Talk about what to shoot in Michigan

[dave kadolph]

But if you need to get out & shoot outside, leave me off your list! :D


Subscribing--but add me to the above list !!

[claybuster]

In your own balloon ;)
Good idea:D Will you help me blow it up? I think I would run out of breath;)

[izthistaken]

:lol: Sure, just make sure we get together about a week before to blow it up. ;) (I hope you're talking about a hot air balloon festival.) :lol:

[Jon Foster]

Has anyone ever gone to the Howell ballon fest? It will be June 26-27-28 this year. If anyone has gone do you have any tips on best place to be to get some good shots?

It's pretty cool but very crowded! There are so many people it would be impossible to give you a sure fire location to shoot from. You need to go with other people that can shield you from the crowd so you can shoot without being bumped into 10 times a second. It's very frustrating. And don't even think about a tripod or monopod...

http://www.pbase.com/jfoster/image/70779240.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/jfoster/image/70779241.jpg

Jon.

[scotthidley]

Scott, it's Dirtybird! Haha, what's up?!

Hey man, you could keep the board updated when there's the Motown track rentals.

[izthistaken]

Yes yes. Good idea. ;)

[claybuster]

Jon,
Thanks for the info. Is there any place nearby away from the crowd where they might fly over? I have a 100-400 L and a 70-200L . So maybe I could get some shots from a distance?

[Jon Foster]

The direction of the balloons depends on the wind at the time of the launch. Even with a 400 or 600mm lens it would be hard to guess. In the past there have been soo many people it's just crazy. We didn't go last year but I think the weather was kind of wet. I'd imagine the crowds would be a little better if the weather wasn't perfect but then it wouldn't be as nice to shoot either.

Jon.

[Alex.K]

Has anyone ever gone to the Howell ballon fest? It will be June 26-27-28 this year. If anyone has gone do you have any tips on best place to be to get some good shots?


lol. I used to LIVE in Howell for like..12yrs. And only went to the Balloon Fest once.(maybe twice) haha. We were right downtown so they always passed over our house.(why go when we could still see them, right? always freaked the dog out though....lol)
From what i remember when i went(3yrs ago??) standing on the Freshman ballfield(or next to it.lol) might offer a cool over look of the balloons. That's all i can think of, since its been so long since i've been there, its hard to remember clearly. lol.

[PhotosGuy]

Nice shots, Jon! Even with a 400 or 600mm lens it would be hard to guess. In the past there have been soo many people it's just crazy. I had that problem at Rochester so, on the thoery that MI winds are usually from the west & the sun would be there too, I went to a hill to the east with a 600 f/5.6, & it worked pretty well. These are copies from slides:

344984

344985

[Jon Foster]

Nice shots Frank!

Jon.

[Sickness]

Has anyone been to Binder Park Zoo? I went there a few times when I was young, but I can't remember it too well. I'm thinking of going this summer with my girlfriend and renting a lens to bring along. I'd like one lens that I can keep on the entire day and was thinking the 70-200 f/4 IS would do the trick. I don't think they have very large animal enclosures, where 200+ mm would be needed do they?

[PhotosGuy]

I can't post the image, but how about a 2,000 HP Outboard Inflatable?
http://www.snopes.com/photos/boats/drugrunner.asp

Water skiing, anyone?

[izthistaken]

Without looking is it the boat with like 11 outboards on it? :lol:

[PhotosGuy]

Geeez! I thought I was putting that in the "What were the owners thinking?" thread! Sorry, & yes, it was 10 outboards.

[claybuster]

Anyone going to the Autorama this weekend?
Mike

[izthistaken]

I wish. I'm stuck at work. :( Check out the Cobra Jet, Hugger orange SS, Dodge A100, and Chevy II. They are all part of the car club I'm in. Motown Muscle. All very nice cars, in the same 'block'.

[BobbyM]

Did anyone make it out to any of the St. Patrick's parade today? I wanted to head down to Detroit but wasn't able to make it there before the 2pm start..


Oh well; there's always next year.

[Lazuka]

Hahaha, i'm just excited for the red bull races this year, already eyeballing lensrental ;)

[claybuster]

Hahaha, i'm just excited for the red bull races this year, already eyeballing lensrental ;)
I'm checking my e-mail everyday waiting for tickets to go on sale.

[BobbyM]

Can you watch the show from belle isle? is their course the same spot where the hydroplanes race?

I'm guessing not, because Windsor seems to be the host of the event.

[The Stig]

Last year the course was between the Ren Cen and Cobo with viewing spots along both sides of the river.

[TroyRaymond]

sort of off topic here sorry

anyone know of a good place where eagles, hawks, owls etc hang out? other than the zoo ;) lol

I can find small birds like herons, ducks, cardinals, blue jays etc... pretty easy in my yard :)Looks like I'm late coming into this topic.

We have a couple huge bald eagles that frequent the local mill pond a block down my street. You just have to be lucky enough to catch them there. I believe they live out on the deer ranch property. Marion, MI (up by Cadillac). No photos of them yet, my first L glass is on the way.

EDIT:
A LOT of old barns and windmills in this area too.

http://troyraymond.smugmug.com/photos/304869231_raiAf-M-3.jpg

Troy

[izthistaken]

That is sweet! Where were you to get that pic? Inside a barn?

