GKPE: General Ramblings thread

[TKRFAN]

Looks like you had fun Fran :)

Here is my link to the weekend: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=250354

Amazingly the weather forecast was correct and it didn't rain

[DiscoLizard]

Just got the fibre connection working, sort of...

WOW that's fast.

[theflyingkiwi]

update on the on going story with my 10D+lens.

well I got a call from canon today, asking how I am going to pay for the repair, which is the good news cause it should be on the way down tonight and I should get it tomorrow. Yay.

I just hope the camera comes back fixed. I will be highly dispointed in canon if it doesn't. I might even switch to nikon.

[Mark Vuleta]

Mark, what happened to the camera/lens. Did you take a Weka swim??

[weka2000]

Mark, what happened to the camera/lens. Did you take a Weka swim??

Nah he brought cheap stuff :p
Would be cheaper to by a 5D wouldnt it Mark :)

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Electronics-photography/Digital-cameras/Over-6-megapixel/auction-81419083.htm

[Mark Vuleta]

Hello Tony
Well I suppose that is what happens south of the Bombay Hills:lol:

How do you get the quotes from earlier posts onto a reply?
Not much happening photography wise, well from the taking of photo aspects.

Have been scanning loads of old photos, negatives and slides for our family re-union over Christmas ahhhhh baby pictures!:evil:

[Nzshrimper]

I might even switch to nikon.


wash your mouth out with soap young man.. :confused:

[Mark Vuleta]

Wouldn't have happend to someone from the South Island. Looking forward to Christmas, week in TImaru, week in Queenstown & two or three days in Christchurch.
Hope the weather is good!

[theflyingkiwi]

Mark, what happened to the camera/lens. Did you take a Weka swim??

no. the items are getting old. Like everything that has moving parts etc. The lens couldn't focus correctly. the camera couldn't focus correctly either. the camera seem to be back focusing.

Nah he brought cheap stuff :p
Would be cheaper to by a 5D wouldnt it Mark :)

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Electronics-photography/Digital-cameras/Over-6-megapixel/auction-81419083.htm

Only in your world Tony. ;) plus the 5D doesn't have the fps that I would like. granted I wouldn't mind a 1dmk2n, but that's just a dream unless I can get it for under 5k. Did ya see the buy price. hm no thanks.

wash your mouth out with soap young man.. :confused:

but I am sure I could get use to it :) and live with the limitations. :lol:

[Mark Vuleta]

Ok, so what would have Canon done to remidy, shutter replacement?? and how much?
You make me concerned, I've had the 350 for about 6 months, taken 4000 odd pictures (mostly rubbish). What is the life expectancy or should I start saving now

[theflyingkiwi]

well I am not to sure what they did. on the invoice that they sent me, they say that did a a adjustment of the AF. I have taken close to 50k in photos since I had the camera but I don't think I am due for a shutter at the moment.

The only thing I hate about canon is the amount of time it takes for the repair. If my memory is correct I sent it to canon almost 4 weeks ago. it had taken a couple of weeks to get around to checking it out.

[Mark Vuleta]

at least your getting it back pre Christmas, do Canon do their own servicing or sub it out.

I have also read that the seem to take their own good time, time for the GOVT to regulate!!:rolleyes:

50000 shots is a lot, how long have you had it? By the time I get to 50000 I would be just about able to take a decent photo.

If it wasn't worth (economically) to repair, what would have you chosen as a replacement, 30D?

[theflyingkiwi]

at least your getting it back pre Christmas, do Canon do their own servicing or sub it out.

I have also read that the seem to take their own good time, time for the GOVT to regulate!!:rolleyes:

50000 shots is a lot, how long have you had it? By the time I get to 50000 I would be just about able to take a decent photo.

If it wasn't worth (economically) to repair, what would have you chosen as a replacement, 30D?

I got on 7/03 so I have had it for more than 3 years. there are some around here that have a newer camera but taken more than me. I dill don't believe I can take that a good photo. I will keep trying tho. :)

if it wasn't going to be cost worthy I am not to sure if I would have gone for a 30D. I am waiting for the replacement to the 30D.

[Wazza]

QUICK QUICK

www.nzherald.co.nz

http://media.apn.co.nz/webcontent/image/jpg/14westpac55.jpg
I'm on the front page.. But no one would ever know, as theres no image on the story!! :)

[Wazza]

http://www.warrenwilliams.co.nz/gallery/album/aviation/westpac_heli_browns_isl_muriwai/slides/wpac_06.html

[theflyingkiwi]

did they pay ya for it?

[weka2000]

-Only in your world Tony. ;) plus the 5D doesn't have the fps that I would like. granted I wouldn't mind a 1dmk2n, but that's just a dream unless I can get it for under 5k. Did ya see the buy price. hm no thanks.
:lol:


Thats why I got a 30D as well 5FPS and a backup body :)

[Wazza]

Images sold through Westpac chopper, for media release stories, but only condition is photo credit...

NZHerald won't pay them per image they use, they're cheap..
They prefer only their full time hired photographers... That's why one day even when I was there covering it, they still sent a guy out, with 600mm lens, when I was shooting with my 300mm

Have a good night all, off out to Parnell for dinner and pool

[weka2000]

Duncan you remember that chat we had about DVD,s as a backup. Just putting old software on new PC via Backup DVD and I have a DVD full of CRC errors :o

Umm bugger..... Time to dig out my undelete software for old HDD

[Mark Vuleta]

50000 over three years hmmmm average 45 per day, you must carry it everywhere you go!! Just imagine what it would have been if it were film maybe 10% max.

Look at old family slides, fashions in 1966 very strange

[Picturesports]

Do I just dive in ... Looks that way ...

My UK insurance will expire in a few weeks and having moved to NZ it is going to be easier to insure my equipment here rather than explain why I'm out of the county all year to a UK broker

Any suggestions as to which company is worth approaching. All the standard "high street" brokers have given me blank looks when show them the equipment list and ask for professional all risks liability insurance.

Cheers

[dgcorner]

QUICK QUICK

www.nzherald.co.nz (http://www.nzherald.co.nz)

http://media.apn.co.nz/webcontent/image/jpg/14westpac55.jpg
I'm on the front page.. But no one would ever know, as theres no image on the story!! :)

Congratulations Warren!

Do I just dive in ... Looks that way ...

