Chicago April 22nd POTN Meet

[drparker]

Join us Sunday, April 22nd for a get together in Downtown Chicago with a pre-meeting the night before.

Saturday evening Pre-meet, get together. We'll meet at Phil's hotel, The W Hotel Map (http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?formtype=address&addtohistory=&address=172%20W%20Adams%20St&city=Chicago&state=IL&zipcode=60603%2d3606&country=US&geodiff=1) at some point we'll head out for some night time shooting of the skyline etc..

Sunday 5:00am Catch a sunrise over the lake.

Sunday 9:00am meet at Millennium Park at Cloud Gate (http://www.millenniumpark.org/artandarchitecture/cloud_gate.html) (the Bean), Directions, parking info and maps (http://www.millenniumpark.org/generalinformation/directions_parking.html)

Go to this poll (http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=290614)and vote for what parts of the get together you'll attend.


As we Iron out more details I'll add them to this first post.

[drparker]

So a meet time how does 9:00 sound or earlier ?
Meet by the "Bean"(Cloud Gate sculpture) in Millennium Park or Navy Pier?

[drparker]

Does anybody want to meet earlier for sunrise shots at The Planetarium. I figure dawn will be about 5 with sunrise at 5:30 to 6:00. After this we could get coffee then meet everyone else at 9:00.

[Phil Light]

Does anybody want to meet earlier for sunrise shots at The Planetarium. I figure dawn will be about 5 with sunrise at 5:30 to 6:00. After this we could get coffee then meet everyone else at 9:00.

If the weather looks like it will cooperate, and if I manage to get a hotel, I'd be up for early shooting.

[Curtis N]

9:00 at the bean seems doable for Becky and me.

Navy Pier can be fun, too. They have a guy that takes pictures of people as they get on the big Ferris Wheel. It would be great if we all posed with our Canons aimed at him! Great oppurtunities for shots from up in the big wheel, too.

Drew, assuming you don't get any big objections to meeting at the bean, how about adding a mapquest link and parking suggestions to post #1.

[Franko515]

Is this date set or still up for revision?
If it is set, I will book my room 2morrow so I can shoot Saturday night also (im not that far but it would be a great deal easier this way).
I think this will realy benifit me, since I am so new I can probably learn a great deal in the time we spend shooting. I will be off work all next week, so if anybody want to give me some tips before hand I would greatly appreciate it.

[PhotoFranz]

I should be able to make it too. The deciding factor will be whether or not my camera and all my other new equipment has been delivered. I am ordering a 400D/XTi, and the whole kaboodle just before April 1. What a great chance to try out new equipment. You folks are soooo good to me!

[Danellyn]

Im in and im up for a early shoot if the weather will cooperate with us.

[MazerRakhm]

Sounds like fun, I'm going to try and make it.

[Phil Light]

Anyone have a suggestion about a good area to get a hotel? If we use this for socializing Saturday evening, would it be better downtown, or in the 'burbs?

[hawk911]

Trying to work out the details, since my son's B-day is the 23rd.

[Curtis N]

The deciding factor will be whether or not my camera and all my other new equipment has been delivered.Bogus! Don't let equipment (or lack thereof) stop you. Bring a single use 35mm job from Wal*Mart if (or maybe six of them) you have to.

When I see shots posted from other POTN gatherings around the world, what really grabs me is the different creative ways people can shoot the same thing.

Sure, there will be some gear talk, and maybe even some lens swapping. But it's more about having fun shooting together. This is not some sort of exclusive club where people are required to own certain equipment. We are not Nikonians!

[MazerRakhm]

Bogus! Don't let equipment (or lack thereof) stop you. Bring a single use 35mm job from Wal*Mart if (or maybe six of them) you have to.

When I see shots posted from other POTN gatherings around the world, what really grabs me is the different creative ways people can shoot the same thing.

Sure, there will be some gear talk, and maybe even some lens swapping. But it's more about having fun shooting together. This is not some sort of exclusive club where people are required to own certain equipment. We are not Nikonians!


Well said!

[Franko515]

Is this date set or still up for revision?
If it is set, I will book my room 2morrow so I can shoot Saturday night also (im not that far but it would be a great deal easier this way).
I think this will realy benifit me, since I am so new I can probably learn a great deal in the time we spend shooting. I will be off work all next week, so if anybody want to give me some tips before hand I would greatly appreciate it.

Im not sure if this date is set in stone, cause I wanna book my room also. If the organizer of this could chime in to let us know that would be great ;) I am also a travel agent and maybe be able to get a slight discount on rooms if enough people are game.

[drparker]

I'd say it's firm, there are at least six of us who will make it. With 3 for the night before and 4 for sunrise so far.

Hotel ???? Scratching chin in thought. Downtown would be convenient but also more expensive. If we just want to get together and socialize then the burbs would be fine. If we plan to try some night shots, skyline etc.. then downtown would make it a lot easier for you guys.

I suggest looking at Courtyard and the like to see if they have any weekend specials.

