First annual California POTN get together.

[odigi]

I'm in the middle of packing/cleaning for the move this weekend, but this thread keeps pulling me away from it all (thank goodness). I want to comment on each and every post, but tried to keep it down. Wasn't very successful, I'm afraid.

bvi steve: The three shots you posted are from Montaña de Oro, right? Are you the only one who made it over there? Man, these shots are great-- it looks like you made it to a different part of the park than I did. Need to check it out!

Here are the shots I'm talking about:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=58191&stc=1&d=1140451383
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=58190&stc=1&d=1140451198
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=58192&stc=1&d=1140452184

Question: do you suppose that rock is shale? Or sandstone?

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Lonny, I want to see what your shots with the Beemer look like. ;-)

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I want one of these:
http://www.ebizcraftsman.com/imagehost/uploads/b8cbdcd2dd.jpg;

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Everyone is right-- Marguerita and Patrick are as cute as can be!

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Matt: congrats on starting the 20D fund. You'll love it!

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Belmondo (Tom?): one of your "tripods"? heh....

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Doggie nail-clipping: Dremel tools work great for sanding a dog's nails ;-)

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Mike: that Corgi with his arm slung over the car door is just way too cool!
Maureen: waaahahaha! So cute!
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=58418&stc=1&d=1140509951

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Allan (Marvin?): I looked at all your PBase gallery shots from the trip-- you did good!

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Belmondo: Oh man, this shot is fantastic!
http://www.onlinephotographers.com/gallery/albums/Hot-August-Nights/Sunset_001.jpg

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Maureen: this shot of the Elephant Seal is just wonderful-- LOVE the water detail
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=58090&stc=1&d=1140407370

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Kev: What a wonderful portrait!
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=58102&stc=1&d=1140409081

I'm leaving a lot out-- some great shots being posted. Keep 'em coming :lol:

[DwightMcCann]

I do OK when everybody is on a stage and lighted with special magic light and there is artificial fog wafting in the air, but you might be disappointed when I have to shoot in the same conditions as everyone else ... I am but a humble servant with a lot of expensive Canon equipment weighing me down. I do appreciate your kind words however. Was I the only "professional" there?

[Marvinspu36]

These guys were just too cute to past up. Just had to post another dogie moment.

It looks like we are getting more mileage out of the dog shots than any other shot. Great shot Kevin. If we were in England, I'd wonder if the dog was driving.

[ayotnoms]

... Was I the only "professional" there?
I think the car riding dogs and the elephant seals were the only creatures that didn't get that crucial bit of information.:-P

Hey, Dwight, if you ever get tired of lugging all that Canon of equipment around, send some up north. :)

[Maureen Souza]

Hey Nancy, (odigi), so glad you stumbled into this and are enjoying it so much. As you can tell, we clearly aren't done with last weekend's trip...... :):):)

Thanks for all your wonderful comments and taking time to do so.

[DwightMcCann]

Steve, when I'm done with something I'll send it!

[Kevin]

Those dog photos keep getting better and better.
Nice capture Kevin. It looks like the Corgi is all set for a day of California Cruising.
:)

Those guys had so much personality. They were definitely set for cruising the downtown. I think the only one that had them beat was Ashely.

[bvi steve]

Hello Odigi,
Yes they were shot at Montana de Oro. I was there with Maureen, Skip, Tom, Kevin, Lonnie, Dewight and others. Just a few of us took the walk out to the point though. I am pleased that you like my work. Even a blind squirrel finds an acorn once in a while.
Are you from the area? You seem to know Montana de Oro.

[thomascanty]

Lonny, I want to see what your shots with the Beemer look like. ;-)


I'll get some posted as soon as I can, but it will still be a day or three at least. My trip was a bit longer than everyone else's. I still haven't returned home. I just spent the day driving all the way around Lake Tahoe. Tomorrow it's on to Yosemite. Then it's home, where I have a far too many pictures to wade through... :D

[thomascanty]

Was I the only "professional" there?

Depends how you define the word. I make money with my cameras. Not enough to rely on them solely for my living yet, but I hope to get there eventually.

[DwightMcCann]

Phew, good, Lonny, me, too! All my equipment, which is just shy of what Tom has, was paid for by my clients, but not the mortgage!

[Cybnew]

Sorry guys, it will be another day or two before i can make my prints. I started a new "job" tonight (nothing illegal, dont worry) and im working on that right now...hopefully, if it works out as planned, will be able to afford a 20d (or maybe even a 5d) and a few lenses :) !!!!!! if not...i can always save other money

[DwightMcCann]

Matt, all of us (I didn't notice anyone at the meet that had a silver spoon in their mouth) have been in your shoes and understand completely about scrimping and saving and planning and being overtaken by events. We will always be happy to have you join us without consideration for what equipment you have or what your print making schedule happens to be. We like you. And someday we'll be able to say that we knew you when!

[Kevin]

Hi Nancy (odigi), I'm glad you happened by. We indeed had a wonderful time. We swapped stories, laughed a bunch and even had a chance to snap a few photo's. Thank you for your wonderful comments and check back as I have a feeling we're not done yet.