[Alex.K]

alright, i'm in west Michigan, and thought it'd be cool to have a series of photos that are of what "[west] michigan is known for". that would be lighthouses as someone said. You know how many people have taken pics of loghthouses in michigan?!?! its crazy, and honestly, i don't wanna be the one to take "yet another lighthouse pic"(i prolly will...lol) i wanna be the "odd one out". Something different.(or not as popular...)
Where i live we're /known/ for tulips and windmills. ya know how many pics there are of the windmill "island" and the tulips?! its crazy.
SO.
I was talking to mom about other things that "mi is known for" and in west michgan we have our fair share of fruit "farms" - not to many "popular" photos of them. an idea.
But other then that....what is there else in michigan?! corn fields?...Older farms i suppose. Waterfalls i know are up north, but i don't(or can't yet. lol) drive 5hrs to get a waterfalls photo. lol. And well, lake michigan gets a tad borring. its always blue(though the sunsets never do get too old...they were more cool when the lake was frozen)
So I'm asking y'all(you'd think i'm from the south or somethin...), fellow michiganders, what do you think might be a good "michigan series"?
-a.k

[Sickness]

You could take pictures of the abandoned paper mills and where the old GM plant here.

It was what West Michigan was once known for...

[Jon Foster]

Are you by any of the wineries? We make it a point to visit them any time we are on the west side of the state. Michigan doesn't have very many photogenic waterfalls either. Maybe if you know of a moving stream that cascades down a hill over some rocks you could set your camera up for a long exposure getting the motion blur of the running water etc...

Lightning storms are fun as heck to shoot and you can get some fantastic keepers from time to time. I'd imagine you can see them coming in over the lake. At least enough to get setup in case a good storm comes along. And we are moving into the storm season.

There's a wolf park/reserve not too far from you in Illinois or Indiana if I remember correctly. We are planning on camping near the park and going there for some shooting this year if funds permit.

How about your friends? Anyone interesting enough to shoot?

Oh, there's a renaissance festival on the west side of the state too. And a good one from what I'm told. That is the place for some of the best pictures you will ever get!

Jon.

[Alex.K]

You could take pictures of the abandoned paper mills and where the old GM plant here.

It was what West Michigan was once known for...

oh, i'll have to look around for old paper mills...we just moved here(to west Mi, we were in howell for 12yrs.) so not 100% sure what's all over here...sides a lot of fruit.

Are you by any of the wineries? We make it a point to visit them any time we are on the west side of the state. Michigan doesn't have very many photogenic waterfalls either. Maybe if you know of a moving stream that cascades down a hill over some rocks you could set your camera up for a long exposure getting the motion blur of the running water etc...

Lightning storms are fun as heck to shoot and you can get some fantastic keepers from time to time. I'd imagine you can see them coming in over the lake. At least enough to get setup in case a good storm comes along. And we are moving into the storm season.

There's a wolf park/reserve not too far from you in Illinois or Indiana if I remember correctly. We are planning on camping near the park and going there for some shooting this year if funds permit.

How about your friends? Anyone interesting enough to shoot?

Oh, there's a renaissance festival on the west side of the state too. And a good one from what I'm told. That is the place for some of the best pictures you will ever get!

Jon.


there are wineries in michigan? i had no idea...obviously. hahaha.
moving water i deff want to do, now finding it is another story. I always see something good driving down the road at 50mph. lol.
I um....don't have like..any friends. *cough* "just" moved, being homeschooled and not going to a church building, its hard to make friends. and my best friend lives in Tn. I do have two younger sibs(7&8), but well, sometimes its hard to take pics of little kids acting natural. lol.

thanx for the ideas guys!

[ZSutton]

oh, i'll have to look around for old paper mills...we just moved here(to west Mi, we were in howell for 12yrs.) so not 100% sure what's all over here...sides a lot of fruit.




there are wineries in michigan? i had no idea...obviously. hahaha.
moving water i deff want to do, now finding it is another story. I always see something good driving down the road at 50mph. lol.
I um....don't have like..any friends. *cough* "just" moved, being homeschooled and not going to a church building, its hard to make friends. and my best friend lives in Tn. I do have two younger sibs(7&8), but well, sometimes its hard to take pics of little kids acting natural. lol.

thanx for the ideas guys!

I'd be happy to shoot with you. I live in Kalamazoo, but go all around West Michigan to shoot

[stathunter]

oh, i'll have to look around for old paper mills...we just moved here(to west Mi, we were in howell for 12yrs.) so not 100% sure what's all over here...sides a lot of fruit.




there are wineries in michigan? i had no idea...obviously. hahaha.
moving water i deff want to do, now finding it is another story. I always see something good driving down the road at 50mph. lol.
I um....don't have like..any friends. *cough* "just" moved, being homeschooled and not going to a church building, its hard to make friends. and my best friend lives in Tn. I do have two younger sibs(7&8), but well, sometimes its hard to take pics of little kids acting natural. lol.

thanx for the ideas guys!

There are actually a lot of wineries (I am not a wine drinker myself) even Madonna has one that her father runs in the Traverse City area. http://www.cicconevineyards.com/

I love the beaches and lighthouses in West Michigan. Awesome!

[Alex.K]

I'd be happy to shoot with you. I live in Kalamazoo, but go all around West Michigan to shoot

I'm not to far from Kalamazoo. Though i suppose "far" is all an opinion. haha.
What do you mostly shoot?

[ZSutton]

I'm not to far from Kalamazoo. Though i suppose "far" is all an opinion. haha.
What do you mostly shoot?

I do mostly portrait and high fashion work for now. I used to be a very active urban photographer though, and I'd be happy to jump into that again to show you the ropes.