My UK insurance will expire in a few weeks and having moved to NZ it is going to be easier to insure my equipment here rather than explain why I'm out of the county all year to a UK broker

Any suggestions as to which company is worth approaching. All the standard "high street" brokers have given me blank looks when show them the equipment list and ask for professional all risks liability insurance.

Cheers

My stuff is covered under home contents insurance as most of the guys will tell you. I've done everything through my bank (ASB) because of the mortgage and I am hard pressed to find a better offer from the likes of AMI, AA, etc.

[tag141]

Do I just dive in ... Looks that way ...

My UK insurance will expire in a few weeks and having moved to NZ it is going to be easier to insure my equipment here rather than explain why I'm out of the county all year to a UK broker

Any suggestions as to which company is worth approaching. All the standard "high street" brokers have given me blank looks when show them the equipment list and ask for professional all risks liability insurance.

Cheers

You found it then...wait till the others finish in the glamour and nude section and they'll point you in the right direction.

Where did you live in the UK?

[Mark Vuleta]

Hello there, dont worry about being polite, Im sorry I cant advise you, some of the guys that make a living my be of more assistance, say Tim or Wazzer.
It is someting that I have not really considered, I do have professional liability insurance as a plumber/gasfitter and it is reasonably expensive. It is organised through an arrangement with our national orgainisation & is fairly comprensive. Possibly talk to other photogs at clubs etc

[Nzshrimper]

You found it then...wait till the others finish in the glamour and nude section and they'll point you in the right direction.

Where did you live in the UK?
with his typing i am guessing kent or there abouts.

;)

[Nzshrimper]

Do I just dive in ... Looks that way ...

My UK insurance will expire in a few weeks and having moved to NZ it is going to be easier to insure my equipment here rather than explain why I'm out of the county all year to a UK broker

Any suggestions as to which company is worth approaching. All the standard "high street" brokers have given me blank looks when show them the equipment list and ask for professional all risks liability insurance.

Cheers
Welcome....

cover your gear under the home contents .. don't tell them you use it as a pro.. other wise most will run and hide and the ones that don't will want big bucks..

I am with AMI (just had my gear replaced by them after a theft. Good service and as long as they have the gear listed on the policy then there is no problem with the cover).

[Mark Vuleta]

I think he is looking for more Proffessional Imdenity Insurance (must get a spell checker?) More coverage than standard public liability. I have some as a gasfitter to protect myself as we are self certifying and the energy certificate is valid for life of the building.

Very difficult to tie down, my policy document extends some 30 pages?? I just sign the dam thing...

[tim]

Do I just dive in ... Looks that way ...

My UK insurance will expire in a few weeks and having moved to NZ it is going to be easier to insure my equipment here rather than explain why I'm out of the county all year to a UK broker

Any suggestions as to which company is worth approaching. All the standard "high street" brokers have given me blank looks when show them the equipment list and ask for professional all risks liability insurance.

Cheers

Welcome! Gimme a PM if you call into Wellington, i'm based right in the middle of town. My insurance:

Martin Trendall - Director
Mahony Trendall & Jack Ltd
PO Box 676, Auckland
DDI Phone: (09) 306-0704
Fax: (09) 377-3765
Email: martin@mtj.co.nz

www.mtj.co.nz

Oh and btw guys, here's what my Xtra pro broadband is doing this evening :p

[Nzshrimper]

I think he is looking for more Proffessional Imdenity Insurance (must get a spell checker?) More coverage than standard public liability. I have some as a gasfitter to protect myself as we are self certifying and the energy certificate is valid for life of the building.

Very difficult to tie down, my policy document extends some 30 pages?? I just sign the dam thing...
i understand that.. but i am not sure that taking a photo is going to lead to gas leak that could blow up a building full of kids.. - hence why you need the indemnity cover.

[joeseph]

Duncan you remember that chat we had about DVD,s as a backup. Just putting old software on new PC via Backup DVD and I have a DVD full of CRC errors :o

Umm bugger..... Time to dig out my undelete software for old HDD
Hmmmm indeed. Righto I'm offline for an hour while I ghost my pictures drive...

[Mark Vuleta]

Just to cover himself & possibly others in some situations, insure for cost of litigation that sort of thing

[theflyingkiwi]

Hmmmm indeed. Righto I'm offline for an hour while I ghost my pictures drive...

well that sounds exciting. I am watching Superman 2, Richard Donner cut. which I think is a tad more exciting than that :)

[joeseph]

well that sounds exciting. I am watching Superman 2, Richard Donner cut. which I think is a tad more exciting than that :)
can't be that exciting - you're still here as well.
mine will be exciting if I get the source / destinations screwed up & ghost the wrong way....

[Nzshrimper]

well that sounds exciting. I am watching Superman 2, Richard Donner cut. which I think is a tad more exciting than that :)
haha i was watching superman returns. ;)

[Nzshrimper]

can't be that exciting - you're still here as well.
mine will be exciting if I get the source / destinations screwed up & ghost the wrong way....
i am trailing acronis back up solutions at the mo.. seems to be going well.. and it does not let you overwrite the source files... ;)

[theflyingkiwi]

can't be that exciting - you're still here as well.
mine will be exciting if I get the source / destinations screwed up & ghost the wrong way....

one of the advantages of a desktop size of 1920x1200 :)

haha i was watching superman returns. ;)

yea superman returns is ok, but it's not as good as the first one

[Picturesports]

Born in Middlesex, did my "formative years" in Essex (Even had an RS Turbo at one point) till the Mrs exported me to Nottinghamshire.

Home contents is good but even if you are not a pro the cover from AMI, and I assume the others are the same, is a max of $1500 per item, which doesn't even cover the Tamron wide angle :D

It also excludes cover if you leave it in your car. As daft as it is if you pile the camera gear on the side of the road and go for a coffee it is suddenly covered by your contents insurance (up to the $1500 per item) but if you leave it in your car it's not covered (go figure !)

I've sent an e-mail to cgrothbury.co.nz who have a pakage called focus and I'll call Mahony Trendall & Jack Ltd in the morning - thanks for the tip.

Tomorrow morning I need sunshine on the Waterfront at Wellington. Some cracking images along there this morning, but I needed to make an appointment and didn't have time to stop

TTFN

[Moppie]

Another Kiwi member! And another pom I see, you guys will colonize the whole country before we know it!

Where abouts in Para are you?
Im going to be down there for X-mass, visiting my Uncle who I think still has some photos at a local gallery.

