3rd Central Coast Dwight & Marna POTN BBQ 8/22/09

[DwightMcCann]

OK, we're ready to pick a date for our third annual POTN BBQ. This year I expect to do a little song and dance on using a couple of flashes with PocketWizards, both the old standard PW II Plus as well as the brand new TT1 and TT5 varieties, which I have (although haven't used yet!) I also hope to have the cables for remote camera triggering for the new units ... I have them for the old units.

So, let's start the bidding on which Saturday in July/August will work for everyone.

[JBerlotti]

Oh my, I might actually get to be at this one. I just hope it falls on one of my weekends I have off.

[DwightMcCann]

Oh my, I might actually get to be at this one. I just hope it falls on one of my weekends I have off.
Well, suggest a good weekend! :-)

[brecklundin]

you know us...we're easy...and cheap too...well at least one of us is. :D

[brecklundin]

I vote for the 4th Thursday in November? Too late? :)

[Belmondo]

Subscribed.....

[Belmondo]

I'll be in Reno August 5-9, and have to be here on July 31. Those are the only two known conflicts right now.

[DwightMcCann]

Once there are a few more self reports I'll start mapping out potential dates.

[brecklundin]

hey dwight,

you guys got any figs? :) I know it's your favorite tree!! :lol:

[Maureen Souza]

We have a camping date Aug. 13-16 but the 22nd would be good for us. We have a wedding the 29th..... July is mostly good except the weekend of 17-19th.

However, I know you cannot accommodate everyone's schedules so pick what is best for you and let the chips fall where they may. :)

[JBerlotti]

Dwight, I would be good for July 24-26 or Aug 7-9. After Aug 10, I will be on leave but the wife and I are planning a trip to Mexico (unless it is still a war down there) So if you could do one of those weekends you can definitely count me in.

[Citizensmith]

However, I know you cannot accommodate everyone's schedules so pick what is best for you and let the chips fall where they may. :)

What she said. :) Just pick a date and I'll keep an eye out here to see if I'll be making a drive down.

[Kevin]

As of today Anne and I are open the last two weekends in July and August 22nd and 29th.

[DwightMcCann]

I got my finger on the pulse here and will start putting tick marks in boxes soon. :-)

[DwightMcCann]

As of today Anne and I are open the last two weekends in July and August 22nd and 29th.

What's the current status on the 800mm f/5.6? Will you be able to bring it with you?

[S.E.V.]

Sweet, its that time of year again. Got a few new toyz to play with. Any date is open for me so I will let you folks with plans figures it out, just let me know when and where.

What's the current status on the 800mm f/5.6? Will you be able to bring it with you?
Now what could you possibly shoot in your yard with the 800mm Dwight? I shot with one in Big Bear and man what a lens. I can bring the 500mm if you like;).

Song and dance by Dwight, sounds kind of scary if you ask me.

[S.E.V.]

you know us...we're easy...and cheap too...well at least one of us is. :D

And you live 15min away. Bastard.:D

[DwightMcCann]

Song and dance by Dwight, sounds kind of scary if you ask me.
You still got that girl with you? If so, she's got to sing and dance with me! :-)

[scrapgirl]

You still got that girl with you? If so, she's got to sing and dance with me! :-)

I am assuming I am "that girl"...

I will be there, but I don't know about any singing and dancing! That's the hosts chore. I will be there to work on your daughters gymnastic skills! haha

[DwightMcCann]

I am assuming I am "that girl"...

I will be there, but I don't know about any singing and dancing! That's the hosts chore. I will be there to work on your daughters gymnastic skills! haha
Oh, Good! Anna has been taking ballet, jazz & tap plus karate but no gymnastics so this will be a grand refresher/introduction or whatever! :-) You two can do gymnastics on the lawn and be the subjects of our lighting demo! :-)

As the host I thought my assignment was to cause some expensive camera related equipment to explode!

Edit: Everybody bring their old film that's been sitting in the freezer never to be used ... I just bought a used 1V HS with PB-E2 and need something more to feed it.]

[brecklundin]

And you live 15min away. Bastard.:D

I'm gonna tell Karen (mine) what you said about her!!

http://www.brecklundin.com/photos/544279976_BLj2R-M-1.gif

[scrapgirl]

Edit: Everybody bring their old film that's been sitting in the freezer never to be used ... I just bought a used 1V HS with PB-E2 and need something more to feed it.]

I've got 25+ rolls of Fuji Provia 100f film sitting here. Does that work?

August 22nd works well for us. (or any weekend in August for now)

[brecklundin]

Sweet, its that time of year again. Got a few new toyz to play with. Any date is open for me so I will let you folks with plans figures it out, just let me know when and where.


