Getting Visual in London

where have you been?

2010-03-29T11:14:00.004+01:00

just a quick reminder to check out my daily blog on : www.unusualloveaffairinlondon.blogstop.com

see you there!

My daily posts have moved

2010-01-07T16:44:00.005Z

Hi everyone - just to let you know that my daily posts have now moved to

www.unusualloveaffairinlondon.blogspot.com

That's me by the way - still in action taking underwater pictures in minus 0.5 degrees Celsius

see you there!

Two more S days before .... Xmas

2009-12-22T19:48:00.006Z

It was all happening in London'd Regents Street this late afternoon - two more shopping days before Xmas and the street was (as one can imagine) full of frantic shoppers.

Regents Street is one of my favourite Streets in the Capital - Not sure whether the Xmas decoration does it justice ...?

Famous brand names have their flagship shops along Regents Street - Burberry's shop window

is a fun one

Ice turned to snow

2009-12-21T18:32:00.002Z

perfectly formed ice crystals

It was so cold during the night that this morning two thirds of the Tooting Bec Lido were frozen!

But then the snow came....

Sunday stroll

2009-12-20T18:04:00.005Z

I swapped my days .. Saturday was really busy with three cold water swims.

Sunday on the other hand we made time for a quiet yet cold stroll around Tooting Bec Common.

Partially frozen pond on Tooting Bec Common

Two boys having fun at the frozen end of the pond

All shots taken with my Canon IXUS100 IS - super little camera!

Ice age

2009-12-18T15:54:00.003Z

There is no escaping winter

snow balls are even growing on trees!

frozen windscreen wiper

Challenge Results

2009-12-17T15:37:00.006Z

Another amazing winter morning in Tooting!

Now that the results for the Ed Ruscha Challenge are out, I can share my entry with you.

here a reminder of the brief:

Ruscha Film Challenge Brief

Ed Ruscha has been at the forefront of American art for fifty years and this film

challenge gives you the chance to respond to the Hayward's current exhibition in a

creative, inventive and imaginative way that will communicate some key aspects

about the artist and his work to the general public. Your work can use any form of

moving image including animation or graphics, but must include an installation shot of

at least one of the selected works and last a maximum of 30 seconds

here a link showing the winner's work and a few others.

http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/minisite/ed-ruscha-fifty-years-of-painting/media/

My entry:

Winter has arrived

2009-12-16T17:55:00.009Z

Early this morning there were only signs of frost and a clear crisp day seemed to lay ahead ... when actually the weather gods had a different plan.

Sunrise over a frosty Tooting Bec Common

Only a few hours later a total change of scenery

Snow actually started sticking to the trees and covering the ground

A jogger was not put out in the slightest by the wintery conditions

All you need is...

2009-12-15T19:50:00.004Z

I could no longer draw out the obligatory trip into town to get my Xmas shopping done. I did set out with the right spirit and enjoyed the hunt for a very specific present ... in fact it turned out to be quite a tricky yet fortunately also successful hunt ... :) Well I'm never one to give up easily ...

En route I found myself cutting through Carnaby Street. The decoration certainly felt uplifting which I am sure helped me persevere cause "all you need is (after all) Love" :) Hope and Joy!

The lesser of two evils

2009-12-14T22:19:00.007Z

Today, I had to travel from Tooting to Greenwich. Usually I take the car but as I didn't feel like getting caught up in London rush hour traffic I decided to take public transport... the lesser of two evils :)

The first part of the journey, Northern Line to "bank" was quite boring .. as most journeys on the tube are .. that's unless you get stuck in a tunnel... which we fortunately didn't!

The next part, travelling on the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) was however more fun! Yes, I had taken the DLR before to the EXcel business centre but never to Greenwich ... the difference: a different route! This time the tracks really take you through a maize of high rise buildings and weaves in and out of parts of the river Thames until it reached the Cuttysark stop in Greenwich.

I enjoyed it and all in all can report that the experience is well worth considering. That's if not having a conductor in the train doesn't freak you! The DLR is being driven by a computer sitting in a control room!

Quiz time

2009-12-11T16:27:00.003Z

What it this?

Where have I been and what have I been up to?

Happy Birthday

2009-12-10T16:10:00.009Z

I like Birthdays! It doesn't even have to be mine and I get overly excited!

Today is my dear friend Margaret's Birthday .. now, I know one doesn't ask a lady her age .. so I won't disclose it here ... after all I'm wise enough to know one sure way of keeping our friendship!

But will share a set of photos I have taken.

Margaret loves her "moggy" Morris Minor - so the photo went down very well!

Yes the soapstone dish is from back there, namely South Africa!

We know how much you love my home made Polenta cake!

You got it, The birthday kid normally blows out the candle on the cake

Yeahhh, and guess what, your wish will come true

Maybe even the "nauty" wishes?!

By the looks of it you aleady got the perfect slippers

It pays off

2009-12-09T15:19:00.004Z

Early winter mornings can be rather dreary ... this morning, however, it paid off to make that little effort and crawl out of a warm cosy bed when it was still dark...

Wednesdays, I chant at my friend Simone's house from 7am to 8am followed by my daily swim at the Tooting Bec Lido. When arriving at Simone's House it was still pitch dark and who would have known then what I was about to see around 8am?!

Nature never seizes to surprise me...

Early morning mist on Tooting Common

The day has come

2009-12-08T16:49:00.007Z

The day I have been working towards has finally come - I have just come back from handing in my entry for the "Ed Ruscha Challenge".

It's been quite a journey! No, not the trip to The Hayward Gallery - that's just a few stops on the tube down the Northern Line - I'm talking about the adventure of producing a 30sec. film from scratch in one week. That's coming up with a concept from a given brief, filming, editing and deciding on the best format for the output... and succeeding in outputting it :)

Here the brief :

Ruscha Film Challenge Brief

Ed Ruscha has been at the forefront of American art for fifty years and this film

challenge gives you the chance to respond to the Hayward's current exhibition in a

creative, inventive and imaginative way that will communicate some key aspects

about the artist and his work to the general public. Your work can use any form of

moving image including animation or graphics, but must include an installation shot of

at least one of the selected works and last a maximum of 30 seconds

My idea for the 30 sec. film came quite quickly. The filming only presented one mystery which I couldn't resolve in time but bypassed (temporarily) for the sake of having the quality of footage I wanted to work with. The editing went so so.... I had a small challenge with the sound and with ending the clip on the last frame instead of the end turning to black ... I wasn't sure at all how to solve that ... Fortunately, I remembered Lee! I met Lee on a forum about the Sony HVR V1 camcorder which we both work with. Lee is a fantastic guy and a very accomplished filmmaker! Trouble is, he doesn't live round the corner... He is in Florida!

So, I sent out an S.O.S. e-mail to Lee and almost immediately my inbox chimed with that lovely "ping" to announce Lee's prompt reply. He diagnosed the cause of my trouble and gave me a immediate solution which I applied to good effect. But as it happens this was just the beginning ...

I sent the clip over to Lee via "yousendit" (marvellous way of sending large files). He liked the film and added some good comments and valuable advice - back to Final Cut Express I went and tweaked a little here and a little there. Done - the refined version was sent off into cyberspace!

Looking good!

The real challenge, however, came when it was time to burn the film to DVD. I won't bore you with that saga. Suffice it to say that it took a whole day to get it right and I definitely couldn't have done it without Lee's long distance help!

I had to also make sure the film can be viewed on a Mac (what I have) and a PC. A phone call to my lovely neighbour Edmund, a retired Art teacher and PC user, was my next move.

"Of course came over and let's see if the PC can read the DVD."

Edmund is amazing, he is on the computer all day (and half of the night!) and always has fantastic projects on the go.

To my relief the PC was also able to play my movie.

"I like it, it makes me want to go and see the exhibition."

Wow, how cool is that!

Mission accomplished! Well, not quite, Edmund is not part of the panel who are going to judge the 50 odd entries...

But hey, I did my best. I handed it in on time and hope for the best!

Of course I would love to win which, actually, is not like me ... in my days as a rider and competitor I never had the urge to win. I always wanted to give the horse a good ride and show it off as best I could as opposed to maybe having to push it that bit harder just for the sake of coming in first.

However, when I won the title for Best International Equestrian Photographer of the Year things started to change. Now it was only down to me - it is about challenging myself and not pushing a horse as well. It's about winning over myself and never giving up! And this is what I have done by taking on the Ed Ruscha Challenge.

So yes. I would love to win the Ed Ruscha Challenge. There are prizes too, by the way. The Top one being a Canon HDV camcorder which would come in handy!

Stay tuned, the results will be given on December 11th.

Last one hanging

2009-12-07T18:47:00.007Z

I don't know if it can chuck it down much harder, longer nor fiercer than it has been in the last couple of days ... and nights?!

It's really miserable out there ... but guess what I found?

The last hanging leaf!

Xmas wish list?

2009-12-05T20:34:00.010Z

Jaguar XK 8

Steamroller Bicycle

Arty Bike

All available in Notting Hill!

Would you?

2009-12-04T19:00:00.002Z

Picture this: a frosty morning, 8 am, December 4th the water temperature at the Tooting Lido shows 5 degrees Celsius (41 fahrenheit) and yet .... what a plunge!

Well, would you dare?

Best place

2009-12-03T16:52:00.004Z

Where would you rather be on a cold rainy December day?

In the garden ..?

Tucked up on the sofa..?!

And now for a bit of news: last month was the wettest November since records began in 1914... and by the looks of it seems like December is heading in the same direction!

The place to be

2009-12-02T18:11:00.005Z

Yesterday's december frost was short lived - today it's chucking it down again like nobody's business!

Fortunately, I didn't have to go out much today ... being indoors was definitely the place to be!

Specially as I'm working on my project. I'm down to editing now, and although I'm a bit rusty and have forgotten half of what I have learned in my one on one lessons at the Apple Store :), it's coming along quite nicely!

Operation Southbank

2009-12-01T19:40:00.008Z

The big day I have been waiting for for over a week was finally upon me!

No, not welcoming the first frost ... although I did enjoy having my first swim under "real" winter conditions, I am referring to "Operation Southbank"!

I still can't tell you huge amounts about it the rest of my day other than that I had my filming slot at the Hayward Gallery for the competition I have entered.

The Hayward Gallery is showing a 50 years retrospective of Ruscha's paintings and the brief for those entering the competition was to produce a 30 second film about American Artist Ed Ruscha. Now that I have completed the filming stage I am about to start editing.

The finished product has to be handed in December 8th. Looks like I have my work cut out for the next couple of days :)

Let's keep it authentic

2009-11-30T17:10:00.005Z

Yes, I do support my local health food shop as much as I possibly can - But who would have thought I was to get such a reception .. :) Walther really is the loveliest and most helpful shop assistant you will ever come across! He loves music, tennis and his hair! He hasn't been to a hairdresser in 11 years!

Walther's boss and owner of "Balham Treatment Rooms", Reza, is generally less euphoric ...

Today, however, when he noticed that I took a snap shot of Walther, he wanted in too!

"Take a photo of me too!"

"But you are on the phone"

"He's always on the phone!"

Well, OK then, let's keep it authentic!

Reflections

2009-11-28T17:46:00.004Z

It's always good to spend time reflecting on your day ...:)

What can you remember?

What has struck you?

What would you have done differently?

What has the day taught you?

What are you most happiest about?

What can you "see" in (your) reflections?

Trip down Memory Lane

2009-11-27T19:06:00.008Z

Whenever I travel to or from Waterloo I have flash backs of the first time I used the station. It was very exciting then because I had an appointment at King's Reach Tower, home what was then to IPC magazines. I was to see Melvin Van Gelderen, art editor of Horse & Hound magazine to show my portfolio. I remember stopping at the top of the stairs when coming out of the station, taking in the scenery ahead when a little voice in my head said: "I like what I see". I felt very good, confident and full of optimism about the meeting that lay a few walking minutes ahead.

That view has totally changed now - There was no Imax cinema in the centre of the roundabout then but "card board city", place of many homeless, sleeping rough. Walking through it was a bit awkward. then on down Stamford Street and into the reception of IPC magazines.

Although I felt confident, I also had a few butterflies flying around. This was after all the very first time I was to show my photographs to someone in view of getting some work.

Melvin was very complementary of my work.

"These images are great, if they were current I'd use them today!"

I was pleased and smiled (not only internally)! This was the beginning. My career of what turned out to be 20 years of horse photography was launched.

Today, however, I didn't walk to King's Reach Tower but towards the river. So much happens along there and whenever I see a bit of action I feel compelled to take a shot.

This Skateboarder was having a go at jumping down a set of stairs. Just after having taken this shot, the group of youths were asked to move on. They were practicing behind the Hayward Gallery where skating is not allowed.

But hey, I got a shot. Once an action photographer always an action photographer!

Getting a kick

2009-11-26T17:38:00.010Z

Seems like I can't get enough of this place :) yes, it's true, I find the Southbank Centre very inspiring and see "new things" every time I'm there. The imposing structure of the London Eye has certainly something to do with it.

I also get a kick out of people watching!

Brainstorming

2009-11-25T18:08:00.003Z

I went for another brainstorming moment for my project - here a clue of what it may be about!

Keep the air circulating

2009-11-24T17:17:00.000Z

Have you ever seen anything like it?

If you live in the UK, you might have... If you live in a less damp country you probably (and luckily) haven't! If on the other hand you live in a place where air doesn't circulate well enough humidity gets trapped. The result is the appearance of a nasty condensation fungus. Not a pretty sight and on top of it, if left untreated spreads extremely fast. It first starts off black (which is the state I caught it at) and can rapidly turn green and then even red...

I live by the motto "one stitch in time saves nine" and I had an damp inspector come round to the property in question week ago.

And today, I witnessed the installation of the solution to this nasty condensation mould. Apparently a lot of study has gone into finding a resolution - The focus is not as much on finding the "right" temperature for the room or rooms in question but force the air to circulate. One device pushes air in and another sucks it out the at a different location.

