Boston POTN Meet

[flyfisher]

I would be interested in doing the butterfly place in westford. if you get enough poeple to rent it out.

[mysubaruimp]

What is the current plan?

[Scottes]

Great question. I am booked solid through Saturday night. I have no free time for anything, so can't do any prep work. I'm up for the Butterfly Place if someone can call them and check availablity, etc. This Sunday might be short notice, though, but it's worth a shot. From what I remember the minimum was $75 for 2 hours. Every person above 5 was an additional $15.

[symbolphoto]

Hello all, i'm new here. I have a couple of Boston night shots here.... Hope to join you guys next time;

http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston22.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston2.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston3.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston4.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston5.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston6.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston7.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston8.jpg

http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston10.jpg

[Scottes]

Mumbles, you've got some awesome shots there. You're inspiring me to get my butt out and take some night shots! I love them, particularly the shot of the Zakim reflecting in the water. Very cool.


Anyone up for some late-night shots in town? :-)

[mysubaruimp]

Anyone up for some late-night shots in town? :-)

Im down.

[symbolphoto]

I receive my 5D today, yay, so i'm down for whenever. I've got a few spots for pics, but some are illegal to enter... actually they are all probably illegal to enter. But if that doesn't bother you, let's do it :)

mysubaruimp , you a member on nasioc?

[mysubaruimp]

mysubaruimp , you a member on nasioc?

Used to be, dont go there anymore.

And Im down for anything, I have my running shoes on. Im out for this weekend though, and possibly next.

[symbolphoto]

A couple more;

http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston11.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston12.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston13.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston14.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston15.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston16.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston17.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston18.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston19.jpg
http://www.brendanstewart.net/boston20.jpg

[Scottes]

Some more sweet shots Mumbles. I'm definitely going to do some night trips in Boston.

A few night shots I've done in town:


The Mother Church, done as HDR:

http://www.itsanadventure.com/postimages/MotherChurchPSHDRLCorrPP.jpg

Zakim Bridge, 1x6 Pano, about 35 megapixels after cropping:

http://www.itsanadventure.com/postimages/ZakimNightPano.jpg

And the skyine. I think this was a 1x7 pano:

http://www.itsanadventure.com/postimages/BostonNight22_1.jpg

[symbolphoto]

Yeah man, sweet shots, i have to try out that HDR thing... I like that last shot too. East Boston, falcon street? Or Charlestown?

[Scottes]

East Boston, Lo Presti Park. You can get a slightly different view from Piers Park, but that's only open 6 AM - 11 PM.

[symbolphoto]

Sweet Pano's...... i had an idea that other day that looking at google satellite maps, with the highest zoom, could help people find cool places for stationary objects... could be a fun contest too. hehe.

[arthurgoh]

What's up with this dreary weather man!??

My finals are over and now i'm free to shoot but the sun is gone! :(:(:(

[Becca]

I'm posting this here because I'm hoping that one of you local folks might be able to help me out. It appears that the mirror inside my camera has come loose. I couldn't see anything through the view finder this weekend, so I took the lens off to see if there was something in the way... and there was... the MIRROR! It was loose inside the camera. I need to take it in for service, but I can't find a Canon service center anywhere nearby.

Do any of you know of a place? I would really appreciate any help you can give me.

Thanks.

[arthurgoh]

holy cow, that sounds scary.

My 70-200 took a bounce recently and i sent it in to SK Grimes at EP Levine's.

I think they do limited repairs, but from the sound of your situation they may send it in to Canon for the fix.

Hope this helps

[blonde]

Becca, there is a store next to my house called "newtonvile camera" they are canon dealers and a canon service center. they are really nice guys and have been great help to me before. if you can't take the drive to them, i recommand just sending your camera to the canon service center in NJ (thats probably what all camera stores do anyway).

and yes, i am down for some night shooting :)

[Becca]

Thanks Arthur and blonde! I found a place in Arlington that does on-site repairs so I'm going to try there first. It's called Sanford Camera Repair on Mass Ave if anybody else ever needs to go there. (I hope you don't! I'm going nuts with all this flooding and NO CAMERA!)

[blonde]

good luck with the repair Becca and stay safe, it is crazy whats going on in NH right now...

[Becca]

good luck with the repair Becca and stay safe, it is crazy whats going on in NH right now...

No kidding, huh? I couldn't get to work this morning because all the exits I could take off 495 were closed due to flooding. Lucky for me I live on the 3rd floor!

[Hiro]

Hello gang!

Well, I'm finally back from a temporary hiatus...sorry for being outta touch! I apologize for not returning any PMs for that last planned outing (did it actually take place? Looks like it may have fizzled in the last days of the planning?). I've been completely out of the loop due to a crazy month or two of activity that hit all at once (changed jobs/employers...moved homes...went away on vacation...etc). I'm finally coming up for air now and ready to shoot again, although it looks like Mother Nature is keeping me under water now...what is the deal with all this rain? Yowsers!

At any rate, again, sorry for not being in the loop for that last outing...I should be back online now... So, when is the rain gonna stop so that we can go shooting again?

Stay dry!