[Cybnew]

haha...im not worried about my equipment as much...but after using Maureen's Camera, and Toms Lense...well...i fell in love :(, and I try and get what i fall in love with. :) but this new job is a site http://www.camera_photographic_equipment.net and im working on the guts of it, so it will run its self

[Kevin]

Matt, all of us (I didn't notice anyone at the meet that had a silver spoon in their mouth) have been in your shoes and understand completely about scrimping and saving and planning and being overtaken by events. We will always be happy to have you join us without consideration for what equipment you have or what your print making schedule happens to be. We like you. And someday we'll be able to say that we knew you when!

Ditto here also!!!

[ayotnoms]

Matt, I'm convinced you're going to have your 20D (or 5D) sooner than you think.

Hey with the announcement of the new 30D, there might even be an influx of used 20D's on the market...you might be able to snap up a good one on the cheap. If you haven't yet, check out fredmiranda.com They have a Buy/Sell forum that always has good bargains for the persistent and patient. That's where I picked up my second 20D for $350; which I thought was the best deal ever until I heard about MikeGoat getting his MKIIn for $1500 lower than list price :evil: :evil:

Regards

[Cybnew]

thanks for the link Steve! i will keep a close eye on that site! Im almost done with the guts of my site (its all about ebay and advertising and bringing users to ebay) and tomorrow, im getting my ass in my darkroom and im makin prints :) cause i wanna see how they come out!

[mikegoat]

Thought I would tell all of you all first if you are interested. So impressed was I with the 300 2.8L is, that I just pushed the button for it. I am selling my mint condition 300 4.0L is. nine hundred dollars. I am putting it up on the marketplace in a few minutes but thought you might be interested...The trip was not very expensive while I was on it. But coming home is killing me!:)

[ayotnoms]

Thought I would tell all of you all first if you are interested. So impressed was I with the 300 2.8L is, that I just pushed the button for it. I am selling my mint condition 300 4.0L is. nine hundred dollars. I am putting it up on the marketplace in a few minutes but thought you might be interested...The trip was not very expensive while I was on it. But coming home is killing me!:)
Just be thankful no one on the trip had a 1DS MKII or the fabled 200mm f/1.8L :) :)

[Belmondo]

Just be thankful no one on the trip had a 1DS MKII or the fabled 200mm f/1.8L :) :)

I have a 1Ds MkII. Nobody asked for my autograph or anything.

Congratulations on the 300 f/2.8L, Mike. It's a heckuva lens.

[Cybnew]

Can i have your autograph Tom??? :) there....you are complete now, although, honestly, id rather have the camera than a piece of paper with your name one it :)

[Belmondo]

Can i have your autograph Tom??? :) there....you are complete now, although, honestly, id rather have the camera than a piece of paper with your name one it :)

....unless, of course, it's a check with lots of zeroes.

[Cybnew]

and a 9 infront of them :)

[ayotnoms]

I have a 1Ds MkII. Nobody asked for my autograph or anything.

Congratulations on the 300 f/2.8L, Mike. It's a heckuva lens.

I was too intimidated to ask Mr. Belmondo sir. Perhaps you have an autographed 8 X 10 glossy laying around that your PR people could send my way...? :)

Mike: in making the lame joke I also neglected to say "Congratulations!" Judging by some of photos this weekend, it's an out-of-this-world lens.

[mikegoat]

Adorama is selling factory refurbished ones for 3299. Pretty good savings. Uh, I was off a thou...

[DwightMcCann]

The 300mm f/2.8 is fabulous! It's what I get my best casino images with. I'm also hoping to use it on Friday to shoot the Amgen bicycle tour coming through the valley. I paid $4000 delivered from B&H.

Steve, I think Mike got his 1D Mark II for $2500 rather than $1500 but he wouldn't correct you because you made it sound like an even better deal! :-) I am beginning to see his style.:rolleyes: I love having friends that have all the toys I don't have.

[mikegoat]

Dwight: Read carefully-Steve said it correctly: "I heard about MikeGoat getting his MKIIn for $1500 lower than list price"

[DwightMcCann]

Oh, RATS! Back to the drawing board! Just when I thought I had a small clue about your MO ... I shouldn't read anything after my bedtime (8:00 PM) anyway. I guess I should be glad I didn't become a lawyer after all, sigh. Well, sorry if I offended.

[ayotnoms]

Man, Oh, Man...If only that MK2n was $1500.
I'm afraid I caught a bad case of camera lust just holding it.
:)

[Kevin]

Man, Oh, Man...If only that MK2n was $1500.
I'm afraid I caught a bad case of camera lust just holding it.
:)

Right-on, maybe when we hit our second million.:lol: :lol:

[Belmondo]

I like the position I'm in right now.....I love my 1DsM2, and I'm very satisfied with my 1DM2. A Mk IIn would be very nice, but it doesn't make me sorry I have a lowly Mk II. The larger LCD screen is useful, and there are a few niceties that might be handy if I knew what I was doing.

I just wish it had a green box setting on it. Also, it would be nice if they came in colors.

[Maureen Souza]

A 1D anything will never happen in my lifetime...... but it was fun to drool over Tom's.

[ayotnoms]

I just wish it had a green box setting on it. Also, it would be nice if they came in colors.

I suddenly understand why one of your previous avatars featured a red 1DSomething_or_other.

You never know, impulse may override good judgement and I'll get a pro camera body. My financial sense is a stupid seeking missile. :evil:

[Belmondo]

I suddenly understand why one of your previous avatars featured a red 1DSomething_or_other.