[Alex.K]

I do mostly portrait and high fashion work for now. I used to be a very active urban photographer though, and I'd be happy to jump into that again to show you the ropes.


urban like...towns/cities?
ropes are fun to learn for sure, though i'm pretty much in love with nature.(and i really have no idea how differnet the "ropes" are between urban and nature.) mom and dad were surprised when i was taking photos of my sibs and cuz while at the park last Sat. lol.
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs030.snc1/2584_1109344138069_1360810227_30332230_21310_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30332231&id=1360810227)
nature always seems to be in most all my photos...i can't help myself. lol.

[dave kadolph]

I do mostly portrait and high fashion work for now. I used to be a very active urban photographer though, and I'd be happy to jump into that again to show you the ropes.


If so I'm sure my wife would be interested also--we are near Holland.

Photography~girl~Which park?

[Alex.K]

If so I'm sure my wife would be interested also--we are near Holland.

Photography~girl~Which park?

Tunnel Park.

[dave kadolph]

Tunnel Park.

About 5 Miles from us--If you get up this way again shoot us a PM if you would like to try something in our toy box--or want a little company to shoot with. :)

[Alex.K]

About 5 Miles from us--If you get up this way again shoot us a PM if you would like to try something in our toy box--or want a little company to shoot with. :)

:D i'll be sure to do that...:D

[TroyRaymond]

That is sweet! Where were you to get that pic? Inside a barn?

The windmill is in the middle of a field, pumping water for cows.

It was taken with my mast.
http://www.envisioncreativeimaging.com/photos/245076407_KHJtA-L-1.jpg

The ball is my cold/harsh weather enclosure. The camera and USB extender are encased in foam and create enough heat to keep things warm. Vintage snowmobile race Feb. 09. Mast not fully extended.

http://troyraymond.smugmug.com/photos/478081476_aYY9n-M.jpg
http://troyraymond.smugmug.com/photos/478094039_pmXSM-L.jpg

This is my new gimbal.

http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/469496027_eQqBj-M.jpg
I'm working on a zoom function for slr's.

My XT does not have live view so I usually use a Canon A640 with wide angle adapter, cheaper to put in the air anyway and I have full camera control with PSRemote.

http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/469496852_PEAGV-M.jpg

I remembered to subscribe to the thread this time. ;)

Troy

[cbacarella]

Last sunday the girlfriend and I walked around down town Grand Rapids. It was a nice day to just get out and spend some time outdoors. DT Grand Rapids is always nice to shoot. The buildings are nice, people seem nice, its usually a good day!


.Chris.

[izthistaken]

The windmill is in the middle of a field, pumping water for cows.

It was taken with my mast.
http://www.envisioncreativeimaging.com/photos/245076407_KHJtA-L-1.jpg

The ball is my cold/harsh weather enclosure. The camera and USB extender are encased in foam and create enough heat to keep things warm. Vintage snowmobile race Feb. 09. Mast not fully extended.



Troy
Are you kidding me? :lol: That's awesome!

[PhotosGuy]

This is my new gimbal. That's great! I'm looking forward to seeing more shots from it!

Did you put it in here? Camera Modifications, Hacks, Cobbles, and other great ideas... (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2549697)

[TroyRaymond]

I hand build each one. Easy to find in a search on the web. I'm not a paid advertiser and I'm not familiar with the rules here so I will avoid it.

A lot of my photography is by remote control with a live video link to the camera.

Troy

[TroyRaymond]

Here's one I built for a friend for his SLR and for HD video. It's in WA.

http://troyraymond.smugmug.com/photos/499657918_5acRW-M.jpg

My own personal mast mount should be finished in about 2 weeks. It has adjustable length zoom control for my 70-200L. I'm toying with the idea to mount one of my Sunpak 622 zoom flashes to it also. I would have to keep the mast no higher than 25' with that weight on it though, unless of course I used guy wires.

My user name on other forums is Envision, which explains the name.

Troy

[stathunter]

Troy- that is amazing stuff! Nice.


Well everyone -- does anyone want to put together a POTN get together or two? I have always wanted to shoot "Flower Day" at Eastern Market in Detroit. I happens to be May 17th-- but I have a wedding in Lansing on the 16th-- I would be willing to consider getting up VERY early to make an hour run to Eastern Market-- to shoot and chat for a few. The nice thing about Eastern Market is that you can shoot and be home by noon -- you should be there by daylight or earlier.
Here is the link: http://www.detroiteasternmarket.com/page.php?p=5&s=30

The other get together is Frank's Waterford Hills shoot---- Any thoughts Frank what date you would like to target?

And what about a Frankenmuth POTN get together?

[izthistaken]

I can't do any weekend meets until July :/

[TroyRaymond]

It looks like all the meets will be to far South for me. Seem to be about a 2.5- 3 hour one way drive.

Troy

[Jon Foster]

Remember the Renaissance Festivals... There are several in Michigan...

Jon.

[izthistaken]

It looks like all the meets will be to far South for me. Seem to be about a 2.5- 3 hour one way drive.

Troy
Where is Marion? I'm in St. Clair (32 mile rd)

[PhotosGuy]

Any thoughts Frank what date you would like to target? Probably one of these, but I need to see what my schedule will be.
Race 4 - July 25-26
Race 5 - August 29-30 It looks like all the meets will be to far South for me. Seem to be about a 2.5- 3 hour one way drive. Plan your own? (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=410734&postcount=1) There are people in your area. Here's one I built for a friend for his SLR and for HD video. It's in WA. Good work, Troy!

[TroyRaymond]

I do plan on making it to one of the races down your way, I'm just waiting for a date to plan it.