Now what could you possibly shoot in your yard with the 800mm Dwight? I shot with one in Big Bear and man what a lens. I can bring the 500mm if you like;).

Song and dance by Dwight, sounds kind of scary if you ask me.

That poor hummingbird is gonna feel like he just had a visit to his proctologist!

[DwightMcCann]

I've got 25+ rolls of Fuji Provia 100f film sitting here. Does that work?

If you're willing to part with it, sure. I think I've got a couple of rolls of Provia, too, I guess I'll be doing some landscapes.

[DwightMcCann]

That poor hummingbird is gonna feel like he just had a visit to his proctologist!

He doesn't miss a day at those flowers.

[S.E.V.]

That poor hummingbird is gonna feel like he just had a visit to his proctologist!

Hahahahaha the infamous Humming Bird. This time I will be ready for him.

[kcbrown]

I'm pretty flexible as well. I've got some plans during July or August, but they're not specific yet (which is why I don't know which of those two months it's going to be in). So just pick a date and I'll try to work my other plans around it...

[S.E.V.]

I'm pretty flexible as well. I've got some plans during July or August, but they're not specific yet (which is why I don't know which of those two months it's going to be in). So just pick a date and I'll try to work my other plans around it...

It looks like it might be happening towards the end of August. That's when It looks like everyone is free. But Nothing is set in stone yet.

[Killjoy]

We are open to any weekend with the exception of the 15th of August.
Sara has a business trip to Hartford and is leaving that weekend.

As for the Gymnastics, Rachel can play with Anna and Karyn. :D
She has been taking Gymnastics for the last couple of years. Nothing along the competitive line, but just for recreation.

[Citizensmith]

Oh, some other Caliphurnia news, the capital air show is September 12 and 13th this year. Sure there will be a few of us there too.

Well I say news, tickets have been available for quite a while. News to me though. :)

[DwightMcCann]

OK, based on the input to date, and with huge apologies to Berlotti, it looks like August 22nd will be BBQ day. When we are closer I'll ask for commitments and cell phone numbers. Also, if someone wishes to argue for a different day, I am actually very flexible over those two months.

[Maureen Souza]

I like that date:)

[S.E.V.]

Date looks good to me. Yeaaaaay, time to see good friends and new faces (i hope). Just got the 1d3 back from the AF point test so excited. Tweak tweak tweak.

[Killjoy]

It works for me too. :)

[Marvinspu36]

I put it on my calendar. We'll see how the summer unfolds...I hope we can make it though.

[Maureen Souza]

It would be nice to see you again, Alan:)

[JBerlotti]

I still might be able to make it. I will still be on leave those days and should be back from Mexico if the wife and I are not kidnapped and held for ransom. What ever you all do, dont sell my gear to fund our release!!! LoL, instead wait until we are gone then enjoy what I have. :lol:

[Maureen Souza]

I hope you can make it, Joseph!

[DwightMcCann]

Date looks good to me. Yeaaaaay, time to see good friends and new faces (i hope). Just got the 1d3 back from the AF point test so excited. Tweak tweak tweak.
My third body is just coming back (literally in the mail) for that fix ... sure hope it makes my pictures look good! I just ordered some focus targets and will trying to do the microadjustment thing ... have you done that? If so, I may still need help ... even in August! :-)

[DwightMcCann]

Just thinking, we have the chance to have a 'Four Moderator' POTN event again! I'll bet there aren't many of those. I'm already looking to expand the 'Off Camera Flash' demo to include putting a flash on a pole, maybe with a softbox. Lots of stuff to explore. And, as always, I am happy to have others experiment using my equipment on their cameras.

[S.E.V.]

My third body is just coming back (literally in the mail) for that fix ... sure hope it makes my pictures look good! I just ordered some focus targets and will trying to do the microadjustment thing ... have you done that? If so, I may still need help ... even in August! :-)

I did not have time to play with it yet, but hope mine improved. Hey Dwight you should try this action FlexNR Noise Removal Action (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=680947) Worked pretty good on a test image I did.

[DwightMcCann]

I did not have time to play with it yet, but hope mine improved. Hey Dwight you should try this action FlexNR Noise Removal Action (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=680947) Worked pretty good on a test image I did.
I don't have Neat Image Pro ... I have Imagenomic Noisewear, although I haven't used it yet as I'm not particularly afraid of noise for noise sake.

[DwightMcCann]

OK, now I have an alternative offering ... "Shooting Tethered to a Laptop in the Studio." I always shoot tethered to my laptop when in the studio. I also have a Dell 30" monitor attached to the laptop for previewing. I'm even hoping to learn to use my WFT-E2A (which I've had for a year or so and never used) for the tethering instead of the 15' USB cable I'm currently using. I can introduce you to Kevin Ames style workflow using Bridge. I just don't think I'll have time to do both this and multi-off-camera flash with PocketWizards ... but you never know. Do we have anyone who is familiar with any of the WiFi offerings from Canon?