Steve:
That was a 10D----not in the same league, but at least it had a green box.

[DwightMcCann]

Well, I've only shot a few test frames with the 1D Mark IIN but I see fairly little difference from my 1D Mark II. I expect the slightly larger buffer and slightly larger LCD will be nice, but I could easily have done without them. I would like more pixels, higher noiseless ISO (maybe 6400) and a faster frame rate ... I remember thinking that 8.5 fps would capture everything, but after shooting boxing with it I now know that 25-30 fps is what is really required to capture the right millisecond. Anyway, the prices will come down somewhere along the line if you don't have to have the very latest model. I'm just happy that I am a business and do not have to justify my choices, even to my better half.

[Cybnew]

Haha....i wish i had that kinda conscience :)

[odigi]

Hey Nancy, (odigi), so glad you stumbled into this and are enjoying it so much. As you can tell, we clearly aren't done with last weekend's trip......
Thanks for all your wonderful comments and taking time to do so.
Maureen, what nice things to say. It's been a huge pleasure to read through this thread. The hard part was trying not to hog it. I'm hoping this thread isn't done yet, because I feel like it just got started. I want to see more ;-)


bvi steve: I'm not really familiar with the area, but was just at Montaña de Oro a couple of weeks ago. I recognized the place from your shots because of others I've seen, from nearly the same vantage point in your shots. I am moving to Lompoc day after tomorrow-- while not right there, it's going to be a whole lot closer than I am now.... and I'm so excited I can hardly stand it. I uploaded a few of the shots I got while there in case you missed them earlier in this thread and are dying to see them (heh):
http://www.primordialhinge.com/galleries/index.php?list=21


Lonny: Lucky you to be doing the traveling you're doing right now. Can't wait to see those pictures.


Kev: I will be checking back to see more pictures and to read more stories for sure. Might be a few days, as I think I have to unplug the computer tonight for the move :*(

Nancy

[DwightMcCann]

odigi, I'm just down the road in Buellton so let me know when you're moved and settled.

[mikegoat]

Maureen I just looked closely at you shots in Hearst Castle-very nice! I especially like the indoor reflecting pool

[Maureen Souza]

Maureen I just looked closely at you shots in Hearst Castle-very nice! I especially like the indoor reflecting pool

Why thank-you, kind sir. I thought I'd point my camera in a different direction than everyone else...mostly because I am ornery. ;) ;)

[ayotnoms]

...mostly because I am ornery. ;) ;)
As they say, "you're all that and a bag of doughnuts" :)

Seriously, as Mike said, those were exceptional photos.

Am I the only one feeling a letdown now that the photo meet has come and gone?:cry:

[Maureen Souza]

A little...... but there is another one brewing in just a few short weeks. ;) ;) ;)

[Cybnew]

hey guys!!! thought i would tell you that the TOUR DE CALIFORNIA came right by my house, and i ditched school this afternoon to go watch it...IT WAS SOOO AWESOME

[Belmondo]

hey guys!!! thought i would tell you that the TOUR DE CALIFORNIA came right by my house, and i ditched school this afternoon to go watch it...IT WAS SOOO AWESOME

Ummmm, Matt?

Did you get any pictures?

[mikegoat]

Here they are 130 miles earlier in Monterey this AM

http://www.photohost.org/gallery/data/500/926DPP_00171.JPG

http://www.photohost.org/gallery/data/500/926DPP_00181.JPG

[Cybnew]

umm YEAH!!!!! :) i used the powerwinder for the first time, wasted $4 in about 10 sec :) ill develope them later...i still need to make the prints from this weekend.

[Cybnew]

nice shots mike!

[DwightMcCann]

Hey, Matt, I am going to try to shoot the tomorrow about noon on the top of the little hill that overlooks Firestone meadow. Then I gotta' get back as I am shooting Brooks & Dunn tomorrow night.

[thomascanty]

umm YEAH!!!!! :) i used the powerwinder for the first time, wasted $4 in about 10 sec :) ill develope them later...i still need to make the prints from this weekend.

I should mention I'm a bit jealous of you. If I had a darkroom, I'd be using my Pentax K1000 and Canon Elan 7E a lot more often. ;)

[mikegoat]

Hey, Matt, I am going to try to shoot the tomorrow about noon on the top of the little hill that overlooks Firestone meadow. Then I gotta' get back as I am shooting Brooks & Dunn tomorrow night.

Dwight, I had my camera on slow speed (3FPS) and got off only40 shots before they were gone. Rule one, set your camera for high speed. Rule two. Don't blink. Forget chimping. Rule three, don't assume you will be able to focus on any one guy easily... They weren't even going fast- it was just a "promenade to the starting point!":eek: Matt I feel your film pain! Imagine how much you will save when you go digital in film costs alone!

[DwightMcCann]

Mike, fortunately I have shot a couple of bike races and have a sense of what will happen. I am hoping they won't be totally bunched up when they come up the little incline where I am hoping to setup on Foxen Canyon road. I will shoot with my 300mm f/2.8. This is the kind of situation where I really wish I had my second body back from Canon ... I have a feeling that having two bodies will turn out to ge a Godsend! Thanks for the tips.