Marion is just South East of Cadillac, right on M-66. (middle of the mitten) Right palm, located at the base of your ring and middle finger. :D

I haven't seen anyone in my area otherwise I would have made contact.

Troy

[izthistaken]

What if my fingers are longer than normal? :lol: Yeah, you are a ways away. BUT that means you can take all the pics that no one else will get ;)

[TroyRaymond]

BUT that means you can take all the pics that no one else will get ;)But, I do anyway. ;)

When you live in an area that is nothing but farms and fields you have to get creative.

http://troyraymond.smugmug.com/photos/256394274_JfnR6-M-4.jpg

Troy

[izthistaken]

That's awesome. Love your setup too

[Jon Foster]

Cool shot.

Jon.

[Sarab]

WOW that is so cool.
Don't tempt me to go out there for shooting LOL:D

[claybuster]

Anyone going into downtown Detroit this weekend? With the Final Four happening there should be all kinds of craziness to take pictures of.I'll be there Saturday.

[Sickness]

Lansing is going to be sick, whether they win or not.

[according to jim]

I am thinking about going down to capture some Final Four moments. I was really disappointed with what I saw on tv during the last game. The images of Detroit were horrible. Although I know those ruined buildings do exist, they were on a mission to search only those. I know it sounds more appealing for MSU to win and bring Detroit out of its gloomy economy.
I was downtown for the ST. Patricks Parade and got some beautiful shots of Detroit. The energy, the crowds, everyone was having a blast. I am currently editing the video clips I took (new toy 5DII). The video editing thing is all new to me.

So I would like to see some more positive shots come from this weekend and portray Detroit from a different perspective.

Jim

[ChrisRabior]

I went downtown Fri/Sat/Sun.. took today to recover a bit. Got hooked up with pit credentials for the weekend (works well when you know who to ask), so got some crazy good shots of all the main acts and the crowd. I'll post in the performing arts section and link back to them once I get everything sorted and uploaded.

UPDATE:
Internet has been painfully slow (go figure, right when I have a TON to upload). Managed to get one of the Friday performances posted.
Jesse McCartney @ AT&T Block Party (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=7688591)

[QX56]

Any one plan to go Airshow here ?
-Blue Angels : July 18-19 @ Ypsilanti
-Thunderbird : July 4-5 @ Battle Creek

I am going both airshow on Saturday .

[izthistaken]

Didn't know about it until now. Maybe I will

[Mike30D]

Hi everyone,

Don't know if anyone else knows about it, but Train Festival 2009 will be in Owosso the weekend of July 24-26.

Highlights will be the Pere Marquette 1225, Nickel Plate 765, and just recently announced the Southern Pacific "Daylight" 4449 - all operating steam locomotives.

All three locomotives will be running all day excursions up to Alma and then returning, plenty of photo ops available!

I do know that the tickets for the night photo sessions are sold out. :(

There will be a few other steam locos on premises for photos and tours.

If you want more info, visit the website - http://trainfestival2009.com/

See you there!

Also, being in Owosso puts you a short distance from Durand, home of Durand Union Station and the Michigan Railroad Museum.

[Lazuka]

Probably one of these, but I need to see what my schedule will be.
Race 4 - July 25-26
Race 5 - August 29-30 Plan your own? (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=410734&postcount=1) There are people in your area. Good work, Troy!


I'll be sure to be there, to put my 1d3 through some runs.

[Jon Foster]

I didn't know the SP Daylight was going to be there. I guess we'll have to go now for sure. Thanks for the heads up.

Jon.

[izthistaken]

Hi everyone,

Don't know if anyone else knows about it, but Train Festival 2009 will be in Owosso the weekend of July 24-26.

Highlights will be the Pere Marquette 1225, Nickel Plate 765, and just recently announced the Southern Pacific "Daylight" 4449 - all operating steam locomotives.

All three locomotives will be running all day excursions up to Alma and then returning, plenty of photo ops available!

I do know that the tickets for the night photo sessions are sold out. :(

There will be a few other steam locos on premises for photos and tours.

If you want more info, visit the website - http://trainfestival2009.com/

See you there!

Also, being in Owosso puts you a short distance from Durand, home of Durand Union Station and the Michigan Railroad Museum.
That sounds really cool!

[Lazuka]

where's owosso?

[Mike30D]

35 min. west of Flint

[Mike30D]

I just found out that if anyone wants to chase the 4449, it will travel from Chicago to Owosso on July 19th.

[samueli]

Michigan doesn't have very many photogenic waterfalls either.

Really? I found tons of them in the U.P.

On another note, I haven't seen much in this thread about landscape opportunities. I was just about to start a thread myself, then I found this one.

[Jon Foster]

Originally Posted by Jon Foster http://photography-on-the.net/forum/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=7537906#post7537906)
Michigan doesn't have very many photogenic waterfalls either.Really? I found tons of them in the U.P.

Photogenic waterfalls? Where are they? I would love to get some good shots of waterfalls...

Jon.

[samueli]

Photogenic waterfalls? Where are they? I would love to get some good shots of waterfalls...

Jon.

I guess I have to understand what you feel is photogenic!

Munising has nice falls. Ontonogan (Lake of the Clouds area) has many excellent falls. We couldn't manage to see them all in a week. Although some of them can be a bit of a trek and the best position to photograph might be a bit of work on it's own.

[PhotosGuy]

Photogenic waterfalls? Where are they? Years ago, I found a book in the library titled (I think) "100 Waterfalls in Michigan". It had pics, descriptions, & location directions, & yes, almost all of them were in the UP.