[Franko515]

Since it set, I will be there!!!
I doubt that 6 people would be enough to get a discount at a hotel :(
I get half off at the Drake, but only for one room :(

I just thought it would be good for me to get a room to catch the Saturday night shots as well as the Sunday sunrise shots.

[wildfan926]

Hi All,
I live in La Crosse and would love to come, I just need to clear it with the war department...my husband. I've also invited a photographer friend who lives in the Chicago area...if I come, I will definitely be there on Saturday too.

Thanks, Erin

[RuggerJoe]

I should be there

[yamezbond]

Is this serious stuff?? I live ten minutes from Chicago downtown If you don't mind to get a really amateur guy on the guess list I'm on it!!

[Fade2]

Anyone have a suggestion about a good area to get a hotel? If we use this for socializing Saturday evening, would it be better downtown, or in the 'burbs?

Try the Hilton on South Michigan Ave.
You can get a good price there and Grant pk is right across the street.
I live in the city and I might get me a room there for that weekend!
Try priceline or expedia.com

[Franko515]

Is this serious stuff?? I live ten minutes from Chicago downtown If you don't mind to get a really amateur guy on the guess list I'm on it!!

Judging by your Smugmug Photos, I will be the only amateur there ;)

[hawk911]

I'll be 2nd amateur then. Still trying to figure out how to spell fotografy

[drparker]

I'll be 2nd amateur then. Still trying to figure out how to spell fotografy LOL :D Me too.

[PhotoFranz]

Last week I couldn't spell fotographer and now I are one. I am just about certain I will be there April 22.

[Phil Light]

Well I've got a hotel in downtown Chicago for getting together Saturday night. For better or worse, I used priceline.com to try to get a deal on a 4-star hotel (thinking they would probably have good bar/socializing facilities). It is still close to Grant Park but I really don't know anything about it. Here is the info:

W Hotel Chicago City Center
172 W Adams
Chicago, Illinois 60603
312-332-1200


Click here for the map (http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?formtype=address&addtohistory=&address=172%20W%20Adams%20St&city=Chicago&state=IL&zipcode=60603%2d3606&country=US&geodiff=1)

Will this be ok? I was hoping it would be the Hilton, but no luck. With priceline, they pick the hotel.

[Franko515]

The W is a great hotel, what rate did you get quoted? Im guessing I will get a room for the 21 and 22 (go downtown and have lunch, relax in my room and wait for the Saturday night shoot, then get up early Sunday for morning shoot. Then meet with everyone for the Sunday POTN meet, go back to the room rest up and leave Monday morning)

[ERapczak]

I'm just across the border in Janesville WI but I have a friend in Buffalo Grove IL which would make for a short drive into the city so although I'm very very new to the forum I'd love to join in for the day and possibly the meet and greet on Saturday. Count me in!

[IShootPeople]

OMG i would like to be there so badly! i love chicago and live in St. Louis so its not too bad. I need to get going on this... my friends and i may plan a trip around the same time so maybe i can meet up with my fellow Canonites if we make it up there.

[Phil Light]

The W is a great hotel, what rate did you get quoted? Im guessing I will get a room for the 21 and 22 (go downtown and have lunch, relax in my room and wait for the Saturday night shoot, then get up early Sunday for morning shoot. Then meet with everyone for the Sunday POTN meet, go back to the room rest up and leave Monday morning)

The best rate I could find for the Hilton was $207. I bid $150 on Priceline and it was accepted by the W. I'm not familiar with it, but it's supposed to be a very nice hotel. It seems to me like it would be a great place to socialize. I'm really looking forward to this now.

[glhs509]

...It seems to me like it would be a great place to socialize....

I'll say!The lobby is a zoo on fri. and sat. nights (the reception desk is basically hidden behind the bar and the spill of people lounging around)...try to check-in mid/late afternoon. Great hotel/bar nonetheless, and they did a great job remodeling.

[hawk911]

Is there a tentative itinerary yet? I know the Pier was discussed, but I'm betting it's still cold for being right off the water.

[MazerRakhm]

I don't think there is an itinerary yet, which I guess is fine but we should at least talk about a list of things we want to see or do.

Some ideas of the top of my head:
- We are meeting at Millennium Park and the bean, so that's covered.
- Discussed earlier was Navy Pier.
- Grant park and the fountain is close by, but I don't remember when they start the water for the year. (I just found it, they say mid April so it may or may not be running yet.)
- Museum Campus is a lovely area also within walking distance; the Field, Shedd, Adler Planetarium, and Soldier Field are there.
- The Art Institute and all of Michigan Ave will be also blocks away.

That's about all I have off the top of my head, tons of interesting sights abound in the city. I'm actually quite excited as I've wanted to do something like this for a while now, what do we want to see?

[Curtis N]

Correct me if I'm wrong...
Adler Planetarium is a popular spot for Chicago skyline shots, correct?

Buckingham fountain, if it's running, is much more impressive at night. It's a light show as much as a fountain if I remember correctly.

Even if it's cold, Navy Pier has a nice indoor arboretum. Plenty of spots for lunch there, too.

[Franko515]

Correct me if I'm wrong...
Adler Planetarium is a popular spot for Chicago skyline shots, correct?