[kpiela]

Wow! It took me about 24 hours (on and off, of course) to finally get thru this thread! Looks like you all had a great time! Thanks for sharing all the photos and I am sure you'll be sharing many laughs for a very long time. :)

[Cybnew]

how do you like the elan Lonny? i was thinking about picking one up, before i got a 20 or 5d

[Maureen Souza]

Wow! It took me about 24 hours (on and off, of course) to finally get thru this thread! Looks like you all had a great time! Thanks for sharing all the photos and I am sure you'll be sharing many laughs for a very long time. :)


Yay!!! Kristine made it through the California POTN thread! Quite a feat in itself... I have been through it several times, re-living the fun we all had, enjoying everyone's photos so much.

Can't wait until we get together again! :D :D

[Maureen Souza]

Hey Mat... that was soooo cool that you got to see the bike race. And I am sooo jealous that you and Mike were in the right spot to take photos. How FUN!

[Cybnew]

me niether...although...i dont think i can make it in june if we go to yosemite...lack of funding :-/

[Cybnew]

Hey Mat... that was soooo cool that you got to see the bike race. And I am sooo jealous that you and Mike were in the right spot to take photos. How FUN!

it was pretty cool...i looked at the negitives real quick (they are still drying) and i like what i see...a few are out of focus though :( as the were moving so fast...and they came up kinda suddenly :)

[Kevin]

Great shots Mike. I just posted four from today, too many to post and hard to pick the best ones. Plus I topped 1,000 posts!!!

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=141313

[Cybnew]

Congrats Kev!!!! I have 825 to go :)

[ayotnoms]

hmmm...Cyclists or elephant seals.
All things considered, I think we did alright last week although those were good photographs Kevin and Mike snapped off.

And Kevin, congrats on the 1000 posts; "Senior Member". You got to admit the title has a certain cachet. :) :)

[Belmondo]

hmmm...Cyclists or elephant seals. Generally speaking, you'll see more big noses among elephant seals, although they're not unheard of with bicycle riders.

[Cybnew]

I really want to see an elephant seal ride a bike now! Thanks alot :)

[Maureen Souza]

me niether...although...i dont think i can make it in june if we go to yosemite...lack of funding :-/


Awwww Mat, all it takes is a ride and sack lunch:D :D

When we get closer to that decision, PM me and we'll work something out. ;)

[Cybnew]

alright, will do Maureen :)

[Maureen Souza]

And Kevin, congrats on the 1000 posts; "Senior Member". You got to admit the title has a certain cachet. :) :)

Man Steve, you have such an elegant way of expressing yourself. You might have us all fooled if we hadn't met you! ;) ;)

[ayotnoms]

I really want to see an elephant seal ride a bike now! Thanks alot :)
As intelligent as elephant seals are the biggest problem they'd face is working the lever on the handlebar bells....nevermind putting on those impossibly tight cycling shorts.:lol: :lol:

Hey Matt, you gotta figure out a way to make the Yosemite trip. Without you the average age of our little camera klatch zooms into the stratosphere. Besides, it will be the perfect time to break in that new 20D/5D/30D...I know you're gonna have one by then. :)

[ayotnoms]

Man Steve, you have such an elegant way of expressing yourself. You might have us all fooled if we hadn't met you! ;) ;)
Ah shucks, Maureen.
It's just that every now and then I feel the urge to fire up that 3rd digit in my IQ....well that and I don't want this thread to end which it probably will at some point. :)

[Cybnew]

I doubt i will have my D series THAT soon....nice thought though :) and this thread shall never end....We need to make it a sticky :)

[Maureen Souza]

As intelligent as elephant seals are the biggest problem they'd face is working the lever on the handlebar bells....never mind putting on those impossibly tight cycling shorts.:lol: :lol:
:)

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[ayotnoms]

This guy is ready to go!!
:) :)
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[thomascanty]

how do you like the elan Lonny? i was thinking about picking one up, before i got a 20 or 5d

It's nice. I like it quite a bit. The eye control is real nice to have sometimes. I really wish the 20D had that feature.

[Kevin]

Hey Tom, you were asking about a shot of my 26T roadster. I have a lot of car show shots but surprisingly I only have a few separate shots of the car. Anne and I do a lot of crusing up and down the coast. We have a road trip planned in June to the LA Roadster Show and hopefully to Mt Shasta in July for the West Coast Rod Run.

[Kevin]

Steve, that's just too cool. A matching outfit. He must need a long straw for his water bottle.

[ayotnoms]

Hey Tom, you were asking about a shot of my 26T roadster. I have a lot of car show shots but surprisingly I only have a few separate shots of the car. Anne and I do a lot of crusing up and down the coast. We have a road trip planned in June to the LA Roadster Show and hopefully to Mt Shasta in July for the West Coast Rod Run.
Man...this car; a sunny, clear day; an uncrowded California Highway 1; and your lady along for the ride and we're talking something extra special :)

[DwightMcCann]

OK, just got back from the Amgen (had to drop off tax papers on the way home) and have a few images. Not too happy with them ... by the time I got to "my spot" it was packed to the gunwhales ... guess "great minds think alike" as it was the only hill in the North County to spread them out a little bit. I couldn't get close enough to the roadway to get the "head on" shots everyone likes. So, here are two ... the first shows the place where I was shooting and the second is a collage of the "breakaway" four leaders with the guy in read and black the actual leader when they passed me. The head shot upper right would have been fantastic but there was a guy right between me and him essentially blocking everything you can't see. I have a bunch of the peloton but they aren't great.