[Jon Foster]

I'll have to look into that book Frank. Thanks.

Jon.

[TroyRaymond]

Has the MI group ever thought of using all of their best images and creating a book? I've seen some really nice hard cover books that are almost nothing but photos. $35+ each. Of course splitting the profits would be something to figure out. ;) There's such a diverse crowd here it would make for an interesting book.

Troy

[Jon Foster]

That's an interesting idea but I don't know how you would do it. I guess you'd have to start out by finding people to submit images.

Jon.

[izthistaken]

That's a very cool idea!

BTW: Going to the old train station in Detroit tomorrow!!

[Jon Foster]

Matt, check this out:

http://onlyndetroit.com/html/decay/ond-0016-all_abord.htm#

Jon.

[claybuster]

Matt,what time are you going down there? I remember the station as a kid and as subject for my photog and darkroom class 37 years ago. It makes me sick to look at the place now . What a fantastic building it was,I can't wait till they tear that eye-sore down.

[Jon Foster]

I want them to restore the old station. Detroit wants the government to pay for the demolition. But the station is now an official Federal landmark! It's against the law to use federal money to bring it down. So hopefully Detroit gets screwed on this...

Jon.

[izthistaken]

Matt, check this out:

http://onlyndetroit.com/html/decay/ond-0016-all_abord.htm#

Jon.
Awesome, thanks! That makes me want to cry. :( How depressing. :(
Matt,what time are you going down there? I remember the station as a kid and as subject for my photog and darkroom class 37 years ago. It makes me sick to look at the place now . What a fantastic building it was,I can't wait till they tear that eye-sore down.
****! Just saw this! We need to exchange numbers or something. It's sad. I will post pics on my Flickr and on here for you guys to check out. Such an amazing, beautiful place. There were some *******s there vandalizing, but what are we going to do? The one ******* had a sledge hammer. I'm so angry about the situation.

I want them to restore the old station. Detroit wants the government to pay for the demolition. But the station is now an official Federal landmark! It's against the law to use federal money to bring it down. So hopefully Detroit gets screwed on this...

Jon.
You cannot restore it. It's beyond repair at this point. I wish people would stop screwing it up. Maybe clean it up some and take tours through. It's just jaw dropping the time put into that place and just picturing how just breathtaking that place must have been in its prime.

[Jon Foster]

I remember it in all of it's splendor many many years ago. It commanded a certain level of respect any time you walked inside of it. Almost the way a church does if that makes sense.

Post up your shots so we can see them...

Jon.

[izthistaken]

I remember it in all of it's splendor many many years ago. It commanded a certain level of respect any time you walked inside of it. Almost the way a church does if that makes sense.

Post up your shots so we can see them...

Jon.
I just stood inside the grand room and just soaked it in. Just pictured what would have been going on. Ah. I will do that.

[stathunter]

Matt, check this out:

http://onlyndetroit.com/html/decay/ond-0016-all_abord.htm#

Jon.

Sad......very sad.

[izthistaken]

Sad......very sad.
You should walk around in there. It's even worse than you think. :(

[stathunter]

You should walk around in there. It's even worse than you think. :(

I worked for Detroit EMS during the late '80's and spent a lot of time exploring --- very sad to see some of this great architecture fall into ruins. I had to shoot a client downtown a few weeks ago and was stopping by some of the hot spots at daybreak-- that is about the only time I feel safe by myself in some rough areas. They do not build buildings like that anymore. :(

[izthistaken]

Not at all. I'm going to try and find some other buildings that I can go into. The old Packard Plant is very cool too. I'm going to go back there also. There were probably 15+ people including us in the Train Station yesterday, it was crazy.

[izthistaken]

Check this out. I was scared out of my mind. It was windy and starting to rain. I wanted to get closer but I couldn't do it, not even close.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3575/3459393477_4675d9ebb6_b.jpg

[claybuster]

Matt, What time were you down there? I drove by at about 2 pm to see if I could find you. I didn't see anyone around and didn't want to go in by myself:D I'm a big coward . My nephew is a fire fighter nearby(ladder company 51)and he tells me about some of the crazy things that go on there.

[izthistaken]

Matt, What time were you down there? I drove by at about 2 pm to see if I could find you. I didn't see anyone around and didn't want to go in by myself:D I'm a big coward . My nephew is a fire fighter nearby(ladder company 51)and he tells me about some of the crazy things that go on there.
I was there at 2. We dont make it obvious that we are there by any means. When we saw about 15 other people in there we finally loosened up. It's not easy going in alone not knowing where you are or where to go. You need a flashlight for sure. There are many places where you turn off the lights and you cant see ANYTHING, really creepy. Crazy things? Like the guy in ass less chaps and some other weird things going on and people taking pictures? That crazy? Oh, because that happened. :confused:

[claybuster]

I was there at 2. We dont make it obvious that we are there by any means. When we saw about 15 other people in there we finally loosened up. It's not easy going in alone not knowing where you are or where to go. You need a flashlight for sure. There are many places where you turn off the lights and you cant see ANYTHING, really creepy. Crazy things? Like the guy in ass less chaps and some other weird things going on and people taking pictures? That crazy? Oh, because that happened. :confused:
I can't believe I missed you. I drove around for awhile looking to see if I could spot anyone inside.Ass less chaps? I don't think I heard about that one,thank god.