[S.E.V.]

You mean that little dingy that mounts to the side of the Camera that cost 800.00. Um, NO, don't know anything about it, except the fact that it is expensive. I'll bring you neat image pro and the HDR software at the BBQ if you like.

[DwightMcCann]

You mean that little dingy that mounts to the side of the Camera that cost 800.00. Um, NO, don't know anything about it, except the fact that it is expensive. I'll bring you neat image pro and the HDR software at the BBQ if you like.
Yes, that's just the gizmo I mean. :-) As for software, bring it on! :-) You can put it in the box with the Provia! ;)

BTW, I meant I had Velvia, not Provia, in my fridge, along with some rolls of TMax of various flavors.

[S.E.V.]

Yea, what you said.

[brecklundin]

I know I would love any of the topics that have been mentioned. I have been using LiveView and tethering with my 40D almost since day one when i got it last year and know there are still things of which I am unaware. The wifi idea, while nice, is, well, problematic due to the large expense if going with a Canon wifi solution. I might play around with a wifi dongle on the camera and my Cradlepoint pocket router/hotspot set to upload directly to an FTP site...one day. But for me, cabling works perfectly for now and I am staying that way until I have more time. I do have the advantage of having a 3G service w/o any bandwidth cap so I am more inclined to take that route over the other options but there are issues with the file xfer that I need to look into further because of probs xfering RAW files. But that info might be out of date...hence more research is needed before I try it out.

I have begun using off camera flash with my el cheapo triggers so seeing PW's in use is nice to, but doubt I would invest in them any time soon as my work space is small and it's usually very easy to manually adjust the two flashes I use. Still again it would be great to learn how to make the best use of PW's and w/o a doubt they are the best option for serious shooters.

What I would really find interesting is Sevan talking about HDR...I love the effects that it can create, especially when not over done but rather to enhance an image. I am really intrigued with the idea of HDR stitched pano's...hehe ;)

So, I guess I say cool to any of the topics for sure!! :D

[S.E.V.]

I am really intrigued with the idea of HDR stitched pano's...hehe ;)

Funny you mentioned that.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3462/3200730296_e92fde06ae_o.jpg

I don't mind doing a small HDR demo, if you guys like.

[DwightMcCann]

Funny you mentioned that.

I don't mind doing a small HDR demo, if you guys like.
Well, bring the software and demo images and you can use my computers.

[Maureen Souza]

You guys are so fancy.... I just shoot my old 5D in the bathroom window light ;)

[Kevin]

What's the current status on the 800mm f/5.6? Will you be able to bring it with you?
No, don't have it yet, I have been so busy with the 500mm f/4 that no time to sell it. Hopefully before this years Festival of the Cranes at Bosque del Apache, New Mexico.

[DwightMcCann]

No, don't have it yet, I have been so busy with the 500mm f/4 that no time to sell it. Hopefully before this years Festival of the Cranes at Bosque del Apache, New Mexico.

Well, I may be able to help you sell it depending on how the economy goes this next few months.

[Belmondo]

Unless you're trying to make a killing, you shouldn't have any trouble selling it. My 600 went overnight.

[Kevin]

I have been working with HDR for awhile now and processing through Photomatix. It's easy to overdue your processing but once you develop the setting that work for you processing is quick. I found early on exposure was the whole key to HDR.

You can see more on Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/kevcole/sets/72157617324378436/detail/

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3392/3475246384_d3658ccf6e.jpg

[MDJAK]

great shot.

Okay, if you guys/gals agree to not report that I'm being serious for once, I'll be in California (my first visit ever, btw) from August 18th through the 24th. We are driving from Pullman, Washington (after dropping our daughter at WSU) down the coast ending up in San Francisco.

So, the question is, where the heck is Buellton in comparison to my route?

me

[Kevin]

great shot.

Okay, if you guys/gals agree to not report that I'm being serious for once, I'll be in California (my first visit ever, btw) from August 18th through the 24th. We are driving from Pullman, Washington (after dropping our daughter at WSU) down the coast ending up in San Francisco.

So, the question is, where the heck is Buellton in comparison to my route?

me
:confused:

[Belmondo]

great shot.

Okay, if you guys/gals agree to not report that I'm being serious for once, I'll be in California (my first visit ever, btw) from August 18th through the 24th. We are driving from Pullman, Washington (after dropping our daughter at WSU) down the coast ending up in San Francisco.