In comes Carl with his magic circular drill!

Amazing work. A perfect hole to the outside world!

in goes the unit that sucks the air out.

outside bit

inside bit

Bingo this will work - so says Carl (who fits about three of these a day). As for me, my fingers, legs and everything I can think of are crossed - the installation had a fair price tag on it ... so it better work!

Apparently it works wonders immediately. All I had to do was to wash off all the mould (using warm water and bleach) and maximum 10 days after installation all should be totally dry.

Good bye condensation mould... forever!

Stay tuned for the verdict - I'm going for re inspection in a couple of weeks :)

Everybody needs a day off

2009-11-23T17:07:00.011Z

Yesterday around 3pm I set out with the best of intentions to see the Ed Ruscha exhibition at the Hayward Gallery. I got to the tube station only to find out after a 15 minutes wait on the southbound platform that due to a computer crash the control room had lost all knowledge of the whereabouts of the expected train .... strange but true! Anyway, I certainly didn't like the sound!

By now it was very windy and pouring again ... the perfect weather conditions to walk back home, light a fire and get comfortable in front of the telly with freshly home made popcorn!

Besides, I was still showing signs of fatigue from the lido crawl :) and decided there and then to make a slight adjustment to my blogging routine. No more sunday blogging!

After having kept up my daily blogging for 69 straight days in a row, Sunday has officially been reinstated as a day off (blogging) ;)

But fear not, I made it to the Hayward Gallery today. The weather wasn't better but at least the tube took me there (and back) in one piece.

Puddles everywhere.

Naturally, one is not allowed to take photos of the exhibits ... so no pix ... would I recommend going? I'm not sure... viewing Art is such a personal experience ... I will say, however, that I wanted to go and see it because I've entered a competition which involves seeing the 50 years retrospective of Ed Ruscha. And I'll say no more at this stage other than watch that space:)

For those who haven't been to The Southbank Centre let me warn you, it's a bit of a concrete jungle.

What a day

2009-11-21T19:14:00.011Z

This time last year a new sport was born and today was its anniversary: The Lido Crawl!

A bunch of hardened cold water swimmers and members of the Tooting Bec Lido decided to swim in as many as four open air water holes/pools in London in one morning.

Starting at the Tooting Bec Lido at 7.30 am, and finishing around lunch time in Hampstead.

Some were cycling between swims while others drove in convoy.

I was amongst the cycling party... and party it was! After our 2 length of the Tooting Bec Lido (100 yards long) we cycled to the Serpentine Swimming Club to swim there. Next destination, still on our bikes, Parliament Hill Lido in Camden and finally on to the Pond on Hampstead Heath. Not any old pond I have you know: no the one and only Mens Pond - no women allowed .. well with the exception of us Tooting Bec Belles! And that only once a year when about 20 screeching women (and as many men) who can hardly contain their joy, jump off the diving board into deliciously refreshing water.

Once the crawl was accomplished, we all gathered for lunch at Kenwood House only to cycle (non stop this time) all the way back to Tooting.

Wow, what a exhilarating day!

Serpentine in Hyde Park

Cycling along Regents Canal on the way to Parliament Hill Lido

Parliament Hill Lido

Fantastic Water of the Parliament Hill Lido

Men's Pond

A touch of class

2009-11-20T17:37:00.004Z

I just had to take these two shots - as different as they are ... they both tickled me in their very own sort of way :)

The lady outside the supermarket pushing her laden trolley was definitely wearing the right head protection for today ... had she just been to the hairdresser and wanted to protect her styled coiffure?! The amount of shopping in her trolley could easily point towards an important dinner party ... whatever the reason may be it unquestionably shows how practical British ladies of a certain generation are!

The posters in the second hand book shop, on the other hand, portrayed a very differnet touch of class!

Floods of memories

2009-11-19T17:04:00.008Z

I have vivid memories of receiving an LP by Esther and Abi Ofarim when I was nine years old. The songs on the LP were from a live concert the couple had given at the Royal Albert Hall in London - and ever since I saw a photo of that funny looking building, I had the desire to, one day, see it for real!

The wish was big and fortunately the day I was to finally stand in front of The Royal Albert Hall eventually came. I moved to London in September 1985 and the following year I got the chance to photograph a Tennis Doubles tournament held at the Royal Albert Hall. It really was a big achievement because not only had I only just started up as a freelance photographer, but I had no press accreditation and simply smuggled my way in ... :) something which would be absolutely impossible these days!

I remember calling my parents (who lived in Austria) from the press office. Journalists around me were well impressed thinking I was some new hot shot photographer because I was effortlessly switching between English, French (to speak with my mum) and German (to speak with my dad). Little did they know that I was literally the "new kid on the bloc" who had just started a career in horse photography with an insatiable passion for tennis :)

It was all good fun then and generally speaking people were far less paranoid than they sadly have become nowadays.

Anyway, I have been back a few times since that day - not only to watch tennis but SGI-UK, the Buddhist organisation I belong to, held their General Meeting in May 2005 in that very hall! That event, for sure, matched the excitement of when I first set eyes on the famously unique building!

When going back today all those memories clearly flooded back into my mind.

Comments welcome

2009-11-18T16:49:00.005Z

Today, I felt like having a bit of a rant! Not that I set out to have a rant ... but, funnily enough, the idea grew on me as I was walking the streets of London... having been rather busy all day I didn't get a chance to travel to a specific area and decided to stay in the neighbourhood.

My first observation was how messy the streets looked! Dead leaves, empty cans, empty bottles, discarded cigarette packets, cigarette stubs, old wet and torn newspapers, sweets wrappers ... you get the picture!

Funny that, isn't today garbage day? Yes, it is! ahh... well that explains!

As I turn into another street I am compelled to capture the subject of my real rant!

At first glance it doesn't say much ... or does it? Three neatly placed garbage bins - great and by the looks of it they have even been emptied! Even better! But where are their respective lids? Look carefully!

Yes, there they are. Sitting on the hedge above each bin. Now, I can assure you that this is not where the lids were this morning before the garbage men came to empty the bins! No, the lids were where they are supposed to be: namely ON the bins!

I have a simple question for you and for the garbage men:

Why, ohhh why do garbage men know how to take OFF the lids but don't know how to put the lids BACK ON the bins?!

And let me tell you, this house is lucky, the lids are placed on the hedge. In most cases, including at my house, the lids are just thrown willy nilly on the floor, sometimes even on the street itself instead of at least keeping the lid close to it's counter part, if not as desired ON the bin!

There you go, I have had my rant. So, should you have an explanation for this phenomena please send me a comment :)

Oodles of Noodles

2009-11-17T17:30:00.004Z

Looking through the food cupboard I noticed that we were ... shock, horror ... out of Goji Berries :) Not only are they very tasty, they are also a great source of antioxidants ... say no more, the mini crisis had to be addressed immediately.

Holland & Barrett stopped selling this "super food" so I had no other choice than to take a quick trip into London's China Town.

Browsing around the different Chinese supermarkets can be quite fun once in a while. That's if you can identify the different types of food!

We were also out of rice noodles. (Great for stir fries and soups!) Shopping for those should be pretty straight forward ... :)

When I arrived delivery vans were still allowed into the pedestrian zone, China Town is. The supermarkets were getting stocked up, restaurants were still closed and there was definitely a different feel to the area.

I soon found the shop I usually get my stuff from. Goji Berries in hand and oodles of noodles under my arm I made my way to the till. Victory, I'm out of here!

Who is who?

2009-11-16T15:46:00.008Z

The road I live in is full of surprises and I never know which of my neighbours I might bump into. Not that I know all my neighbours... but I have come to know a few of them over the years ... some I simply exchange a friendly hello with, some I stop and chat with, and others I know a bit more about.

Today, I was finally able to put a name to one of my neighbours from a few houses down. A gentle looking Italian who I often throw a few Italian words to and who always responds as if I was fluent in his native language!

As I am usually on my bike when I see him there has fortunately never been the fear of having to actually string together a coherent phrase in Italian ... :) it's usually restricted to "buon giorno tutto bene?" which means "Good morning everything alright"- or "che bella giornate" which should mean, "what a lovely day"!

However, I have always been intrigued by the amazingly huge Madonna he has displayed in his front room. But I have never been brave enough to ask him about "her". Anyway, she is looking out the window and probably watching over us all - so what is there to ask about :)

Today as I was cycling home Richard, another neighbour I always chat to at length with, was having a conversation with Mr. Italia.

This was my chance to finally get to know the lovely Cesare, from Parma!

And here they are. Don't they look great, Richard and Cesare! AND the Madonna!

I even got Cesare to go back in and stand next to his beloved Madonna! Only to make perfectly clear who is who!

How about that

2009-11-15T18:37:00.005Z

Yesterday, we had gale storms and gallons of rain! Today, huge puddles to show for it but sun shine and 15 degrees Celsius!

Is it really November 15th?!

Has the world gone mad?...

or is everything simply upside down!

Enough is enough

2009-11-14T16:53:00.004Z

There is only so much a person .. and ...

... an umbrella could take today!

You've got to love London

2009-11-13T15:49:00.005Z

What do you do when you've just had your one to one with an Apple Mac wizzzzz (kid) and it's chucking it down?

Simple: you take a shot from inside the the coolest shop in town and show the world what's up on rainy day on Regent Street ... who comes and goes to and from the Apple Store ... and most importantly you stay dry!

Getting around town

2009-11-12T16:45:00.003Z

Getting around London is not a case of "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" .. yet ... but simply Bicycles, Tubes and Trains!

I had to go into town and my route took me via Liverpool Street Tube station in the heart of London so I thought of popping my head out of the tube and into the train station itself to take a few shots of this busy station ... dull and grey as most November days have been these days, I kept well clear of venturing outside... no, I made sure to stay inside! It was around 2.30pm and the station was quieter than the usual hustle and bustle which made taking this shot fairly easy. However, taking a few shots of a "prime target location", to use police lingo - I was expecting a police man's tap on the shoulder any minute ... :) but no such luck :) I was free to take my shots!

Southbank by night

2009-11-11T20:43:00.005Z

On my way to my memorable unique once in a life time dinner I stopped off at the Southbank to catch a bit of early evening atmosphere .. not that I needed to get "in the mood" for my special meeting ... I had been on a high all day :)

A November's eve in London can be very special regardless of what you may have planned...

All the leaves are brown ...

2009-11-10T15:10:00.002Z

... and the sky is grey! The temperature has fallen dramatically in the last day! Foggy morning... quite mystical actually ... however, I'm as always on the look out for a bit of colour to brighten up what would otherwise be a dull day!

Another side of London

2009-11-09T16:11:00.004Z

What a shame that big cities are also breeding grounds for crime... sadly London is no exception.

My heart goes out to the owner of this car, memories flooding back into my mind...

I know what it feels like to come to your car and see that one of your windows has been smashed... it's most upsetting to say the least. First time it happened to me was in Birmingham at the NEC car park followed by another three times in London. To be fair last time it happened was a long time ago ... However, seeing the evidence of this crime today points towards another reason of why Operation Bumblebee (I have come across only a few days ago) has been re-introduced.

Remembrance Sunday

2009-11-08T17:51:00.004Z

Today is the day we remember all those who gave their lives for their country ... in countless wars ...

The elderly man I caught on the streets of Tooting must have been through at least one if not two world wars ... He seemed lost in his thoughts ... I wonder what stories he would have to tell?

Canoes on the canal

2009-11-07T17:28:00.008Z

Londoners must be envied - firstly because it's sunny again - check this, it is November :) and then because it has a lot to offer.

Ever heard of Little Venice and all the canals that service Londoners and make for great walks?

Today, was the day to take a closer look! First stop, Little Venice - closest tube station : Warwick Avenue on the Bakerloo Line. A short walk and we are there. Always great to have company!

We find the canal and start walking - lovely colours and lovely reflections on the water - not much traffic on the water - which is a bit of a shame ... and fortunately not many pedestrians either which is a plus point!

But we run into a bit of bother : full bladders and no appropriate facilities in sight ...

We resort to getting off the canal track onto street level and towards Primrose Hill.

ahhhh how lovely is that, relief is near by! The first pub on the corner is where we stop - not for long .. just to do you know what!

Regents Park Road is lovely and had it not been for the urge we would not have seen it!

Back on track, we continue along Regents Canal all the way to Camden Lock. A spot of (late) lunch and back along the canal.

Now it gets exciting - canoes on the canal! See, told you so, lots to do in London!

When the gates open

2009-11-06T16:09:00.005Z

Life can sometimes seem like an endless tunnel... specially when one is trying to understand the ins and outs of social media :)

Yesterday, I had my one on one lesson at the Apple Mac Store Regent Street - I love the time I spend there with those wizzzz kids - they know "soooooo" much! I learn "so" much - which is still more than I knew before the lesson started!

Keith (who I met there by chance, waiting for his lesson) pointed out, the £79 it costs per year (one can have a lesson a week) must be "the best value for money in the entire world"!

I'd go along with that!

Anyway, Laurence, my tutor for the day, re enforced the notion and importance social media has in our day and age!

Yes, I had caught on before ... but what about it being so incredibly time consuming?! all about time management I guess ... something I'm not brilliant at ... yet :)

Blogging is of course one way of building a social network ... and then there is also Facebook, Twitter, YouTube ... to name just the most known ones ...

So, only a few minutes ago I embarked on (finally) opening a Twitter account!

God knows where this will all lead to ... but hey, there may very well be light or even a person at the end of the tunnel!

Green for GO

2009-11-05T17:37:00.010Z

A few days ago - just in time for the pre Xmas shopping bonanza - Oxford Circus opened the way for pedestrians to cross the circus from all directions - Today I thought of checking out the logistics - not sure whether I am impressed or confused? :)

One thing is for sure, there was a lot of activity and it certainly was a bit of a circus! Everybody, cars, taxis, buses, cyclists and pedestrians were rushing around and let loose as soon as their signal turned green!