[Nzshrimper]

Born in Middlesex, did my "formative years" in Essex (Even had an RS Turbo at one point) till the Mrs exported me to Nottinghamshire.

Home contents is good but even if you are not a pro the cover from AMI, and I assume the others are the same, is a max of $1500 per item, which doesn't even cover the Tamron wide angle :D

It also excludes cover if you leave it in your car. As daft as it is if you pile the camera gear on the side of the road and go for a coffee it is suddenly covered by your contents insurance (up to the $1500 per item) but if you leave it in your car it's not covered (go figure !)

I've sent an e-mail to cgrothbury.co.nz who have a pakage called focus and I'll call Mahony Trendall & Jack Ltd in the morning - thanks for the tip.

Tomorrow morning I need sunshine on the Waterfront at Wellington. Some cracking images along there this morning, but I needed to make an appointment and didn't have time to stop

TTFN
ami standard cover is $2000 - if you name the goods on the policy then they are covered over that amount - I have old for new cover and had no issues with replacements.

An Essex boy with an RS turbo - now thats unusual. ;) Fiesta or Escort.. ??

[Nzshrimper]

yea superman returns is ok, but it's not as good as the first one

this is true, but the kids enjoyed the film.

[tim]

Born in Middlesex, did my "formative years" in Essex (Even had an RS Turbo at one point) till the Mrs exported me to Nottinghamshire.

Home contents is good but even if you are not a pro the cover from AMI, and I assume the others are the same, is a max of $1500 per item, which doesn't even cover the Tamron wide angle :D

It also excludes cover if you leave it in your car. As daft as it is if you pile the camera gear on the side of the road and go for a coffee it is suddenly covered by your contents insurance (up to the $1500 per item) but if you leave it in your car it's not covered (go figure !)

I've sent an e-mail to cgrothbury.co.nz who have a pakage called focus and I'll call Mahony Trendall & Jack Ltd in the morning - thanks for the tip.

Tomorrow morning I need sunshine on the Waterfront at Wellington. Some cracking images along there this morning, but I needed to make an appointment and didn't have time to stop

TTFN

Let me know about the cgrothbury thing will you? PM preferably I can't always keep up with this thread. My insurance is up for renewal, probably just expired actually, so I need to work something out pretty quick.

[Picturesports]

Follow the Coastlands stream towards the coast and stop when you get to the airport. Milne Drive if you know the road names.

I've seen a couple of local paint galleries - is there a specific one for photos

(PS: It's an invasion but don't tell anyone)

[Nzshrimper]

Follow the Coastlands stream towards the coast and stop when you get to the airport. Milne Drive if you know the road names.

I've seen a couple of local paint galleries - is there a specific one for photos

(PS: It's an invasion but don't tell anyone)

watch out the locals can get hungry..;)

[Nzshrimper]

crickets going well for once.. however we have to bat yet.. :rolleyes:

[Picturesports]

Interesting about AMI - differs from what they told me this morning in the branch :rolleyes: Hay-ho

RS Turbo Escort - Black Mk1. Blew the cylinder head and spent a fortune having it repaired and setup correctly (rather than how Mr Ford sells them). Went like stink after that - I kid you not. Amazing just how fast there were. Needless to say after I'd had it all put back together properly some bu**er stole it. Mind you after that came the Renault 5 Turbo ... now I drive an MPV :p

[Nzshrimper]

Interesting about AMI - differs from what they told me this morning in the branch :rolleyes: Hay-ho

RS Turbo Escort - Black Mk1. Blue the cylinder head and spent a fortune having it repaired and setup correctly (rather than how Mr Ford sells them). Went like stink after that - I kid you not. Amazing just how fast there were. Needless to say after I'd had it all put back together properly so bu**er stole it. Mind you after that came the Renault 5 Turbo ... move I drive an MPV :p
i had a little escort cossie.. made me cry when i had to sell it to come here. did not pass front impact tests here... :evil: spent a little on aftermarket brakes, exhaust, emc , air intake, head had a polish, lowered and stiffened, Now that went like wet sh1t after a curry..

sony sounds throughout. and a nice inter trim..
My insurance was huge :rolleyes: even with 5 years NCB.. still .. It had GPS tracking if someone tried to nick it.. hehe...

[joeseph]

And another pom I see, you guys will colonize the whole country before we know it!
You missed it Moppie, we took over in 1963!!

[akiwi]

at least your getting it back pre Christmas, do Canon do their own servicing or sub it out.

I have also read that the seem to take their own good time, time for the GOVT to regulate!!:rolleyes:

50000 shots is a lot, how long have you had it? By the time I get to 50000 I would be just about able to take a decent photo.

If it wasn't worth (economically) to repair, what would have you chosen as a replacement, 30D?

I have had my 350D a little over 1 1/2 years and am neary at 40,000 photos. Up till not I haven't had any problems with the camera. Just recently it has decided to have problems triggering any external flashes.

QUICK QUICK

www.nzherald.co.nz (http://www.nzherald.co.nz)

http://media.apn.co.nz/webcontent/image/jpg/14westpac55.jpg
I'm on the front page.. But no one would ever know, as theres no image on the story!! :)
Congrats. Looks like a great picture.

i understand that.. but i am not sure that taking a photo is going to lead to gas leak that could blow up a building full of kids.. - hence why you need the indemnity cover.

What if you are using studio lights on location, and they fall over and break something realy expensive or go up in flames?


I'm still off work feeling like sh1t. But better now than in the holidays.

[akiwi]

If you're interested I just posted something in the Glam & Nude section (NWS)
Here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2398394#post2398394)

[weka2000]

If you're interested I just posted something in the Glam & Nude section (NWS)
Here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2398394#post2398394)

Most of the guys in here get more excited over a car photo :lol:
"Check out the wheels on that" :)
I have a nude shoot this weekend. Outdoors think I will use TV mode rather than AV dont want to blur the photos like last weekend.

