Bicycle Shadows

JAN 30th 3:46PM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 2.5 seconds

When inspiration tells you to “JUMP!”, sometimes all you can do is ask “How High?”…

The long, linear shadows made by these leaning bikes yanked me out of my seat at Verve Café! The sun was an hour from setting, and it gave everything a soft dreamy hue. I love moments like these; when the promise of a beautiful image propels you to action. Most of the time, the picture doesn’t really turn out how you had it in your head. But in those occasions when your efforts are rewarded - TOTAL sense of accomplishment!

Santa Cruz Diner Counter

JAN 29th 5:30PM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 10 seconds

An old soul with a young heart…

It’s been quite a while since I’ve eaten at this counter. I used to frequent this place during my days off as soon as the pangs of hunger hit in the morning. I took strange comfort in being amongst a group of predominantly septuagenarian eaters. I felt like I was in some kind of secret club (it seemed that hardly anyone under the age of fifty sat alone at the counter - except me). For some reason I saw a future version of myself in those graying gentlemen, their knotty noses buried in the newspaper and a piping cup of coffee in hand. For someone absurdly afraid of getting old, I’m surprised by the peace that I find when I’m rubbing elbows with them.

Cherry Blossoms

JAN 28th 12:44PM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 3 seconds

Is a constant craving for new scenery a curse or a blessing...?

Seeing these trees bloom is what I look forward to most about Winters in the Bay Area. I can’t remember when I noticed them first, but ever since they revealed themselves to me I’ve been captivated. I love visiting the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco when all the cherry trees are blossoming. I suppose it has something to do with that whole feeling of being transported to a completely different place. I wonder if I’ll ever get to a point in my life when I’m not always looking out the window…

My Guitar - NO IMAGE

JAN 27th 9:45AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 4/5 seconds
It’s time to sing a new tune…

I’ve had this instrument since I was 18 years old. I really should be a much better player than I am, but I never gave it enough focus. That seems to be a theme in my life thus far. Since this year is all about change for me, I have a feeling that this trend is on its way out. This whole new outlook on life seems like a shedding of the skin or perhaps something even more powerful - like a metamorphosis. I’m very much looking forward to the process as well as the end result.

This is the other day that didn't produce a photo. I'm really disappointed that I didn't get the lighting in this picture right. It was taken at such a wacky angle that I bet it would've looked cool if it had actually turned out.

Row of doorbells

JAN 26th 11:30AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 3.5 seconds

Nothing feels better than when something meets (or exceeds) your expectations…

I’m really starting to like taking close up shots like this. Since the pinhole camera has infinite depth of field, I can get inches away from my subject without it getting blurry - well, at least when I can manage to keep the camera still enough. As challenging as this project has been, I’m really starting to get into my groove and enjoy every aspect of it: from hunting for an image to writing about what inspired me. It’s created a new set of routines for me that’s added so much to my day to day.

The vignetting effect in this photo is crazy! I wish I would've angled on the door bells a bit more, but other than that I'm fairly happy with this shot.

Under the Stockton Avenue Bridge

JAN 25th 12:27PM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 2 seconds

Eventually, everyone becomes a mere memory…

At first, that seems like a solemn concept - being water under the bridge. But looking at it differently, you could think of it as a motivating factor. If in the end all you leave behind is an impression, wouldn’t you want to make sure it was a lasting and meaningful one? I think with this mantra in mind, I’ll be able to build more positive interactions as well as pursue more productive endeavors.

Lightshow

JAN 24th 10:06AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 4.5 minutes w/a tripod

This is how you’ll find me - even in the blinding darkness…

I recently read a book that explores the concept of Soulmates. The author talked about seeing a certain light in the eyes or over the right shoulder of the person with whom you’re fated to have a lasting and mystical connection. I wonder if everyone has experienced that sensation of having met someone for the first time, but feeling like you’ve known them for a lifetime…or two. I think this recognition -completely inexplicable and deeply seeded- is what that light symbolizes. The notion is utterly romantic, so of course the proud sap that I am, I connected with it on every level!

Capitola Village - Beneath the Train Tracks

JAN 23rd 11:23AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 4 seconds

Sometimes, your own backyard can feel like a foreign place…

Capitola Village has always possessed a very charming quality. Whenever I spend time there I find myself being transported to a cozy, sea-breeze-kissed town in some exotic European country. One of my favorite things to do is read on a patio with an ocean view and imagine that I’m in the humble version of Nice, France. Even if it’s only for an afternoon, feeling like I’ve gotten away does wonders for the “Island Fever” syndrome that I periodically suffer from.