Cyclists wizzzz past while pedestrians wait for their turn

Oh I almost forgot to mention: this evening is Guy Fawkes night : fireworks in the whole of England I suspect - I went to a display at Streatham Common and had a go at photographing fireworks for the first time... ever ...

I'm certainly no expert at it .. yet .. :) but I know someone who is! Check it out- there are some fabulous shots. I can't wait to check out Ian's site tomorrow - no doubt he will have found a wonderful display to photograph this evening!

It's all about vanity

2009-11-04T16:33:00.005Z

There seems to be a pattern to November 2009: a day of rain a day of sunshine, a day of rain a day of sunshine!

I set off a touch later than I had hoped and made my way to Vauxhall - I always wanted to get a shot of the bus stop at Vauxhall Bridge - so I did!

Looks quite futuristic! As for the traffic control around there, scary!

I wanted to get closer to the river and had to really use my wits to figure out a way of crossing various roads without getting run over :)

Once by the river I discovered a view of the London Eye I hadn't seen before. Clouds very were beginning to draw in...

What I didn't know was that I was below the MI6 building ... well, I soon found out I was ... yes, I got stopped (again) by the police! Two very friendly police officers on flashy motor bikes routinely patrolled the walkway around the building. They were amazed that nobody from the building had radioed them about me!

"Oh well, they probably had a gun aimed at me all the time ... and because I actually didn't take a shot of the building (too many horrible cranes sticking out everywhere!) I was (still) safe :)"

"Do you mind if I take a look at the photos you took?"

"Sure!"

"Nice, very nice! Who is that good looking chap there? It's the slimmer one of us!"

"That can only be you!"

I had actually framed up that shot without the biker on the previous shot because I liked the symmetry of the tree line, the pillars and the lamp posts. I didn't leave any space on the left of the frame but when I felt the motor bike creeping up from behind I quickly recomposed and waited until the bike was between two trees.

This paid off as it seems that without even knowing it I had made a certain police man very happy!

How to brighten up November

2009-11-03T18:07:00.005Z

November rain is back! The wind is blowing, leaves are falling furiously and trees are getting bearer. The sky is dark.
Pretty normal for this time of year.

Walking the streets of London EC1 I was desperately trying to brighten my day by finding a bit of colour.

What I found made me chuckle ... I hope it has the same effect on you!

Unexpected discovery

2009-11-02T15:42:00.008Z

It all started at the pool early this morning ... well to be more precise it started in the sauna ... no it's not what you may think! what are you thinking, I wonder? Well, I'm talking about a hot (literally) tip! A tip of something a bit different to capture for my daily blog.

After a great swim and a lovely chat in the sauna ... it's amazing what people one gets to chat to ... I was well inspired to check out an area in South West London I sort of know ... but come to think of it don't know. Or else I would have known of this particular landmark before!

Anyway, the funny thing is, I often go to Brixton because South London's Nichiren Buddhist Centre is in Brixton. Living in South West London, I regularly go to the centre for meetings, lectures. I also volunteer at reception once a month. However, Brixton covers a big area as I have discovered today - I had to consult google map to find my way to what I was going to photograph :)

On this lovely sunny autumn's day I was more than ready to jump on my bike. Knowing that I was going to be photographing a tall, and distinctive looking construction I immediately mounted my wide angle zoom lens I so successfully bonded with on friday!

I was heading to Blenheim Gardens, SW2 just off Brixton Hill.

I turn left into Blenheim Gardens ... still wondering where and when I'll get to see "it" ?!

The Brixton Windmill! It was built in 1816 when the land around it was still rural. The windmill closed in 1862 when housing started to be built around it, robbing it of wind! Although it was steam and the gas powered for a while in the 1930, it is now derelict and awaiting restoration...

I find it rather special and was immediately drawn to it!

Maybe because finding a windmill in the middle of a very busy London area it is so unexpected? or maybe simply because being able allowed such close access to the Brixton Windmills is really a special experience!

From eerie to chilling

2009-11-01T18:34:00.004Z

After a frightening night of witches, ghosts and skeletons Londoners (those who survived that is) woke up to pouring rain.

Amidst fierce winds it was literally chucking it down. The weather Gods had decided to show us another side of Autumn - the side that we have been spared from so far ... well, to be fair we had gotten away lightly so far and today was after all November 1st.

Braving the elements wasn't very inspiring! Besides, I needed to recover from having been exposed to the eerie atmosphere of Halloween.

I wasn't going to stay out too long but managed to capture an image that is definitely less eerie but still chilling :)

boooo hooooo

2009-10-31T17:48:00.010Z

Where have I been for the past fourteen years? well, let me think..? here in London! Yes but where have I been for the past fourteen years on Oct 31st, Halloween?! let me check ... well, here in Tooting, South West London. Yes, OK but have I ever been paying attention to Halloween over these past fourteen years .. well, actually, the answer to that is a clear NO.

Today, everything changed!

Cycling back from a Buddhist meeting on Trinity Road, I had to suddenly slam on the breaks. I could hardly believe what I saw!

Prescott and his Mother Wendy were in full swing decorating their front garden for what would certainly become the most haunted house in South West London!

I tentatively got closer ... ghosts, skeletons, sculls .. even bats were taking up their annual positions.

Let's be brave, I thought.. after all I had been chanting and elevating my life state for the past 40 minutes :) these creature won't harm me :)

"Hello, I'm doing a blog on London. Do you mind if I take a few photos? This looks great!"

"Not at all. Please do! Hope you can wait a few minutes we are just about to also hang up the ghost!"

No chance for me to miss out on that spectacle! Sure I'll stay!

For the past fourteen years since coming to London from New York, Wendy has not been short of ideas and put her all into the spirit of Halloween... every little corner of the front Garden of 263 Trinity Road, SW18 was declared haunted.

"You must come back this evening, I have a fog machine and spot lights too!"

"Ok I will. See you then!"

Coming back at night was even scarier! Wendy was definitely in her element! waiting for her prey!

Roll on 31.10.2010! thats if you survive tonight!

Time to bond

2009-10-30T18:22:00.013Z

I don't particularly like wide angle lenses. Anything below a 50mm lens is classified as wide angle. In my view 35mm is, however, a very handy lens to have for interior shots or certain landscape images for example but anything below that really begins to distort an image.

Of course one can get very effective results using a wide angle lens and every serious photographer is bound to have a wide angle lens in his/her camera bag.

I own a very good Canon 17 - 35mm f 2.8L lens but hardly use it for the above mentioned reasons. I always enjoy getting in close to a subject and for that purpose prefer telephoto lenses (anything above 50mm).

But as of late I have been getting on very well with my Canon 50mm f.1.4 lens. I started using it more and more because it is so handy. It's not imposing and people seems to hardly notice it. How often have I worked with my Canon 70-200mm f.2.8L (quite a beast of a lens-heavy and fairly large) and caught the eye of many ...

I usually get approached with a friendly "great camera" to which I smile - it's not the camera they are attracted to, it's the lens ... but anyway bottom line is, attracted they are and I can't move around taking shots as unnoticed as I'd like to :)

Today, however I wanted to choose a location where I could bond a bit with my wide angle zoom.

I decided to go the the city and try my luck on some of the imposing buildings around Bank tube station. As soon as I reached street level I felt overwhelmed. One financial building next to the other and one bigger and more grand than the other. The streets seemed positively narrow compared to the heights (and widths) of the surrounding constructions.

Where to begin? I take a look through my lens and really don't like what I see. If you want to get the height you inevitably get too much foreground as well as the surroundings ... often coupled with an unpleasant dis figuration.

But hey, I'm here to make friends with my lens and to get to forge a greater understanding for its qualities ;)

So I get on with it and start pointing it at everything in sight ;) my first subject is the Royal Exchange. (Founded in 1565 and first opened by Queen Elizabeth I)

I'm not quite sure what the second encounter represents - but you may have a clue?!

On I went down to The Monument- There, I played around more freely and started to get a feel for what I can do with the lens. The surrounding buildings helped enhance the effect.

Then I moved on to more strange looking buildings - sorry don't know what they are called ... main thing is that I'm still having fun with the lens!

Finally I spot "The Cucumber" from a distance and make my way to it - It has become such a landmark and I have always wanted to see it up close and personal! Pretty impressive to say the least!

Sister Act

2009-10-29T12:49:00.006Z

Who would have thought that a simple trip to the bank would turn out as eventful as mine was today?!

Cycling down to Balham to pay off my AMEX card ... "never leave home without it!" I have that motto well ingrained in my mind and as from the day I started my blog I have applied it to: Canon EOS 5D, never leave home without it!

Here I am, cycling along Balham High Road at a fair pace - so I thought :) ahead of me on the pavement I spot a mobility scooter. Not just any old mobility scooter. No, the lady driving it seems to be in a real hurry. I see a lovely photo opportunity and have to get a move on to catch up with my subject.

I step a bit more into the pedals and I'm soon alongside the lady. Without stopping I take a couple of shots. Not bad but maybe I should try a slower shutter speed to capture a bit of movement. Still peddling, I quickly turn the shutter speed dial down and take another shot. This thing is moving fast! Just a few pedestrians to dodge which happens very skilfully :) I have to make a real effort to keep up because I have a few cars and a lorry slowing me down ... Let's see who can make it first to the traffic light.

Can you imagine, I just get pipped at the post! Well that's what happens when you're faced with racing a well rehearsed Sister Act!

"You beat me to it sister. You are flying along in this!"

"Yes, it does 4 miles an hours!"

How lovely, I thought. Certainly beats walking!

It felt good to see someone enjoying herself so much when it was clear from the crutches in the "boot of her car" that she must find it difficult to walk without help...

I must have carried my good humour forward to the bank. No queues. That's a great start! And, Jahinah, the bank clerk, emits lovely vibes from behind the glass that separates us. I take a quick shot and get a lovely smile!

"Jahinah,What a lovely name!"

"It's African and means Gift of God."

Next, on my way back to my bike I spotted my Buddhist friend, Ian, hanging out at his local coffee shop. He spots me too. Again I get a great reception!

I love it when people appreciate the moments a photographer can seize!

Being sensible

2009-10-28T16:08:00.007Z

Today, I just had to make getting underwater shots at The Tooting Bec Lido my blog assignment!

You know by now how passionate I am about my daily splishs :) Early in October when the SLSC (South London Swimming Club) members were allowed to take pictures again, I was straight in there with my new toy - A mask with incorporated camera - I got so carried away that I stayed in the pool without really swimming for far too long. This resulted in a spell of bronchitis - not too pleasant but to be fair with the help of acupuncture and inhalation and (sadly) abstinence (from swimming!) I shook it off pretty quickly.

Now that my fitness level and endurance for swimming in cold water is back up, I have been itching to take a camera back in the water.

The leaves from the trees that surround the Lido are falling. To every member's delight most of them land in the 100yards long water hole!

The lifeguards look at that in a different way ...

I always want to see more and more leaves in the pool - it is so amazing swimming and seeing them suspended on the water surface ...

"You lot are far too romantic. The leaves are bad for the pool! We have to clear them constantly. If we were to leave them the water quality would deteriorate rapidly!"

OK, fair point ... I guess :)

Pushing off the edge of the pool was magic though - That was yesterday ... when I noticed that the camera battery was flashing red ... ! I had to content myself with simply experiencing the feeling of loads of dead leaves brushing against my tingling body. Sometimes my fingers would hit a leaf and bring it down to the bottom of the pool where the leaf would join many more...

I saw pictures all along ... sadly, no camera to assist me in my description...

Toady, was going be different! I set off armed with my fully charged Canon IXUS 70 camera and wetsuit in my bag. I wasn't going to miss out and by being more sensible I wasn't get cold while taking shots!

Shock horror, the first thing I noticed when getting to the pool is that there were hardly any leaves today ... these lifeguards meant business yesterday ... they got rid of what, at first sight, seemed all the leaves ...

Quite disappointed I walked down the side of the pool towards my cubical counting leaves :)

Before deciding whether I should put my wetsuit on (I don't really like swimming in it) I sent my scout Sue ahead to report back on the leaf count!

"Yes, plenty of leaves."

I breathed a sigh of relief! On with the wetsuit! Quite a few people swimming - I was in for a photographic treat!

I swam along side them, behind them, even underneath them to get some shots.

I was struggling to keep up with them. Holding my breath for long enough was quite tricky too. Specially as the wetsuit being quite buoyant kept pushing me back up. Nevertheless, I got some interesting shots! Apparently my underwater struggle looked ballet like :) I can't quite see how but, hey, I'm glad it kept the swimmers amused and motivated enough to get to their goal of swimming a mile! That's 18 lengths of the pool in 11 degree Celsius! Mind you they looked a bit weary by the end of it when we caught up in the sauna...

Landmark with a twist

2009-10-27T18:02:00.018Z

What do you do when you surface from the underground and realise you have take the wrong exit?

Do you

a)go back the way you came from and have another go at finding the right exit underground?

b)do you stick with that exit and try and make your way to where you want to be over ground?

You see, I was up there, so close and yet so far from where I wanted to be! Other people where already there ... they must have taken the correct exit, right?! or maybe some had done what I was about to do:

Take my life into my very hands and cross over a busy round about! Buses, taxis, cars, lorries, vans, motorbikes, even bicycles ... all trying to get in, around and out again ... preferably taking the right exit for them!

Sounds worth than it actually is :) yes, I had to be quick and look very carefully - other than that : a piece of cake!

So, here I was in the middle of the Marble Arch roundabout - bang in front of the famous Arch itself. I'm a bit disappointed. Looking at it with Park Lane behind me, Marble Arch doesn't look very good at all. The big buildings behind it spoil the shot.

I walk around trying to find an angle that would help throw the background out but ... no, nothing. Looking around me I see a strange looking sculpture and can't make out what it is. Looks impressive so I get closer ... Ah, now I know why I can't make out what it is ... I was looking at it from behind!

Being in front of it makes all the difference! In a strange thought of way, or because of my background, I like it ... but I can't figure out why on earth it's been placed here ... no plaque to read who made it ... nothing ... let's just say it's any body's guess .. and leave it at that!