[Belmondo]

Hey Tom, you were asking about a shot of my 26T roadster. I have a lot of car show shots but surprisingly I only have a few separate shots of the car. Anne and I do a lot of crusing up and down the coast. We have a road trip planned in June to the LA Roadster Show and hopefully to Mt Shasta in July for the West Coast Rod Run.

Wow! That's a beauty. Is that a '32 radiator shell?

Maybe we can catch up with you two in June. I hadn't really thought about the LA Roadster show, but it might be fun. It also might be an ecellent excuse to get out of the desert for a day. (It starts getting pretty warm in June.)

[mikegoat]

OK, just got back from the Amgen (had to drop off tax papers on the way home) and have a few images. Not too happy with them ... by the time I got to "my spot" it was packed to the gunwhales ... guess "great minds think alike" as it was the only hill in the North County to spread them out a little bit. I couldn't get close enough to the roadway to get the "head on" shots everyone likes. So, here are two ... the first shows the place where I was shooting and the second is a collage of the "breakaway" four leaders with the guy in read and black the actual leader when they passed me. The head shot upper right would have been fantastic but there was a guy right between me and him essentially blocking everything you can't see. I have a bunch of the peloton but they aren't great.

"Dwight, I had my camera on slow speed (3FPS) and got off only40 shots before they were gone. Rule one, set your camera for high speed. Rule two. Don't blink. Forget chimping. Rule three, don't assume you will be able to focus on any one guy easily..."

Dwight-No excuses or apologies. We do not accept whining here. It was a good day at the races-You got one good shot!:lol:

[DwightMcCann]

Ah, but Mike, I am used to getting spectacular, unparalleled images of only the most impressive kind. I have some exerience shooting bike races. I was disappointed. But you are correct, NO WHINING! So, here is a picture of the front of the peloton on its way up the hill, about 30 seconds after the breakaway. It was an incredible day, the people were very friendly, I was out in the sunshine, I didn't break any equipment, and I'm shooting Brooks & Dunn tonight if there are no glitches!

[Belmondo]

If you're having a little trouble getting shots because things are moving a bit too fast, try a celebrity golf tournament. We went to one of those this morning, and those guys move very slowly. Also, they're quite happy to stop and strike a pose whenever they seee a camera.

[ayotnoms]

Ah, but Mike, I am used to getting spectacular, unparalleled images of only the most impressive kind. I have some exerience shooting bike races. I was disappointed. But you are correct, NO WHINING! So, here is a picture of the front of the peloton on its way up the hill, about 30 seconds after the breakaway. It was an incredible day, the people were very friendly, I was out in the sunshine, I didn't break any equipment, and I'm shooting Brooks & Dunn tonight if there are no glitches! wow. And now for something completely different
:)

sorry, guys. This week I really earned my Dwight-given moniker: annoytoms:rolleyes:
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[DwightMcCann]

wow. And now for something completely different
:)

sorry, guys. This week I really earned my Dwight-given moniker: annoytoms:rolleyes:

What is that about? I don't think anyone here thinks you the least little bit annoying ... you know that was just kidding when I said that ... and I haven't said anything more about it for almost a week. ;)

Here's the whole peloton except for the four breakaway guys who were long, long gone!

[ayotnoms]

OK. So you're cool with the elephant seal herding the cyclists.

Have a great weekend and good luck with the B and D shoot tonight. I look forward to the pics if and when you post them.
:):)

[Belmondo]

I'm pretty good at anograms, and that one just doesn't work.

In fact, I find it somewhat annoying.


??? :p

[DwightMcCann]

Truth to tell I didn't notice it! :-) Blended right in like a tree stump. And I don't have a problem with people "enhancing" my images!

[mikegoat]

OK. So you're cool with the elephant seal herding the cyclists.



:lol: I am going to watch your edits of MY pictures VERY carefully Steve...;)

No, the B&D shoot is in SFO tonight. I got invited to shoot another burlesque show....

[Kevin]

Well Dwight it's too bad you only got one good shot. I guess I was fortunate to get the 6 or 8 great shots that I did. And if golf is still a bit fast for you we have giant chess tournaments here once a month on the embarcadero.:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

BTW good shots.

[Kevin]

Wow! That's a beauty. Is that a '32 radiator shell?

Maybe we can catch up with you two in June. I hadn't really thought about the LA Roadster show, but it might be fun. It also might be an ecellent excuse to get out of the desert for a day. (It starts getting pretty warm in June.)

Yep, shortened 4 inches. It sits on 32 rails, independent stainless front suspension, four-wheel disc brakes. 350/400 HP small block, mild cam, jetted down 750 Demon carb. Anne and I would love you guys join us.

[Cybnew]

nice shots dwight...mine didnt come out to great...maybe a couple of them...damn manual focus + fast riders :)

[Skip Souza]

That is one sweet ride Kev.

[Skip Souza]

Dwight, that is one cool collage. That boy really needs a shave. Is he related? :-)

[Maureen Souza]

OMG, Steve.... love the cyclist, E. Seal. Best laugh i've had in a few days....and Mr. Aaron just told me to "take a chill pill". :lol: :lol: :lol:

Dwight, one good picture is better than a 100 crummy ones......