[akiwi]

Most of the guys in here get more excited over a car photo :lol:
"Check out the wheels on that" :)
I have a nude shoot this weekend. Outdoors think I will use TV mode rather than AV dont want to blur the photos like last weekend.
I am using more and more M Mode. Particularly outdoors where I am using a bit of fill flash. Firstly frame you subject. Then think about what DOF you are wanting & select your aperture accordingly. Adjust the exposure with the shutter speed. You can then fine tune according to the values you are getting by either upping your ISO if shutter is too slow, or using a smaller aperture.
I normally have my flash set to HSS so if my shutter speed needs to go over 1/200th of a second I don't end up with a black line. Sure it's more to think about & more you can do wrong, but you have more control. If you don't rush into a picture you don't make many mistakes. The only disadvantage is you aren't as flexible for spontaneous snaps.

Will this picture make people dribble more than my models?

[Moppie]

Follow the Coastlands stream towards the coast and stop when you get to the airport. Milne Drive if you know the road names.



Not far from where Ill be, we have to turn right when we get about half way past the air port :)

Heres my uncles website, which has a refernce to the gallery, not sure if he's still displaying there or not http://www.peterbeddek.com/

[Picturesports]

I know the place ... but not been in yet. Cool web site.

[tag141]

RS Turbo Escort - Black Mk1. Blew the cylinder head and spent a fortune having it repaired and setup correctly (rather than how Mr Ford sells them). Went like stink after that - I kid you not. Amazing just how fast there were. Needless to say after I'd had it all put back together properly some bu**er stole it. Mind you after that came the Renault 5 Turbo ... now I drive an MPV :p

Must dig out my "1001 Best Essex Jokes...Ever" ;) 5 Turbo to a MPV. Oooh that must have hurt.

Most of the guys in here get more excited over a car photo :lol: "Check out the wheels on that" :)

I don't know...I get quite excited about a nice pair of headlights myself...

[weka2000]

Just back from Karekare with 2 russian models...well 1 model and a freind who decided to join in the fun.
My first bikini shot.
Photos later

[tim]

Post a link Weka.

Me "at" Havana Club.

[dgcorner]

Home contents is good but even if you are not a pro the cover from AMI, and I assume the others are the same, is a max of $1500 per item, which doesn't even cover the Tamron wide angle :D

It also excludes cover if you leave it in your car. As daft as it is if you pile the camera gear on the side of the road and go for a coffee it is suddenly covered by your contents insurance (up to the $1500 per item) but if you leave it in your car it's not covered (go figure !)

TTFN

Mine covers stuff as long as I declare value... though one of the customer sevice reps mentioned that I didn't have to declare anything when I called and told them about the 70-200IS and the 17-40... go figure.

Post a link Weka.

Me "at" Havana Club.

You're having an early bourbon Tim? Have a good one!

[tim]

http://www.havana-club.com/ (Rum)

[weka2000]

Todays shoot.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2402499#post2402499

Place comment in that thread.

[theflyingkiwi]

well I got my camera back today. I can say that the 28-135 now works at it should, yay. I have take some shots with it, at the work xmas event and some of them have come out ok. They even look ok.

tomorrow I will check it out and see if the camera has been fixed.

[IainB]

Great bike shots, Peter. What lens? I see you have the 70-200 F4. Curious to know if you used that.

[CliveyBoy]

well I got my camera back today. I can say that the 28-135 now works at it should, yay.
Great news, Mark.I'm sure that you'll find you are a much better photographer than the earlier results suggested.

[theflyingkiwi]

So do I Clive. I will be doing a test on the weekend. I haven't even taken the test sheet off the garage wall :)

[forsaken]

Most of the guys in here get more excited over a car photo :lol:
"Check out the wheels on that" :)
I have a nude shoot this weekend. Outdoors think I will use TV mode rather than AV dont want to blur the photos like last weekend.


That is soooooooo not true.

but combine the 2, (nude shoot + cars) and that would be greeeeeat.

[forsaken]

If you're interested I just posted something in the Glam & Nude section (NWS)
Here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2398394#post2398394)


on an aside, whe do we get to unwrap it :)


:rolleyes:

[forsaken]

went to my first work xmas do in over 7 years, it wasn't actually that bad.
At least the beer was kept cold and the food kept warm, what more does one need?


oh more beer. . . BBS











mmmmmmmmmm beer




edit: ah well off to sleep, work tomorrow.

[naqs]

Anyone know of anyone who can help me with a Lexus gearbox problem... Possible electrical?

[Moppie]

Whats it doing?

The only auto-sparkie I trust in East Auckland is on Trugood drive in East Tamiki.

[akiwi]

Great bike shots, Peter. What lens? I see you have the 70-200 F4. Curious to know if you used that.

10 points and a washing machine!!

on an aside, whe do we get to unwrap it :)


:rolleyes:
Yep... come and get it.

[dgcorner]

If you're interested I just posted something in the Glam & Nude section (NWS)
Here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2398394#post2398394)

2 for me please, wrapped or unwrapped:p

well I got my camera back today. I can say that the 28-135 now works at it should, yay. I have take some shots with it, at the work xmas event and some of them have come out ok. They even look ok.

tomorrow I will check it out and see if the camera has been fixed.

Yay!!! Looking forward to your photos. I know how that finger is itching to fire away!

That is soooooooo not true.

but combine the 2, (nude shoot + cars) and that would be greeeeeat.

:lol: :lol:

Whats it doing?

The only auto-sparkie I trust in East Auckland is on Trugood drive in East Tamiki.

Howick Auto Electrical has been quite reliable for me too... unless I don't know what Moppie knows...

(I owe, I owe... so off to work I go!)

[naqs]

Whats it doing?

The only auto-sparkie I trust in East Auckland is on Trugood drive in East Tamiki.

we've had problems before with it losing all foward gears. this time we have no reverse and in Neutral goes foward ???

Know why this is? or have you heard of it before?

[Moppie]

Wow.
Its clearly not a mechanical problem inside the box then.
What model Lexus is it?

[Wazza]

I'm thinking of a smokey sunset tonight..

Currently working, I need to get some fresh air in the evening.

Matt, where's my lens? :p

[momentz]

Got some new kit, and got all inspired :o :

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v441/evobit/IMG_4858.jpg

[Wazza]

You should go test it tonight on a sunset somewhere ;)

[momentz]

You should go test it tonight on a sunset somewhere ;)

With all the smoke coming from that dirty aussie place, I agree!

[MattL]

I'm thinking of a smokey sunset tonight..

Currently working, I need to get some fresh air in the evening.

Matt, where's my lens? :p

Its nice and safe here in my pelican case. :P

[Wazza]

Any places of interest to photograph from?

Could make a mini GKPE...
If we can get anyone else along..