I am yet to get a good picture of the Arch itself though! So I keep walking around it. No easy way across. I have to walk through the Arch itself, (that's a lovely feeling!) before I can cross over to the other side.

That's better! I can get it all in now without having something unwanted sticking out of it! I still have to be careful not to get run over though..:) I take refuge next to a van that's (illegally) parked there... engine still running, no driver in sight ... I just wait until the lights turn and bingo I get a good full view of Marble Arch without cars. I'm happy. Seeing Marble Arch in detail and paying that much attention to it brings me back to when I first came to London.

I guess it is a bit odd that it should stand here but then again, there seems to be an explanation which reads as follows:

It was built in 1828 as the chief entrance to Buckingham Palace, but when the Palace was extended in 1851, the Arch was moved to its current site as an entrance to Hyde Park. By tradition, only senior members of the royal family, the King’s Troop and the Royal Horse Artillery are allowed to ride or drive through the Arch... and I!

I walked further along and to my surprise two policemen asked me:

"Do you want us in the photo?"

"No!"

"We don't charge!"

Now, that would be even stranger. Just image the police started to charge people for being in a photo!

I take another shot of the lovely Arch but without them!

Now I'm thinking I should have taken them up on their offer if only to carry that photo around with me should I ever get stopped again by a policeman because I'm taking pictures ;)

Staying South

2009-10-26T17:05:00.007Z

Back from my wonderful excursion to North London's Hampstead Heath which took well over an hour by tube, I felt like staying a bit closer to home today.

When the sun is out I always feel drawn to either green spaces surrounded with contrasting buildings or water. Mind you, the water fix gets taken care of each morning come rain or sunshine when I go for my daily splish splash ... but now I'm referring to getting some inspiration and making the most of the light and how it can bring subjects alive for a photograph.

This time of year when the sun doesn't rise as high anymore the rays are so much softer which produces warmer images. Soft light is gentler on the eye and colours come to life with real punchiness.

With this in mind and wanting to stay south of the river .. or just ... I cycled to Battersea Park which runs along the river Thames.

The first thing one comes across coming from Clapham is the famous Battersea Power Station. A very striking image from which ever angle. Sadly I couldn't be on the river itself to take to shot...

Lots of development is going on around the site. New modern homes as well as office spaces are mushrooming along side the imposing building and overlooking then river.

Battersea Bridge is certainly not as well known as other bridges along The Thames but today with the lovely light and the dramatic backdrop it most definitely jumped out at me and deserved to be taken!

Battersea Park has lots to offer with regards to entertainment, arts, culture, sports facilities and natural beauty, no doubt about it but the towering stillness of the Peace Pagoda holds a special place in the park and in my heart :)

Another London

2009-10-25T18:04:00.012Z

Take the tube from London SW17 to London NW3 , i.e Hampstead and you are sure to be transported into another world altogether!

You immediately get the feeling that North London ticks differently; the vibes seems unfamiliar too... and you begin to question whether you are actually still in London :)

Funny that because I'm sure that North Londoners would experience the same unfamiliarity when venturing south of the river!

The reason for travelling north on this wonderfully sunny and relatively mild autumn Sunday was to explore Hampstead Heath. I've been there before. Last November when a group of South London Swimming Club members organised a "Lido Crawl". We started at home at our Tooting Bec Lido, then we swam at The Serpentine, then at The Parliament Hill Lido and finally at (get this!) the Men's Pond on Hampstead Heath! Yes, we had special permission and by the way, the women amongst us didn't get to see anything we hadn't seen before anyway :)!

Today however, I wanted to swim in the Women's Pond .. and I did!

Hampstead Heath is huge. It took stopping a few people to ask them for directions before actually getting close to the pond.

The walk was fabulous. Endlessly long avenues led through the forest. Beautiful old Oak trees showed off their colourful plumage - Some had shed quite a few leaves already. It was like walking on a soft carpet. And with the sun catching the leaves that hadn't fallen yet I definitely had to pinch myself to remember that I was actually in London!

The swim in 10 degrees Celsius was fab too.

A short walk to Kenwood House, which has been bequeathed to the nation by the late brewing magnate Edward Cecil Guinness in 1927. Now part of English Heritage it's well worth a visit.. even if it's only to take advantage of the wonderful food they serve! By now I was starving... A lamb shank hit the spot and sorted that quickly!

The walk back was just as spectacular.

Which is more than I can say for the tube ride back to Tooting. Signaling failure meant that our train was stuck in a tunnel for what seemed like ages... however we did resurface in the right place and as nice the pond experience was, I do look forward to my daily splish at the Tooting Lido!

Change of format

2009-10-24T19:17:00.006+01:00

Ok, in celebration of our last day of summer daylight saving I thought of changing the format of my blog... for today only :) then again I have been known to break my self inflicted rule of only publishing one photo per blog .. so who knows what will happen in the future ;)

Anyway, I am going to bring you this autumn afternoon of changing weather spent walking along the Southbank in pictures... many of them!

So get ready : The journey started at Borough Market and led all the way down to the London Eye.

A bit of history

2009-10-23T16:12:00.010+01:00

The sun is out, the autumn colours glowing and I'm off to Merton Abbey Mills. There used to be a lovely arts and crafts market there to which I quite frequently went. The atmosphere was pleasant and one could usually walk away from an afternoon's browsing with something memorable to keep.

It is actually quite a historic site with buildings dating back as far as the 18th century. It was then called the Merton Priory Estate. The river Wandle runs through it. Calico printing works were established there in 1724. Learning about it I found out that the area was already associated with textiles and adjacent land was used for bleaching since the late 17th century. Printing soon developed into a profitable industry. It passed through many hands and eventually was sold to Liberty & Co in 1904 - you may be familiar with the shop on Regents Street/Great Marlborough Street. Liberty's renovated the area tearing down three of the old buildings replacing them with new workshops five of which are still there today. In 1972 Liberty sold up and quality fabrics were still printed there. In 1982 a disastrous fire sadly brought about the final closure of the works. And today, although less than I had remembered it to be, the existing premises are being still used for the crafts market. Mostly on weekends.

Today I was drawn to the river. There I met two guys fishing. I wanted to know the name of the river which helped start up a conversation. It's actually one of the guys, beer can in hand watching over his fishing rod who told me all about the history of the area. He seemed pretty passionate about it which, I can't deny, surprised me.

"My Godfather was a historian. He could have told you even more about it. Sadly he is dead now"

I also learned that the river Wandle was one of London's most had worked rivers. Apparently the natural properties of the river was claimed to possess special qualities that made it ideal for the dye and cloth connected trades. The water was exceptionally pure and clean. Also the fast running water of the Wandle was vital in providing power which was another reason for the growth in the textile industry in Merton.

Today's activity is reduced to guys fishing in it.

"There are big carp fish and even black trout" they enthused.

All I got to see today, however, was one of them dangling a dead rat he had just found... and I shot out of the hip which looks like becoming quite a familiar technique :) which I'll show you now before showing you....

... some prettier sites too!

Bill, George and Bumblebee

2009-10-22T14:25:00.008+01:00

Busy day. I had things to do and places to go to in Balham.

I lock my bike and who do I bump into : none other than Bill - he doesn't really remember me ... no a real surprise there as he has the same glazed yet cheerful look on his face he had when I first set eyes on him months ago...

I do my chores including a visit to the bank and the supermarket.

Not far from where I left my bike I spot George. I push my bike over the zebra crossing and get recognized immediately!

"Ah you took a photo the other day!"

Now how about that, I didn't even have to start the conversation :)

So we get chatting. Customers come, get served and take their coffee with them. They all seem to have a smile on their face and leave happier than when they placed their order!

"I never stopped before because I don't drink coffee... but I have always noticed how friendly you are with your customers ...!"

"So now you stopped because I'm friendly. That's OK too!"

"Sure! And I can see that you do teas! Not a huge selection but tea it is!"

"Peppermint or Green Tea?"

"Green Tea, please."

"Large or small?"

"Small is fine, thank you."

Strangely enough, George's coffee is not from Brazil but from Colombia. He seems to believe it's the better coffee...

As it happens he loves photography and wants to buy a camera.

"When you do, make sure it's a Canon!"

The tea is piping hot so I stay a little longer... for more chit chat. Apparently George often sees me on my bike ... probably as often as I notice him. It's funny how even strangers can be part of other people's lives ... I notice things all the time and run a story in my mind whether I take a picture of it or not ... naturally one recognises people in ones area... one even notices them changing ...kids growing up, youth getting older ... As I cycle around almost daily, I often wondered whether I too play a part in people's lives ... people who don't even know me?

Today was definitely also a day of bumping into people I do know a bit better. Still on the highroad, heading back home I stop to chat with Sharon who lives a few doors down from me while nodding hello to Leanne, a neighbour from only two doors up from me.

It was all happening in Balham Today! Policemen galore stopping cars left right and centre. Policemen, I noticed, are a touch suspicious seeing people with cameras. I hang around wanting to know what the fuss was about when, surprise surprise, an officer comes over to me.

"I see you are interested in what we are doing. Maybe it's best you come off the road however.We are pulling cars over here ... and you are not very visible."

No, I wasn't and nor was my camera by the looks of it :)

"You may have heard of operation "Bumblebee"? Beginning of October the Metropolitan Police has relaunched this very successful campaign to crackdown on burglaries in the capital."

"Yes, I do remember it. It was in the nineties wasn't it?!"

"Yes and it was very successful. Londoners seem to remember it well so the Met have decided to bring it back. What we are doing here is clamping down on drivers who are driving illegally."

Wow, OK ! Yes, I am interested in what the Police is doing but my instinct tells me that I also want to document it. So while talking to the officer I take a photo from the hip.

Not sure whether this guy is "guilty" or not ...

The evidence I get a few minutes later, however, points towards the fact that the operation conducted here today has already proven very successful. I counted three arrests so far.

Out of nowhere.

2009-10-21T17:18:00.005+01:00

Another day, another blog. Another day, the same dreary weather... and still, I look forward to the challenge of picking up a shot each day ... not just any old shot ... no, a shot with a story.

Come to think of it, every shot actually tells two stories. Firstly the story of how it came about. By that I mean the photographer's story that is linked to having taken any given image. How the photograph came about, what inspired the photographer and prompted him/her to take the shot and what the photographer intends to convey with the image, all is concealed within a story.

Secondly there is the story the image will invite the viewer to have when seeing any given photo. Sometimes the viewer knows nothing about how and why a picture was taken and yet he or she will start running a story for themselves. Naturally, the intensity and strength of an image will have a direct impact on the intensity and longevity of the impression it will (hopefully) provoke.

Street photography is pretty unique in that sense because unless the photographer focuses on a particular aspect of street photography, let's say poverty or life in a shopping mall for example, anything could happen. Without a specific approach or brief for the assignment, the photographer has to stay open to all eventualities.

I choose to stay open. For the time being at least. This means that I am observing everyone and everything. I am literally constantly on the look out for "something".

When setting off I sometimes only know in the very last minute where to go. Nothing is pre- planned as such. Today, I thought of Streatham. I soon noticed that nothing much was inspiring me to even stop and consider taking a shot.

I am sure you will have come across the feeling of almost doing a "double take" when you see something, or stopping in your track to look at something. This is the feeling I get when I feel the urge to take a shot. Only I don't do a "double take", I immediately take a shot. Sometimes even two! However, today, it wasn't happening so far.

Other than seeing an old man on the ground in the middle of the road surrounded by people, nothing prompts me to stop. Not knowing the story behind the old man's incident I move on. He was looked after so no need to rubber neck for too long.

The only urge I felt in Streatham was to leave... quite quickly :) The highroad is usually very busy. Today was no different and my feeling that it lacks atmosphere gets reinforced. In fact I feel a bit at a loss and out of place in this part of Streatham.

The days are getting shorter and the light being the way it has been for the past few days, I was beginning to wonder where my shot of the day was going to be coming from :)

I got back to my parked bike and cycled another route into Balham. I wondered where I would stop. I knew something was about to jump out at me ... but what :) Relax, I though!

Something guided me to get off at the back entrance of Sainsbury's. I swing off Bedford Hill and left into Sainsbury's car park. As I passed the back entrance an image that simply told the story of how I felt for a while today, caught my eye.

Quick, I need to get rid of my bike so that I can get closer without disturbing the scene. Luckily, a pole came to my rescue. I untangle the camera from around my neck and shoulder. I get close enough to place my camera with the 50mm f.1.8 just below hip height and release the shutter (without looking through the lens). My subject is oblivious not only of my action ... but probably of a lot more too! Nobody else in sight ... at least not while I was taking the shot :)

Up up and away

2009-10-20T18:15:00.007+01:00

I got a phone call from Fixation to say that my Canon 70-200mm f2.8 lens was repaired and ready!

With little delay I jumped on my bike. EOS 5D and 50mm f1.8 lens round my neck. It wouldn't take me long to get to Fixation. They are literally a 25 minute bike ride away, on the other side of The Oval Cricket Ground. Not the most scenic journey but hey, I can't wait to get favourite lens back and into action!

First stop is the traffic light at the corner of Balham tube station. It's been a while now that I have been wanting to stop and chat to the chap who operates a little coffee van just outside the tube station. He looks so friendly... but, I don't drink coffee ... so I never dared cause I didn't know how would I start a conversation?! Today was no different ... and yet... I had my 50mm lens and I was at perfect shooting distance for the lens. He served a man and then saluted a lady who was next in line for her fix ... sadly I was too slow to get that... but he saw me from the corner of his eye and waved at me ...I smiled ... and then noticing an old man approaching and heading straight into frame I released the shutter anyway! The lights turned green and before you knew it I was off! I'll have to strike a conversation to find out more about the coffee business some other time :)

On I went, my little legs were giving it their all. Up a slight hill and down another. Clapham, Stockwell and finally the turn off at The Oval tube station. A quick shortcut (around the best part of The Oval) took me bang opposite to where I had to be.