- Hiro

[damansidhu]

Hey Hiro,
Good to see you back in action buddy. We should catch up some action before the summer starts, the rain has made every tree and leaf come alive. We should all grab our macro's and head to the woods :) Oh and btw,when you get the time do change your signature to add your new prized Canon to the list.

Becca- sorry to hear about your camera, was it fixed by those guys you mentioned? Otherwise you can always make it an excuse to splurge for a 30d or even a 5d or MarkIIn :) I know im trying to convince the wife for a 5D so hard these days but she'll take some time budging :P

[Becca]

Becca- sorry to hear about your camera, was it fixed by those guys you mentioned? Otherwise you can always make it an excuse to splurge for a 30d or even a 5d or MarkIIn :) I know im trying to convince the wife for a 5D so hard these days but she'll take some time budging :P

Well, they have it and they said they should be able to fix it. I did consider it the perfect opportunity to upgrade but I feel really strongly that I need to master the camera I have before I upgrade (not to mention the money involved!).

Tell the wife that you need a better camera to take pictures of that new baby! Getting much sleep these days?

[damansidhu]

Well, they have it and they said they should be able to fix it. I did consider it the perfect opportunity to upgrade but I feel really strongly that I need to master the camera I have before I upgrade (not to mention the money involved!).

Tell the wife that you need a better camera to take pictures of that new baby! Getting much sleep these days? Agree totally with the first point with you. Ill throw in the baby angle as well, thanks for the suggestion ;) She has agreed though, but for a very far off date and im trying to get that closer :D Sleep is a thing i catch up on weekends these days.

[arthurgoh]

That butterfly proposition mentioned several pages back for our next gathering sounded promising. Anyone up for it?

[Scottes]

I'm up for it, but the earliest I can do it would be Sunday June 11. And that's not certain, since the better half may plan something by then.

[mysubaruimp]

I know that the last time we met a few people expressed interest in hitting up some motorsports at some point.

Jun 17th there is an autocross in Ayer, MA put on by Porsche Club Of America. Usually one or two good looking cars there, and the people are friendly. No real crashes, but plenty of spin-out/drift action, along with the normal fast driving stuff. A great way to add a little variety to your portfolio at any rate. You can usually grab some great arty shots of parked cars too, there are a couple decent backdrops.

I will be going to this event if anyone wants to tag along. Usually a 200mm lense is enough to get some great shots trackside.

I will give more info or answer any questions if anyone is interested.

[holland_patrick]

bumping back to the front for Ideas on a boston meet

[DJS]

Scottes & Mumbles...Great shots of Boston...very inspirational!!

[sageone]

Hey guys/ladies...any interest in a second meet? I missed the first one, but will try and make the second one. Lets chat it up.

[damansidhu]

That would be a third meet Don. We have met twice till now. I would definetly be interested in meeting up, but can only make it from July onwards. If anyone has any ideas/locations in mind, we should get the discussion going.

[sageone]

That would be a third meet Don. We have met twice till now. I would definetly be interested in meeting up, but can only make it from July onwards. If anyone has any ideas/locations in mind, we should get the discussion going.

Twice already? Man...I'm slacking. Gotta get my behind out there and learn from other Beantown pros.

[Hiro]

Hi gang,

July onward is best for me too...things are just nutso these days in my schedule, but July *should* be better ;) Maybe we can throw some dates out and ideas...at least it would give us something to 'shoot' for, eh? (no pun intended)

Before my humor gets worse, how about some ideas? I remember someone (possibly Becca?) suggested a day trip via high speed ferry to Provincetown from Boston...still any interest in that? Or the night shooting outing was very intriguing to me also since I never make the time to do that...

Thoughts?

- Hiro

[damansidhu]

Good to hear from you Hiro, now im hoping the others too see this thread. How does the weekend of 8-9th July sound? Im just throwing in the nearest date im hoping everyone would be free.
Also for the shoot if everyone agrees it would be nice to get out of Boston for a change. Im open to the night shooting session though there would be only so many things we would be able to shoot at night. Maybe we can meet before dusk say at 8pm or so and shoot till 10, that ways well have night shots as well as the late evening light. But im not sure if everyone would be available at that time in the evening as well.
So throw in some ideas guys, im out of them :)

Psst.. Hiro-add that Mark IIn to your signature when you can :)

[sageone]

I'm good for that date I think. Of course, I'll have to check with the boss aka the wife. She'll probably think I'm nuts meeting people I don't know...well, haven't met in person or spoken to other than the typed word.

[Becca]

I'll be out of town that weekend, but if it works for everyone else, I will enjoy the event through your photos! :) Maybe next time!

[20DNewbie]

Oooooooo, I may just be able to make this one.:D

[damansidhu]

Oooooooo, I may just be able to make this one.:D So how many people can make it? Don, Hiro and Christian? Any more takers???

[Hiro]

So how many people can make it? Don, Hiro and Christian? Any more takers???

Ugh, well, as luck would have it, I just found out that I have to work on the 8th. I *should* be free on the 9th (barring any catastrophes on the project I'm working the 8th), but I presume night shooting on a Sunday is not in the plans. So, unfortunately, I'll have to take a raincheck on the 8th...but if you all plan something for the 9th, put me down as a 'most likely' and I'll pray that my project finishes up clean on the 8th.