Tony? You free from your models? :lol:

[weka2000]

Any places of interest to photograph from?

Could make a mini GKPE...
If we can get anyone else along..

Tony? You free from your models? :lol:

Umm lets see nude model shoot or going out with wazza :rolleyes:
boy thats a tough option.

Where were you looking at going and what time?

[Wazza]

No idea.. Where were you going to?

If it's a West beach, I'd be there..
or waterfall..

Sunset is what these days? 8pm?
I may go along say 6:30 or something, golden light from 7 onwards, take a walk..

Lunch time, back 30

[CliveyBoy]

It's our biggest fireworks display of the year, paid for by TrustPower, tonight. So we'll be at Pilot Bay, Mt Maunganui for 9.15pm. According to Lee Frost in his book, ISO 100, f/16, bulb 30-60 seconds. Use card to shield lens in gaps.

I presume that the ISO is to lessen the effect of extraneous lights.

Anyone done fireworks?

[Wazza]

Tim has done some. I've done a few myself. I think that shutter speed is too long, as you'll have 3-10 big fireworks overlaying each other.

I'd recommend approx 5-10 seconds, ISO 100 (to reduce noise), and F7.1-F11 for sharpest results.

[CliveyBoy]

Thanks, Wazza - I'll try those settings also. The longer period is to get multiple bursts on one exposure. Perhaps the f/16 is to give a longer exposure for more bursts, but like your suggestion - more optimum for the lens.

[tim]

There's some photos with some exif here (http://www.mrwild.co.nz/Featured/TheNight/index.html). Just looking at my most recent ones I was around ISO100 F8-11, 2-4 seconds. If you want the shutter open for 30 seconds you'll need F32 or so I guess, but the shot could look messy. You can always combine them later in PS using layer blend modes of some kind I guess.

[theflyingkiwi]

well as you know yesterday I got my camera back. which is good. Today I did some test to compare between the before and after tests. Got to make sure that canon does fix things :)

the first results is the sigma 100-300 f4. no post processing done at all on these images. they are straght out the camera.

http://www.cuthbert.net.nz/potn/sigmatest.jpg

and now the canon 100macro

http://www.cuthbert.net.nz/potn/canontest.jpg

as you can see quite some difference. One can also see that the canon is sharper, but thats no supprise really. the 100macro is a very sharp lens. Sorry Tony this doesn't make me upgrade, yet.

[naqs]

Wow.
Its clearly not a mechanical problem inside the box then.
What model Lexus is it?

It was orignally out of the Lexus LS400 Car which has a A341 LE Gearbox.

[CliveyBoy]

There's some photos with some exif here (http://www.mrwild.co.nz/Featured/TheNight/index.html). Just looking at my most recent ones I was around ISO100 F8-11, 2-4 seconds.
They look good, Tim. Where were you sited - Oriental Bay? Was the last shot (Mt Vic) later?

It's not as if I can ask them to repeat so I can get it right. They are on a barge in Pilot Bay. I hope to get a position at the start of The Mount track, which will keep us out of the smoke and cinders, and give some water between for reflections like your shots.

Thanks for the help.

[weka2000]

Well wekas in bed with laptop listing to Bob Marely and processing photos. Trying to get my web site up and working out a workflow for this "hobby"

I have taken so many model photos Im looking foward to a simple landscape.
If you think model photography is easy forget it. I will review it at the end of January. The house is happy thus far :lol:

Tommorows should be interesting. I get frustrated that I cant direct, mind you I am also very "shy" at this stage I havnt yet gained the confidence to push the limits.

The post processing also bugs me. Trying to get it right.

[Wazza]

Ever considered family stuff, before pushing those boundaries and getting woman nude?

What about male nude?

[akiwi]

I guess I'm too late for tips on photographing fireworks, but I find a cable release to be a good compromise. Set the camera to bulb, then using the cable release you can easily vary the length of exposure and time it to match the fireworks.

[weka2000]

http://tonysearle.co.nz/ updated thanks to David for the design. Still a lot of work to do but its a start.

[weka2000]

Ever considered family stuff, before pushing those boundaries and getting woman nude?

What about male nude?

I DONT photography kids, pets or males. The odd couple shot is fine.

Woman fasinate me they always have always will. I have no problem shooting a woman nude thats not the "Shy" bit I was talking about. It was more the posing and taking control of the shoot. Knowing what I want and how I want them to pose.

Im am taking it one step at a time and I guess I will know when to be more assertive. This has been one of the greatest journeys Ive taken. Like everything else I do I burn with a passion to suceed to excel.
It is not only the learning curve that challanges me but the desire to see the joy in a womans face as she see hereself in a way she has never seen before.

[weka2000]

So how am I doing with the model shoots any way? Am I getting better?
Advice and honest comments welcome.

[theflyingkiwi]

http://tonysearle.co.nz/ updated thanks to David for the design. Still a lot of work to do but its a start.

Looks good. I know that you still have alot of work to do on it and I guess you know that not all of your links work?

[weka2000]

Looks good. I know that you still have alot of work to do on it and I guess you know that not all of your links work?

I should redirct landscape to pbase account... Nah get of my butt and take some photos :)

[lil_miss]

Website looks good :) nice work..

[CliveyBoy]

I guess I'm too late for tips on photographing fireworks, but I find a cable release to be a good compromise. Set the camera to bulb, then using the cable release you can easily vary the length of exposure and time it to match the fireworks.
I always use a cable release when on tripod, but I did not use the angle viewer this time.

2 to 12 seconds at ISO 100 and f/8. It's rather a chance - some are blown out at 6 seconds and some ok at 12 - depends on how much light is emitted. The reflection on the sea was also too bright. Pity it's another year before I can refine the operation. One thing: remote capture to a laptop would have given feedback as we shot. Wish I had thought of taking that with us.

[akiwi]

Tony I really like your web site. The model shots are definitley getting better. You have some really nice shots in your gallery.
My only comments to help you improve is when you are photographing a model for glamour in a landscape shot where the model takes up a large part of the picture, make her stand out. This can be done by using aperture & blurring the bg, or light on the model so she stands out. You might need an assistant for the light option as you need either a reflector, or off camera flash, or both. It can be done alone, but it is sometimes a pain, and not possible as soon as there is some wind.
I don't have any special lighting equipment for locations. I use my 580 ex with the off camera cord, and either bounce of a reflector to get more contrast, or flash through the translucent reflector to add some extra light.
This example was done by firing the 580 through the translucent reflector off to one side of the camera.