Soon after entering Fixation I was £315 lighter and I had favourite lens back! How good does that feel? Awesome!

Off I went to try it out. A funny object on top of a building catches my eye. I squeak to a halt take shot. I love it! So much so that I want to share it on my blog ... but the story that enfolded soon after I had taken the shot sadly doesn't allow for it. No, I didn't get mobbed, in case you are worried :) I'm absolutely fine! Suffice it to say that I may have landed a job that should it materialise I wouldn't want to use that particular shot on my blog ...

On I went, still wanting to use my repaired lens. I stop at Clapham Common and play with the ducks at the pond. It's all looking so grey and uninspiring though... My challenge is to catch a pigeon in flight. Not easy as they flap their wings around pretty wildly!

But hey, I'm fast, the lens is fast and the pigeon up, up and away.

Bucks House

2009-10-19T18:30:00.005+01:00

Londoners have definitely been spoiled with plenty of good weather during the month of September. In contrast, October has become fickle and very unpredictable.

Today, the light was flat, flat, flat ... ! Nonetheless, I headed to Green Park in search of an image that would help brighten up my day and the blog!

I love that small park! Just off Piccadilly, it has a majestic avenue that leads down to Buckingham Palace. Filled with beautiful old Oak trees and a lovely open green space where people can hire deck chairs, oozes with charm.

Today, however, Green Park felt almost abandoned. All the better for the me and the hundreds of squirrels that were rushing around undisturbed busy looking for food :)

Fortunately the trees still bear plenty of leaves and yet it was just as lovely to also see the carpet of dead leaves that surround the foot of the tree trunks. If only the sun would have made a quick appearance ... but it wasn't to be...

I carried on and took the short walk down to "Buck's House" :) Would have been a crime not to:)

Absolutely Fabulous

2009-10-18T18:02:00.006+01:00

Catching a good shot for my Sunday blogs seems to be more of a challenge than on any of the other days. It's funny but although most shops are open and business as usual seems to be the motto, London still gives the impression to be operating at a slower pace. Not a bad thing actually!

What's most striking is that there are just different kinds of people on the streets. Or maybe it only looks that way because I went to a part of London I hadn't been for a while and never on a Sunday, Sloane Square and Knightsbridge.

I took the 319 bus from Trinity Road all the way to the beginning of The King's Road. Sitting on the top deck of a Double Decker bus is a fun experience. Luckily, the front seats were available.

The view from up there is great. Primarily, because of the superb view one gets of London's architecture. The sun was out too and the light catching some of the buildings prompted me to already take a few shots.

Nothing much was happening while driving over Battersea Bridge. Soon after it was time to get off and start walking up The Kings Road.

Yeap, no doubt, the people are definitely different there. The atmosphere and shops too! It all feels a bit pretentious I'm afraid ... with a touch of "Absolutely Fabulous", darling, sweetie :)

Time to explore some of the lovely little narrow lanes with coloured houses that lead off the main patch. Back onto The Kings Road itself and a must stop at Peter Jones! Would you believe it, Christmas decorations are up! Now that's what I call over the top if not simply scarieee!

Anyway, no stopping me now. On to Sloane Square, Sloane Street and all the way to Knightsbridge. Got to check out HA.RRods! That experience, let me tell you, makes me feel quite uneasy and almost claustrophobic. Definitely too many people for my liking. But, hey, gotta check out the famous Food Hall :) Not as impressive as I remembered it. Or was it that I have changed? Yes, that must be it!

So, what do most people get up to on a Sunday other than shop, shop, shop or eat, eat, eat?

I'll show you what they do. One clearly had enough and moves out of Knightsbridge while the other takes his pack of Great Danes out for lunch.

From dull to bright

2009-10-17T16:02:00.008+01:00

There is always lots happening at London's South Bank and well worth a visit ... even on a dull day like today!

I took the tube to Waterloo and walked towards the river (Thames) - One can't but help immediately see The London Eye. At a second glance, however, it looked a bit odd today ... hey, one of the capsules was missing ... I wonder how much that cost the company in revenue?!

The main cultural attractions of the South Bank are The Queen Elizabeth Hall, The Royal Festival Hall, The Hayward Gallery and The BFI as they offer a variety of cultural events.

One may be forgiven for not liking the modern architecture of these building but they are bang opposite Big Ben and The Houses of Parliament which means a great view is virtually guaranteed.

I walked around concrete jungle for a while ... admittedly there are some interesting angles from which to get some unusual shots but that grey sky acting as a dull backdrop for these grey buildings just put a creative dampener on it for me.

But as I came round a corner, close to the BFI I saw a young man practicing some free run moves. I immediately got a bit excited and and moved my camera up to my eye to. Fortunately I had my Canon 135mm f2.0L lens on and could get a tight enough image without disturbing the athlete.

I guess it's in my blood and I just love capturing action. This guy was pretty impressive! He must have been there for a while cause after performing three immaculate somersaults ( which I all got!) over a set of stairs he took his bag and moved on.

With those shots on the bag I moved on too.

I wanted more action and got it immediately. Below the Hayward Gallery there is an area for skate boarders and BMX riders.

This time I needed to switch lenses and reverted to my Canon 50mm f.1.4. Good choice as I got all of the action as well as the wonderfully colourful background.

Nothing like finishing on a high note!

Lolly Popp Lolly Popp

2009-10-16T17:17:00.004+01:00

Today I met Geraldine. The kids all call her Gerry!

"It's easier for the kids to remember."

Gerry must without a doubt be the happiest person I have seen at work... ever! She has been holding her job for 28 years and has loved every minute of it.

Also, I have never ... ever seen as many people and kids smile at the same person!

I came across Gerry very unexpectedly ... It was past 3.30pm when I walked up Northcote Road towards Wandsworth Common to where I had parked my bike. I had been around the area for over an hour, always on the lookout for something interesting. With a couple of fun shots "in the bag" I decided to call it a day.

Little did I know that as I was about to cross the road to get to my bike... there stood Gerry in the middle of the road. Big smile, chatting away to each and everyone she came in contact with.

And they kept coming, first from left and then from right. They all called her name and she knew every one by their name too, children as well as adults.

"See you Monday"

"Yes, see you Monday sweetheart!"

Witnessing this brings a big smile to my face too! Somewhat intrigued I walked over to Gerry. I wanted to know more. I had met people with Gerry's job before. However, so far I had always been on the other side of the coin. I was made to wait! Never assisted in such a kind, up beat manner.

So this was my chance.

"I love my job!"

"I can see that! You are amazing. I usually have to give way to buses but they stop for you ... and the driver even waves at you."

"The kids must love you too. To see a smiling face when they get out of school must be lovely."

I bet she can't wait for Monday morning to come along when she'll see the entire mob again. Twice a day.

"The kids are the same in the morning! We always have a laugh."

I wonder what weekends and school holidays must be like for Gerry?

"I go down to Bogner (Regis). I have a caravan there."

The 20 minutes or so of hard work are over. No more action to be had. I jump on my bike.

As for Gerry, she'll be on her way to Bogner soon too!

"The sun is out, the sky is blue and so are you dear ..

2009-10-15T17:55:00.008+01:00

... Prudence (or as the case may be: dear London!) won't you come out to play ..." Beatles, Beatles on my mind!

What an amazing Autumn day!

London has so many great landmarks and I really think that over the course of time I must bring you as many of them as possible. Specially as I want to strike a good balance between capturing what's happening in the Streets, Parks and Commons of London as well showing off all the lovely landmarks and buildings London offers.

As always, London was heaving with tourists. I had my work cut out as I desperately wanted to avoid having a shot full of people... unless they added something quirky to the image.

With that in mind I made my way to Trafalgar Square. I have always admired the fabulous building of The National Gallery... however, it is never a place for solitude... what was I going to capture there? Pigeons? Plenty of those around .. but .. No thanks! Although one may be forgiven for thinking that they may present a great alternative to having lots of people in shot :)

Great fountains to play with ... water is always such a thankful subject .. but water alone didn't cut it for me either!

The square was literally basking in sunshine. The early afternoon light on the main building of The National Gallery was warmer than I expected. It all looked good and inviting. I only had to find an angle that kept the people percentage to a minimum without eliminating them all together. Trafalgar Square without any people would just not be right!

I feel that the angle I ended up opting for has enough people in it to add atmosphere without taking away from the glorious building and the water features.

My only disappointment is the cloud formation that had suddenly crept in ... almost from nowhere :)

For this reason and this reason alone I simply have to show you a second photo today. It's too strong not to share it and with a sky like today's I simply had to show it off!

Could it be that after having lived in London for 23 years, Eros has finally struck his arrow imbued in magic love potion at me too?!

The Shot of Eros (who unleashes his arrows at Piccadilly Circus) was taken with the Canon 135mm f2.0L lens.

For the shot of The National Gallery at Trafalgar Square I used the Canon 50mm f1.4 - I love it so much as it reproduces without distorting the image in the slightest.

Anything below 50mm is classified as a wide angle lens. Even a 35mm lens would inevitably distort a bit.

One month on

2009-10-14T18:23:00.009+01:00

One month on, to the day, and I am still producing my daily blog!

Isn't it amazing how one month can just fly by ... and if it hadn't been for creating my blog I'm not sure whether I would have taken my cameras for such regular outings :)

A month ago I set out with the aim of exploring London and to see what it's like to venture into a new field. I wanted to improve my visual awareness and, at the end of my shooting session, share the photo of the day on my blog.

So far it's been quite diverse. I started off roaming the streets of London and found catching photographs of people trickier than I had anticipated. I have always been genuinely fascinated by people. I love observing their natural behaviour at work as well as at play. Being the fly on the wall. My main objective being to catch people as they are - to reveal the essence of (at least) a part of who they are. It is fascinating how an immortalised split second can tell a story.

The same principal applies to every thing one photographs.

Yes, I get a real kick out of observing anything through my various lenses. In fact each lens gives me a different approach and I am very mindful about which lens I use for which occasion. The nature of the subject and what I want to convey will guide me towards the perfect focal length. For equestrian photography which I had been doing for 20 years the obvious choice had always been a telephoto lens. The beautiful Canon 300mm f.2.8L had become my standard lens. It used to never leave my side and produced wonderful portraits as well as stunning action shots. When I got commissioned to do Visions of Polo I moved to the Canon 400mm f.2.8L and had a lot of fun with it. I couldn't be as mobile with it mind you. Forget hand holding it. It weighs a ton!

For most of my other work, having a zoom lens as opposed to a fixed focal lens can be a great advantage. Specially as sometimes there is no telling how close one can get to the subject. As always, framing is everything. Without fail I set out to make sure everything in my frame is there by choice. The nature of my current project will mean that I now favour a telephoto zoom lens - I love the range my 70-200mm lens gives me. It allows for more flexibility. And means that one can get away with not having to physically move towards or away from ones subject. The lens can do this for you. But a piece of advice. Make sure you realise that each focal lens within the mentioned range can create a different effect. The major distinction being the varying capability in depth of field.

I'm not a big fan of wide angle lenses. The widest lens I feel comfortable with is a 35mm. However, I prefer the standard 50mm lens. And have beautiful one!

But enough theory for one day! I have work to do :)

Feeling much better greatly thanks to inhaling and an acupuncture session with Selena I thought of traveling into central London. EC1, Barbican / Farrington area for a couple of hours.

I had my 50mm on the camera and the 135mm with me. Just in case ..:)

I particularly enjoyed walking around Farrington. I took me back more than 20 years. A lot of photographic labs were in that area when I first started off in photography.

I had forgotten how beautiful the buildings around there are.

I was immediately drawn to the unique building style only England and London in particular has to offer.

Then the fabulous and famous Smithfield meat market. Complete destroyed during the Second World War it got rebuild back to its full glory. It still occupies a prime position with London EC1.

I couldn't help hanging around in the wonderful hall. It was 3 pm and the only activity left was that of cleaning the place, getting it ready for the next working morning where I'm sure the place will be heaving.

It's good to talk

2009-10-13T18:32:00.007+01:00

Not feeling great ... but can't let my followers down .. can I ?! :) and what about my challenge? same applies to that!

The sun is out. Also I felt better after my treatment so I decided to take the car for a short drive to Fixation and see for myself what the issue with favourite lens is all about.

I ask to speak with the technician. He is still adamant after having fully stripped the lens that it has suffered a heavy impact and that the three elements have to be replaced.

How bizarre! But, hey, it's not about being right or being adamant myself that the lens has not suffered ill treatment... It's about making a decision whether it's worth having the repair done. Last thing I want is to be throwing good money after bad...

"The glass itself is still in excellent condition. Once I've repaired it, it should be working great. As for now, I wouldn't risk it because sooner or later you will start getting distorted images."

OK, time to bite the bullet after all! I give him the go ahead and am eager to get favourite lens back in pristine working order asap!

This still left me with the task of having to capture the shot of the day.

On the way back, still pondering about my lens ... I'm happy about the decision I made. I'm also glad that I made time to chat with the technician. I'm grateful he took the time to come and have the conversation with me. I trust that his 14 years of experience will be reflected in his ability to do a great job.

I had just been reminded of the importance of dialogue and respectful communication.

I stop at Balham and walk around, camera as always ready for action. I quickly sense that there too, all activity points towards communication and community.

The scene of the policeman taking to school kids just jumps out at me and I grab the shot.

I also like the woman on the right edge of frame looking straight at me. It all adds to the uncertainty and beauty of street photography.

Lost or forgotten?

2009-10-12T14:52:00.005+01:00

Might that be how I am feeling today .... ahhh, yes I knows sounds bad doesn't it :)

I took favourite lens (Canon EF 70-200 2.8L) to be looked at by Fixation on Oct.1st. Although it still takes great shots the zoom ring felt loose - my diagnosis: some screws needed tightening. Little did I know...

Twelve days later, no news. Time for me to call.

"Zoom flexor, rear assembly and narrow barrel all need replacing! That's £ 178.32 for the parts and £95 for labour, plus VAT."

"What?! That's £314.32!"