[20DNewbie]

I'm also busy usually on Sat.(sorry, I should have mentioned that in the previous post), but as far as I can see Sun. should never be a problem.

Any new news on the P-town trip? I found a person from another forum that's interested in it if you all don't mind. She gets better pics with her P&S than I can seem to ever get with my 20D.:lol:

[sageone]

So how many people can make it? Don, Hiro and Christian? Any more takers???

I think I'm good to go...pending last minute crap from the wife. :)

[damansidhu]

Hiro/Christian, would sunday morning work for you guys? We still havent decided what are we planning to shoot? Do we want to postpone this to the week after that? I dont have any issues with that either. Let me know what you both think.

Christian, i dont think anyone would have any issue with your bringing friends along.

Don, better start working on convincing the boss from now itself :)

[sageone]

Don, better start working on convincing the boss from now itself :)

She already gave me the "are you kidding" look this afternoon. But I bet if it was a meet of all Christmas Tree Shoppers from a shopping forum it would be ok. Those of you don't know what a Christmas Tree Shop, it's a place where men get the life sucked out of them. No seriously, it's a weak a$$ store that carries a bunch of junk for cheap money (well, that's my spin on it anyways).

I'll keep you informed of the battle.

[20DNewbie]

Sunday mornings are always cool with me(for immediate future anyhow[looking for a better job]), just a date/time/place is all I'll need. Well, maybe a rental car seeing almost all of my money has gone to this instead of vehicle upkeep. :lol:, it's fallen rather quickly to P.O.C. status, I may have to shoot it soon and I don't mean with a camera. :lol::lol::lol:

[20DNewbie]

How about this place.

Click. (http://www.southwickszoo.com/index.html)

I've heard it's a great place, not to far off the Pike or 495. Open from 10-5, not too long or too short of a day.
Late enough to sleep in a bit, early enough to get home and relax.

Just an idea.

[sageone]

How about this place.

Click. (http://www.southwickszoo.com/index.html)

I've heard it's a great place, not to far off the Pike or 495. Open from 10-5, not too long or too short of a day.
Late enough to sleep in a bit, early enough to get home and relax.

Just an idea.

My sister in law was just talking about this place. The only zoo around me is the Stoneham Zoo and it sucks. Not a bad idea.

[damansidhu]

Don, i hear you brother, my wife suffers from the Christmas Tree shop syndrome too ;) No known cure for it has been found yet. On the other hand she has been very supportive of my time to time splurges so i really don't mind that :D

Honestly I'm not too sure of the zoo idea as not much of an animal shooter really. Plus it seems it would be a whole day thing if we do that since its quite a distance to get to. But if thats the way everyone wants to go i'll roll along

[sageone]

I's a good idea, and while I'm not an animal shooter either, it could be interesting. I'm sure we can get other things than animals. Who knows. Still working the wife...losing the battle thus far, but she's bound to crack.

[20DNewbie]

At this point I'm about to get on a plane to anywhere it isn't raining. I just saw on the weather channel since the begining of last month we've gotten over 3 feet of the stuff.

Any more and I'm gonna start building an ark. I'm sick of it already, bring on the drought.

Ok, I'm done complaining for now. :rolleyes: But it looks like this whole week is going to be lousy also. :cry:

[sageone]

No kidding...this weather BLOWS!

[Becca]

At this point I'm about to get on a plane to anywhere it isn't raining.

I did that a few weeks ago. I was so sick of the rain, I went online and found a good deal for a weekend in the Bahamas. Of course, I flew back the day EVERYTHING was flooded and it took me 2 hours to get from Boston to Middleton when I got home! Was still worth it!

[20DNewbie]

Anybody got anything in mind?



Bueller?



Bueller?

[damansidhu]

How about the Cape? Or we can do Boston in the evening/night.I really want to try my hand at some Dusk/dawn and night shots.

Normally CDS is quick to come up with some suggestions about shooting locales, i hope he reads these posts and suggests something and if possible join us as well.

[sageone]

I'm not down for the Cape at this time of year...that's an entire day with a good deal of driving. Boston seems logical to me...maybe keep it to places like the North end...get really specific instead of all of Boston.

[Issac Brock]

Anybody got anything in mind?



Bueller?



Bueller?

Um, he's sick.

[damansidhu]

Just found a good link of places to photograph in Mass on Scottes website when i was googling. Maybe we can choose a location to shoot from here.

http://www.itsanadventure.com/psma/

[20DNewbie]

Oh man, look what I just found!

I'm so jazzed, I may just have to rent/buy the 100-400 or the 300 and a TC for this one .:D Afterall, they're all on my wishlists.:lol::lol::lol:

I was hoping they rented out the 500/600, but they don't.:(

Click. (http://www.nantucketairport.com/AirShow/BAngelsSchedule.html)

[jtsull]

Is there some place in Massachusetts that rents such a lens? I would love to try one.

[20DNewbie]

Is there some place in Massachusetts that rents such a lens? I would love to try one.
Not sure, if I remember correctly though I think there's a shop in Cambridge that rents, or was it Newton? One of the others that live in and around Boston could probably answer this better than I.