[izthistaken]

Yeah, we'll need to exchange numbers. I had my backpack on and felt like a ninja turtle :lol:

[izthistaken]

Here are a few, still editing

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3611/3460411676_037193c684_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3524/3460405126_e3c75ab19d_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3490/3459580597_b056762b0c_b.jpg

[The Stig]

I LOVE shooting that place. Not to take away from the above work:
http://picasaweb.google.com/LensArtwork/MichiganCentralDepotAkaTheDetroitTrainStation#

With all the controversy about the city council wanting the place torn down, people are probably trying to get there while they still can. I know I plan to log some serious time in there myself in the near future.

[winterstar]

Hi everyone,

Don't know if anyone else knows about it, but Train Festival 2009 will be in Owosso the weekend of July 24-26.

Highlights will be the Pere Marquette 1225, Nickel Plate 765, and just recently announced the Southern Pacific "Daylight" 4449 - all operating steam locomotives.

All three locomotives will be running all day excursions up to Alma and then returning, plenty of photo ops available!

I do know that the tickets for the night photo sessions are sold out. :(

There will be a few other steam locos on premises for photos and tours.

If you want more info, visit the website - http://trainfestival2009.com/

See you there!

Also, being in Owosso puts you a short distance from Durand, home of Durand Union Station and the Michigan Railroad Museum.

Thanks for the info!

[izthistaken]

If anyone is around the early part of the week mon-wed that's when I have off and alot could be done on a weekday since I'm sure patrol is alot less since people are usually at work.

[izthistaken]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3631/3461211390_a0bc524c59_b.jpg


The window in Transformers that was went through in the movie.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3651/3460393673_0fc6c16a79_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3576/3461207404_68451b4e0d_b.jpg



Click on my flickr in my sig to see alot more. Still editing too.

[Jon Foster]

Actually, when I see shots like this I don't think I want to go back. My memories of it's magnificence are something I don't want tainted. I dunno...

Jon.

[izthistaken]

Actually, when I see shots like this I don't think I want to go back. My memories of it's magnificence are something I don't want tainted. I dunno...

Jon.
I dont blame you. It makes you sick to your stomach really. I would have loved to see it in it's prime. The water damage has taken over there, it's beyond saving a long time ago. I'm just glad I got to see it before anything more happened to it. I still want to go again and spend more time.

[Jon Foster]

I LOVE shooting that place. Not to take away from the above work:
http://picasaweb.google.com/LensArtwork/MichiganCentralDepotAkaTheDetroitTrainStation#

With all the controversy about the city council wanting the place torn down, people are probably trying to get there while they still can. I know I plan to log some serious time in there myself in the near future.

Good shots but how much more depressing could this place be.

Photo #39 looks like an incinerator laying on it's side.

Jon.

[izthistaken]

I have most of those same pictures :lol: Of course. It's amazing that things like that coffee thing is still there. People actually do leave some things behind for others to look at.

[Jon Foster]

I'll rank the coffee tin still being there in "that" condition as nothing short of amazing.

Jon.

[claybuster]

Actually, when I see shots like this I don't think I want to go back. My memories of it's magnificence are something I don't want tainted. I dunno...

Jon.
Jon, Do you remember the soda fountain there? The red vinyl stools ,the Coca Cola menu on the wall? I can remember sitting there with my dad as a kid waiting for the train bringing my brother home from the Army.Yes ,I remember it in its prime. What a shame a beautiful building like that went to waste.That building probably could have lasted another hundred years with just some security and care.

[izthistaken]

Jon, Do you remember the soda fountain there? The red vinyl stools ,the Coca Cola menu on the wall? I can remember sitting there with my dad as a kid waiting for the train bringing my brother home from the Army.Yes ,I remember it in its prime. What a shame a beautiful building like that went to waste.That building probably could have lasted another hundred years with just some security and care.
Can you please send me those images in your head?! :D

[The Stig]

It really is a shame isn't it? There's a couple of places on the web that have pics from better days (I'll see if I can dig them up and post the links), and it's just stunning. Don't quite know what it is, but there is something about the building that just draws cameras. Maybe it's just the tragedy of what the place has become.

My wife is an architecture student and this is one of the buildings that she has studied. It actually COULD be restored, but estimates start at $100 million. On the flip side, to demo it would be astronomical as well (estimates start at $10 million) because it was built to withstand the vibrations of trains passing by it all day long. That kind of building you can't just take a wrecking ball to or blow it up. It wouldn't work. It would have to be taken down brick by brick. The current owner doesn't seem to be eager to do either (and he can well afford it), the city doesn't have the money to do either, so it sits as it is to slowly decay and fall victim to those who don't appreciate it.

Matt - loved looking at your shots. I'll check back as you get more up.

Jon, you're probably right about the incinerator. I couldn't for the life of me quite figure out what it was.

[izthistaken]

Thanks Stig appreciate it. Here are more.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/30705352@N04/sets/72157617093663314/

99 photos there. Here are a few.




http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3483/3464398868_5728444998_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3601/3463595145_9766f15138_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3501/3463690297_ea54a9e013_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3048/3463667659_277b40fa23_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3616/3464481192_3677c89b9e_b.jpg

[PhotosGuy]

If anyone is interested in a car show this weekend, the weather should be great!

ALL MOPAR SWAP MEET AND CAR SHOW (http://www.440sixpack.com/Images/WhatsHot/WhatsHot.htm), Centerline, Michigan.

I'll be there after 12, noon. 6' with a short white beard, 20D w/28-70 f/2.8. Come up & say "Hi!"