[Wazza]

"May Contain Nudity" ? - Why not just Contains Nudity :lol:

And young females may think this is dodgy...

I would like to give a special thanks for all the young woman

who have helped make this dream a reality

[Moppie]

It was orignally out of the Lexus LS400 Car which has a A341 LE Gearbox.


So whats it in now? That could be half the problem :)

[Nzshrimper]

"May Contain Nudity" ? - Why not just Contains Nudity :lol:

And young females may think this is dodgy...

I would like to give a special thanks for all the young woman

who have helped make this dream a reality

thats the two points i thought as well . esp the 'make this dream a reaility' sounds slezey - imo

apart from that the site looks good .. nice layout

[Wazza]

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10415760

Sad.

[akiwi]

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10415760

Sad.
Man that's tragic. Isn't it scary how fragile life can be.

[theflyingkiwi]

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10415760

Sad.

That is sad. there is going to be 3 kids now growing up with a mother, and at this time of year is going to be hard.

it's also sad that people believe that someone is to blame for accident.

[lil_miss]

I DONT photography kids, pets or males. .

If you're having issues with lighting and post processing - perhaps practicing on kids would be an added bonus and helping you learn.. at least they wont care what the outcome of the photo looks like....

[momentz]

"May Contain Nudity" ? - Why not just Contains Nudity :lol:

And young females may think this is dodgy...

I would like to give a special thanks for all the young woman

who have helped make this dream a reality

I also don't think you need this paragraph at all (it belongs on a 'credits' or 'about' page if anywhere).
Plus, if you are going to include it, you should know that it's 'women' not 'woman'.

Website still looks somewhat amateurish, photos on the front page are all different sizes and there's overall too much information - the variations in font and text size distracts from the images, and also the amount of text - I find myself reading instead of looking at the pictures.

[weka2000]

I also don't think you need this paragraph at all (it belongs on a 'credits' or 'about' page if anywhere).
Plus, if you are going to include it, you should know that it's 'women' not 'woman'.

Website still looks somewhat amateurish, photos on the front page are all different sizes and there's overall too much information - the variations in font and text size distracts from the images, and also the amount of text - I find myself reading instead of looking at the pictures.

Amaterish...what do you recommend. Better still show me.

[DiscoLizard]

Amaterish...what do you recommend. Better still show me.

Tony, the fade images on the front need to be all the same size, or it doesn't work properly. If you want to change the size of the images in the fade, I'll have to change a couple of things in the script - or send me a pm and I'll explain.

I also think the header is a bit big.

But you've got a layout now, and every tweak will be an improvement!

[momentz]

Amaterish...what do you recommend. Better still show me.

I'm not about to redesign it for you, I have enough trouble with my own ;)

What would I recommend? Fix the picture sizes. Shrink the font for the heading so that it doesn't overpower the picture. Move the left hand side text onto a different page (about/contact). Do people who visit your site really care when it was updated? really? Try to let the photos do the talking for you, and keep text to a minimum. Also, the phrasing of the text is not quite right - if you know anyone who is a writer or journalist get them to proof it for you.

[tim]

well as you know yesterday I got my camera back. which is good. Today I did some test to compare between the before and after tests. Got to make sure that canon does fix things :)

the first results is the sigma 100-300 f4. no post processing done at all on these images. they are straght out the camera.

as you can see quite some difference. One can also see that the canon is sharper, but thats no supprise really. the 100macro is a very sharp lens. Sorry Tony this doesn't make me upgrade, yet.

None of those shots look sharp enough to be acceptable to me, the sigma looks especially poor.

They look good, Tim. Where were you sited - Oriental Bay? Was the last shot (Mt Vic) later?


All my fireworks photos are from a friends house in Roseneth, a hill just beside mt vic. I'd had a few drinks before all of them too, I go to parties there every time there's fireworks.

Today i'll be processing images from yesterdays wedding, probably my best yet :)

[theflyingkiwi]

None of those shots look sharp enough to be acceptable to me, the sigma looks especially poor.

What would you recommend I do? send the camera back to canon and say fix it? to me they look fine and I don't have any before the fault happened photos to compare them too.

I haven't done any post processing on these photos and we should all know that by default a dslr camera is going to be soft. remember that this is a 10D we are talking about.

[tim]

I can't see the high res images so up to you, the little versions just didn't look very good.

[weka2000]

Well stood up my a model :evil:
No contact what so ever. I dont give second chances for rudeness.

[theflyingkiwi]

Well stood up my a model :evil:
No contact what so ever. I dont give second chances for rudeness.

that is rather rude and I don't blame ya. it only takes a minute to call and say that one is going to make it.

She doesn't even have to have an excuse. ohh well I guess she wasn't ready to do it, or had a boyfriend that didn't like other men taking photos. if that's the case then it seems to be alot of men that are insure in themselves.

Tony, to get the wife on bored perhaps you should look at taking photos of models regardless of the sex. you just saying that you will do women may make her feel insure enough to wont you to not do it.

[naqs]

So whats it in now? That could be half the problem :)

Its in a Toyota Hilux :D we have an auto electrician but he is in queenstown at the mo so we are waiting for him.

[theflyingkiwi]

ok guys I did some more testing and now I am more confused.

check this out

http://www.cuthbert.net.nz/potn/IMG_0081.jpg

this photo is the full size photo, the exif data is attached to the image and the settings are with the sigma attached.

and let me know what ya think.

one can see that the sigma is back focusing, however wouldn't it also back focus at 300mm as well. which the lens isn't doing. I'm not sold on the fact that the problem is 100% with the sigma lens.

i'm now confused.

[tim]

I don't know what to think about that one, it's not an easy way to view them (talking about lens tests)/\.

[theflyingkiwi]

well what ever the results are, I don't care. I am keeping everything status quo. I am upgrading to the replace 30D next year and then I will see how it goes.

Perhaps I should buy a 1 series. :)

[Wazza]

Watch it too Tony..

Googling your name, this POTN thread appears highly. Tim for that reason, keeps his business site away from here, and I have several other sites mentioning me before this forum - And as a general view, I talk like I know my clients are reading, so would never bitch about one publicly.

[theflyingkiwi]

Watch it too Tony..