That is one nice T-Hi, Kev.... wow!!! No wonder you wanted to move to the coast for cruisin' in that baby!

[Kevin]

Thanks Skip and Maureen. It's a lot of fun. And you better do what Mr. Aaron says.

[Cybnew]

Well...some good/bad news...depending on how u want to look at it.
I have postponed the saving for a 5d or 20d...instead, that money will go towards a new bike :)...i like the idea...after i have my bike...i will start saving again (bikes dont need lenses :) )

[DwightMcCann]

Bike as in bicycle or motorcycle? Hey, at 17 you may change your mind 50 times before you spend your money! The Brooks and Dunn show was superb. I'm still working through the first pass on my 1016 images, sigh.

[ayotnoms]

Didn't expect to see any Brooks and Dunn for a few days.
You're kicking some serious tail with your event photography Dwight.

Notice any difference with the MK2N?

Matt: I can understand the need to shift priorities. The ability to get around is definitely important. However at your age there's always the distraction of friends, cars, and the ultimate distraction, females each of which hold the potential for a flagging interest in photography. Hopefullly your level of interest will remain high.

We'll be watching :)

[ayotnoms]

I don't think many of these were previously posted.
Most have a simple snapshot appeal for me so click through with modest expectations :)
POTN-Cambria Feb 2006 (http://steve-montoya.smugmug.com/gallery/1224962)

Best Regards

[Maureen Souza]

Wow, Steve.... your elephant seal photos are really wonderful. All mine are close-ups from using that huge lens. I think you really outdid yourself with those twin cams of yours. :):)

[Maureen Souza]

NICE B&D, Dwight. I have always liked those guys!!

[Skip Souza]

Matt: A guy's gotta do what a guy's gotta do.

Steve: Nice gallery. You captured some cool images.

Dwight: Great B&D. How are you liking the new camera? Did you get a diagnosis on the old one?

Keep the baby, Faith :-)

[DwightMcCann]

Steve, it will be a few days before I have anything on my website. These were just ones that I pulled out quickly for the News Press. They may not use them, but if they sent a reviewer they will be used, or if they need some filler for the Friday Valley News section they will use them. I have a very good relationship with the photo editor. I've included the two full stage shots that I also sent.

Maureen, they were very good and their show was super.

Skip, thanks. The new camera was very good. They have a new interface for setting the in-camera jpeg processing parameters and I think I may have set the saturation a notch too high. Those two images were "out of the camera" on saturation and exposure. I did "soften" their facial skin a little as otherwise you can see every nick, scratch and blemish. The larger LCD is actually nice for my old tired eyes. And I don't think I pushed the new, bigger buffer as they let me shoot the whole night. Both they, and their staff, were very easy to work with and very pleasant.

[mikegoat]

Dwight- very nice snaps. You are going to be very happy with the IIn's quality.

Steve- your photos are excellent. I really like the candids and landscapes a lot.

[ayotnoms]

Keep the baby, Faith :-)

LOL
...reminds me of many vacation emails I've sent that closed with, "The weather is here. Wish you were beautiful"
:)

Dwight: I figured a larger LCD would come in handy with concert light conditions regardless of ones eyesight. My impression of your initial comments were "nice, but no big difference over my other MK2". Sounds like you're warming to the camera now that you've had your first performance shoot with it. Two more nice shots BTW

[ayotnoms]

Dwight- very nice snaps. You are going to be very happy with the IIn's quality.

Steve- your photos are excellent. I really like the candids and landscapes a lot.

Thanks Mike. I'm coming to the realization that landscapes are something I really like shooting. Of course having something as beautiful as Hwy 1 nearby helps.

Also, some of the candids were taken by others. Your super closeup for instance was taken by Patrick while he was trying out the 135mm f/2L. I think it's a cool photo. I hope you think so too. I really like Liz's photo. That 3200 ISO ain't too shabby sometimes. :) :)

Cheers

[DwightMcCann]

Mike, I'm just a happy guy! :-)

Steve, yes, very slightly nicer than the 1D Mark II, but the images are essentially the same.

[Belmondo]

Thanks Mike. I'm coming to the realization that landscapes are something I really like shooting. Of course having something as beautiful as Hwy 1 nearby helps.

Also, some of the candids were taken by others. Your super closeup for instance was taken by Patrick while he was trying out the 135mm f/2L. I think it's a cool photo. I hope you think so too. I really like Liz's photo. That 3200 ISO ain't too shabby sometimes. :) :)

Cheers

Regardless of who took the pictures, they are very good. As we all know, it's the camera, not who's behind it.:rolleyes:

j/k Really good work.

[DwightMcCann]

I love the new avatar, Belmondo! Who is it? :-)

[Belmondo]

I love the new avatar, Belmondo! Who is it? :-)

It's the work of our beloved forum admin., CyberDyneSystems. Basically, it's Pau Teutel Sr.'s moustache, glasses, and forehead, on my chin and lower lip.

[DwightMcCann]

You've never looked so good!:rolleyes:

[mikegoat]

It's the work of our beloved forum admin., CyberDyneSystems. Basically, it's Pau Teutel Sr.'s moustache, glasses, and forehead, on my chin and lower lip.

Its crooked again!