So, the question is, where the heck is Buellton in comparison to my route?

me

Buellton is about halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. It's on Highway 101 about an hour north of Santa Barbara.

[Kevin]

Unless you're trying to make a killing, you shouldn't have any trouble selling it. My 600 went overnight.
I'm sure my 500 will sell easy, but I am quite proud of it;)

[MDJAK]

Just mapquested it. It's 300 miles from San Fran. Hmm, don't know if I'll be up for that round trip drive, after driving over 12 hours to get to San Fran a few days before.

[Killjoy]

great shot.

Okay, if you guys/gals agree to not report that I'm being serious for once, I'll be in California (my first visit ever, btw) from August 18th through the 24th. We are driving from Pullman, Washington (after dropping our daughter at WSU) down the coast ending up in San Francisco.

So, the question is, where the heck is Buellton in comparison to my route?

me

I live in the SF Bay Area (about 30 min due east of SF).
It takes me about 4 1/2 hours to drive to Buellton from here, without stopping.
But my wife tells me I don't exactly drive at the speed limit. :rolleyes:
Skip, please ignore that previous comment. :p

[Killjoy]

you know us...we're easy...and cheap too...well at least one of us is. :D

My wife just asked if you were bringing your famous salsa and chips? :p

Have you solidified that recipe yet? Or is the "sorta" recipe you sent me as solid as it gets?

[brecklundin]

You guys are so fancy.... I just shoot my old 5D in the bathroom window light ;)

wow, I usually just read in the bathroom...I feel like such an under achiever...hehehehe....

http://www.brecklundin.com/photos/544280091_oAWbf-XL-1.gif

EDIT: Thinking about it more...it might be a great place to use my macro lens more often.

[brecklundin]

My wife just asked if you were bringing your famous salsa and chips? :p

Have you solidified that recipe yet? Or is the "sorta" recipe you sent me as solid as it gets?

Maybe...was not sure anyone would want me to make it again... :cool:

And, ummm, haven't made it since the last Gathering so, wellllerrrr, um, no, but I will try and pay attention this time. ;) A lot depends on the tomato's and their flavor. Plus whatever ingredients look the freshest the day I shop for them. Still am going to whimp out and use store bought tortillas to make the chips though...too much work to make from fresh.

[brecklundin]

Just mapquested it. It's 300 miles from San Fran. Hmm, don't know if I'll be up for that round trip drive, after driving over 12 hours to get to San Fran a few days before.

Drive down to Taft then head to Shafter and go due east for about 6hrs and you will be in the ballpark. :lol:

or just watch the movie Sideways as most of it was filmed there.

{seriously just listen to Alan, my meds are off today...Dwight & Marna's place is dead easy to find!}

[DwightMcCann]

Dr. Jak, if you come down I'll put you up in our guest bedroom and you can spend a day or two with us. The coast drive is beautiful and no matter what these people say, I doubt you can make it in less than a day with all the stops to take pictures! Just let me know what you decide.

[Edit: Mark, the invitation is open anytime, not just for this BBQ!]

[brecklundin]

Funny you mentioned that.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3462/3200730296_e92fde06ae_o.jpg

I don't mind doing a small HDR demo, if you guys like.

Very nice!! And if you want I can also bring my laptop if there is a demo of the software I can install ahead of time so you just need bring the images and files on a thumb drive. Just let me know. Only limitation on my laptop is it only has standard VGA video out or S-Video, no HDMI. Plus it's an few years old t2600 1.8GHz C2D cpu and only a 256MB video card, so processing might be slower than Dwight's system. It does have a 17" display though.

[Skip Souza]

I live in the SF Bay Area (about 30 min due east of SF).
It takes me about 4 1/2 hours to drive to Buellton from here, without stopping.
But my wife tells me I don't exactly drive at the speed limit. :rolleyes:
Skip, please ignore that previous comment. :p
Speed limit signs are advisory in nature only :rolleyes: .................. except of course to the traffic cops :p

[brecklundin]

Speed limit signs are advisory in nature only :rolleyes: .................. except of course to the traffic cops :p

That is right...according to the DMV one may never drive faster than is safe. Which based on a question frequently on the test, implies then when it is safe to do so, one may legally exceed the posted suggested speed limit. :p

hehehehe...sorry, I argue about that question as a bad one all the time at the DMV. I know what answer the want but still cannot stop from mentioning that the logic the wording represents can result in two equally valid answers. Then again this is the DMV so, well, you know.... ;)

[Belmondo]

Speed limit signs are advisory in nature only :rolleyes: .................. except of course to the traffic cops :p

The last speeding ticket I got was on Highway 101 between King City and Paso Robles. I should mention, that is not the last time I speeded (sped?).

