshua Radin Concert

2009-10-23T21:30:00.044+11:00

Finally, after 5 years of waiting, he finally came down to Australia and played a few gigs. Joshua Radin has got to be one of, if not, my favourite artist of all time. I'm such a big fan, I even got up in the middle of the night to buy his first EP off ebay for $60. Thank goodness I bought the 50mm f/1.8. In low light settings, it would have been basically impossible to capture the shots I did without the bigger aperature.

He had two opening artists. The first I can't remember their name but the second was this Perth Born, Melbournian called Leena, pretty good singer and pretty good looking.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/50sec | f/1.8 | ISO-1600

Other Opening Act

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/80sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Leena

Joshua Radin finally emerged at 11.30pm with glass in hand, filled with whiskey served neat, to warm applause. Unfortunately, he was sick tonight and had had a fever for a few days, so the whiskey was to help him through.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/100sec | f/1.8 | ISO-1600

Joshua Radin takes a sip of whiskey

As well as playing solo, he also had a band with him for some of the songs, but as usual, I prefer the artist to stand on his/her own two feet and go acoustic. Still enjoyable with the double base and drums.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/100sec | f/1.8 | ISO-1600

With one of the band members in the background

Despite the sickness he soldiered on....sitting at first...and then standing when he had the strength.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/100sec | f/1.8 | ISO-1600

The sickness, was in someways a blessing in disguise. Although he didn't sing as many songs as he would have usually, he did a lot of talking about the inspiration and stories for his music, which is usually the best part of these small gigs. These are his stories....

Everything'll be Alright - song was written for his best friend's son who wouldn't go to sleep and was watching hurrican katrina on TV while writing the song
Today - He was sitting on a train on the way to Niece, France when a 30yo beautiful lady sat next to him. He wanted to talk to her but didn't have the courage to, so he wrote it down and was going to give it to her but never did....he was 18yo at the time. (was the song he played live for Ellen Degeneres and Portia de Rossi at their wedding)
What If You - about one night stands, and empty feeling afterwards
Sky - he had dreams about his then gf Shuyler Fisk, that she was cheating on him with his best friend.....and he was having trouble with it so she said he should write it out....this is the writing out of those dreams
One of those Days - a young fan came up to him with a picture of his ex Schuyler Fisk and asked him to sign it....it was a cold day on the road, and his bus had frozen over, and he wasn't over his ex yet....
I'd Rather Be With You - "happy little love song"
Winter - his first song he ever wrote and it's about his love of depressed women.
You've Got Growing Up To Do - this is his hopeful breakup song that him and his ex gf will eventually get back together. That the relationship was right, but wrong timing.
No Envy, No Fear - he started out in NY, but then moved to LA. He was opening for a lot of really successful artists and was envious that they were playing for people and had lots and lots of songs. He realised that instead of being envious, he should be inspired to work hard and be where they are and that is what he has done. Go Josh!

A Little Taste of George Calombaris

2009-10-23T20:00:00.122+11:00

Seeing as Joshua Radin's concert was tonight at the Northcote Social Club, I decided to go to George Calombaris' restaurant, Hellenic Republic, in Brunswick East (which is just the suburb across from Northcote). There has been a lot of talk about George since he became one of the judges on Masterchef and so the popularity of his restaurants has also increased. I made the booking almost three weeks earlier and the only time slot they had was 6pm and we had to be out by 7.45pm. This is what I expect from more well known upper class restaurants. But this was perfect as it allowed us to get to the concert and get a good viewing position.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/60sec | f/1.8 | ISO-200

Everything branded Hellenic Republic incuding the plates

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/80sec | f/1.8 | ISO-400

Open kitchen hard at work

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/50sec | f/1.8 | ISO-800

Graffitied External Wall

Hellenic Republic has a very cool, relaxed atmostphere and the waiters definitely helped this. They were really helpful and very friendly and given the difficulty of the menu, this is exactly what is needed to make it a pleasant evening. The style of the restaurant is quite similar to Cumulus Inc on Flinders Lane, where it is all about sharing small dishes.

The food was very good standard. I really loved the Kefalograviera Saganaki, Kalamari and the Loukoumades and would go back just for those. Although all the food was really impressive, I probably recommend giving the cured meats a miss. If you don't mind some below par service, head to Giuseppe, Arnaldo & Sons in the Crown Complex for better salumi.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/50sec | f/1.8 | ISO-400

Cured Hellenic Meats

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/50sec | f/1.8 | ISO-400

Kefalograviera Saganaki - Pan Fried Cheese,Peppered Figs

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/60sec | f/1.8 | ISO-1600

Loukoumades - Greek Donuts, Attiki Honey

Overall, a great place to get together with friends and knock back a couple of drinks. More information at:- http://www.hellenicrepublic.com.au/

Another Orchid Flower

2009-10-21T19:41:00.003+11:00

Talking to my brother, he said the photo I took of his orchid was really good, although it did not do his orchid growing abilities any justice given that it was an old flower with lots of blemishes. So I took a photo of another flower that had just opened not too long. Hope this demonstrates his skill!

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/80sec | f/1.8 | ISO-200

The mozzies are coming!

2009-10-19T21:29:00.046+11:00

This evening, I finally went down to Studley Park to take some photos. I've been meaning to do this ever since we moved to our new place in January. I often go for runs through the park and absolutely love it. Tonight as with many nights, the sky was clear and a great photo opportunity, so I ran down to take some shots and share its beauty with you.

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/250sec | f/5.0 | ISO-100

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/200sec | f/5.0 | ISO-100

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/500sec | f/5.0 | ISO-100

It was really nice to watch the sunset, however the warmer weather has also brought the mozzies. I would have loved to have stayed a bit longer, but I was getting eaten alive. Probably killed half a dozen during the 10min I was there....will have to remember to cover up and wear aeroguard next time.