Buckingham fountain, if it's running, is much more impressive at night. It's a light show as much as a fountain if I remember correctly.

Even if it's cold, Navy Pier has a nice indoor arboretum. Plenty of spots for lunch there, too.

Correct on all three points sir. Plus if all else fails I will just sign a model release for everyone and let you guys snap away at all my beauty and splender :cool:

[glhs509]

Correct me if I'm wrong...

Not wrong at all.

Adler Planetarium is a popular spot for Chicago skyline shots, correct?

Yep...Particularly the north side of the drive leading there. Also, top of the ferris wheel at Navy Pier

Buckingham fountain, if it's running, is much more impressive at night. It's a light show as much as a fountain if I remember correctly.

Yep...definitely night. Should be running by the 22nd (weather permitting)

[dilorenzo1954]

May I join the party?? I can open my calendar for this event. It sounds like a lot of fun.:D

Ed

[Mills]

In.

[chloeosmom]

I want to be a 'count me in' but Damn Chicago isnt cheap
If I can 'clear the calander' would anyone want to split the cost of a room w/ a lady? Other wise it will be a no go for me

[Curtis N]

May I join the party??Yes, if you volunteer to carry my tripod all day. ;)

Seriously, this is shaping up to be an informal gathering in public places, so it would be hard to exclude anyone. The more, the merrier!

[Cassie]

Count me in:)

[K-9 Cop]

I am gonna try to make it. I need to see if I am off that day.

[drparker]

Hey everybody just back in town and on-line. ;)

On Saturday night I thought we'd hit the Adler Planetarium for sky line shots, Buckingham Fountain for colored water light show and maybe the observatory at Sears Tower as it's close to the W Hotel.

Sunrise shots could be at Navy Pier, Chicago Yacht Club or back to the Planetarium?

Meet at the Bean around 9:00?

From the Bean we can walk to the Art Museum and the Lions out front or walk to The Michigan Ave bridge over the Chicago river. That location is in a ton of movies and TV shows, a lot of great architecture can be viewed from there.

If they are running, maybe a water taxi to Navy Pier, Hey it was 60 degrees today:D .

After that? Museum campus? Lincoln Park free zoo? What do guys want to do? I drive down there a couple of times a week so there a tons of things I don't even notice any more:(

If anybody stays late we can do the sky lines from ground level at the Planetarium and on high at the Sears or Hancock.

[drparker]

I want to be a 'count me in' but Damn Chicago isnt cheap
If I can 'clear the calander' would anyone want to split the cost of a room w/ a lady? Other wise it will be a no go for me

If you stay in one of the burbs at a Courtyard or the like you can get some great weekend rates. I'll probably not stay downtown but drive in from the northwest burbs Saturday and Sunday.

[drparker]

Updated post 1.

[Franko515]

Well I've got a hotel in downtown Chicago for getting together Saturday night. For better or worse, I used priceline.com to try to get a deal on a 4-star hotel (thinking they would probably have good bar/socializing facilities). It is still close to Grant Park but I really don't know anything about it. Here is the info:

W Hotel Chicago City Center
172 W Adams
Chicago, Illinois 60603
312-332-1200


Click here for the map (http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?formtype=address&addtohistory=&address=172%20W%20Adams%20St&city=Chicago&state=IL&zipcode=60603%2d3606&country=US&geodiff=1)

Will this be ok? I was hoping it would be the Hilton, but no luck. With priceline, they pick the hotel.

Phil what rate did you get for The W?
Two night or one night stay?

[chicagoastronomer]

The meet-up is quite a great idea and I think I'll join on in.

Telescope/Observatory Operator
Adler Planetarium & Museum

[Franko515]

The meet-up is quite a great idea and I think I'll join on in.

Telescope/Observatory Operator
Adler Planetarium & Museum

Thant sounds like a cool arse job :cool:
Im sure you know the spots to get the best city scapes ;)

[Phil Light]

Phil what rate did you get for The W?
Two night or one night stay?

I only booked one night. I bid $150. The total price I was quoted when everything is added in is $187.59. Although I have yet to stay in a hotel where something wasn't added to the bill.

[drparker]

Astronomer Joe,

Great web site, I've got it book marked.

Please do come out to play. We'll be in your front yard at Planetarium:D .

[stoph]

I've booked downtown twice and got a rate each time of 65.00 using Priceline. Once at the Palmer House hotel and once on the mag mile. That was a year ago so maybe it has gone up a little bit since then. I'm interested in joining in, just have to remember to check with my wife since I usually forget every obligation we have.

[hawk911]

is there a confirmed count yet? Seems like we have at least a dozen, maybe close to 2 dozen. And for some of these attractions, does anyone know prices? I know the outside stuff is all free, but Navy Pier? I've never been so I don't know what to expect.

[angryhampster]

If the weather is nice, I may come down there on my motorcycle. Otherwise, I won't be able toafford the trip.

[hawk911]

Come on down Hampster- I did Chicago in March on my cycle 3 yrs ago. A bit of rain on the way down, and 40degrees when I left, but any day on a cycle is a good day.