As of late, the need to take flight has really imbedded itself. I’ve seriously thought about selling my motorcycle & ENTIRE entertainment system for a plane ticket to France, and just rough it for a couple of months! I want to take off - leave everything and everyone behind without a word and go SOLO…

If school wasn’t so huge in my horizon…

Man Reading

JAN 22nd 12:45PM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 3 seconds

It’s not like I’m stealing their soul…

Taking pictures of people in public without their knowledge/consent has always made me feel uncomfortable. I think I’ve missed out on an innumerable amount of touching images because of my apprehension. I’m going to make a conscious effort to get over this. I find the most reward in capturing candid portraits because emotions caught in the moment are so powerfully revealing. When someone looks at my photographs I don’t want them to just be appreciative of the aesthetics. I want there to be a sense of connection or interaction between the viewer and the image.

Rusted Metal Sculpture

JAN 21st 10:57AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 2.5 seconds

There’s nothing wrong with simple appreciation…

This reminded me of something that could be in the film City of Lost Children by Jean Jeunet. I almost wish it was a gloomy day so that I could mimic the tone exactly. There’s really nothing more to this than mere appreciation for the director’s work.

Water Drain

JAN 20th 9:49AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 7 seconds

Always allow for changes in the current…

I’m not sure if the week’s worth of rain has anything to do with it, but I’ve been entertaining a deluge of grandiose thoughts about change and displacement. For a while, I’ve comfortably and even happily resigned myself to a particular path. It may be the pre-midlife crisis talking but, anything can happen! What I know to be true right this second can be completely different a month from now, a year from now, 5 years from now.

All I know is I’m not ruling anything out : the good, the bad, or the ugly. I’m prepared to have my s#*t kicked by love, life, etc. And once the dust settles, I’m hoping that I’ll be standing strong and doing what matters most to me, with a genuine smile on my face & a camera in hand.

Statue Bust & Green Bench

JAN 19th 11:30AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 10 seconds

Other eyes can help you see…

My apartment is located next to a charming little art studio. Every once in a while I come across interesting pieces scattered about the property. I haven’t attended any of the openings that have been hosted, but after seeing this I feel like I should make more of an effort. Maybe seeing other people’s work could help with the block.

Bedroom Balcony-NO IMAGE

JAN 18th 10:38AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 30 seconds

Come back again some other day…

Last night, I was woken up by a flash of lightning & the immediate rumbling of thunder. Santa Cruz has been plagued with storms all week. There have been a handful of Severe Weather Warnings: from flash floods to tornadoes (wait, don‘t I live in California?)! It looks like Winter has come pouring in! This is definitely not my preferred season. I like rain, but only in romantic amounts; just enough to make you feel sentimental. Torrential downpours are depressingly drowning. I can’t wait to bathe in sunlight again!

This day didn't yield a picture. I think it was way too dark and I didn't let enough light in to compensate. There is one other day later in January that didn't pan out. C'est la vie!

Lulu Carpenter’s Patio

JAN 17th 11:20AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 10 seconds

Each step along the way is worth taking as long as it gets you closer to where you know you belong…

In just three weeks I’ll be rejoining the classroom! I’m taking a French class to get reacquainted with one of the most beautiful languages in the world (if I do say so myself). I need to be completely prepared when my future job at Bon Appetit sends me to Paris to document the latest in Haute Cuisine! I’m hoping to be fluent by the time I get my MFA in Photography. Thinking about the future is remarkably intoxicating. The next few years is going to be an interesting climb.

Typewriter-Super Macro View

JAN 16th 11:59AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 7 seconds

There is artistry in the antique…

As much as I surround myself with technology, there is something timelessly beautiful about the tools of the past. I haven’t written any letters with this typewriter, but I’m excited to try it out! It works perfectly, and I really enjoy how loud it is. The keys are heavy and it definitely feels like work to use it. Another thing that I admire about manual devices is the amount of expertise they require. They don’t offer conveniences such as spell check, undo, preview, Photoshop, etc. More often than not you’ve got one chance to get it right, or start from scratch. There’s something about that kind of urgency that builds character. I don’t ever want to get so spoiled by technology that I can’t find my own ass in the dark!

Verve Cappuccino

JAN 15th 12:46PM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 4 seconds

Yes, sexy CAN be available in a coffee cup…!

Verve Café in Capitola has become my second home. It’s interesting how a couple of weeks ago I thought that Pogonip Park would be my sanctuary. There’s just something about the vibe in this place that keeps me coming back; not to mention their ridiculously delicious espresso! As a creature of habit, I consistently order a small cappuccino as soon as I walk in. It’s getting to the point where the baristas flash me their smile of recognition whenever I come up to the counter; and damn does that feel good!

This place is my Cheers, except they don’t know my name - but they sure do know what I like to drink and how I like it made.