It was during the days of the 55 mph speed limit, if that gives you any idea how long it's been. The Highway Patrolman was pretty nice about it, and wrote me up for 70 in a 55. He could have fairly nailed me for a LOT more.

[Killjoy]

Don't you people sleep?
Belmondo, you posted at just after 2am. And I'm pretty sure that's local time. :p

[brecklundin]

Alan,

I am having an RA flare up and have yet to sleep. I might not sleep more than a few hours the next few days if it turns into a more annoying flare up. Such is life...hehehehe...hey I just turned 48 so I am allowed to start doing old guy stuff anyway!! :)

ON A SIDE NOTE:

This might be something to consider as a group outing...go visit the SB Zoo to see the California Giant Condor Habitat that just opened up (or is due to open any time soon, I forget):

http://www.sbcondors.com/

I have an annual membership which might include a guest pass or two, I am unsure. My better half has a membership at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle so she gets in free. But, I have not been to see them yet and an SB outing might be a lot of fun this time around.

Anyway, just thought I would get that activities ball rolling...seeing the condors would be a very special thing.

[Belmondo]

Hey Dwight....


Do you think it would be a good idea to put the date in the thread title? That way, people won't have to go looking through the thread for it. If you want, I can take care of it for you.

[Tom_D]

I am late joining in and the only excuse I can give is we just got back from 10 days in Hawaii. If I was on my computer I was downloading photos and doing a bit of processing.

August 22nd looks OK right now. We do have some family things falling in that date range so can't commit just yet.

[Maureen Souza]

ON A SIDE NOTE:

This might be something to consider as a group outing...go visit the SB Zoo to see the California Giant Condor Habitat that just opened up (or is due to open any time soon, I forget):

http://www.sbcondors.com/

I have an annual membership which might include a guest pass or two, I am unsure. My better half has a membership at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle so she gets in free. But, I have not been to see them yet and an SB outing might be a lot of fun this time around.

Anyway, just thought I would get that activities ball rolling...seeing the condors would be a very special thing.

I would like to do that....I have family in Vandenburg that I need to go shoot their baby's photos so I could make a weekend of it soon:)

Hey Dwight....


Do you think it would be a good idea to put the date in the thread title? That way, people won't have to go looking through the thread for it. If you want, I can take care of it for you.
Just do it :)

[DwightMcCann]

Hey Dwight....


Do you think it would be a good idea to put the date in the thread title? That way, people won't have to go looking through the thread for it. If you want, I can take care of it for you.

Yes, a grand idea now that we have a date! And you can change my title, too ... use your imagination.

I also think the Zoo would be fun but it's hard to do on the same day as the BBQ 'cause you can't just spend a couple of hours there, so maybe Sunday.

I have a decent workstation and a very good laptop (see Gear List) so I don't think computing power is an issue.

[S.E.V.]

Once again we are only on page five but veered off onto different topics. I loves this group.:D

[DwightMcCann]

Once again we are only on page five but veered off onto different topics. I loves this group.:D
Oh, it generally gets much more rowdy as we go on with all sorts of questionable suggestions!

[Killjoy]

Once again we are only on page five but veered off onto different topics. I loves this group.:D

Oh, it generally gets much more rowdy as we go on with all sorts of questionable suggestions!

Just wait until Mario gets going. :rolleyes:
:lol::lol::lol::lol:

[brecklundin]

Once again we are only on page five but veered off onto different topics. I loves this group.:D

Ohhhh, so it is gonna be THAT kinda party this time...I see...Wesson Oil and latex body suits optional or required this year?

[Belmondo]

Ohhhh, so it is gonna be THAT kinda party this time...I see...Wesson Oil and latex body suits optional or required this year?Sorry. Latex makes me sweat, and unless Wesson Oil comes in 55-gallon drums, we're certain to run out.

[Kevin]

I hate to change the subject;)....no I don't.....Dwight, are we still having microwave chicken?? I have an unopened bag from Costco I can bring.:lol:

[brecklundin]

Sorry. Latex makes me sweat, and unless Wesson Oil comes in 55-gallon drums, we're certain to run out.

Only if Mario shows up...the dude is an animal.

BTW, remember there are two things every woman needs...and that is a big guy, who sweats... :)

And time now for a blast from the past of last year's pre-event posting...this is for Killjoy to help him sleep before the big day:

http://www.brecklundin.com/photos/550374451_XyFSr-L.jpg

[Belmondo]

I have some of these left over from today..

http://www.pbase.com/image/113157572/original.jpg

[Kevin]

YUMMMMM, I will take one, will go great with the BBQ salmon Anne is fixing.

[brecklundin]

I have some of these left over from today..



yummmmmmmmm....long pig!!