Someone I used to work with would rent glass up there all the time.:confused:

[Maryglynn]

hi

Just found this site. I have not read all the posts. I have a brand new Canon Rebel XT. (with kid lens) Ialso have a sigma 28-300 (aspherical) I bought two years ago for my canon EOS Elan 7E (print) Not really sure how this kens will work with my new Rebel. I also have the canon Power shot A75 ( I wanted to up grade to the Rebel)I have read the lists about lens and found it overwhelming. I would love to join your group. I have had some major surgery and due for another one soon. I know a great place to see and take photo's it would be a day trip. Its a fantastc place and cheap. Not sure what time the last boat is but for a nice day trip it worth wonderful photo's of the Boston skyline plus other sites. This would be a tour of the Boston Harbor Islands. You can get off on and the boat as it visits each of the islands. I have not seen all the the islands, but the ones I have are pretty good.


Mary

[20DNewbie]

Hi Mary, welcome to the forum.

Sounds like a good idea to me(I've no idea, never done the tour, lol), and the more the merrier as far as I'm concerned.

And while your recouping from your next op, just look around here a bit. Before you know it we'll all be on a first name basis.

Wow, this is the first post of yours I've seen and I'm already comfortable calling you by your first name.:lol::lol::lol:

[Maryglynn]

Hi Christian

Thanks for the welcome. I can't wait to meet the group and start snapping photo's in and around Boston.


Thanks again

Mary

[damansidhu]

Hi Mary,
Welcome to the gang ;) Thats an excellent suggestion you have about the islands. Maybe well be able to follow it up if we can get something going. We all seem to be having these ideas of late but never materializing.

[sageone]

I've been quiet here for a while...darn work gets in the way. The islands sound interesting. I'm sure the wife will LOVE that idea. ;)

[Becca]

I'd love to do the island thing, too! Great idea, Mary, and welcome to the group!

[mysubaruimp]

Im in, if someone can PM me and let me know the date and time we all decide on. I always forget about this thread and dont see it until its too late.

[Hiro]

Howdy everyone!

Welcome to the group Mary! The Islands sound great - it's been on my TO DO list for a while, so this is a great excuse to finally get out there. It appears everyone else is in on the idea also, so how about we try and 'shoot' for it then? ;)

Here's the website for everyone's info: www.bostonharborislands.com (http://www.bostonharborislands.com)

There are several departure docks...the most central might be LongWharf by the Aquarium? It looks like there are departures every 30 minutes on weekends, starting at 9am...and the last return boat is around 6pm or so. Looks like one of the big attractions is Georges Island with the fort and all, but I'd be up for any of them.

As for when, that is of course the most difficult matter ;) I'll just throw out the thought of this Sunday for starters, but I realize that may be too short of notice for folks...anyone else available for this Sunday, July 23?

Thoughts everyone?

- Hiro

[mysubaruimp]

Thanks for the alert via pm, I never would have seen this otherwise.

I hate to be the first one to do this, but this Sunday is out for me. I have to be at the NPPL event in Boston all day Sunday. If everyone else can make it, then thats great. The 29th/30th are free, as are most weekdays,

I may have missed it, but what does the islands thing cost?

[20DNewbie]

Sounds great! Sunday is usually the best for me and so is this coming.:D It turns out I have been out there, lol. Well on one of them, when I was alot younger:( I went to Georges Island a few times. Loved the Fort.

So I'm in(for Sunday that is).

[20DNewbie]

Oh, here are the prices.

Park Ferry Costs

Call the park at 617-223-8666 for the latest fare information and schedule. Fares are based on round trip for adults from all points, including Boston at Long Wharf (& EDIC Pier), Quincy at Fore River Shipyard, and Hull. Multi-ride, family, and group rates are available. Water shuttles between the islands are FREE.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday

Adult: $10
Senior (65+): $8
Child (ages 3-11): $7
Children under 3 yrs: FREE
School groups (per student): $6
Family four pack (2 adults & 2 children): $28 Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

Adult: $12
Senior (65+): $9
Child (ages 3-11): $7
Children under 3 yrs: FREE
School groups (per student): $6
Family four pack (2 adults & 2 children): $32 Fares are for round trip passage, including water shuttle trips.

[damansidhu]

Good to see ur post Hiro, you keep disappearing and appearing again every now and then :) This sunday and the next unfortunately wont work out for me, ill be game the weeks after that. Ill look forward to the captures you guys get if you go out this weekend.
Cheers!

[sageone]

no go for sunday either...

[Scottes]

Is this still on for Sunday? I don't know if I can definitely make it, but I do need to get out and take some pictures. And I love the islands. Just the trip out and back is awesome. They probably still have a "Sunset Tour" that goes out to Hull and back, for anyone who wants to spend the entire day on the water. Part of that tour gets boring, but you see *all* the islands - they go down one side of the harbor on the way to Hull and the other side of the harbor on the way back.

I do love the islands, but I'd also suspect that there'd be a good amount of "down time" - nothing to do while waiting for people to gather at the wharf leaving Georges Island, boring parts of the boat trip, waiting for the boat, etc, etc. It will not be a day "packed" with excitement, but the lack of excitement may allow us to rest at times. That day of walking from Fanueil Hall to the Pru was tiring, so rest would be good. :-)

Also, you'll be packing a lot of gear. It's been a while, but I doubt that anyone put a McDonald's on Georges Island, so a small cooler with drinks & food would be a necessity, and that gets heavy with all the camera gear. Then again, the larger boats do have snack bars and can even cook you a burger, so maybe the cooler can stay home...