[BigStig]

I'm going to be at Waterford Hills for the Drivers School Saturday and maybe Sunday from after 11:00 ish.
using the time to practice and find good spots for photo's. Ive raced there for 3 years but track looks not the same from on track to photo spots.
Also need to learn to shoot motorsports better so should be a good chance to practice panning etc.
Cheers SteveP

[PhotosGuy]

find good spots for photo's. I've been a member since 1960 & sadly, insurance requirements & fences have whittled the really good spots down to about two. Here they are:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=543685

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=369063

There are other "just OK" spots, & if they open the flag station on turn 5, you might get something nice with a looong lens as they come down the hill from turn 4.
Have fun!

[Jon Foster]

Hey guys, did you hear the latest on the train station demolition? The owners have done an assessment of the situation and found that a high percentage of the vandalism and illegal entry in general has been from the Vernor street lower entrance. That entrance in particular is owned by the city of Detroit and has not been secured. So now a very big finger is being pointed at the city for allowing such extensive damage to be allowed. And the official word about the demolition is "it won't be happening any time soon".

Jon.

[izthistaken]

Hey guys, did you hear the latest on the train station demolition? The owners have done an assessment of the situation and found that a high percentage of the vandalism and illegal entry in general has been from the Vernor street lower entrance. That entrance in particular is owned by the city of Detroit and has not been secured. So now a very big finger is being pointed at the city for allowing such extensive damage to be allowed. And the official word about the demolition is "it won't be happening any time soon".

Jon.
I'm pretty sure that's where we went in. The problem is like you said 'vandalism' apparently before you had to crawl into this one opening. NOW somehow people opened doors and ripped/tear the doors, it's so obvious how to get in now:rolleyes:. :( At least I got in and out safely and glad I got to see it.

[The Stig]

Hey guys, did you hear the latest on the train station demolition? The owners have done an assessment of the situation and found that a high percentage of the vandalism and illegal entry in general has been from the Vernor street lower entrance. That entrance in particular is owned by the city of Detroit and has not been secured. So now a very big finger is being pointed at the city for allowing such extensive damage to be allowed. And the official word about the demolition is "it won't be happening any time soon".

Jon.

LOLOL funny. So the city owns the parking garage part of it? Is it because it sits under the track? I can't believe the 'other' one isn't being pointed out too. And that's good because perhaps that one will continue to be overlooked.

Good news too about the demolition, and that figures as well. The city doesn't have the funds to do it even if their plan was to pursue the owner for reimbursement. In fact watch him turn around and sue the city now for allowing the damage to happen.

I've heard that the building is on a historic building register (no surprise) and it wouldn't exactly be an easy thing to just go knock it down just because Mon Con wants it done.

[Jon Foster]

I don't know how but we ended up at the station today. Gawd does it look like crap! But, there were several people there taking pictures of it. People walking around it and in general it was getting lots of attention.

Jon.

[The Stig]

I don't know how but we ended up at the station today. Gawd does it look like crap! But, there were several people there taking pictures of it. People walking around it and in general it was getting lots of attention.

Jon.

Catch some great shots?

[NickSimcheck]

DAMN IT!

You guys gotta send out an email or something, I'm soo bummed I didn't get to go!

[Jon Foster]

Catch some great shots?

Not really. I took two or three shots but my son took several. I'm not sure if he's processed them yet or not. Actually, I took one shot when we went by the first time from Michigan Ave. then later we came up to it from the back and I took one more shot. After that we drove around it a few times and my son started snapping away...

NickSimcheck, sorry! It wasn't a planned trip for us.

Jon.

[The_Terminator]

Hi all,
I'm checking from Southfield here. I would love the opportunity to go out and shoot with some of you. I've been laid off unfortunatley, so I can be available most days.
I have an XTi with the 18-55IS lens and the 50/1.8.
I would love to have the opportunity to shoot with some other lenses if any of you are willing to share for a photoshoot or a photowalk.
Thanks,
Mark

[PhotosGuy]

Welcome to POTN, Mark!

[The_Terminator]

Thanks!

[izthistaken]

Not a problem. Whenever, just let me know if you ever wanna shoot. I have the early part of the week off normally.

[claybuster]

Redbull air race tickets go on sale May 5th. I'll be there again this year.

[The Stig]

Redbull air race tickets go on sale May 5th. I'll be there again this year.

Sweet! Thanks for the heads up.

[claybuster]

Just ordered tickets for the Redbull air races. Detroit side in Hart plaza area.

[Jon Foster]

The Durand Railroad Days are coming up next weekend! (May 15,16,17) Anyone want to go? I think we are going but I'm not sure which day yet.

http://www.durandrailroaddays.com/

Jon.

[Mike30D]

The Durand Railroad Days are coming up next weekend! (May 15,16,17) Anyone want to go? I think we are going but I'm not sure which day yet.

http://www.durandrailroaddays.com/

Jon.

Not as good as it used to be. There used to be train rides, static displays of locomotives, etc. It's really just a "carnival" type thing downtown anymore. If you're a railfan the freight traffic isn't as busy as it used to be either.

[JRB]

Catch some great shots?

DAMN IT!

You guys gotta send out an email or something, I'm soo bummed I didn't get to go!

Not really. I took two or three shots but my son took several. I'm not sure if he's processed them yet or not. Actually, I took one shot when we went by the first time from Michigan Ave. then later we came up to it from the back and I took one more shot. After that we drove around it a few times and my son started snapping away...

NickSimcheck, sorry! It wasn't a planned trip for us.

Jon.