[dilorenzo1954]

Just to be clear...Where is everyone meeting on Saturday evening? I'm just a few miles north of the Loop so I'll just drive down both Saturday and Sunday.

Ed

[PhotoFranz]

Just to go out on Navy Pier is free. Stuff like the Ferris Wheel cost extra, but not a lot. Parking is about $20 though, so getting around can be expensive.

[PhotoFranz]

I will be coming down in my mini-van and will have 6 open seats and room in the back for our equipment (mine will be brand new - I have not ordered it yet). If folks want to ride with me and share the parking, I am up for it. I will be there on Sunday only and will start out with the sunrise shoot at the Aquarium (or wherever).

[Phil Light]

Just to be clear...Where is everyone meeting on Saturday evening? I'm just a few miles north of the Loop so I'll just drive down both Saturday and Sunday.

Ed

I don't know if we've got a time nailed down yet but here is where we're meeting Saturday evening:

W Hotel Chicago City Center
172 W Adams
Chicago, Illinois 60603
312-332-1200

[drparker]

is there a confirmed count yet? Seems like we have at least a dozen, maybe close to 2 dozen. And for some of these attractions, does anyone know prices? I know the outside stuff is all free, but Navy Pier? I've never been so I don't know what to expect. I count 12 for yes and 8 maybes.

It costs 12 bucks for the Sears Tower. Parking can run over $20. I usually park once and then cab it. There is a free trolley from State Street to Navy Pier. Trolley service (http://www.navypier.com/visit_us/pub_trans.html)

I don't know if we've got a time nailed down yet but here is where we're meeting Saturday evening:
W Hotel Chicago City Center
172 W Adams
Chicago, Illinois 60603
312-332-1200

The Sears tower observation deck closed at 8pm in April. So how early do you want to meet? I'm thinking 5:30 or earlier, we need time to meet, mingle and then walk two blocks.

[Franko515]

I count 12 for yes and 8 maybes.

It costs 12 bucks for the Sears Tower. Parking can run over $20. I usually park once and then cab it. There is a free trolley from State Street to Navy Pier. Trolley service (http://www.navypier.com/visit_us/pub_trans.html)



The Sears tower observation deck closed at 8pm in April. So how early do you want to meet? I'm thinking 5:30 or earlier, we need time to meet, mingle and then walk two blocks.

Do they allow tripods on the observation deck?

[PhotoFranz]

There is a free trolley from State Street to Navy Pier.

Especially on weekends, the trolly can be very crowded and few and far between.

[Franko515]

:rolleyes: That quote has my name but I never said that :p

I believe that was drparker ;)
I count 12 for yes and 8 maybes.

It costs 12 bucks for the Sears Tower. Parking can run over $20. I usually park once and then cab it. There is a free trolley from State Street to Navy Pier. Trolley service (http://www.navypier.com/visit_us/pub_trans.html)



The Sears tower observation deck closed at 8pm in April. So how early do you want to meet? I'm thinking 5:30 or earlier, we need time to meet, mingle and then walk two blocks.

[PhotoFranz]

Sorry, FRANKO515, I fixed it as soon as I saw it. I am not sure how that happened. It must have been the time change. :o

[Franko515]

Sorry, FRANKO515, I fixed it as soon as I saw it. I am not sure how that happened. It must have been the time change. :o

At first I thought it was my disfunction acting up again, but I ate a fruit rollup (helps with my condition) and it was still there :shock:

No problem at all, just wanted to let ya know ;)

[PhotoFranz]

LOL, I just figured out what I did. I copied the drparker quote from a quote in your message. Crap, I am going back to bed. :o :o :o

[Captain Mantastic]

i would love to come down and shoot, but i will be at the cubbies game that day. so technically, i will be in chicago, just the wrong part there of...

[hawk911]

my wife and I are planning on it, but will also have a 10mo old with us. No telling how long we/(she) last, or what the weather will dictate for us. all prices for us dbl, since there's 2 of us, hence my questions about itinerary and costs. We won't be down for Saturday though.

[kbreit]

I live in Buffalo Grove (northwest suburbs) and would love to attend. I am thinking of taking the train in on Saturday and then on Sunday driving in bright and early so I can get a sunrise. If anyone wants to stay in the Buffalo Grove area, I'd be willing to drive down to the city (and to the hotel on Saturday evening). I could probably take one or two people in my car. Drop me a private message and we'll make plans.

I'd like to see one final summary before hand so everyone can be set on meeting places, times, etc. I'll keep checking back on the thread. Cannot wait.

[dilorenzo1954]

I don't know if we've got a time nailed down yet but here is where we're meeting Saturday evening:

W Hotel Chicago City Center
172 W Adams
Chicago, Illinois 60603
312-332-1200
Thanks! I'll probably wait and get a meeting time closer to the 21st.:D :D

[angryhampster]

Looks like I'll have to head to Chicago on Apr 22. Sounds like fun :)

[Franko515]

Do you fellas think a monopod would do for nightshots? Dont think I can afford the tripod and ball head I want till May :cry: but, I have also ordered a Cam-pod (http://www.cam-pod.com/index.php), This should work as long as I have a good place to sit it. Anybody else have the Cam-pod?