Self-Portrait in a Puddle

JAN 14th 3:54PM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 7 seconds

Not getting it right the first time is the initial step towards perfection…

This is now my second attempt at capturing a self-portrait. Santa Cruz has been drenched in rain for the last few days, so there are puddles everywhere! This one in particular caught my attention because of how black it looked due to the tar pavement; it kind of had a chasm effect. Learning from my previous mistake, I knelt down over the water with my nose almost touching the surface. I can only imagine what that must have looked like!

This is a lot closer to what I had in mind as far as creating an abstract self-portrait. I'm looking forward to experimenting with other surfaces, colors, etc.

Pearl Alley - Downtown Santa Cruz

JAN 13th 10:01AM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 7 seconds

All sorts of memories can lurk around the corner…

The thing about living in a small town like Santa Cruz (I grew up in San Diego - so yes, SC is small to me) is that eventually everything becomes a landmark for your memories. Pearl Alley is one such spot. I’ve held many hands down this path, stumbled through on numerous drunken nights, and even got involved in a fist fight, resulting in a boastful shiner and a bloody lip - you should’ve seen the other guy!

I’m very thankful that when I come upon a corner, the memories that materialize are ones that cause me to smile or laugh hysterically. This place has been a lot of fun, and I can see myself coming back here to settle. Until then, I’ve got a lot more stops to make first…

Wente Cabernet Sauvignon

JAN 12th 8:40PM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 4 minutes w/a tripod

Wines & friends: The best kinds are the ones you don’t expect to find…

I love how the red tone of the wine completely infused the lighting in this photo!

This was a particularly good evening. There’s nothing more satisfying than making dinner with a friend, especially a new one. There’s a strong sense of mystery with a bit of awkward excitement mixed in: You ask a lot of questions, negotiate boundaries, share personal stories, etc. The part I like best about creating a connection is the feeling of being new to someone. You get the chance to express yourself in a whole different way, and sometimes in the process you discover a layer of yourself that only that specific person could uncover. When this is a mutual exchange, long term friendships are often born. I don’t have these encounters often, but the fact that they are so rare is what makes them even more valuable.

In the past, I’ve always been lucky enough to encounter certain people exactly when I needed them in my life. It’s comforting to know that I haven’t lost that streak.

This is going to be the last post for a while until my current roll is developed. I accidentally bought one with 36 exposures, so it's going to be a loooong wait...

Hwy 17 - On the Move

JAN 11th 4:17PM - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 5 seconds

Serenity can be achieved while you’re speeding along at 65mph…

This is a portion of my commute everyday. I was on my way home from work, pondering how lucky I am that my daily drive isn’t a complete and utter bore! I actually enjoy the 40 minutes (each way) that I’m on the road. It offers me the opportunity to check in. Self reflection is very important to me, and the fact that I get an allotted time all to myself to just zone out to good music and figure out where I am in relation to the world is a gift. For the most part, I find that the commute is really quite good for me.

What it’s doing to my truck is a whole ‘nother story!

Old Abandoned Structure - Fair Avenue

JAN 10th 12:46pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 2 seconds

When the big picture is too big, break it down to the basics...

I discovered this place on one of my aimless drives. I was immediately attracted to all the textures & oddities of the building. Placed amidst rows of gorgeous beach houses, this structure sticks out almost to the extent of being ugly. But that exact contrast is what makes it so intriguing. I tried to capture the entire thing in one frame, but realized that although I would be providing a complete picture, the details that define its beautiful eccentricities would be missed.

Had this been properly exposed, I think I could've gotten my point across.

It's ok to prefer the grit over the grand...

Abalone in Stone

JAN 9th 2:15pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 1.25 seconds

Pretty can be dull, too...

Much like the sour grass photo, this was a shot taken without much creativity. The iridescence of the shells made for a pretty idea, but I didn't really take the time to compose the shot in an interesting way.

Let's hope the following images can redeem me...

No Trespassing Sign

JAN 8th 1:20pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 1 second

Taking yourself seriously can be funny...

This was my (failed) attempt at paying homage to Hitchcock. I tried to capture a self portrait via the sign. The tiny tan dot reflecting above the N in 'Trespassing' is me. I thought I was creating a badass message by taking a picture of a fence with a deterrent sign and my face stamped on it.

Alas, A-for effort. At first, I was quite disappointed for not pulling it off, but the concept is actually very comical to me now. There will definitely be other attempts at a self portrait. I just have to remember to be myself.

Sour Grass Flowers

JAN 7th 12:14pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 1/2 second

Falling short doesn't necessarily mean failure...

This was a totally uninspired moment. And that's that. However, the dreamlike quality of the colors was unexpected. I like how the surrounding greenery is threatening to swallow the burst of yellow. Other than that, I'm not terribly enthusiastic about this photo.

River Street - Main Intersection

JAN 6th 12:21pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 1 second

Boring is not an excuse...