"Yes that's right. The technician took the lens apart and that's what he noticed. It seems that this must have happened due hard impact."

"That's impossible. I have neither dropped nor knocked the lens."

The lady on the other end of the line insist that this is what happened and that all three components needed replacing.

"You get three months warranty with it."

"Wear and tear" would have sounded more plausible. The lens has served me well over the years. I think I have owned it for at least 15 years. Mind you I look after my equipment really well - lenses and cameras are always wrapped in shammy leather so how this could have happened I simply don't know?

Anyway, forgotten I definitely felt as nobody bothered to call me with an estimate... Now, I feel lost on top of it!

Should I bite the bullet and cough up the dow?! or continue using the lens as it is? It is still taking great shots. I can always have it repaired when it either stops taken crisp shots or literally falls apart :)

Oh well, funny how when I went on my daily blog shot outing I came across a seemingly

fitting image!

What would you say: forgotten or lost?

Striding out

2009-10-11T16:34:00.005+01:00

My throat still feels scratchy and my nose has been dripping all morning ... :) apart from that all is well!

Around 1pm the sun was making a real effort to push through a relatively thick layer of clouds. Was this my cue to grab my camera to make a move?

Bother, I didn't remember to put my battery on charge. The Canon 5D has no juice left. Luckily I had charged the battery pack of my Canon D1 mark II the other day. I wanted to familiarise myself with it again and now was my chance. The menu layout and positioning of buttons is slightly different and it's funny how I have to quickly reacquaint myself before feeling fully at ease again.

I was in two minds as to where I wanted to go. I didn't fancy going into town. Sitting on the tube when I am finding it difficult to breath didn't sound too appealing. So I decided to hop in the car and to drive to Wimbledon Common. I have never been there but a guy at the pool mentioned the other day how beautiful the Common was.

I'm always game to explore new areas, besides, bit of fresh air would do me good as well.

Shirley was up for it too. As we are driving along the clouds are getting darker and darker again ... never mind we're on our way and there is no way I'm not getting a shot for my blog!

We didn't quite know the way but followed our nose. Well, Shirley's nose actually! Past the All England Tennis Club and up a hill towards Southfields.

"Stop! I just saw a sign for Wimbledon Common."

I reverse and we take a left and another few turns passed some beautiful houses. Nice area! And we find ourselves bang opposite a path that leads into the Common. By now it's drizzling but it's beautiful at the same time. The Common turns out to be more woodland like. Huge. Not many people around - the rain must have kept them indoors.

I'm fascinated by the big old trees and the remaining long grass. I frame up my shot and as I'm about to take the shot I can see from the corner of my eye that two people will soon be making it into my frame. Impatient I take one shot and wait until the two are where I want them to be. As they reach the exact point, one of them decides to kick a stone. I'm happy with that because it adds a bit of humour to my shot.

The rain is getting heavier. I'm quite willing to carry on walking and see what else we encounter.

"No, not the way you are feeling!" I was told.

"Ok then, boss" :)

Hot off the press

2009-10-10T17:11:00.005+01:00

I'm not feeling too well today... got a bit of runny nose ... ahhhhhh, I know, I'm not the only one!

But hey, I still had to go out for a spot of shopping... ginger, lemon, strepsils ... and to view the results of the photo Wandsworth 09 competition at the Southside Shopping Center - you get the picture!

Fortunately, the sun decided to show its face after a bit of a gloomy morning - Now, the day is already looking much better!

I'm not ever leaving the house without my camera anymore, no matter how good or "not so good" I feel :) today is no different.

Walking down into Wandsworth town I don't come across anything exciting. Some interesting characters are out shopping at Primark though! I attempt to take some .. but to no avail ...

The Photo exhibition is OK ... but then again nothing really jumps out at me... I must enter next year's competition!

"Enough running around. I need a coffee. What will you have?"

Eying up photo opportunities at Cafe Nero, I gladly accept "Raspberry and Ginseng please." How good to have a friend looking after me ... specially today .. when, well you know .. I'm feeling a bit under the weather :)

I take a seat outside. Two great photo possibilities right in front of my very lens! A heated telephone conversation to my right and the latest news to my left.

I have a go at both - and in case you are not up to date with yesterday's biggest controversy, it's hot off The Times today!

At long last

2009-10-09T16:50:00.005+01:00

Every time I am in Balham I see this man ... and each time I say to myself : "he would make a good picture". And I ask myself how I could best catch him ... should I ask him, should I strike up a conversation, should I get him unaware? What? I always feel that when you ask a person whether they would be OK having their photo taken, they become very self conscious. Their expression changes and the shot one once thought would make an interesting one, is gone...

Anyway, I was on my way to having my hair cut when I saw him crossing the road. The same thought entered my mind .. only this time it was followed by, "never mind he's on his way home."

So I walk into Style and Beauty on Bedford Hill and immediately take a snap of "Bettie" looking rather bored sitting under the hairdryer. She didn't notice. Irish Bettie, I'm later told, is 80 and I must say is looking "grand" for her age!

Elaine, has never seen me with a camera.

"Nice camera, how much would a camera like that cost? My son loves taking photos - he's not quite four years old mind you but he's always clicking away. I love looking at photos but don't ask me to be in one!

"No, you're fine, I won't!"

Shame, I thought because, capturing people in their work environment is something I love doing.

Anyway, looking none the worse for my haircut I'm off, still in search of my shot.

I head over to my bicycle, unlock it, push it along the pavement and what I see from a distance puts a smile on my face.

I'm pushing my bike faster now. Next to the bench in front of the pub there is no other than "that man" again.

He's turning straight towards me with a big grin. While attaching my bike I take a first shot. I've actually exchanged a few words with him before ... before I started my blog ... but he won't remember and you'll soon know why! He's commented on my bike before saying that it's safe here because he will look after it!

"Are you going to look after my bike then?" click...

"Yeah, it's safe here. And he continues to say words I couldn't quite figure out.

"Pardon?"

It sounded like : "I'm retired. I have a camera (he pretends he's taking a photo). I used to do welding. That's my car." (he pointed at an empty hearse !).

"Ah, OK and what's your name?"

"Bill. Bill and Ben!" he stretched out his hand.

We shake hands. "Nice to meet you Bill!" click, click

All in the span of 2 minutes.

"OK I'll be back Bill just going to that shop."

He's back sitting on his bench, minding my bike.

When I get back Bill's standing under the flower basket in front of he pub, beer can in hand chatting to another man.

I wave, "see you again Bill."

He waves back.

Toys will be Toys

2009-10-08T14:47:00.005+01:00

The sun is finally back! I don't know about you ... but these three grey in grey days got me a bit down - Mind you, all the more reason to rejoice today! Colours again!

Remember when I told you about the belated birthday present my brother got me?

Today, I can reveal that it has something - if not everything :) - to do with photography!

By now you should also know how much I enjoy swimming at the Tooting Bec Lido :)

The pool is open all year round to members - the water not heated - and it's all amazing fun!

The buzz one gets from swimming in cold water all year round is simply indescribable! You'll either have to take my word for it .... or try it!

Anyway, today's water temperature was down to 13 Celsius - yes, you are right, rather fresh!

Even the air temperature at 8am was a touch crisp - However, nothing could stop me from using my toy!

I can also reveal that it takes a bit getting used to. So with no further a do, I lowered myself into the water. I'm only in a pool (as opposed to the wide open sea) but believe me, a totally different world opened up to me - I could finally swim with a mask that contains a camera!

Excited I started to swim and every now and again I took a shot - not easy to gage what you are capturing as the camera in placed above eye level. At the moment I'm adopting a bit of a hit and miss strategy :) The results are "interesting" ... to say the least!

The shot I'm sharing today shows beautiful colours and reflections. It also shows a bit of the perspective one gets when swimming.

Breaking the rule

2009-10-07T14:58:00.008+01:00

It's been chucking it down relentlessly all afternoon.

I could even go as far as to say that it really was an unpleasant day to be roaming the streets of London. Still, I could no longer delay my mission to getting out the house in search of my shot of day.

Armed with a huge umbrella I ventured out. I decided to keep my equipment simple and used the 50mm f1.4 lens. Generally one refers to the 50mm lens as being the one that is closest to our normal radius of vision. It's small in size, handles very easily and although I always refer to the 70mm-200mm zoom lens as being my favourite lens, I really like the 50mm lens a lot! It takes me back to my first ever shots taken with an SLR camera. When I started to photograph, cameras were usually sold with a 50mm lens as a customary package. I had to buy this one separately though and I went for one with an opening of f1.4 as it is more light sensitive than the cheaper f1.8 version. Canon also make a f1.0L UMS version which is amazingly bright and the fastest interchangeable SLR lens! Needless to say, it is beautiful and cost the earth!

But I am happy with the one I've got! Grateful that I wasn't carrying my customary heavy equipment I made a dash down my road, across the main road and straight into to nearest shop which happens to be my local stationary shop. The two brothers who own "Miss U" are great! The shop is tiny but has everything you can think of and more! While fighting to close my umbrella I take a shot of Ilesh behind the counter - he smiles and wants me to give him my camera!

"I like cameras! I'm always the one who takes all the family photos."

"Great!"

Telling him about my blog and that his shot may very be the one for today provoked another big smile!

Little did I know at that time that as I stepped out of the shop again struggling with the wretched umbrella I instinctively pointed my camera first across the road to take a shot ... and then again out of the hip to take a guy running towards me...

What can I say? I like all 3 shots! They were all taken in the span of 5 minutes, if that, and really communicate the mood of the day.

Do I really have to make a choice and only publish one image or can I break my self inflicted rule?

I tell you what, I'm going to go for two!

You simply need to meet Ilesh and you also need to see that I wasn't telling fibs!

Half is better than none

2009-10-06T20:45:00.006+01:00

Strolling around London with my camera on this rainy Autumn's day turned out to be more stimulating than I had anticipated.

For me, photography is definitely defined by light. Today there was not much of it around though. Finding something that jumps out at me on a day that has hardly any contrast nor colour to show for can therefore be as testing as finding a needle in a hay stack!

An appointment I had took me near Tower Bridge, which gave me the opportunity to revisit the area in the hope of getting my shot of the day. Normally heaving with tourists, the area was rather quiet and almost deserted. Not even a single bright jacket in sight...

Tower Bridge itself is of course a beautiful and historic landmark. On a sunny day it glows majestically. Today, sadly not even the hint of a shimmer... and still I found myself drawn to that prominent feature. Possibly because of the mix of architecture that surrounds the bridge. In a strange sort of way the modern glass buildings blend in well. The contrast - although not in terms of light this time :) - adds a definite quality to what could otherwise be seen as being out of place.

So although I took other shots of interesting buildings, I am sticking with showing you at least half of a historic site!

Taking a gamble

2009-10-05T15:09:00.005+01:00

It's grey and miserable today. It actually rained quite heavily and I got drenched on my bicycle coming back from the Lido :)

I wasn't going to rush out again in a hurry. No, cup of tea in hand I made my way up to the office and started to look through all the photos taken over the weekend. There are some really interesting ones that I took on our walks along the Beach. one of which I posted in yesterday's blog.

Today, I'd like to share a shot I still took in London on Saturday on my way to Hastings. I took it from the moving train. Leaving Charing Cross the train headed over the Thames past Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Cables either side of the bridge made it difficult to get a clear shot of those landmarks.

What I did however manage to capture is an interesting and unusual shot of the London eye.

It looks as if the photo was taken in black and white, but it was actually shot in colour. Just goes to show what a grim morning it had been.

The wires on the bridge we were travelling over work really well in this photo. I had to be fast though as the distance between the cables and empty space was very short. Taking a gamble and shooting out of a moving train can sometimes pay off and produce a rare image.

Guess what?

2009-10-04T20:47:00.004+01:00

I stayed in Hastings! I only came back to London this evening... late!

I hadn't seen my Buddy for such along time so I just had to spend some time with her :) Lots to catch up on.

Walking along the beach I tried my hand at "arty shots"!

The weather wasn't too pleasant. Very windy and rather grey. So I played around with slow shutter settings. You may have noticed by now that I like the effect one can achieve using a slow shutter :)

For me a photos has to either be pin sharp or show some movement! It has to create a mood.

In this shot I used an 8/s and moved the camera slightly while releasing the shutter.

I love the results I get using this technique.

People often say about my images that they are like paintings. I never know whether this is meant as a compliment?!

I have also noticed that sometimes people say about painting that they look like photographs... strange that!

For me, what matters most is that whatever art form one chooses, it is seen as a form of expression. No matter what medium and, as long as the artist has created what he/she had in mind to achieve, everything goes!

Whatever next

2009-10-03T20:18:00.005+01:00

I'm off to Hastings.

That sounds great but, wait a minute. What about the blog?

Was it not going to be about London?

Yes. That's right!

So relax, it's OK because my journey does after all start in London.

As usual, I got up early. Even went for my morning splish before rushing back home. Breakfast, Morning Gongyo and off to Charing Cross Train station to catch the 10.45 to Hastings. Well, St.Leonard's-on-Sea to be precise. My buddy, Petra, has a lovely apartment on the beach front.

I left home in good time as I wanted to see what photo opportunities could present themselves at the train station on a Saturday morning.

I felt that there would perhaps be a bit of a holiday atmosphere there as opposed to the usual commuter rush hour madness!

Tube journey was uneventful. I arrived at Charing Cross at 10.15. Great! Half an hour to hang around and observe.

My inkling was right. Relatively speaking, the train station was almost deserted.

Shirley made a bee line to the ticketing machine. We had booked on line and only needed to have the machine spit out our train tickets.

And what can I say next to her was my first photo opportunity!

Click - that's in the bag! And on I went. I got quite a few interesting people. One that I love was again shot from the hip as the guy was sitting on the floor eating his wrap. His coffee cup stood next to him and looked as if it was "growing"out of the ground!

The station was gradually filling up. Trains coming into London, surprisingly carrying more passengers than one would think for a Saturday... Well, London is always busy, I guess.