[Curtis N]

I'll probably bring a cheap tripod (my "real" one is too darn heavy to carry around all day). Anyone who wants can use it.

I imagine others will have tripods available, too.

[dilorenzo1954]

Some cautions with tripods... I haven't comfirmed this yet, but I had heard rumblings that the Millenium Park security does not allow tripods near "Cloudgate" (the Bean) unless a permit is produced. :( Does anybody know if this is true or not? :confused: Also If anybody needs a ride Saturday or Sunday I'm on the north side. Just send a PM;)

Ed

[PhotoFranz]

As late as last December, I used a tripod at Cloudgate without problems.

[MazerRakhm]

Okay, all this talk about it got me pretty curious as I have seen people with tripods out there before. I did some searching and found that at first "they" were saying that Millennium Park is a copyrighted public space and were stopping photographers with tripods or charging a fee for the ability to shoot with one.

They have since rescinded this policy and photographers are free to shoot with tripods at will.

A couple of interesting articles:
http://newurbanist.blogspot.com/2005/01/copyrighting-of-public-space.html

http://realneo.us/art-of-the-day-spitball-by-tony-smith/art-of-the-day-cloud-gate-by-anish-kapoor/free-to-photograph-the-bean

[drparker]

Interesting, never knew there was a problem.:o Glad to hear we don't have to worry about it, other than looking like a large crew.:D

thanks for digging this up Kevin.

[dilorenzo1954]

Okay, all this talk about it got me pretty curious as I have seen people with tripods out there before. I did some searching and found that at first "they" were saying that Millennium Park is a copyrighted public space and were stopping photographers with tripods or charging a fee for the ability to shoot with one.

They have since rescinded this policy and photographers are free to shoot with tripods at will.


Thanks Kevin! Of course now we will require a group shot under the "Bean".:D :D :D

Ed

[Danellyn]

haha i can see it now 30 of us with all our tripod and timers set and then someone counting and all of us hitting the shutter button and running into position

[drparker]

haha i can see it now 30 of us with all our tripod and timers set and then someone counting and all of us hitting the shutter button and running into position :lol: :lol: :lol:, We need video of this!

[MarKap77]

Well, all, I'm planning to attend. This sounds like fun. If I can work out the scheduling details, I'll plan to be there for Saturday night and Sunday. And I'll even bring my video camera so we can record the "picture police" trying to shake us down for $20 each! lol

Oh, and I'm definitely bringing my tripod!

See you all at "the Bean"!

Hey, maybe we should make name tags we can hang around our necks that identify us all as "students". Wouldn't that be funny...........

[Franko515]

Would it be possible to attah a poll, so we can get a head count? So far looks like its gonna be a bunch of us :cool:

A poll something like this

1) Sat - meet and greet and night shots
2) Sun - Sunrise and Bean at 9:00
3) Both 1 & 2
4) Have plans to come but not for sure yet
5) Undecided

[dilorenzo1954]

Would it be possible to attach a poll, so we can get a head count? So far looks like its gonna be a bunch of us :cool:

A poll something like this

1) Sat - meet and greet and night shots
2) Sun - Sunrise and Bean at 9:00
3) Both 1 & 2
4) Have plans to come but not for sure yet
5) Undecided

Sound like a good idea...Put me down for #3;)

Ed

[yamezbond]

Some cautions with tripods... I haven't comfirmed this yet, but I had heard rumblings that the Millenium Park security does not allow tripods near "Cloudgate" (the Bean) unless a permit is produced. :( Does anybody know if this is true or not? :confused: Also If anybody needs a ride Saturday or Sunday I'm on the north side. Just send a PM;)

Ed

Chicago has this law on the city parks, museums and zoo. You guys should consider a monopod instead a tripod, I had a friend whos get a tiket for shooting with a tripod on milenium park last year.

[RuggerJoe]

Chicago has this law on the city parks, museums and zoo. You guys should consider a monopod instead a tripod, I had a friend whos get a tiket for shooting with a tripod on milenium park last year.

I am curious as to what the ticket was for as I can't find any municiple code that phrohibits the use of a tripod any where in the city.

[drparker]

Would it be possible to attah a poll, so we can get a head count? So far looks like its gonna be a bunch of us :cool:

A poll something like this

1) Sat - meet and greet and night shots
2) Sun - Sunrise and Bean at 9:00
3) Both 1 & 2
4) Have plans to come but not for sure yet
5) Undecided

Great Idea, so go vote already;) Head count poll (http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=290614)

[Franko515]

Great job ;)
Now everybody go vote, I may bring fruit roll-ups and need a count :lol:

[PhotoFranz]

OK... I hope this puts the discussion to rest. I copied this link directly off the official "millenium Park" web page: It deals with "Photo/Video Permits".

http://www.millenniumpark.org/generalinformation/permits.html

[dilorenzo1954]

Done. Just remember Chicagoans... this time we only vote once no matter how much the precinct captain tries to pay us!;) ;)
Seriously for anybody that's local and not staying at a hotel, we should try to carpool so that we can save on parking (kinda steep downtown):( . There's still time to arrange this.