[Belmondo]

Its crooked again!

Give him credit. He made the best of what he had to work with

[thomascanty]

It's the work of our beloved forum admin., CyberDyneSystems. Basically, it's Pau Teutel Sr.'s moustache, glasses, and forehead, on my chin and lower lip.

And somehow I find it strangely disturbing... I don't know why. Must be all those mixed up bits... Or because it took me a while to realize what I was looking at. :lol:

Of course, I'm not exactly a fan of the show. I wonder if that's it? :rolleyes: :lol: :rolleyes:

[thomascanty]

Its crooked again!

That's it!

(or is it?)

[ayotnoms]

Given your sense of humor, wouldn't Mikey be more appropriate?
The long locks may be just the ticket
:)

[Belmondo]

Given your sense of humor, wouldn't Mikey be more appropriate?
The long locks may be just the ticket
:)

Nah.

I've already spent way too many years as a sex symbol.

[ayotnoms]

Nah.

I've already spent way too many years as a sex symbol.
:lol: :lol:
...must have been the Fabio years.

[Maureen Souza]

You mean the guy who got a bird smashed in his face while on a roller coaster ride?

:D :D :D

[Maureen Souza]

Tom, you look like a combination of Hulk Hogan(moustache) and
Mark Spitz (bathing cap).

Where did Wilford Brimley go??

[Cybnew]

I meant bike as bicycle...i used to ride all the time, then my bikes died :( but i will definitly stick with photography...and i will eventually get my 20/5d it will just be a couple hundred dollars longer (TIME is MONEY literally in this sense :) )

[DwightMcCann]

Maureen, you just caused me to wet my pants! (No, not really, but that was wonderful).

Matt, keep your eye open for something used.

[ayotnoms]

Belmondo: The Early Years
59656

Shall I prepare the time-out chair for my impending forum ban? :D

[DwightMcCann]

And that is you with him, correct? :-)

[ayotnoms]

yup. That was before I put on all this weight.
It was memorable day for me.
:)

[Marvinspu36]

I don't think many of these were previously posted.
Most have a simple snapshot appeal for me so click through with modest expectations :)
POTN-Cambria Feb 2006 (http://steve-montoya.smugmug.com/gallery/1224962)

Best Regards

Wow Steve! You have "The Eye" as well. There are some great photos in there. Especially of that, ahem, handsome guy in the dark sunglasses chatting on the cell phone. JK. I love your landscape shots. Great composition, and wonderful color depth. You did very well on many of the candid shots as well.

[DwightMcCann]

ROFLMAO, Steve!

Well, I am a sad case. I'm just back! Needed exercise (for my heart) and went to pump my roadbike tires up to 120 and the valve stem broke off. So, I pumped up my mountain bike instead. About 4.5 miles out I ran over a wallboard nail, right through the bottom and out the top ... fortunately didn't damage the rim. Now, while I have a spare tube and CO2 cartridge for my road bike, I don't for my mountain bike, so no roadside repair today. Had my cell phone, but for one weekend a quarter Marna is off at her parents ... actually driving back and had called me about two minutes before the puncture. So, I started hiking back on Hwy 246, bike by my side. Having the good karma I do, three guys from the Air Force Space Command picked me up, threw my bike in the back and drove me to my door! Like I've said, adventure just seeks me out!

[Belmondo]

yup. That was before I put on all this weight.
It was memorable day for me.
:)

Refresh my memory, Steve. Which one is you? I don't remember being a blonde, although anything is possible.

[Marvinspu36]

Bike as in bicycle or motorcycle? Hey, at 17 you may change your mind 50 times before you spend your money! The Brooks and Dunn show was superb. I'm still working through the first pass on my 1016 images, sigh.

Dwight: Outstanding images!!! I aspire to your level of excellence at event photography!:D I love the clarity and lighting on those images. The composition is excellent too. I would love to be able to take shots in a hall with lighting like that! All the shoots I've done are in inadequate lighting.

Very nicely done!

[ayotnoms]

Wow Steve! You have "The Eye" as well. There are some great photos in there. Especially of that, ahem, handsome guy in the dark sunglasses chatting on the cell phone. JK. I love your landscape shots. Great composition, and wonderful color depth. You did very well on many of the candid shots as well.
Thanks. Very kind of you to say.
Not to go all wide tie on you-- but I never asked--is your name spelled Alan, Allen, Allan? I like to be precise about these things...
:)

[Maureen Souza]

Maureen, you just caused me to wet my pants! (No, not really, but that was wonderful).


Glad you enjoyed it.... not so sure Tom feels the same way....:confused: :confused: :confused:

[Maureen Souza]

Belmondo: The Early Years
59656

Shall I prepare the time-out chair for my impending forum ban? :D


Shhhh, don't tell anyone, but I will un-ban you. I need my regular dose of laughter to keep coming.

[Marvinspu36]

Thanks. Very kind of you to say.
Not to go all wide tie on you-- but I never asked--is your name spelled Alan, Allen, Allan? I like to be precise about these things...
:)

My name is spelled Allan. Thank you for asking. However, I will answer to any of the three!