New Lens - EF 50mm f/1.8 II

2009-10-13T20:00:00.053+11:00

Recently I've been thinking about getting a new lens to replace my EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS. I find it very slow and it's harder to get that nice blurry background effect when taking photos. The lens I have set my eyes on is the EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM. But looking around on the net, there has been a lot of rumours that Canon is going to upgrade it fairly soon. So I have decided to wait until they do upgrade it and considering I did only just get the 18-55mm only 4 months ago, I should utilise it more first.

Before and after buying my camera, I have spoken to a lot of people about lenses etc and what I should get or not get. And one lens that has been recommended by many people is the EF 50mm f/1.8 II. There have also been some people who have said not to bother. But as a temporary solution for my desire for a faster lens such as the 24-70mm, I decided to get the 50mm. I ended up only paying $120 at the JB Hi Fi Camera Store on Elizabeth St, which was an awesome deal!

Here are some of the test shots I have done...

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/100sec | f/1.8 | ISO-1600

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/320sec | f/1.8 | ISO-400

Brother's Orchid

50mm (EF 50mm f/1.8 II) | 1/800sec | f/2.8 | ISO-100

Jelly Bean Succulent

One of the dangers I have found with this lens is when taking close up shots like the orchid flowers. Because the lens is so short, light and cannot be zoomed, I feel like going closer and closer to the flower to get the shot I want, however to focus it needs to be at least 45cms away from the subject. With more use and practise I will, this will be an easy problem to overcome. Overall I'm really happy with it, especially with how that top photo turned out with the blurred background.

APTE (aka. A Place to Eat)

2009-10-04T11:30:00.096+11:00

This is defintely one of my favourite brunch places. And now that we've move to Kew, it's just down the road, on the other side of the eastern freeway in Alphington.

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/60sec | f/3.5 | ISO-400

Chai Tea

20mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/60sec | f/3.5 | ISO-400

Tasmanian Salmon

23mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/2000sec | f/3.5 | ISO-100

Baked Spanish Eggs

This was the second time I've been now. First time I had the baked spanish eggs, so this time I tried something different. My original intention was to try the banana bread, but felt like something savoury this morning and went with the tasmanian salmon. Very good indeed! And to finish off, a chai tea with honey.

It's not just the food that draws me to this place. It's also the atmosphere. With the eating areas out the back and the long dining room tables inside, it has a warm, homely feel about the place.

Open from 8am till 4pm daily but if going on weekends, brunch is busiest so expect a little wait. For more information - http://www.aptecafe.com.au/

Baked Spanish Eggs ($12.50) - Baked egg permeated through red kidney & cannellini beans, chorizo and all topped with a parmesan crust. Served with toasted Turkish bread

Banana Bread ($13.50) - Toasted house made banana and coconut bread with honey labna, pistachios, & roasted seasonal fruit - which is sometimes rhubarb!

Tasmanian Salmon ($15.50) - Smoked Tasmanian Salmon with a pea, feta & corn fritter, avocado, rocket & a dill sour cream

The Grand Wagyu

2009-10-02T19:11:00.015+10:00

Along with a range of other burger serving fine dining restaurants such as Cafe Vue, Rockpool is one of the most talked about. I've been dying to try it for a while now and here it is.....half eaten!

29mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/25sec | f/4.5 | ISO-3200
Rockpool's Wagyu Burger

It comes with a magnificent David Blackmore's full-blood beef patty cooked to your liking, with a slice of Gruyere Cheese, house-made Zuni Pickle, Schulz house-smoked bacon and relish to top, sandwiched between a brioche bun. mmmmmmmmmmm!

I must say it is one of the best I've ever tasted and worth ever of the 22 dollars. The flavours just work so well together.

If this takes your fancy, head down to Rockpool, in the Crown Complex on Southbank. For more details, please head to: http://www.rockpool.com.au/

PS: Make sure you go early and request a seat at the 'wine bar' as bookings are not available.

Brief #3 (Bokeh) - Trial 2

2009-10-01T19:13:00.008+10:00

75mm (EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM) | 1/125sec | f/5 | ISO-1600
The lights of Flinders Street

Car lights, traffic lights and street lamps brighten the Flinders-Swanston intersection like stars in dark night sky.

Melbourne by Night

2009-09-29T19:20:00.009+10:00

28mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 0.8sec | f/4 | ISO-400

Overlooking the Carlton rooftops towards the brightly lit Melbourne CBD. What a beautiful city us Melbournians live in!

Brief #3 (Bokeh) - Trial 1

2009-09-16T01:11:00.029+10:00

70mm (EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM) | 0.8sec | f/4 | ISO-3200

This is the first trial run with the Bokeh, from our dining table looking at the lights from the freeway. It's prob a bit too grainy seeing as I took it with an ISO of 3200, but i'm happy with how it turned out. Next stop Studley Park down the road.....

Photo5 is here!

2009-09-16T00:29:00.022+10:00

85mm (EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM) | 1/40sec | f/4 | ISO-100

116mm (EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM) | 1/50sec | f/4 | ISO-100

Canon Photo5 competition is here for another year!

Since I got my SLR I decided to get a box this year and have a go. I'm so excited to try it out!

Bloody Heel, Bloody Heal!

2009-09-16T00:00:00.024+10:00

Walking down the stairs in my house on Sunday, I scraped a chunk of skin off the back. Boy did it kill!

55mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/80sec | f/5.6 | ISO-400

Day 1 - the aftermath

18mm (EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS) | 1/50sec | f/4 | ISO-400

Day 3 - healing with a bruise