[kpiela]

Weather does seem to want to cooperate for this wknd!

[Scottes]

Weather does seem to want to cooperate for this wknd!
Uggh! The weather report doesn't look good at all.

Well, I guess I'll get some woodworking done instead... :-(

[20DNewbie]

I'm getting so sick and tired of these so-called weather forecasters. It seems in the recent years all they deal with is absolutes, either the days gonna be great or it's gonna be crap.

It seemed different when I was younger, they would forecast it as a good day with potential of... Nowadays (insert any day) is going to be the best day of the week, the very next forecast, nope it's gonna rain.

At least before I would make plans accordingly, if nice do this, if not do that. I know I should still do that, but I just get so jazzed at the thought of getting to do something out of the norm and meeting some of you here(I love to meet new people, I think of it as looking through a new set of eyes).

It just seems anytime I've had a chance to make plans this year they've had to be scrapped in the end.:(

Ok, I guess I should just shut up now and stop whining and get a 1 series, where'd I put that Amex again?:confused: :lol:

Well at least the boats and islands wouldn't be crowded if we still went on Sunday. There's that silver lining.:D

[wcstory]

I'm on Cape Cod and would always be up for a shoot and I'm sure my brother would go also.

Bill

PM or e-mail me if anyone gets together

[Hiro]

Hello all,

Sorry we couldn't get together this past Sunday...I saw the negative responses coming in initially, so I just assumed we'd bag it. It was short notice, so I figured it was a long shot anyway...plus, Mother Nature continues to disappoint, eh? Ugh...

At any rate, the summer is whizzin by...I'm determined to get an outing in during the summer, with or without me ;) So, how about we throw out another round of possible dates? To give folks ample notice and planning time, shall we shoot for approx 2 weeks out? How about the weekend of August 12-13? I'll double check these dates myself at work tomorrow to see if they work for myself :)

- Hiro

[mysubaruimp]

The 12th!!

[Hiro]

Well, just checked the work schedule and the 12th works for me too! How about everyone else? How many other takers for Saturday, August 12? :D

[sageone]

No go for me on the 12th...gotta bday party to go to (and subsequently shoot) - a paying gig.

[damansidhu]

Works for me right now if we can do an early morning shoot, otherwise i can leave early and the rest of you can carry on.Again the universal question pops up--- What place do we shoot?

[bluej511]

hey im very interested in meeting some professionals and brilliant amateurs im located in Worcester, we can either go shooting at the Worcester Ecotarium or the New England Aquarium which ive never been to.

Idk if i can make the 12ths but ill find out more about it this weekend, i might possibly have this weekend free

[damansidhu]

Again the thread sinks down. Comeon guys are we on for the 12th ?? Please post up. Im free on 12th and hoping we can work something out.

bluej511- welcome to the group :)

[bluej511]

seems like i might be able to make the 12ths where we going?

[mysubaruimp]

Im in for the 12th

No idea on where to go though, I dont know Boston that well.

[Hiro]

Thanks for the nudge on this Daman! Come on gang...any more takers for the 12th? I probably should have done this before, but I just sent a bunch of PMs to nudge folks...

As for where, that is indeed the eternal question. I can think of ideas, but I don't know if any one of them can sustain us for a day with a variety of shooting options.

One example is the Arnold Arboretum within the city limits:

http://www.arboretum.harvard.edu/

I've never been but have heard it's nice...anyone else ever been? It might be nice to explore... Also, there is a subway stop within walking distance, so I guess there would be the option to hop on that and go elsewhere in the city if we want to continue afterwards for more shooting options.

- Hiro

[Maryglynn]

Hi

I am not sure I can make it. I will know later in the week.
I see the surgeon on Wednesday for 2nd surgery

thanks for invite

Mary

[Scottes]

It's been a while since I've hit the Arboretum. It's a beautiful place - no doubt - but I wonder if it's for everyone. It's just a bunch of flowers and shrubs and trees. :-) Just kidding - the place is gorgeous, and highly recommended. You could spend a day there.

The Aquarium is tough. I've shot there, and it's mostly high ISO - 1600 or 3200 for the most part. I got an amazing (for ISO 3200) shot of a Lion Fish there, but not much else. Combined with other stuff - like a boat cruise, right next door - it could be a nice add-on. Though a little expensive for a couple hours.

There's always the Franklin Park Zoo... You could spend most a day there. Some good shooting, some mediocre, but the good stuff is definitely worthwhile.

I once again have to put forth the proposition of renting a 15-person bus or van or something like that. I have no idea how much it would cost, nor if it could be done on short notice.... But we could certainly bounce around Boston and the area fairly quickly.


All that said, the 12th is pretty tough for me. I wouldn't know for certainly until Friday afternoon.