[DwightMcCann]

I have done my part and will now sit back and watch the verbal slugfest! :-)

[Killjoy]

And time now for a blast from the past of last year's pre-event posting...this is for Killjoy to help him sleep before the big day:

Ugh. I knew I shouldn't have checked this thread before going to bed. :rolleyes:

Edit: I just HAD to remove that photo from my reply. It was bad enough it was in this thread once..... :lol:

[S.E.V.]

I have done my part and will now sit back and watch the verbal slugfest! :-)

Nice one Dwight. Let the fighting begin. Ding ding ding, round 1 has begun.

[DwightMcCann]

Nice one Dwight. Let the fighting begin. Ding ding ding, round 1 has begun.
;) :lol::lol:

[scrapgirl]

The last speeding ticket I got was on Highway 101 between King City and Paso Robles. I should mention, that is not the last time I speeded (sped?).

It was during the days of the 55 mph speed limit, if that gives you any idea how long it's been. The Highway Patrolman was pretty nice about it, and wrote me up for 70 in a 55. He could have fairly nailed me for a LOT more.

King City is notorious for speeding tickets! The second I see a sign saying King City is coming up, I do the speed limit until about 15 miles past!

[scrapgirl]

Alan,


ON A SIDE NOTE:

This might be something to consider as a group outing...go visit the SB Zoo to see the California Giant Condor Habitat that just opened up (or is due to open any time soon, I forget):

http://www.sbcondors.com/

I have an annual membership which might include a guest pass or two, I am unsure. My better half has a membership at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle so she gets in free. But, I have not been to see them yet and an SB outing might be a lot of fun this time around.

Anyway, just thought I would get that activities ball rolling...seeing the condors would be a very special thing.

Any time you want to meet at the SB Zoo, we have passes to the LA Zoo so we get in 1/2 price. We love it there and have yet to see that exhibit. Would be hard the day of the BBQ but if we can coordinate a date with Maureen, let's plan it for an earlier date! :)

[PhotoJourno]

Hi everyone !!, I just saw this thread, robert passed it along but I got to see it today for the first time. I would love to go. I am now subscribed, and will be keeping an eye as the weeks get closer.

Last one was an incredible lot of fun. I am already looking at the calendar, and finding ways to swing this around. :D

[Maureen Souza]

Any time you want to meet at the SB Zoo, we have passes to the LA Zoo so we get in 1/2 price. We love it there and have yet to see that exhibit. Would be hard the day of the BBQ but if we can coordinate a date with Maureen, let's plan it for an earlier date! :)
That sounds fun..... I am looking for something fun and cooler to take my grandsons to this summer while I am babysitting:)

[Sibil]

Subscribed :cool:

[ocalexoc]

Hello Mates,

i just found his thread and i am so down to join the meet if possible but, i couldn't find the Date or place for the meet... All i could find is advice on not to speed or do speed when no one is around pretty much ha ha :) to add to speeding my latest speeding ticket i got was for 110 racing on the 5S in Anaheim, CA the CHP stopped the traffic just to get us.. ticket was for $480 he was cool cop tho i guess he was a fan of real American cars because he liked my mustang and not the Honda (other car i was racing)


-Alex

[scrapgirl]

That sounds fun..... I am looking for something fun and cooler to take my grandsons to this summer while I am babysitting:)

Mo, just let us know when you'll be down this way. We would love to meet you up there. ;)

[S.E.V.]

Hello Mates,

i just found his thread and i am so down to join the meet if possible but, i couldn't find the Date or place for the meet... All i could find is advice on not to speed or do speed when no one is around pretty much ha ha :) to add to speeding my latest speeding ticket i got was for 110 racing on the 5S in Anaheim, CA the CHP stopped the traffic just to get us.. ticket was for $480 he was cool cop tho i guess he was a fan of real American cars because he liked my mustang and not the Honda (other car i was racing)


-Alex

Looks like the date is August 22nd, it ill be updated on the first post soon, Dwight hop to it. As for the speeding deal, man I remember the street racing days.......got raided at the races 3 times and all three tickets magically where dropped by the courts. Ever since then no more street racing or racing on the streets period for me. I guess you grow out of it.

[DwightMcCann]

OK, the date is now in the title I believe, Saturday, August 22, 2009, from noon forward (well, you can arrive earlier or later) at 430 Sycamore Drive, Buellton, California, 93427-6812, which is easily mapped via Google, et al. This will be the third time that Marna, Anna and I have hosted this event. It will mainly consist of sitting around on our patio with libations, much verbal chest butting by the men and lots of pictures of our resident humming bird.