I roamed around some more. A shot here, a shot there. People asking for advice at the information desk. Lots of people on the phone. Would we really be lost without them?!

The time was ticking away and our train was now ready to be boarded.

I'm happy with my harvest. I consulted "buddy" and Shirley and here is the shot of the day.

Petra loved the coincidental arrangement of all the reds and Shirley the contrast between the vibrancy of the colours and the lack thereof in the man's facial expression.

Great! Because that's exactly what I saw and why I took the photo!

Getting technical

2009-10-02T15:22:00.007+01:00

Today I stuck to my original plan. I went out specifically to shoot some still life with the beautiful 135mm f.2L lens and the 1.4 converter. The combination worked a treat yesterday.

So, let's continue and see what it's made of! I was keen to test it with a fully opened aperture. What that means is that almost everything behind the point of focus and a bit in font of the point of focus will be thrown out of focus. Depending on what the photographer wants to achieve, this effect can add drama to the picture. Throwing the backgrounds out is particularly effective in portraiture. The last thing you want to see when taking a portrait is something "growing" out of your subjects head or shoulder :)

Just another quick point. The longer the focal lens, the less depth of field can be achieved. If you wondered what a telephoto lens is, any focal length above 50mm is called a telephoto lens and anything shorter than 50mm is a wide angle lens. As we are on the important topic of depth of field, a wide angle lens will have better depth of field than a telephoto lens.

Why is knowing the subtleties of depth of field important? Well, quite simply because you will want to know before seeing the photo in print (or on the computer screen) what you would like to have sharp (in focus) and what part of the image you want to have more or less blurred (out of focus). All these nuances play a big part when it comes to your creativity.

But enough technical explanation. Let's get creative!

Back to my lens. Remember, it originally has its widest opening at f2 and using it with the 1.4 converter, I loose one f stop (aperture) which brings the lens down to f2.8 wide open.

To make the most out of bringing my subject to life I set my camera to aperture priority mode - this means the photographer chooses the aperture and the camera finds the right shutter speed combination to get a correctly exposed image. I chose f2.8 - the available light was good so I set the ISA to 200.

Out I went.

I actually had to kill two birds in one go today because I was asked to think of an image that would work for a therapist who helps people to stop smoking. Putting my thinking hat on and my eyes wide open I strolled the streets of South West London .. yet again ... in search of something suitable. I found an image that I think works well. It contains a subtle yet very strong message.

But, I hadn't found my shot of the day yet.

Continuing along a lovely avenue flanked by gorgeous houses I saw a paper cup resting on the edge of a wall. I was attracted to its colours and the fact that the background worked well too. A bit further a way, still on the same white wall, sat a dead leaf. To illustrate my point, I moved the dead leaf onto the same focal plane as the cup. I composed the shot and went for it.

Looking at the image very carefully you will see exactly where the focus was aimed at. The centre of the leaf that folds inwards is already less sharp than the stalk of the leaf which is where I set my point of focus. The centre of the cup is on the same plane and therefore sharp too. This lens is truly pin sharp which I love in a lens!

Sunset challenge

2009-10-01T18:42:00.005+01:00

Favourite lens is falling apart... No, I haven't dropped it or anything like that at all ... I fact, I keep all my equipment, lenses and camera bodies always well wrapped. Since shooting for my blog, however, I have noticed that some of the elements around the focusing ring were getting looser and looser by the minute. It's down to wear an tear really. Quite normal when you think that I have used that lens for well over 15 years.

It has been to all five continents, almost around the entire world and has served me extremely well.

Now that it has been worked hard again it wants a bit of attention, I suppose :)

So, I made time to get the Canon 70-200mm f.2.8L to Fixation, a Canon Authorised Professional EOS Centre and Official CPS Service Centre.

The engineers at Fixation are great. When ever my equipment needed some TLC I took it there.

But, I didn't really have a blog shot yet. A bit of a worry that. However I thought that they may be able to tighten a few screws there and then and that the lens would be as good as new and ready again for an early evening outing.

The short answer to my theory was: no. All the screws are inside and the lens will have to be taken apart.

I had no other choice than to have it booked in. Hopefully I will get it back in a few days.

What next? Panic not. I have another great lens. Not a zoom this time but a 135mm f2L lens. It's a fixed focal lens and at f2 a very light sensitive one at that. It's beautiful. I generally used it for portrait session.

Not today though. No, for a change I thought I'd have a go at catching some still life in the late afternoon sun.

However, because I so enjoy getting close up and personal with my subjects and I was missing the 200mm range, I dug out my 1.4 converter. Fitting the converter between the camera body and the lens meant that the focal lens was now 189mm - that's better! Only drag is that putting the converter on the lens the light sensitivity gets reduces by one f stop. The lens was now no longer a f2 lens but the widest aperture was now f2.8. Still very light sensitive and much better than most semi professional or amateur lenses.

On my merry way went. Photographing with a fixed lens gets a bit more demanding. Quite simply you have to do more leg work! Specially if you want the framing to be perfect.

On the way down the road I got some very nice still life images. Shots of a large crumpled up dead leave on the bonnet of a Mercedes looked beautiful! I loved the reflexion it made. It also reminded me a bit of a shot I took early in the morning with my little Canon Ixus 100.

But on I went. I hadn't finished playing with my long lost friend.

I see two guy playing Frisbee. That looks a bit cool. Their Frisbee is one of these thin rings and supposedly it can fly up to 400 meters.

"In the hands of a more capable player though!" one of the guys tells me.

"Wow, Can I please take a few shots of you? I'd like to get familiar with my lens."

"Yes, by all means"

"Great!"

So, I hang out with the boys and take a few shots. Not so easy. Specially as I had one particular shot I wanted to catch in mind.

The guys were enjoying the extra attention and made a real effort at getting their throwing as accurate as possible.

After a few minutes I got what I wanted. In fact I got two shots I really like. One of each player.

My final choice is a bit more dynamic though and, this is why it got my final vote.

When patience pays off

2009-09-30T18:43:00.005+01:00

The month of September has been good to us Londoners. Since the downpour we had the day I started my blog, September 14th, it hasn't rained once!

Taking the camera out when the sun's out is simply so much more inspiring than when the light i poor and dull. No light means lack of contrast. It means lack of vibrancy. Nothing reflects. I struggle on such days...

Today was such a day.

As beautifully as the sky lit up yesterday morning, as dull and dark was it today. Come 7am, when I left the house to go chanting with my friend Simone, the thick layer of clouds was still hiding the sun.

Short of giving you a detailed hourly weather report of the entire day, suffice it to say that it remained dull and overcast...

What was I going to do for my blog? Where would my inspiration come from and when would the slightest beam of light make it through the layer of clouds? When would I get the photo of the day?

Well, I had lots to do at home. E-mails to write, Buddhist schedule to organise, design, print out, send off and even hand deliver to some members who don't own a computer ... yes, there are still some people who resist being a slave to that form of communication :)

However I was getting a touch itchy. There is no way I'm not going to produce a blog and shot. Patience.., I guess it was time to make a start at fine tuning that virtue.

The days are getting shorter and shorter each day .. so around 5pm I thought I'd better make a move. Nothing caught me eye. Absolutely nothing! A man leaning against a wall, a beer can next to him, just about summed up how desperate the situation was getting!

Out for an hour and I didn't get anything better than that. I walked home thinking that I have to tell it how it is and if this was going to be the best shot I got, so be it. After all, I have to be honest.

But England wouldn't be England if come 6.30 pm, when the day's almost over, the sun wouldn't decide to make an appearance!

Excited, I grab my equipment and make a dash for the common. This is where the sun sets.

Finally some interesting light to play with! I am determined to get a better shot than the one of the man and his empty can of beer!

I reach the common and, to my delight, I notice that I'm not the only one out to play.

A man and his dog are having fun. Not sure who is enjoying the walk more actually? The man whom is throwing the tennis ball or the dog retrieving it?

Or could it by any chance even be me?!

Following the dog in full flight certainly brightened up my evening! Playing with the shadows the low lowing sun throws can be quite tricky too. One has to be carefull not to get ones own shadow in shot.

The photo was shot at a 30/s

Early bird catches the worm

2009-09-29T12:28:00.003+01:00

It's this time of year again when it's still pitch dark when one gets up "relatively early" at 6am.

Why so early? Well, things to do, places to go... besides, I am a morning person. I usually wake up at least a nano second before my alarm is due to go off. Why even use an alarm then?! I wouldn't want to be missing the break of a new day :)

I think my affinity with early mornings stems from my riding days. Even as a child living in the countryside I used to love taking my pony out for early morning rides with my father. He used to draw my attention to the lovely light and point out all the wildlife one could see then. Summers in Austria can get very hot and it just made sense to take the horses out when the temperature hadn't risen too high yet. Watching the sun gently rise I notice already then what a difference light makes and how it affects life.

Traveling to South Africa this spring was another reminder of what I had experienced as a child.

On Safari, we got up around 4am each morning to be sure to catch as much wildlife as possible. The backdrop early morning light offered was spectacular.

This morning was no different. I woke around 6am. It was still dark. I waited half a snooze before leaving the warmth of the bed.

Time for the customary back exercises. Laying out my mat in the east facing front room I could notice the first brightening. The day was finally getting on its way. No sooner than I had my first couple exercises done, did I spot yet another change in the light. A pink glow was hitting the mat. Up I got. Looked out the window and, there it was: a magnificently lit sky.

I grab my camera. Lens is still mounted. I open the window and point to what I see.

The ISA was set to 400, the lens was wide open at f2.8 which worked well.

The top of the roofs coupled with the chimneys added to the drama that was unfolding in the London sky.

Sweet dreams are made of this

2009-09-28T18:06:00.005+01:00

Monday, and we are all rushing around again. Mind you, almost all of my days, with the exception of yesterday, remind me of a spinning wheel of events without breaks. Not the slightest breather factored in ... even sending a quick text message to my mother, telling her that I posted a small packet for her, is done while I'm on the phone to organise the Buddhist schedule for next month.

No sooner has the text message left my mobile phone, do I receive a text message back from my mother.

"Thanx, I can see you are in hurry from reading your blog. Afpelstrudel looked good, was it as good as it looked? Did poor Polish woman have a bite of it?"

Amazed (and delighted) about the fact that my Mum (and Dad I suppose) are reading my blog, I quickly replied.

"Wow you are reading my blog!"

"Yes, a sure way of getting your news!"

That made me laugh out loud! Well, it's not as if I didn't call my parents to keep in touch ... but I must confess that as of late my phone calls haven't been as frequent as they used to be ... but we all know what it's like ... busy, busy busy :) Besides, my parents live in Austria. So not just round the corner either!

Ok, you read it here first. I promise to call more often again :)

Time to get on the tube and head into town for my one to one session at the Apple store. I want to know more about putting a blog page on my website using i.Web. The idea being that one can put a lot of info on a blog. Lots of links which makes my site more interactive, more interesting and hopefully more people will find me on the World Wide Web.

Laptop packed and favourite camera and lens at hand I make it to the Tooting Bec tube station in 2 minutes flat.

This time, I thought of keeping an eye out for what's happening on the tube. I wanted to see if I could capture something quirky around people on the tube.

I board the Northern Line up to Stockwell... nothing... At Stockwell I have to change over to the Victoria Line. As I'm walking up and down the platform I see a lady reading a book ... but not just any book! No, the title of the book suggest that she means business.

As I'm deciding on how best I could capture her, the train pulls in. We both get on. I make sure I sit diagonally opposite her so to get a good angle. The train is moving, gathering speed and shaking it's passengers a fair bit around. The lady is engrossed in her book. How am I going to get a good shot of her?

The available light in the carriage is poor to say the least. Up goes the ISA setting. I choose 800. Set my shutter speed to 100/s and am hoping for less movement. It's not happening The Victoria Line must be one of the most uncomfortable ones ;)

But anyway; I wasn't going to give up as easily as that. We are pulling into Vauxhall station. Here is my chance. I've got my camera resting on my knee. Aiming my lens at the immersed lady, I release the shutter. Click. I hope that wasn't too loud. I don't want to draw her attention.

No, I'm OK - she is so ensconced that nothing would phase her. I have another go at the next station. Both shots felt good. But there is no knowing for sure. Now I can't wait to get home to check it out. Yes one can aways check on the review screen of the camera ... but it doesn't compares to seeing it in large.

Walking down Oxford Street after my fantasic i.Web session I get a few more interesting shots.

But, I tell you what. My decision is made. I'm sticking with my "tube lady".

Watch this space because I may very well catch her again some day. This time hopefully accompanied by the real thing :)

Family outing

2009-09-27T16:37:00.005+01:00

Last night's dinner was a success - a lovely evening in fact - we shared lots of laughs - I think the menu went down quite well too - at least the wine went down - very down, that much I know!

Guests and hosts were very jolly and none the worse for it :) not even the following day ... :)

So, what's on the agenda for today then? Well, it's Sunday, the sun is still out to play.

What an amazing September this month has turned out to be!

There is no way I can stay in doors and declare Sunday to be a lazy, non blogging day :) too much out there to see and capture.

Fortunately, I live very close to Tooting Bec Common.

What better idea than to take a stroll to the common and see what activities the open green space has attracted.

Reaching the end of my road I hear a squeaking sound of bicycle breaks creeping up from behind. Beep beep ... A father on his bike and his two daughters are in a mad rush.

I take a step to one side.

"Thank you" says Dad. The two small kids right on his heels.

"You are welcome."

Ahhh but the traffic light slows them down. This is where I catch up with them again... and just as the light turns green again and the three set off, snap. Got them!

The walk to the Common leads down Streathbourne Road. A lovely wide road flanked by beautiful trees either side. Leaves are catching the light which in turn throws interesting patters on the terraces of super sized Victorian houses.

Walking down it I catch two beautiful shots. In the first one a young man striding out pushing a pram. In the other shot, I caught a man back from purchasing a "flymo" he has affixed on to the handlebars of his bicycle. The light on both these shots is soft and rather special.

But something tells me that there is more out there waiting to unfold in front of my lens.