Ed

[MazerRakhm]

So does this mean my dead relatives and pets don't get a vote in this poll either?

Car pooling is a good idea! Especially once we're downtown.

[hawk911]

so if we have more than 10, do we need a permit?

edit: I'm trying to find that out from the Millenium park office.

[Franko515]

so if we have more than 10, do we need a permit?

Not if were in two groups, or at least tell em that we are ;)

[MazerRakhm]

Well technically we are not all a crew, shooting for the same thing. We are 10 individuals shooting for ourselves. They really shouldn't have a problem especially since we're going to be there early in the morning.

If we don't stay terribly long, and don't start a fight with any nikon owners who may be nearby we should be just fine. They'll never notice that we were there, just another group of tourists.

I would think we wouldn't need a permit unless we required "alone" time with the bean for some reason or obstructed others view of it for longer than some group shots.

[hawk911]

Not if were in two groups, or at least tell em that we are ;)

Good idea. The group shot will be quick anyway, unless someone has a Nikon and we beat him/her senseless. Wait- they already are!:)

[Curtis N]

unless someone has a Nikon and we beat him/her senseless.I know you're jesting here, but I sure don't want to give the impression that people won't be welcome in this group if they're not shooting Canon.

Last summer at the POTN invasion of the Bristol Renaissance Faire, one POTN member brought a friend with two Nikon bodies and a vest full of lenses. He was a consumate pro and a heckuva nice guy. He talked about photography with all the excitement of someone who just bought his first camera, though he had been shooting professionally for 20 years. I learned more from him than anyone else I met that day.

Bring your Noink, your Fuji, your Pentax and your Kodak. Let's just have fun shooting together!

[hawk911]

I know you're jesting here, but I sure don't want to give the impression that people won't be welcome in this group if they're not shooting Canon.

Last summer at the POTN invasion of the Bristol Renaissance Faire, one POTN member brought a friend with two Nikon bodies and a vest full of lenses. He was a consumate pro and a heckuva nice guy. He talked about photography with all the excitement of someone who just bought his first camera, though he had been shooting professionally for 20 years. I learned more from him than anyone else I met that day.

Bring your Noink, your Fuji, your Pentax and your Kodak. Let's just have fun shooting together!

Yes- purely jesting, as two of my good friends shoot Nikon, and one of them does professional stuff for the Milwaukee Brewers. Bring your homemade box camera if that's what gets it done for you.

[Phil Light]

So does this mean my dead relatives and pets don't get a vote in this poll either?...

Of course they do! That's standard procedure for Chicago, isn't it? ;)

[PhotoFranz]

Hey, don't worry about the votes. I am a Democratic Election Judge in Chicago and I am looking the other way.

[supsukkaface]

i will think about it sounds interesting an i can really learn a lot from everyone take it im still novice

[Franko515]

i will think about it sounds interesting an i can really learn a lot from everyone take it im still novice

Thanks for stopping by, and we would love to have you join us. If you happen to learn anything you could teach me :oops: ;)

[kbreit]

I made a web page with all the Chicago meetup information in one place. Check it out at http://kbreit.dyndns.org:8080/uploads/potn-chicago.html . If you have any changes you'd like me to make, send me a private message and I'll update.

[drparker]

I made a web page with all the Chicago meetup information in one place. Check it out at http://kbreit.dyndns.org:8080/uploads/potn-chicago.html . If you have any changes you'd like me to make, send me a private message and I'll update.

Great stuff, thanks for putting this together:D

[Danellyn]

BRILLIANT!!!! you know we are going to have to find a place that serves guinness.
BTW is anyone planning on going under 21?

[supsukkaface]

BRILLIANT!!!! you know we are going to have to find a place that serves guinness.
BTW is anyone planning on going under 21?
see im 17 and i was thinking about going but i would go if there were peopel i knew or some people my age

[Franko515]

see im 17 and i was thinking about going but i would go if there were peopel i knew or some people my age

I dont know anybody going either, just the folks I have met here on th board so far. Thats one of the reasons I am gong, to make friend with people who have the same interest (photography). As far as age, if your old enough to shoot you can go ;)

[kbreit]

It's not really your age at 17, but I'm 24. So there'll definitely be a "younger" group of people going.

[Franko515]

Did everyone going do the poll? If not please do so we can get an estimate on the number of people. A link to the poll can be found here.

http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=290614

[Danellyn]

see im 17 and i was thinking about going but i would go if there were peopel i knew or some people my age

haha I act 17 alot of the times does that count?

[Sonic Infidel]

I'm so glad I found this thread! I think I will be able to attend.

I'm eager to meet other locals and see some experienced shooters in action. A lot of times I find myself wondering how other people would handle a certain shot, so it will be nice to get some instant input and critique.

And don't worry, supsukkaface. I'm only 22, so you won't be the only young gun. You'll just have to sneak into the pub if we stop for a brew.