[bluej511]

well the thing i was thinking of was yes the aquarium would suck for lighting and second boston is just gonna suck for parking PERIOD.

http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=mg2constituent&L=2&L0=Home&L1=Visitor&sid=massgov2

Here for you guys to find something and plan it

[bluej511]

oh btw the weather is gonna be absolutly gorgeous to walk around this weekend to, if its not this weekend i might be able to make next weekend to but im not sure. Theres a couple historic places we can go in central MA but that site i sent has a lot of information about what to do so lets figure something out and get this going

[arthurgoh]

Just visited the arboretum recently, not much in the way of spectacle but definitely enough material for those with a more meticulous eye...

i'm game for a jaunt over the weekend though.

Agree about the aquarium not being an ideal setting. Nice fishes though, pity it's too dark, and the subjects don't stay still for slow shutter shots!

[damansidhu]

hmm.. so where do we all meet then. I know we all probably can never finalize on a place to meet so why not we all meet up first and then the folks there could decide where to head. Are we on for the 12th? or even the 13th? Please post up and lets take a count as to how many people can make it. Im game for both the days.

[bluej511]

1.Bluej511 (Vicken or Vic) in for both days....Historical sites outside of boston probably central MA, old towns, old villages country sites.

[mysubaruimp]

On the 12th we have at least 4 people going. I say just meet somewhere and decide from there.

How about just meeting near the docks/aquarium? The T is around to get us anywhere we could want to go, so I dont think where we start is that big of a deal.

[arthurgoh]

1.Bluej511 (Vicken or Vic) in for both days....Historical sites outside of boston probably central MA, old towns, old villages country sites.

2. Arthur (plus spouse/tripod bearer) Good for either day

my suggestions are either Ipswich River Sanctuary or Gloucester, we can carpool if need be www.itsanadventure.com/psma/North/index.html

[Bob F]

I as wondering if any of you can give a name of a great photo equipment store in the Boston area, I will be traveling there this fall.

[bluej511]

1.Bluej511 (Vicken or Vic) in for both days....Historical sites outside of boston probably central MA, old towns, old villages country sites.

2. Arthur (plus spouse/tripod bearer) Good for either day

my suggestions are either Ipswich River Sanctuary or Gloucester

[bluej511]

the only problem with meeting up in boston is finding parking, and the garages are a rip for a full day, so a good idea would be to either meet somewhere in Mass then find a way into boston, or if you guys are really really interested in going to boston we can park in a neighboring town and take the T or Bus into the city then walk around

[mysubaruimp]

12th:

1.Bluej511
2. Arthurgoh + 1
3.mysubaruimp
4.damansidu
5.Hiro
6.
7.
8.

I will probably end up parking someplace on the edges of Boston for free and taking the T in. I will be leaving from Dover, NH, and anyone that wants to carpool with me is welcome.

[bluej511]

i might be a +1 to not sure yet so its Maybe +1 lol

[Scottes]

my suggestions are either Ipswich River Sanctuary or Gloucester
Gloucester? I can name many spots to stop and shoot around Gloucester. Grab Rt 127 in Beverly and drive it, stopping 10-15 times, and you will fill a day. With ease.

Hmamond Castle, Stage Fort Park, Gloucester Harbor, Eastern Point Lighthouse, Rockport Harbor, Halibut Point, Magnolia, Good Harbor Beach, Rocky Neck, Thatcher Island Lighthouses, Anisquam Light, Lobster Cove, Anisquam Harbor...

[bluej511]

wasnt my idea it was Arthurs i just posted what he wrote lol my bad

[Hiro]

I can definitely do the 12th...can not do the 13th...and am open to any ideas.

I definitely love the North Shore (Gloucester, Manchester, Rockport, Newburyport, etc) but can imagine that keeping the group together as we drive from town to town might be difficult if we are all in separate vehicles, especially since it's prime time tourist season and parking is minimal in many of these coastal towns, especially the ones with the beaches.

I'm always game for meeting in the city. I myself would take the T in as well and would suggest the same of others...either park at like a commuter rail station or one of the outlying subway stations like Alewife or Riverside...

- Hiro

[bluej511]

Alright so lets figure out where to meet and what to do its 3days away

[Airedale1]

It's been a while since I've hit the Arboretum. It's a beautiful place - no doubt - but I wonder if it's for everyone. It's just a bunch of flowers and shrubs and trees. :-) Just kidding - the place is gorgeous, and highly recommended. You could spend a day there.

The Aquarium is tough. I've shot there, and it's mostly high ISO - 1600 or 3200 for the most part. .

There's always the Franklin Park Zoo... You could spend most a day there. Some good shooting, some mediocre, but the good stuff is definitely worthwhile.

All very true, I grew up in Boston (first 40 years:lol:) If I was taking a group for a one day shoot, for maximum variety and easy access, I would first park (plenty of parking) at the Fanueil Hall garage and the many varied shooting ops within walking distance.

You will have short walk to Fanueil Hall which can't be beat for people watching, Aquarium, North End, State House, Boston Common and Public Gardens which are both great for flowers, birds and squirrels that will eat out of your hand.

From the end of the Public Garden you can walk to Copley Square which will yield still more photo ops. Especially architecture.

[bluej511]

alright so come on chief lets decide something and make it happen i need a few tips oh and i will be shooting with my kit lens hahahah

[Becca]

I'm a possible for this weekend. A lot will depend on where you all decide to go and how long I'll be gone. I have house guests coming next week and I SHOULD stay home and get the house cleaned, grocery shop, etc etc... but I'd rather go shooting! I'll keep track of this thread and if I decide to come, I'll just show up (it may be a last minute decision!)