I was stuck in traffic on my way to work for this shot. It dawned on me that (A) it's getting more & more challenging to capture something artistic/thought provoking on a DAILY basis & (B) I really should find another job.

As for (A): I'm hoping that this project will hone some skills that I know I'll need in the very near future. Taking a picture of a sunset & making it look inspiring is relatively easy. I want to get to the point where I can be stuck in a room devoid of anything outwardly stimulating & still create something that offers an interesting perspective. As for (B): To be continued...

I think the only redeeming thing about this shot is how my knuckles were accidentally included in the frame - totally WARPED!

Lesson: mistakes can be a saving grace...

East Cliff Lighthouse

JAN 5th 3:57pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 2 seconds

Accepting the things I can't change will lead me where I belong...

I realize it's hard to make out, but the lighthouse is there - at the very tip of the landmass jutting towards the ocean.

Just like with bridges, I find so much romance in Lighthouses. I admire the duality of their purpose: A warning as well as a beacon signifying the proximity of home.

Today, I found my way out of the haze & I'm starting to finally feel like myself again. There's nothing worse than watching yourself turn into someone you no longer recognize. The strange thing is I'm not quite sure what turned it all around. I just plan on riding this current and hopefully it will lead me back home...

West Cliff @ Sunset

JAN 4th 4:46pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 1 second

Growing up requires moving out...

Trying to leave this beautiful place has been mysteriously difficult. But this time, I am hell bent on making it happen! It's not that SC has been a miserable place to live. Quite the contrary: I like to think that I did A LOT of my growing up here. It's provided such a nurturing place for me to not only figure out, but mold the kind of person I can be proud of.

My sights are aimed dead on San Francisco - 2 years or BUST! I see it as the setting for continued self discovery. Although, I've never lived there, it has ALWAYS felt like home to me. It fills me with a profound sense of promise & magic. This is the place that will set my dreams in motion.

I'm ready.

Pogonip Park - View of Downtown Santa Cruz

JAN 3rd 5:00pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200 , Shutter Speed: 1/2 seconds

Sometimes, you have to step out to get back in...

I really should frequent this hiking trail this year. The scenery is awe inspiring, but in a peaceful & meditative way. Whenever I absorb the view of the city from this vantage point, I feel so much lighter - even if only for a brief moment. But any respite from the current emotional & psychological density I've been drowning in as of late is a welcomed gift.

I desperately need some perspective! I'm hoping this place can be a catalyst for that. I've been holed up in my head for far too long. It's time to join the rest of the world again.

I completely underexposed this photo. A lot of the scenery has been swallowed up by the grain. Maybe I'll try this shot again one day to do the place justice.

Golf Club Drive - Old Train Bridge

JAN 2nd 12:30pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 1/4 seconds

I sense a rift that I'm hoping can be bridged with a bit of time & patience...

I've always had an affinity to bridges. To me, they're more than just a means of getting from one place to another; they represent connection - an architecturally poetic way of bringing people together.

This old train overpass is incredibly quixotic to me! I like how with the gap underneath, it creates a quaint frame for the road that leads ahead. When I look at this picture, I can't help but imagine what a perfect place it would be to have a first kiss. There's so much romantic symbolism to it!

Where once there was a divide, a kiss has sealed forever.

Bathroom Sink

JAN 1st @ 5:20pm - Kodak Color Film, ISO 200, Shutter Speed: 2 minutes

Already off to a rough start, but sometimes a rocky beginning can pave the way for an exciting adventure...

There was a minor snafu with advancing the film! I managed to get away with only 12 usable shots, but now I get to post some pictures a lot sooner than I was expecting. Also, I got to see what I was doing wrong which allows me to compensate for my mistakes during the next roll. Silver lining!

I was brushing my teeth and as I lean down to rinse, I noticed how the light and water were bouncing off of the chrome sink drain (Yes, I know...it was a total Sam Mendes plastic-bag-caught-in-a-draft moment). Since the pinhole camera requires slow shutter speeds, especially with indoor lighting, I thought it would be perfect to try and use it to capture the image that captured me. The moving water alone would create a cool effect! While I'm setting up for the shot, I realize how challenging it's going to be and I curse myself for a brief moment for not choosing a landscape scene in broad daylight. In an attempt to prevent as much 'camera shake' as possible I hunker down over the side of the sink with my arm braced against the wall, every possible muscle constricted and still - human tripod! It's amazing how long 2 minutes actually is. It was terribly agonizing to sit still for that long, and I was actually on the verge of a cramp by the end of it.

The picture didn't turn out exactly as I had anticipated, but I love how the drops of water created streaks of light as they ricocheted all over the place!

Lessons: Use a tripod, don't be afraid of over exposing, & things are actually further away than they look through the view finder...