Good thing I finally broke down and got a darn IPass...

[PhotoFranz]

Hey, I am 61 and do not plan on growing up... EVER! I should change my name to Peter Pan.

[Sonic Infidel]

I talked my friend Rob into coming. He's got the same setup as myself, and we got our cameras the same week. It will be interesting to see how we handle the same shots based on our different experiences. He's got a good eye for composition, which kind of keeps me on my toes.

I can't wait!

[drparker]

I talked my friend Rob into coming. He's got the same setup as myself, and we got our cameras the same week. It will be interesting to see how we handle the same shots based on our different experiences. He's got a good eye for composition, which kind of keeps me on my toes.

I can't wait!Excellent!:D

Remember to go to this poll and let us know what parts you'll be going to. Chicago April meeting poll (http://www.photography-on-the.net/forum/poll.php?do=showresults&pollid=1212)

[randerson07]

Me and my other half are in for Sunday. All I had to do was paint the family room to get my permission slip signed.

[Sonic Infidel]

My other half and I...

[Karl C]

My other half and I...

Are you the self-anointed Grammar Police?

:rolleyes:

[Sonic Infidel]

:)

Sorry...I'm a bit anal about grammar. However, I usually don't correct the grammar of others except in a joking tone. It's just hard to convey tone through text without actually stating the joke...

Last time, I promise!

[randerson07]

It's ok I forgive you, how will I ever learn grammar if nobody tells me what I'm doing wrong.
:)

Sorry...I'm a bit anal about grammar. However, I usually don't correct the grammar of others except in a joking tone. It's just hard to convey tone through text without actually stating the joke...

Last time, I promise!

[stoph]

I had to lay hardwood in the living room, dining room, and kitchen. My wife wanted to hire someone to do it and I figured with the money we saved I could get a 30D :) I think I am good for the rest of the year now and am eager to practice with my new camera. Yeah baby!!

[randerson07]

LOL I just put down Hardwood in my living room a couple weeks ago, My flickr is clutter with pictures of it, I fairly proud of it LOL.

[Phil Light]

It's ok I forgive you, how will I ever learn grammar if nobody tells me what I'm doing wrong.

No it should be "how will I ever learn grammar good if nobody tells me what I'm doing wrong?"

(Sonic Infidel's head should be exploding about now):p

[drparker]

My other half and I... I'm not great at grammer but why do news reporters say "Join Ron and Me at 10" should it be "Join Ron and I at 10" instead. Sorry for the highjack, it just bugs me every time I hear it.:mad:

[Becky N]

The easiest way to remember if it should be I or me is to use it alone in a sentence. You wouldn't say , "Join I at 10" you would say, Join me at 10". Therefore, "Join Ron and me at 10" is correct.

But join us at the Bean at 9. and fergitabout, Ron and whoever.;)

[PhotoFranz]

I am getting excited about the 22nd. I have decided to order my XTi, a flash, several lenses and some other "stuff" on April 2nd. I should have my new toys for the meet.

[Becky N]

Where are you placing your order? B&H will be closed for the Passover holiday April 2 - 10.

[PhotoFranz]

The camera and a few small things from www.buydig.com. the lenses and flash from 47th Street photo. Some filters and Misc from Amazon

[Phil Light]

I'm not great at grammer but why do news reporters say "Join Ron and Me at 10" should it be "Join Ron and I at 10" instead. Sorry for the highjack, it just bugs me every time I hear it.:mad:

Ok, since you highjacked it ;) , here's the one that bugs me. Why is it correct to say, for example, "This is the first real upgrade Canon have introduced in years"? Why "have" and not "has"? Even if this is correct, it's like fingernails on a chalkboard to me.

[PhotoFranz]

Why is it correct to say, for example, "This is the first real upgrade Canon have introduced in years"? Why "have" and not "has"? Even if this is correct, it's like fingernails on a chalkboard to me.

HAVE, in that case is incorrect. HAVE in that way is plural. It would be correct to say "This is the first real upgrade THE FOLKS AT Canon have introduced in years", making it plural.

[hawk911]

We can start off with coffee and grammar, then onto some photo stuff- whatdya think?

[Curtis N]

We can start off with coffee and grammar,Sure. We'll talk slower so the Wisconsinites can keep up. :D

[cc615]

Speaking of Wisconsinites, is there anyone from Milwaukee driving down there?

[Franko515]

Speaking of Wisconsinites, is there anyone from Milwaukee driving down there?