Googling your name, this POTN thread appears highly. Tim for that reason, keeps his business site away from here, and I have several other sites mentioning me before this forum - And as a general view, I talk like I know my clients are reading, so would never bitch about one publicly.

it had taken me 10 pages of results to get to a potn link. but that wont stop people from seaching. however the first link that I got was his web page, how did he do that?

But you are right, if anyone is going to be looking for your name is your customers and models. if don't see anything they don't like, they could just bail.

But that's no excuse at being rude tho. it just takes a phone call to say thanks but no thanks

[tim]

it had taken me 10 pages of results to get to a potn link. but that wont stop people from seaching. however the first link that I got was his web page, how did he do that?

Who are you talking about pages coming first in google?

[theflyingkiwi]

aaah Warren. I did quote his post.

[weka2000]

it had taken me 10 pages of results to get to a potn link. but that wont stop people from seaching. however the first link that I got was his web page, how did he do that?

But you are right, if anyone is going to be looking for your name is your customers and models. if don't see anything they don't like, they could just bail.

But that's no excuse at being rude tho. it just takes a phone call to say thanks but no thanks

My wife was allowed 5min to be late on our wedding day. Anything after that and I was gone. She was right on time.
Integrity a word that only a few hold on to. You get 1 chance with me and thats it.

I wouldnt photograph men if you paid me to. House is happy just the way it is.

[NordieBoy]

Just googled for my name and found...

"Our thanks to the official Tui Festival Photographer, Fran McGowan of Mobile Computing."

Cool :D

I just knew I didn't pay to get in and they let me take photos whereever I wanted.

[joeseph]

Watch it too Tony..

Googling your name, this POTN thread appears highly. Tim for that reason, keeps his business site away from here, and I have several other sites mentioning me before this forum - And as a general view, I talk like I know my clients are reading, so would never bitch about one publicly.
At least googling mine takes one straight to photo's I've taken. ;)
http://www.kiwithunder.com/Gallery.htm

[Wazza]

Searched something like Tony Searle photography

[theflyingkiwi]

Searched something like Tony Searle photography

that's a different response. 2nd results and bingo it points to this page.

I did a search on my name and didn't even come close to getting to me.

but I do know that there is a mark cuthbert photographer in the UK, but he shoot anything that I shoot.

[weka2000]

Oh well future models may get the message that manners go a long way in life.

Sandra thinks I expect to much from people :confused: Manners is to much to expect!

Also noticed another trend...once they get their cd of images that stop answering e-mails. Im going to test this therory. If that is the case I will have a watermark on each photo. I give then 72dpi jpgs at the moment.

[tag141]

Try googling your user name !!! Now that turns up some interesting results.

[weka2000]

Try googling your user name !!! Now that turns up some interesting results.

Internet has long memerory :)

[lil_miss]

Also noticed another trend...once they get their cd of images that stop answering e-mails. Im going to test this therory. If that is the case I will have a watermark on each photo. I give then 72dpi jpgs at the moment.

You should be doing that anyway - what more would you expect.. they dont need anything else when you give it to them all in one go...... I would do the same probably.

[Wazza]

dpi doesnt mean anything, how many pixesl across?

[weka2000]

Umm need to rethink how I do things. Mind you Im having a off day. Be glad when Im on holiday :)

[momentz]

My wife was allowed 5min to be late on our wedding day. Anything after that and I was gone. She was right on time.
Integrity a word that only a few hold on to. You get 1 chance with me and thats it.

I wouldnt photograph men if you paid me to. House is happy just the way it is.

Oh well future models may get the message that manners go a long way in life.

Sandra thinks I expect to much from people Manners is to much to expect!

:confused: I think you need to seriously think about your approach to this. These models or 'Young women' are your customers. There's an adage in retail 'the customer is always right' - this applies to photographers too. You need to put all your preferences and beliefs about integrity, punctuality, manners and whatnot aside. Be polite, respectful, smile, nod etc no matter what.
Welcome to the service industry? If you can't do the above, photography is not for you.

I know I'm probably sounding harsh (in this and my previous posts), but you asked for honest opinions, and undeserved praise is not going to help you whatsoever.

[theflyingkiwi]

:confused: I think you need to seriously think about your approach to this. These models or 'Young women' are your customers. There's an adage in retail 'the customer is always right' - this applies to photographers too. You need to put all your preferences and beliefs about integrity, punctuality, manners and whatnot aside. Be polite, respectful, smile, nod etc no matter what.
Welcome to the service industry? If you can't do the above, photography is not for you.

I know I'm probably sounding harsh (in this and my previous posts), but you asked for honest opinions, and undeserved praise is not going to help you whatsoever.

You know the customer is not always right. That is a myth created long ago in a time when people, on both sides of the counter had manners. I am in the service industry and I can a sure you that while someone may push the limit as to which I can go. I do alot more for my customers when they are nice to me. If they end up being rude etc I follow the letter of the law.

I believe that one is held by his/her own set of standards. If you where going to a model shoot isn't reasonable to ring the photographer and say you either are running late or can't make it. To do otherwise is rude and if it was me I would think twice about taking them out for a shoot.

To comprise your own standards at the end of the day you end up losing them. That means you as an individual ends up losing.

[Moppie]

The customer isn't always right, but it pays if they think they are.

Right now Tony, the Models are your customers, they need to think they are right. Even if they are not.

When your at the top of your game, you can be a bit more picky :)

[momentz]

You know the customer is not always right. That is a myth created long ago in a time when people, on both sides of the counter had manners. I am in the service industry and I can a sure you that while someone may push the limit as to which I can go. I do alot more for my customers when they are nice to me. If they end up being rude etc I follow the letter of the law.

I believe that one is held by his/her own set of standards. If you where going to a model shoot isn't reasonable to ring the photographer and say you either are running late or can't make it. To do otherwise is rude and if it was me I would think twice about taking them out for a shoot.

To comprise your own standards at the end of the day you end up losing them. That means you as an individual ends up losing.

No, I hold a different belief. Five years ago I would have said you were correct, but trends have swung back the other way. These days everyone is a photographer - the market is becoming more and more saturated driven by the falling price of camera equipment. These days if you are not going the extra mile, overlooking the insults and different opinions etc you're losing business. Word of mouth is crucial in a small country like NZ given the amount of communication we now have. It's a small industry, and one or two bad referrals can break you before you begin. Conversely one or two good ones can do the opposite.