[kpiela]

I may be out of town this wknd, but if plans change (which they do with some frequency) I would love to head up to the North Shore. I'd prefer that over another Boston trip. But I am still just a "maybe" so make the plans and I, too, will keep an eye on the thread :)

[damansidhu]

Allrighty! Good to see the thread picking up some steam :) Since Arthur suggested some neighbourhood's maybe he can pick up a spot we can meet at. What time would be good for everyone.

If we can do it early in the day it'll be good- less heat,less traffic and people who might have chores to do can leave back early as well. So im thinking maybe in the 6-7am range. Would that work for everyone or do we want to meet later like at 8am or so? Im also open to evening/night shooting if we want to do that, but im not sure if everyone would be able to make it.

[mysubaruimp]

Holy god, 6am. Why would you put yourself through such torture? I dont think I have seen that side of the morning in a long time. 8 am would be better. Some people (me) will have an hour drive to get into Boston.

I have been wanting to do some night shooting for a long time in Boston. I was actually going to just hang out in Boston after we all departed and then do some shots once sunset came. It would be nice to hit up some lunch in Boston, I have wanted to head back to the north end for some nice italian recently.

I dont know the Boston area all that well, or I would suggest places to go. I think we need one person to just take control and pick a route.

[arthurgoh]

Here's a plan:
12th Aug (Sat) meet in Stage Fort Park in Gloucester at 9:30am, work our way back towards Boston, end up on the east side for City skyline shots at dusk and dinner at Santarpio's (noted for their pizza by Phantom Gourmet)

how's that sound?

[bluej511]

sounds good idk where wed find boston parking in the afternoon though

[bluej511]

so is it official yet did we figure it out?

[mysubaruimp]

Here's a plan:
12th Aug (Sat) meet in Stage Fort Park in Gloucester at 9:30am, work our way back towards Boston, end up on the east side for City skyline shots at dusk and dinner at Santarpio's (noted for their pizza by Phantom Gourmet)

how's that sound?

This sounds good to me, as long as there is lunch somewhere along the way.

The address for Stage Fort Park is just Hough Street, Gloucester, MA - for anyone that needs to mapquest it.

[bluej511]

Alright im in probably just an hr drive from my buddies house, ive always wanted to visit up there just never been so this is the perfect excuse

[damansidhu]

Good stuff Arthur. I'll be there, i probably wont be able to stay for the whole day, but ill try to keep it till lunch time at least. My cards would probably be full by that time anyways :) Looking forward to the meet!!

[damansidhu]

Hey what if someone is late and wants to catch up with the group later? Maybe it would be a good idea to share cell phone numbers.

If anyone's not comfortable with sharing publicly maybe we can pm each other. I'd at least like to have Arthur's number since he's our official coordinator now :D My cell phone number is 603-943-3447

[Becca]

I'm going to do my darndest to get up to Stage Fort Park on Saturday morning, but like Daman I may not be able to stay all day. If I'm not there, don't wait for me, but I'll do my best!

[bluej511]

508-868-6121 names Vic i should be in, im gonna stay at my buddies house in Hudson so its at least slightly closer and i should be there at 9:30

[mysubaruimp]

Good plans. Becca, would be nice to have you there, buty if you cant make it, there is always next time.

My cell has been pm'd to a couple people.

[arthurgoh]

Alright! It's on then.

My cell is 18575442858

We can do lunch in Gloucester itself or Manchester-by-the-sea a little westward. I've been wanting to visit this area for some time now: please bring good maps if you're driving - i'm unfamiliar with the place and will be navigating by chart...maybe more seasoned folks will have suggestions on where the photogenic spots are.

Those who want to join us later can just call in and hook up.

Charge those batteries people!

[bluej511]

alright so def meeting up there? ill have to borrow a map from work or something

[Becca]

I lived in Manchester-by-the-Sea for a few months when I moved to the East Coast. It's really a beautiful area of the state.

Its easy to get to Stage Fort Park. Take 128 North to 133 (exit 14) and follow it until you see the ocean. Take a slight right onto Western Ave and you'll see Stage Fort Park just ahead on the left.

I'd love to see Hammond Castle, just south of Stage Fort Park near Magnolia. There's an admission price though, so I'm not sure everyone wants to shell out the 8.50 to get in. Its a great place for photography, though.

[arthurgoh]

Thanks for the driving tip Becca! Know anywhere decent for lunch? I'm hoping there's a nice diner around someplace near. There's something poetic about a bunch of photographers piling in for burgers and chicken-fried steak

[bluej511]

Alright looks like its me by myself coming in. So Stage Fort Park at 9:30 whats the list count up to?

[Becca]

There used to be a nice restaurant right next to the commuter rail station in Manchester-by-the-Sea, but I don't know if they are open for lunch. I haven't been back in a few years, so I'm not sure what's there now.

[Hiro]

I should be able to make it - count me in! See you all Saturday!

There used to be a nice restaurant right next to the commuter rail station in Manchester-by-the-Sea, but I don't know if they are open for lunch. I haven't been back in a few years, so I'm not sure what's there now.