We have a nice propane BBQ grill and will likely be cooking some Santa Maria style Tri-tip and knowing Marna there will be munchies. Please feel free to bring stuff. Vegetarians and Vegans are welcome but may have to fend for themselves other than being granted a place on the grill. I should get some pictures up so the "new people" know what to expect ... we have a pretty small yard.

What makes this a POTN gathering, besides being POTN people, is that I usually provide the entertainm..., no, er, I mean some sort of photography experience. The first year I blew up a $4000 Bowens QUADX generator in my studio (it was supposedly just repaired and this was the first time it had since been plugged in.) Last year I had an assistant who was a Brooks student who gave a studio lighting seminar. This year I am contemplating either/both showing how to shoot tethered to a laptop (in the studio but the process doesn't really require that) and/or a bit of strobist shooting with remote 580EX II's using PocketWizards including the older PW II Pluses as well as the new TT1 and TT5 units ... I also have an ST-E2 for comparison ... but I claim no expertise with the strobist stuff, I just happen to have it so I can try it out someday. I also have a WFT-E2A that I've never yet used so maybe we can get that working, too.

So, for the newbies, a bit about me: you can check me out at DwightMcCann.com, or follow any of the links in my signature to something about me, although most are just interested in my Gear List. I am an old guy with poor people skills and rely on the kindness of strangers (who stranger than POTN folks, eh?) to get along. And just to whet your whistle, I photograph people you know.

In the past, some folks have come a day early and/or stayed a day late, to explore and do various activities such as whale watching. As we get closer to the date I expect that there will be lots of discussion and groups forming for adventure. I always recommend the Quicksilver Miniature Horse Ranch but some like Ostrichland (I don't) and there is a good casino nearby as well as Country Bar of good repute.

Also, we will be making a list in the thread of likely attendees so you'll know whose coming. I will also be collecting cell phone numbers offline and send that list to those signing up. But again, you don't need to sign up to come and you won't be too brutally assaulted if you are overtaken by events and can't make it.

Let me know if I left anything out. I am now going back to spectating.

[brecklundin]

Any time you want to meet at the SB Zoo, we have passes to the LA Zoo so we get in 1/2 price. We love it there and have yet to see that exhibit. Would be hard the day of the BBQ but if we can coordinate a date with Maureen, let's plan it for an earlier date!

That sounds fun..... I am looking for something fun and cooler to take my grandsons to this summer while I am babysitting:)

Sounds GREAT...really any time you & Sev want to meet up in SB or wherever around here, just let me know. Karen is off up north right now but will be back in time for The Gathering and hopefully for our annual Dog Show as well. But as a rule, I am able to take off whenever the mood strikes.

Getting together with Mo, and anyone else, before, or even after the BBQ would be fun. I agree that the zoo and the BBQ in one day might make for a loooong day. Of course I don't have my Bigmos to lug around the zoo right now, soooo, that makes it a lot easier...hehehe...4lbs easier. Then again by August, it is very likely I will...again. Depends on if a good color ebook reader comes out before I can't wait any longer.

Hello Mates,

i just found his thread and i am so down to join the meet if possible but, i couldn't find the Date or place for the meet... All i could find is advice on not to speed or do speed when no one is around pretty much ha ha :) to add to speeding my latest speeding ticket i got was for 110 racing on the 5S in Anaheim, CA the CHP stopped the traffic just to get us.. ticket was for $480 he was cool cop tho i guess he was a fan of real American cars because he liked my mustang and not the Honda (other car i was racing)


-Alex

I can tell ya that these are some WONDERFUL folks. Last year we knew NOBODY on POTN and were very new, and were (well seemed to be) welcomed like family. It was a BLAST and to be honest, at the BBQ nobody really sat around focusing on photography chatter, if it came up we talked for a bit, but as a rule it was just a nice social thing. Very relaxed and casual. She-who-must-be-obeyed and I had a really super time.

BTW, you get to sit next to Skip for the entire BBQ...he is gonna LOVE you...hehehehe....'nuff Sed! :rolleyes: http://www.brecklundin.com/photos/544281109_qUUiC-L-2.gif


We have a nice propane BBQ grill and will likely be cooking some Santa Maria style Tri-tip and knowing Marna there will be munchies. Please feel free to bring stuff. Vegetarians and Vegans are welcome but may have to fend for themselves other than being granted a place on the grill.

I have eaten a few "Veggies" over the years, and they all tasted pretty good...so, yup save some room on the "barbie"!

This year I am contemplating either/both showing how to shoot tethered to a laptop (in the studio but the process doesn't really require that) and/or a bit of strobist shooting with remote 580EX II's using PocketWizards including the older PW II Pluses as well as the new TT1 and TT5 units ... I also have an ST-E2 for comparison ... but I claim no expertise with the strobist stuff, I just happen to have it so I can try it out someday. I also have a WFT-E2A that I've never yet used so maybe we can get that working, too.