Approaching the common one could already hear loud voices calling out "pass, pass, pass" and before one could even see what it was all about, there was no doubt in my mind that lads were having a game of football. I have never understood why football players scream so much?! Played well, it is a beautifully skilful game to watch. The level on show here ... more farcical than entertaining!

Nonetheless, I stop. No, nothing much to be had.

Time to measure Shirley and my skills at Frisbee! No wind at all and the disk flies beautifully. We are even quite good at catching it!

Enough. We need a rest before heading home and straight back out again to catch the last long Sunday at the Lido. From October the Lido will only be open until 2pm. And that only for SLSC members.

Yes, of course I got my splish in.

Now back home it's time to take a closer look at my photographic exploits.

Tough choice! But my decision is made.

The friendly father and his daughters who seemed on a real mission to make the most of this beautiful sunday gets my vote.

All engines go

2009-09-26T11:53:00.005+01:00

I can't keep up with my day ...

I've been going non stop since 7am - the usual back exercises plus morning Gongyo .. shopping and cooking! when will I make time to do my blog? well, right now between .. this and that!

Let me tell you what's on the agenda.

You see, we are holding a dinner party tonight - yeah great ! And the Lido is holding an event - the 103 length in celebration of 103 years of Tooting Bec Lido. Great too!

Of course I must, must, must take part :) registration is from 1pm- I don't know when I'll be in the water to do my bit - I'll be teaming up with a few people - don't know who yet - am aiming to do a bit more than my usual 10 lengths - sun's out - that's good! The sun was out all day yesterday (even better!) so, who knows, the water temperature may very well have crept up by 1/2 a degree :)

What all this means, however, is organising each minute of my day, so no minute gets wasted ...:) stress alert, I hear you say ... ! yes, could be. If I let it ... I practice Buddhism so that I don't :)

What's on the menu;

Courgette fritters, Beef Goulash and Apfelstrudl!

Shopping went well - got all I needed - I'm doing the Goulash and the Apfelstrudl - Shirley's doing the Courgette Fritters - when she gets back that is - she's in town - she's got a few clients and will be back .. when? when I'm in the water probably!

All this would be fine if I was not doing a blog on ... cooking?! - Like Julia did in the film Julie and Julia - fun film! a recipe a day ... but no. I'm not!

I'm doing a blog on photography. I'm going out each day to capture something exciting in the streets of London. Choosing one shot and sharing it with you.

Back to my cooking though! chop chop chop - onions, garlic, peppers ...

diced beef is ready - coconut milch bought, fresh parsley too - mild sweet paprika , and cayenne pepper, salt and ground black pepper, white wine all neatly prepared. Doing it all according to recipe. Looking fine - and while the Goulash is bubbling along I'm already busy preparing the ingredients for the Dessert : Austrian Apflestrudl.

More chop chop chop: Cooking Apples this time. Lining up the Lemon Juice, Cinnamon, Sugar, melting Butter to brown Bread Crumbs. Uffff that's all done too. Ahh and now most importantly, the thin Strudl dough! My friend Tamara brought some over from Austria when she came to visit a few weeks ago. Sorted!

Laying it out carefully is the trickiest part - that's done too - now filling it and rolling it - bit tricky too - Oven was preheating .. ohh yes, nothing gets forgotten!

Rolled and ready for the baking tray - looking very good! and in it goes - for ca. 30 minutes - got to play it by ear and watch it doesn't burn on top!

12.00 and I'm done - can you believe it - The Strudl is looking mighty fine!

On to my blog ... photo ... what, no time for that?!

Sorry, I must break the rules.

There are three options:

1 - I publish a shot that so very nearly became yesterday's shot .. it's soooo cool, specially as it was shot out of the hip! the guy came out of nowhere. I was sitting on a little wall.

I quickly reacted, turned the shutter speed right down to a 30th of a second to capture the movement and took one shot - one shot only!

2 - I take a photo of the lovely meal and publish that! a bit boring right?

3 - As it is the weekend and we are all celebrating the end of the summer ... sniffff, I know! I will publish 2 photos - How's that?!

Hey let me quickly put yesterday's shot up though - I like it so much! I can always add the other one later! cause it's time for me to cycle up the Lido. Can't wait for my splish!

Ok here it is - the famous Austrian Apfeltrudl in its full glory!

Looking forward to the weekend

2009-09-25T12:39:00.004+01:00

Another glorious autumn day and I'm out and about, eyes wide open.

Actually, I have quite a busy day. Heading into town for the afternoon and on my return preparing for the monthly Buddhist Discussion meeting which I am hosting.

So, around 11am I set out with the aim of "killing two birds" in one go...

I cycled over to Furzedown, not far from the Tooting Bec Lido to meet with Sue Rentoul. Sue is a graphic designer and also a passionate swimmer ... and, yes, of course swims at the Lido come rain, snow or sunshine. Sue is the lady behind the SLSC Logo. She gives a lot of her time to promoting various activities that club members get involved in. Last Saturday's Free Art Event was one of those activities.

I took all the "official shots" at the event - some of which Sue will use for the newsletter that's about to be released.

So, being in a part of South West London I'm not very familiar with ... in fact, whenever I have been in that neck of the woods I have managed to get lost :).

I decided to park my bike, take out my equipment (favourite lens already mounted!) and to hang around a bit.

The day is glorious and I got good vibes. To my surprise, there were photo opportunities galore!

I discovered a friendly little row of shops including a coffee shop - It was around 11.30am and the autumn light was getting a touch harsh ... however, still OK depending on where I positioned myself.

The very first shot I took just made perfect sense. And, it is the shot that makes today's blog : It's Friday. It's sunny. The leaves have started to fall, indicating the season. The day is not quite over. It's time for a coffee. The week has been tough. I wonder what the rest of the day has installed...? And, one thing is sure, it's definitely time to look forward to the weekend!

Delight in afternoon light

2009-09-24T12:47:00.007+01:00

Waking up this morning I felt a bit deflated.

I have been giving what I shared with you yesterday a lot of thought.

I have come to realise more and more how important it is for me to be taking photos. I love taking photos. I love reporting. I love capturing the essence of what people are about. I love documenting things and events that are happening around me, around us. Some people are oblivious to it all. They don't see what I see.

Some object to seeing what I see. They don't see the meaning of it. This is the part that deflates me.

But I have also realised that I cannot let this disturb my mission.

I know I can catch a subject and bring another dimension to it. Honing in on a particular part of an overall impression is what I am good at.

So when I see things I feel the urge to frame it and snap it. And, bingo - you have a photograph - you have a story. You give the viewer of your image the opportunity to reflect, to feel.

My ultimate goal is purely and simply to inspire.

Day in day out for over 20 years I did that. I have had so many positive reactions to my books and my images. To which I always replied. "My images are only as good as what is happening in front of my lens."

"My job is to react, frame well and be aware of existing light."

There is nothing more exciting than having ones lens pointed at something and creating that magic connection between you and your subject. It is only a split second and it cannot be recreated. You miss it.. it's gone... forever. You see it, react to it and capture it... you encapsulate it forever.

How great is it then to be an observer, visually reporting on events?! It is what I enjoy most!

Now, with my reignited mission, I am reminded daily that I go through life seeing photos everywhere. It is as if I have my favourite lens permanently affixed to my retina :) I can't help but see photo opportunities everywhere. And, I feel the need to capture those.

Street photography heightens my visual senses even more. I have to go out and look, be alert at all times. I feel that my eye is becoming even sharper.

How easy it was photographing horses over fences or in a dressage arena.

With it came a sense of satisfaction, for sure. However, knowing horses and the sport as well I did, I felt it became a touch too predictable.

But back to yesterday's event. Remember the "unhappy polish woman"?

Well, today, I received a mail from her! Reading it has turned my feeling of slight deflation into one of hope. Specially hope for her!

I must share it with you in its entirety:

that is very interesting...yours mission!!!...and yours comments...You made me depresd and anhappy till I came back and enter the blog...sorry about that scene but it is just like....I could not belive it when i saw tthat lens looking straight at me doing that imberessing job...and You a photographer...doing pictures of what ever You like...not like me-doing this shit which I f.. have to...and my dream to do photography in my life.I am so tired of being a slave of parking...I am keep on looking...You as me what do I do...hardly trying to go back to normal...this rubbish killing my personality...sorry to going up set with the camera...I promisse to let You take one when I will could to finish this distress........Yours blog makes me cheer up at the end of the day.......thanks....................................................unhappy traffic worden

sorry about my english

and of course I replied:

Hi no longer as unhappy traffic warden,

Thank you so much for your e-mail.

Your words touched me and I am sure that if your desire to be a photographer is as strong as I can sense it is, then you will make it happen!

You are young and full of energy - use this wisely and don't let others rule your life. You are the master of your life - Don't give anybody the power to shatter your dream.

We all go through stages in our life where things seem so hard and we don't know how to get our life back on track. The truth, however, is that we can get the life we deserve. Yes, it takes a bit of effort and a firm believe that we can.

I have been practicing "Nichiren Buddhism" for a few years.This has helped me tremendously.

Please go to this link and watch the video. Am sure it will inspire you. If it inspires you enough you are welcome to come to my house this friday, tomorrow sept. 25th - I am hosting a Buddhist meeting and you are very welcome to attend.

Let me know how you are doing and let me know if you want to come.

regards, Elizabeth

PS your English is great.

is case the hyperlink did not work ... here is the link again

http://www.sgi.org/sgi-dvd.html

So off I go on today's mission. Check in later.

What a delight! Donovan was over the moon when I asked him whether I could take some pictures of him in action.

Donovan is the best, most conscientious decorator I have ever seen at work.

I have watched him near to two months now as he's been working his way down the road I live on. He's on house number four! There is an undisputed consent that our road will be renamed : Donovan Street.

I have a whole series of Donovan - the image I ended up choosing shows the concentration on his face in the soft afternoon light. I made sure I had a bit of the hedge in the bottom of the frame so to add a bit of colour. Looking very carefully one can even detect a drop of sweat on the end of Donovan's nose!

What would you do?

2009-09-23T17:37:00.007+01:00

No excuse to stay indoors today. Chores done. It's time for my wander around.

"The car needs washing, why don't you come with me and see where it takes you today!"

"Hey, why not. Sounds like a good idea!"

Favourite lens mounted on the 5D in one hand and Crumpler bag in the other, I jump in the passenger seat. Shirley and I are off the local car wash.

No one other than us two around, I start taking a few shots of Shirley struggling with two hoses and a jet gun :) Water and foam everywhere! Getting a good angle of the spectacle was quite tricky. I really didn't want to see my equipment on the receiving end of that irate water jet :)

It's fair to say that we were all glad when a chirping sound coming out of that bizarre machine announced the happy ending to the affair.

On to cleaning the inside of the car.

"Rather you than me."

Besides, I am on a mission, right?! At this rate, I really wasn't sure where my shot of the day was going to come from...

Fortunately, the petrol station filled out. I observe movement wherever I turn to. The light is proving to be quite interesting too. Maybe something will come of hanging around here a bit longer?! Besides, Shirley was still giving the car a good clean!

I have my eye fixed on a biker tending to his good looking Triumph motorbike. Memories of having had a ride on the back of one of those a couple of years ago, keeps me interested.

Oblivious to being studied by my keen lens, the guy filled the Triumph up. He strolled across to pay. Strolled back out and over to his motorbike. Glancing carefully at it, he started the engine, mounted it and smoothly took off. Finally, I release the shutter and catch the pair.

I like that shot! I feel what really makes it is the balance between the smooth action of the main subject and the pedestrian who happened to just pass through the frame at the right time.

However, the day was still young and at this stage I wasn't sure yet whether this shot would be the one that makes it onto the blog.

"Let's go for a little drive and see what else we encounter."

My driver showed willing.

Stop, stop : two elderly black men engrossed in a conversation on a street corner - window wound down I took a shot. Oh boy, that didn't go down very well. They noticed me and came straight over.

"Why are you taking a photo of us? You shouldn't be doing that!"

I never know how to reply when I sense a certain disgruntlement. Would they know about blogging, I wondered .. and out came : "I'm doing a feature on Wandsworth"

"Well, you should ask before you take a picture!"

Deep down I know they have a point... If I was aware of a stranger taking a photo of me I probably wouldn't be very happy about it either, I thought ...then again, what is there to fear?

I think that people in London are very suspicious. And as soon as one is seen with a bit of a weighty lens, I suppose it looks imposing and heightens people's suspicion.

However, what people don't realise is that if I see a good shot but, would have to ask them first whether they would allow me to take their photo, the mood and quality I am after would be totally lost...

Still reflecting on their comments, we drove on. Next I saw a traffic warden in one of the side streets. She was carefully issuing a fine. Let me get out of the car - maybe that's less offensive and, who knows, maybe I can get a shot of her?

A few shots in the bag, I made my way closer. Just as I wanted to get on the other side of her to get a better angle, the young woman burst out in tears.

"I hate this job! Please don't take a photo of me in this shit uniform. I have been studying photography for two years in my country and I can only do this terrible job. I hate this job!"

Oh my God what have I done now?

"It's not you .. I just hate this job. I hate this uniform. I don't want to be seen in it nor end up on the Internet in this shit uniform!"

I tried to calm her down. "Ok, I won't."

Believe it or not, the polish woman actually looked good in her shit uniform! All the paraphernalia traffic wardens are equipped with these days dangling from her neck. She even had a camera herself!

But it's true. She looked very unhappy.

I wanted to cheer her up. So we chit chat about photography. I give her the address to my website. She promises to check it out .

"Send me an e-mail Anna, maybe I can help."

Reflecting on the two incidents I encountered today, I realise even more so that doing my blog is really not only about getting an interesting, spontaneous shot. It is also about the people. Talking to them and getting to know a bit about them makes this challenge I set myself even more special.

And, giving this more thought I understand that being an onlooker and stranger to most people I see, I will have to be more careful.

After all I want to be successful at capturing the essence of what's happening around the streets of London.