To Flash or not to Flash...

One of the most important things to consider when you're taking a photograph is lighting.  If you're happy to use the automatic mode on your camera, then the camera makes lighting decisions for you, but if you're bold enough to shoot manually, then you have control over whether or not to use a flash.

I was recently hired to photograph the interior of a home.  It was a beautiful, sunny day and I was able to get some great shots using ambient, or natural light, but I also used an on-camera flash to create a completely different mood.  I wanted to give my client some different options.

Take a look at the photographs below.  In each pair of photos, the first was taken with a flash, the second without.

Which do you prefer?  Which type of lighting do you think showcases the rooms better?  I'll be interested to hear your thoughts.

And here are a few more photos from this gorgeous Comox property:

If anyone is interested in more information about this property, it is called Midden Manor and is on the vacation@greatspots.com website!

Crashing Clowns and Muscle Men

What do Brazilian dancers, clowns, muscle men, politicians, and cool musicians all have in common?  The Comox Recreation Centre!  I was hired to photograph the Centre's Grand Opening on June 17th, and felt honoured to be a part of it.

Photographing events is satisfying on so many different levels; on a personal level, it's a thrill to be right in the middle of the celebratory energy that permeates such an event, and I enjoy meeting a wide variety of people.  On a professional level, I am always kept on my toes because of the technical challenges that event photography offers.

My favourite shot of the day was this one:

This couple shared a private giggle when I asked their permission to take a photograph.  They reminded me of a quote I read the other day, "Love at first sight is easy to understand; it's when two people have been looking at each other for a lifetime that it becomes a miracle."  Amy Bloom
(Now, these two could have been on their first date for all I know, or they may not even know each other's names... but it's a sweet quotation, nonetheless!)

It was an inspiring event.  Inspiring to think of what it took to make this vision a reality, and inspiring to think of the many people in our community who will enjoy it for years to come.  Congratulations to all!

Costco Opening | Comox Valley Photographer

Residents of the Comox Valley may be split on whether the new Costco is a good thing for our little town, but there was no denying the excitement in the air this morning during the ribbon cutting ceremony at their newest store.

I was hired to photograph the event, and was surprised at the number of shoppers waiting at the door at 8:00 am!  After a few speeches and a ribbon cutting ceremony, the happy throng was let loose to cruise the brand new aisles.

What are your thoughts?  Will you be shopping at Costco?