If so bring beer :D

[dilorenzo1954]

Speaking of Wisconsinites, is there anyone from Milwaukee driving down there?
Please, no Packer's jerseys! We want to be inconspicuous;)

Ed

[Phil Light]

Please, no Packer's jerseys! We want to be inconspicuous;)

Ed

Inconspicuous? Do you think anyone in Chicago would notice if I wore a Peyton Manning jersey, blue face paint, a rainbow wig and holding a John 3:16 sign? I just assumed that would be ok. :confused:

[Franko515]

Inconspicuous? Do you think anyone in Chicago would notice if I wore a Peyton Manning jersey, blue face paint, a rainbow wig and holding a John 3:16 sign? I just assumed that would be ok. :confused:

If I see you at the W I will nod to you but please dont come and speak to me, no sense in both of us getting mobbed :p

[dilorenzo1954]

Inconspicuous? Do you think anyone in Chicago would notice if I wore a Peyton Manning jersey, blue face paint, a rainbow wig and holding a John 3:16 sign? I just assumed that would be ok. :confused:

Peyton who?:p

[drparker]

Please, no Packer's jerseys! We want to be inconspicuous;)

Ed LOL :lol: :lol:

Inconspicuous? Do you think anyone in Chicago would notice if I wore a Peyton Manning jersey, blue face paint, a rainbow wig and holding a John 3:16 sign? I just assumed that would be ok. :confused:

Probably not a great idea:D but I still thing the Packer fan will catch a lot more grief. After all we'd never root for the Packers but will root for the Colts when they play the Packers:p

[mdwsta4]

just got pointed to this thread. sounds like a good time. not sure if i'm game for getting up that early on a sunday, but i'm sure i can hop on the El and meet up for a pint saturday night and some shots at MP sunday.

[Curtis N]

I wonder what the record is for attendance at a POTN gathering.

I wonder if we'll break it!:D

[hawk911]

Speaking of Wisconsinites, is there anyone from Milwaukee driving down there?


Not Milwaukee, but Racine. Need a ride?

[prime]

I live in Oak Park, right by Chicago, but I'm only 13 :confused:

[Curtis N]

I live in Oak Park, right by Chicago, but I'm only 13 :confused:Any chance a parent can bring you?

[Franko515]

This is like Xmas to me, I cant wait :lol:
Its great to get together to share my love of photography and learn from other who have the same love.

To me the anticipation is like that of waiting for my gear after it was ordered :oops:

I sound like a big kid (and whats wrong with that)!!!

[Becky N]

Those in the Chicago area, I remember seeing something last year about a marsh area where the white pelicans come in on their way north. Do any of you know where it is and when the pelicans are expected, or did we miss them?

[Franko515]

Those in the Chicago area, I remember seeing something last year about a marsh area where the white pelicans come in on their way north. Do any of you know where it is and when the pelicans are expected, or did we miss them?

Found this in a PDF online


White Pelicans

A huge, white bird with a long flat bill and black wing tips. Usually silent, however, often grunts or croaks
during nesting periods. Habitat includes shallow lakes and lagoons.3

Birders are discovering a new sight in Illinois – White Pelicans – due to the recent expansion of their
migration patterns into the state. These beautiful large, white, web-footed birds visit in April to feed in
northern and southwestern Illinois’ open waters along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers while on their way
to Alberta, Canada. Some of the most popular places to view White Pelicans are at Utica’s Starved Rock
State Park and Grafton’s Pere Marquette State Park, where as many as 30 pelicans have been spotted in
one day. Another excellent viewing area is in Alton near the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway.

[Becky N]

Thanks Franko, Starved Rock is about 1 hour for us, will see about a day trip in the near future. I think the place I might have heard about is near Peoria, after doing a Google search last night. For some silly reason I had it in my mind it was near Aurora.

Looking forward to meeting you and everyone in a few weeks. Sounds like the Seattle meet went well yesterday and hopefully they'll have decent weather today for their NW Trek.

[PhotoFranz]

I fish at Starved Rock every Spring and Fall. About 4 years ago we started seeing White Pelicans fly over. Some land at the rocks below the dam. It is quite interesting.

I ordered my camera last night! Rebel XTi (black), Sigma 17-70, Sigma 70-300 APO, 2 - two gig Extreme III cards, RC-1 remote and UV &CPL filters for each lens.

Now, I wait for Brown!

[photodrew]

Congrats on the new gear PhotoFranz...:D

We'll have to have a mini compitition for pics at Portage when your grandsons' team plays our team. (Red Sox):lol:

see you around.
Andy

[Sledhed]

I'll make the beer meet Saturday night.

[cc615]

Not Milwaukee, but Racine. Need a ride?

We could possibly car pool, I'm sure my fiance would want to come too.

[Franko515]

I'll make the beer meet Saturday night.

Hopefully you can get some shooting in.

I met Chris yesterday and he is the nicest guy. He took the time yesterday to show me a couple of things (things that I'm sure are second nature to him), and he was very patient with me and helped me out alot.

He let me test out a 300 IS and a 70-200 2.8 :cool: and even gave me a flash to use until I get one :eek: :eek: :eek: :cool: (talk about nice ;) )

Thanks again Chris!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[PhotoFranz]

Congrats on the new gear PhotoFranz...:D

We'll have to have a mini compitition for pics at Portage when your grandsons' team plays our team. (Red Sox):lol:

see you around.
Andy

agortman, are you a mind reader, or have we talked about Portage before? :)

[supsukkaface]

I live in Oak Park, right by Chicago, but I'm only 13 :confused:
yeah im 17 and i was thinking about going but only if i went with someone i knew and if i wont be the only younger one