Gentlemen,

When a few of you are planning to go there and go inside, please email me, I would like to venture in with "seasoned veteran's" who have been in there before. If you don't mind me tagging along. Thanks JR

[claybuster]

For those of you sticking close to home Memorial day weekend(I am) Greenfield Village is having the Civil War Remembrance Days all weekend. I think i'm going Saturday.
http://www.hfmgv.org/events/civilWarRemembrance.aspx

[Jon Foster]

Good find Claybuster. I'll have to see about that one...

Jon.

[claybuster]

Good find Claybuster. I'll have to see about that one...

Jon.
Jon,
I went last year. They have a big turn out for this.Here a link to my Flickr from last year: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikedee-photos/sets/72157605607087594/

[izthistaken]

Grrrr, gotta work Memorial Weekend :(

[claybuster]

Grrrr, gotta work Memorial Weekend :(
WHAT!!!

[izthistaken]

WHAT!!!
Yeah, let's not talk about it :rolleyes::mad::cry: I have Monday off...if that means anything at all...:lol:

At least I'll have weekends off July-Sept.

[izthistaken]

Well maybe not Sunday or Monday...yay?

[Jon Foster]

We're talking about going but I need to see how the funds are doing. It's time to renew our family membership too.

Is anyone planning on going for sure yet?

Jon.

[Jon Foster]

Jon,
I went last year. They have a big turn out for this.Here a link to my Flickr from last year: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikedee-photos/sets/72157605607087594/

Cool shots! I see one of my students from school in there too. He is heavy into the reenactment stuff. I wonder if he'll be going this year? I'll have to find out...

Jon.

[SkedAddled]

It's time to renew our family membership too.I also have a membership that will admit myself and any two others, good for the indoor museum and outdoor village. Anyone wanting to meet on a weekend, send me a PM.

[Jon, The Elder]

Visited Madison Heights Nature Area today for the first time. If you like swamps and early Mosquitos....then this is the spot to go to. Also, plenty of Mold and Pollen for you sensitive types.

Back to Cranbrook for sure.

[SkedAddled]

Almost forgot...

Coming up in August, the 30th annual Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance (http://meadowbrookconcours.org/) will be held on Sunday, August 2. Tickets can be purchased online.
Sunday is the day for the general public to attend, while other events before then are mostly by invitation only.

From the website:
"Our 30th Anniversary show will feature “The Best of Detroit”, “Fins and Chrome: The Convertibles of 1959”, Packard V-12, Rolls-Royce Phantom, Featured Museum – The Gilmore Museum, Swoopy Coupes and British motorcycles, The 100th Anniversary of Morgan, Exotic Italian Cars, and Drag Racing - Stockers and Gassers. Our Motoring Tour- the Birmingham Tour – will visit the Birmingham/Bloomfield Hills area. We will celebrate our 30th with a Black Tie Gala on Saturday. Our highly successful Automotive Seminars will return again this year. As always, the prestigious RM Classic Car Auction will be on Saturday as well."

Last year's event was outstanding; I plan to attend again this year.

[izthistaken]

Visited Madison Heights Nature Area today for the first time. If you like swamps and early Mosquitos....then this is the spot to go to. Also, plenty of Mold and Pollen for you sensitive types.

Back to Cranbrook for sure.
Oh man I love mosquitoes! Thanks for the info! :lol:

[Jon, The Elder]

My pleasure Matt. Just some early training for my upcoming project.
A Coffee Table book dealing with photos of flooded basements......

[Simoli]

I will be going to Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City this weekend. Anything in particular that is good to shoot? I'll be taking all my gear. I'm already thinking of some wide angle shots of the dunes.

[Jon Foster]

We were at Meadow Brook yesterday. Took a short walk around the house and playhouse. I'll post a picture or two when they are processed.

Jon.

[SkedAddled]

I will be going to Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City this weekend. Anything in particular that is good to shoot?I've not been to the dunes in over 30 years, though I remember it to be vast.
If I were headed to the TC region, I'd be looking into making a stop at the former state asylum there. I understand the redevelopment efforts are going very well, and everything which can be saved or restored is or has been. I also hear the grounds are quite beautiful.
Have a look at the Grand Traverse Commons (http://www.thevillagetc.com) website for info.

Also consider Bellaire. It started becoming rather touristy years ago, but that also meant an influx of cash and people buying the beautiful old Victorian homes for restoration. Bellaire is the county seat of Antrim.

[claybuster]

We're talking about going but I need to see how the funds are doing. It's time to renew our family membership too.

Is anyone planning on going for sure yet?

Jon.
We are going for sure Saturday. Unless the weather forecast is wrong.

[Jon Foster]

I'm trying to figure out which day we'll be able to go. Either Saturday or Sunday. Monday our daughter is in a parade.

Jon.

[Jon, The Elder]

Anybody open for shooting during the week?

Retired and pretty much have more time than money....funny how that turned out.

[Jon Foster]

Jon, what do you have in mind? I'll only be working two days a week starting in June. Jonathan will be ready to head out too since he'll be done with school for the summer. He's got my old 300D now... And the grill is always in the back of the truck, ready for a tailgater!

Jon.

[The_Terminator]

I'm mostly available during the week.
Laid off and pretty much have more time than money....funny how that turned out. ;)

[izthistaken]

I'm off the early part of the week mon-wed or mon-thurs.

[Jon, The Elder]

I didn't have anything particular in mind other than just putting a days shooting on the calendar.

When do the various city/village festive days begin?
Looks like I missed Durands big RR days.

[Mike30D]

Milford will having their Memorial Day parade on Monday starting at 11 am. Apparently it's become one of the bigger parades in the state. It's supposedly going to be part of some documentary being filmed about WWII vets. Article about it: http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20090521/NEWS11/905210427/1028/rss08