By no mans am I saying you should bend over and get yourself shafted, just that to be inflexible and narrow minded toward existing and potential customers is bad business.

[theflyingkiwi]

No, I hold a different belief. Five years ago I would have said you were correct, but trends have swung back the other way. These days everyone is a photographer - the market is becoming more and more saturated driven by the falling price of camera equipment. These days if you are not going the extra mile, overlooking the insults and different opinions etc you're losing business. Word of mouth is crucial in a small country like NZ given the amount of communication we now have. It's a small industry, and one or two bad referrals can break you before you begin. Conversely one or two good ones can do the opposite.

By no mans am I saying you should bend over and get yourself shafted, just that to be inflexible and narrow minded toward existing and potential customers is bad business.

so you are happy then to work for someone giving you insults. you produce the best photos you can for what ever they wont. but they still have the gall to turn around and tell ya that you don't know what you are doing, your photos are crap, you are charging to much and that you should find a real job. even if you work your heart out and they treat you like that, you will still do a job for them again?

[lil_miss]

I dont think that is quite what was being implied. Who said this girl insulted him.. all she did was not turn up.. she could have a pretty valid reason for it.. and I would think before jumping down her throat, perhaps find out why.. and sure enough if there wasn't a reason for it, then yeah.

You certainly dont have to put up with abuse or insults of a nature like that... but being a bit perhaps "tolerant" wouldn't go astray.

[Wazza]

No, I hold a different belief. Five years ago I would have said you were correct, but trends have swung back the other way. These days everyone is a photographer - the market is becoming more and more saturated driven by the falling price of camera equipment. These days if you are not going the extra mile, overlooking the insults and different opinions etc you're losing business. Word of mouth is crucial in a small country like NZ given the amount of communication we now have. It's a small industry, and one or two bad referrals can break you before you begin. Conversely one or two good ones can do the opposite.

By no mans am I saying you should bend over and get yourself shafted, just that to be inflexible and narrow minded toward existing and potential customers is bad business.

I think this is one of the best pieces written in this thread.

The mention of referalls, and bad mouthing, it's so easy to hear something bad, generally about a photographers attitude, or simple negligence. I've already heard a few around. I bet it spreads quick around wedding photographers, I've seen it in car photography, and most likely the same through "I wanna shoot young ladies"...

I'd imagine there's a few worried boyfriends of this sort of this.

We're all entitled to shoot what we like.
I in fact, would shoot male portraits, or whatever they want if I had the equipment. It's about business, and being non discrimatory to any type of person.

I remember Tony's original aim photographing middle age, "average" woman, but that seems to have taken a quick turn to young girls only... Or they're the only willing ones, wanting some free shots?

I'm not meaning to attack anyone, I just mean, that's what Tony wants to do. He's got the determination to do it. He will do it. I just think there could be a couple of changes in the way he's going about it ;)

[theflyingkiwi]

I'm not meaning to attack anyone, I just mean, that's what Tony wants to do. He's got the determination to do it. He will do it. I just think there could be a couple of changes in the way he's going about it ;)

Well I think all of us here know of the way Tony comes across. Tony is who he is.

photographing people is about people. which means you know how to deal with people, the good the bad and the ugly.

[momentz]

so you are happy then to work for someone giving you insults. you produce the best photos you can for what ever they wont. but they still have the gall to turn around and tell ya that you don't know what you are doing, your photos are crap, you are charging to much and that you should find a real job. even if you work your heart out and they treat you like that, you will still do a job for them again?

It's about putting business before emotion. It's where you draw the line between a 'hobby' and 'work'. If it's a hobby then of course you wouldn't do them any favours in the future. However, if it was work, and that situation arose I would politely remind the customer that they appeared unhappy with my previous work but if they were willing to take that chance again I would happily do the job. Tony has clearly indicated that he wants to do glamour photography as he believes that's where there is money to be made - ie business.

[theflyingkiwi]

It's about putting business before emotion. It's where you draw the line between a 'hobby' and 'work'. If it's a hobby then of course you wouldn't do them any favours in the future. However, if it was work, and that situation arose I would politely remind the customer that they appeared unhappy with my previous work but if they were willing to take that chance again I would happily do the job. Tony has clearly indicated that he wants to do glamour photography as he believes that's where there is money to be made - ie business.

so if your gut was telling you not to take on a client you are going to ingore that and take the job anyway. after all business before emotion. Even if that gut feeling is telling you that you are not going to enjoy working with the client?

As for Tony, he has a lot of things to work on.

[tim]

Perhaps calling the day before or the morning of the appointment is a good idea. From what i've read models doing TFP/TFCD are pretty unreliable.

[akiwi]

I think being too unflexible is not god. I haven't been stood up by a model yet, but if Iwas I wouldn't be happy. However I would wait for an explination and give a second chance before writing anyone off. Being stood up 2 times would be another story though.
I would definitely prefer photographing beautiful young ladies, however I have also got some great photos of men. And men often havr beautiful young girlfriends. Early next year I am doing a couple glamour / nude shoot. And no... not porno.
I am not good enough to be picky and can't afford to be so I photograph whatever I can. It is all practice and adds to my confidence and helps me get better.

[Wazza]

Yeah my point is we all know Tony, he's a good guy, and not hiding behind anything.

However, someone who doesn't know him, and reading the comments already mentioned may find it a bit corny; "young ladies"

Kirst and I look at photography as an art form, nudity included. Nothing sexual, but all within good taste. Too often I see either over the top sexualness or guys on myspace, solely targeting just young models, and it kinda looks wrong.

Tony is Tony. I'm happy with that. :)

I just don't want him to gain some unfair reputation if people saw the desire to shoot only females, and saw it the wrong way. I know Tony has a loving wife, Sandra. Who's obviously given a lot of trust, just to come this far. Congratulations on you both.

[MattL]

Morning.

My last day of work for a while :D

[joeseph]

Morning!

[theflyingkiwi]

morning everyone, did everyone have a good weekend?

[Wazza]

I worked this weekend, and am working all week, overtime, Saturday just gone, worked Sunday as usual, and am working Monday-Thursday as usual, and overtime Friday. :(

The good thing is I'll have some extra money this pay, and have a 4 day weekend, Saturday-Tuesday (was originally having to work Christmas eve). Then working Wednesday/Thursday, before having 9 days off over New Years whilst Kirst and I go to Fiji :D