[DwightMcCann]

Oh, Al, you even answer to Marvin! :-)

[mikegoat]

Listening to the chatter of the Elephant Seals

http://www.ebizcraftsman.com/imagehost/uploads/af00be7375.jpg

[ayotnoms]

Mike that's one surreal photograph. Any post processing story there?
I like.
I like very much :)

[mikegoat]

Mike that's one surreal photograph. Any post processing story there?
I like.
I like very much :)

Thanks Steve. Actually, it was one of a series I took of the birds along the back fence line. The backgroundd was totally blown out and the bird only needed a little lightening, normal sharpening and it was good to go. Taken with the 300 4.0L and 1.4 televconverter. I am glad you liked it!

[ayotnoms]

There's a minimalist appeal to photos like this.
If you post the series anywhere let me know, willya?
I'd like to take a look.

Cheers

[mikegoat]

There's a minimalist appeal to photos like this.
If you post the series anywhere let me know, willya?
I'd like to take a look.

Cheers

Here is one with a background showing. They aren't shy!

http://www.ebizcraftsman.com/imagehost/uploads/58f32ab6b2.jpg

[ayotnoms]

...the bird is virtually poking out of my screen.
well done, sir
:)

[Maureen Souza]

Cool, Mike. I jumped back when that 2nd bird came up...Most excellent.

[Marvinspu36]

Here is one with a background showing. They aren't shy!


So real it made me cover the bowl of peanuts on my desk. :) That guy was eyeing them too intensely!

[Johnny Thunder]

Heres one of the few shots I've had time to work on, been busting my hump on the house, getting it ready for show time (and I do believe I've sold it, should know Monday!)

Shot from Montana De Oro

-Johnny

[ayotnoms]

Hey Johnny!
I was wondering why you hadn't joined in the fray :)

Hope everything goes well with your real estate transaction. Those can be stressful...

Nice composition on the photo you posted. I like the way the lines converge at the water and how you still included a patch of that awesome sky (in a way it's good that the weather was unsettled. Blue skies are great for everything but photography IMHO)

I look forward to seeing more of the shots you took.

Regards

[Marvinspu36]

Great shot Johnny! Awesome composition and the color is outstanding. Can't wait to see more of your photos. Hope the house did sell!

[DwightMcCann]

I remember watching you shooting those and wishing my camera was working. Nice job.

[Skip Souza]

Way to go Johnny. Seems like I could just step from my desk onto those rocks!

[mikegoat]

Johnny that is an very nice photo of a spectacular place. I am so disappointed I missed the cell call letting me know you all were out there. How does Cambria survive with such crummy cell phone coverage?

[Maureen Souza]

BEEEEE-YOU-TEE-FUL shot, Mr. Thunder....WOWZERS!!!!! That should go up on your wall as a large print in a nice frame. The angles are fabulous and the colors are so rich.

Glad to hear your house selling might be over... let us know when it happens.

[thomascanty]

Nice one, Johnny! I was a bit underwhelmed by what I brought home from the whole trip. I only got one real keeper from the elephant seal area, and my Better Beamer didn't even play a part in that shot since I was having battery problems with the flash. The only other time I took the camera out was at Montana De Oro, and we spent more time talking there than snapping away. Anyway, here's the keeper I liked:

http://www.ldphotography.net/cdpf/20060201.jpg

I did get a few more during the rest of our trip, which was longer for Ashley and me than the rest of you. Here are a number of others I liked (still no real winners, though):

Ashley, paying her respects at the grave of "Texas" Ellen Wilson (http://www.ldphotography.net/Travel/20040713-16/slides/Coloma%20058.html), in Coloma, for whom I named my car. I stop here every time I'm in the area (a few times a year).
http://www.ldphotography.net/cdpf/20060202.jpg

A long forgotten family plot in the Saint John's Catholic Cemetery in Coloma:
http://www.ldphotography.net/cdpf/20060203.jpg

Silver Lake, on the way up Carson Pass to South Lake Tahoe:
http://www.ldphotography.net/cdpf/20060204.jpg

Ashley at the southern vista point above Emerald Bay at South Lake Tahoe:
http://www.ldphotography.net/cdpf/20060205.jpg

A boat dock near Tahoma, on the western shore of Lake Tahoe, where I stopped for lunch:
http://www.ldphotography.net/cdpf/20060206.jpg

I was knelt down at the back of the El Dorado Cemetery by the fence, with the camera aimed at a barn near Highway 49 to the south, waiting for a truck or bus to drive by so I could snap off a shot. I glanced to my left and saw Ashley next to me, so I flipped the camera around and fired one off real quick without even looking in the viewfinder:
http://www.ldphotography.net/cdpf/20060207.jpg

Yosemite Valley, looking southwestish from the middle of a bridge not far from Yosemite Falls:
http://www.ldphotography.net/cdpf/20060208.jpg

A young deer next to the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail who was infatuated with Ashley. The deer gazed intently at Ashley, following us for a couple hundred feet along the trail until a couple loud, screaming kids came running down the trail from ahead, annoying the deer enough to break it's gaze and saunter away uphill:
http://www.ldphotography.net/cdpf/20060209.jpg

[ayotnoms]

Well Lonnie you took your time, but it was well worth the wait.

I'm blown away by each the photos you posted...and the ones of Ashley, well, they're suitable for framing

And the one of the fence.
...and Yosemite Valley

Hell, you just did a great job with all of these. :)
Hope to see more

[DwightMcCann]

Very nice, Lonnie.