There is a nice little breakfast/brunch place right next to the rail station. There is also a great lobster shack in Rockport if people are into that sort of thing. And there is the BEST fried clam restaurant in the world just down the street in Essex called Woodmans.

I actually am up there on the North Shore like twice a month or more...funny how that is...actually, was just up there this past weekend also...go figure... There are definitely some nice places to shoot up and down the coast, including the infamous red shack just north of Manchester in Rockport...it is theoretically the MOST photographed thing in NewEngland.

[damansidhu]

good to know that ull be coming Hiro :) Looking forward to the meet eagerly. Hey Becca, itll be great if you can make it as well.

I might have a friend along who shoots with a P&S canon s1, hope that'll be ok with everyone :D

[bluej511]

Im game

[HoRnYTuRbO]

i maybe down for this, anyone wanna caravan up there from brighton/brookline area?

[bluej511]

arthur is from brighton, im from Worcester ill be driving up by myself

[damansidhu]

I'll also be driving or riding in. Hope we can find parking easily there. See you guys at 9:30ish tomorrow!

[symbolphoto]

Hmm i can probably make this. Yo horny, we should caravan up. Tell me time and place to meet ya.

[HoRnYTuRbO]

word..
how about 8:15 at HESS Station? catch me on AIM

can someone post exact meeting location? maybe google map???

[symbolphoto]

Ok it's looking now like i'll miss the gloucester portion of the meet. But i don't want to miss the boston portion. As far as knowing Boston, i might as well be a cab driver/tour guide.

Suggestions for getting into Boston:
Wellington Station(Orange Line), near 93 and Rt. 1.
You can take the orange line into the city and meet me/us at State Street which is just a short walk to the Boston Harbor Cruise Lines to check out the Islands, OR, is a great starting point to go around Boston.

Here is the address/mapquest to Wellington station.
http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?formtype=address&addtohistory=&address=35%20Revere%20Beach%20Pkwy&city=Medford&state=MA&zipcode=02155%2d5124&country=US&geodiff=1

Also, i have several places around Boston i can show people. I'm not a huge sunset fan in Boston only because the skylines isn't very inline with where the sun sets (If that makes any sense), but for shooting cool subjects and generally getting into areas that most people don't , i'm your man. Also, since many of you here may not know me, search on threads started by my username. You can see some of my work. I hope to see you all in Boston tommorow. I'll pm a few of you my cell # to try and sync up.

BTW- Wellington is perfect if coming from Gloucester because you take 128south to rt.1 south (danvers) and head down until you see rt.16 east/everett/medford. It's a straight shot from Glouster and gets you close to the city.

-Brendan

[symbolphoto]

If anyone wants to go to any of these locations (Except the crane, you are on your own) , let me know tommorow;

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=161876
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=177397
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=179896

Just a couple of places...

[Becca]

Well, guys, I'm not going to be able to make it. Just got back from the office and I'm going to have to go in again tomorrow. Have a great day and I look forward to seeing what you get!

[bluej511]

ok so were gonna meet up in Gloucester still and cab driver Mumbles will show us around...whats your name and number btw?

[mysubaruimp]

Sounds good

[symbolphoto]

Brendan, and the # has been PM'd.

[HoRnYTuRbO]

i'll catch up with u guys when u get to Boston, im gonna go shopping early and be done quick

[bluej511]

getting ready gonna leave at 8ish get some gas pick up so cash and im on the way

[symbolphoto]

I'm around just give me a ring when you guys head down this way.

-B

[bluej511]

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=202980 my pics from glouster i tried to pic the best ones i still have more.

For some reason doing auto level to the pics this time really ruined em idk why, so i just did auto contrast on most

[damansidhu]

Good meet today, really enjoyed it- what a marvellous day to be out :) Wish i could have stayed longer with you guys.I just posted my photos in the bluej's link. And here's a teaser of the group to begin with, thanks to Ryan for sharing his fisheye for this shot :)

http://static.flickr.com/98/213561946_c677013de2.jpg

[arthurgoh]

Apologies to hornyturbo and mumbles for axing the nightshoot, it was a long day and i guess we ran out of steam. But it was a great outing today and maybe we can meet up again specifically for night photos.

Check out bluej511's link for a collection of more shots.

[damansidhu]

Apologies to hornyturbo and mumbles for axing the nightshoot, it was a long day and i guess we ran out of steam. But it was a great outing today and maybe we can meet up again specifically for night photos.
Oh so you guys never met up for the night shoot, i guess it must have been very tiring by the end of the day. I myself was starting to feel a bit tired by the time i left in afternoon, all day shoot would be tough.

We should definetly plan our next meet at dusk and shoot into the night. We'll all benefit from mumbles fantastic expertise in night photography :)

[arthurgoh]

Well Daman, we didn't do very much shooting after you left! Headed into town, had lunch at this nice italian cafe then over to the Lone Gull for a nice chat over coffee. When we eventually headed back to our cars, Hiro and Carrie left, so did Vic. Ryan, Vera and myself drove to Manchester for ice cream and a walk around the waterfront for a bit.

It's a nice place for photography, maybe we can go back there some other time.

[arthurgoh]

And while the rest of us gathered around to yak, Daman was hard at work...

http://i.pbase.com/o4/76/529176/1/65086584.eKpS7efc.f.jpg