I would love to spend time fiddling with strobist stuff. The past few months I have really been working on understanding lighting...and a BIG thanks to Marcie for showing me "the light" so to speak last year. Until then I really had not gotten it that one needs to know how light works to take better shots. So, I started down the strobist lane since I don't have a lot of work room for bigger lighting gear. So, it would be fun for me to see other gear in action and what others do for certain situations.

I have a set of el cheapo "Lompton Wizards" I can bring along to compare as well...they are "interesting"...

Let me know if I left anything out. I am now going back to spectating.

Don't forget La Purisima Mission is always a good trip. Plenty of hiking and what not there. Bummer there will likely not be any rain near the time of the BBQ because, I think Nojoqui Falls would make a nice side trip too. I still have not made it up there (since "gearing up" again) when the falls had water. Too lazy I think. ;)

If some of us do the zoo thing, there is also a chance we could either add in some street shooting in downtown SB (always good during the summer), hit the wharf and harbor or run over to the adjacent wetlands...

On a side note...do we reaaaaly have to let that Mario guy come along? I mean all the guy wants to do is work on the business plan for "our project", the one we are still under an NDA and cannot discuss...work, work work, work, WORK!!...it's all the guy does!! That and date psycho's...then again ya know Mario and somehow that part just seems right...

http://www.brecklundin.com/photos/544279855_7KPC5-L-1.gif

Oh, and for Alex...Dwight & Marna live about 800 yards from a CHP station...I'm just sayin'...... :cool:

[S.E.V.]

We talk the talk on the forums but in person its a whole different story.:rolleyes:

[Maureen Souza]

Mo, just let us know when you'll be down this way. We would love to meet you up there. ;)
You wanna help me haul around a 6 1/2 year old and a 2 month old?

Run while you can....:lol::lol::lol::lol:

[Killjoy]

You wanna help me haul around a 6 1/2 year old and a 2 month old?

Run while you can....:lol::lol::lol::lol:

:shock::shock::shock: (where's the little smiley with legs when you need it)

[Maureen Souza]

I don't know what I've gotten myself into for the summer but it should be fun....I think.

[Killjoy]

I don't know what I've gotten myself into for the summer but it should be fun....I think.

You love it, and you know it.

You wouldn't have it any other way. ;)

[S.E.V.]

You love it, and you know it.

You wouldn't have it any other way. ;)

So true.:)

[PhotoJourno]

It is so refreshing to check in with POTN and see how everyone is doing great, or at least being who they are :D...

The caliber and quality of people I have met at the POTN meets has been incredible. I am doing the impossible to be able to make it this year. In 2008 I was the receptacle of unthinkable kindness, which I shall never forget.

And maybe if the host and conditions permit, I can set up a demonstration on how to drive without getting tickets or citations, something I am incredibly good at. Well, that and my resizing Sensors enterprise.

And the mini-funeral business, but we don't talk a bout that, huh? It's for another forum. :)

[S.E.V.]

It is so refreshing to check in with POTN and see how everyone is doing great, or at least being who they are :D...

The caliber and quality of people I have met at the POTN meets has been incredible. I am doing the impossible to be able to make it this year. In 2008 I was the receptacle of unthinkable kindness, which I shall never forget.

And maybe if the host and conditions permit, I can set up a demonstration on how to drive without getting tickets or citations, something I am incredibly good at. Well, that and my resizing Sensors enterprise.

And the mini-funeral business, but we don't talk a bout that, huh? It's for another forum. :)

I forgot about the resizing the sensor deal, how did that work out for you? Hehehehehe.:D

[brecklundin]

You love it, and you know it.

You wouldn't have it any other way. ;)

You mean she is a "Moz-o-kist"...?? :p

[brecklundin]

I forgot about the resizing the sensor deal, how did that work out for you? Hehehehehe.:D

yeah, but making them smaller, even if the proper "sensor hammer" is used, doesn't really count does it?

[Maureen Souza]

You mean she is a "Moz-o-kist"...?? :p
GROAN!!!!!!!!!

Grandkids are amazing. You are so tolerant of their flaws and think they are just perfect:)

If only we felt that way about each other...this world would be a great place:)

[brecklundin]

GROAN!!!!!!!!!

Grandkids are amazing. You are so tolerant of their flaws and think they are just perfect:)

If only we felt that way about each other...this world would be a great place:)

Boy you are not kidding!! I dunno if it's me, but it seems people have become less and less accepting of others in daily life. Or maybe I am just getting old...not as old as Dwight of course, but old when one takes into account the mileage...hehehehe...

[Tom_D]

yeah, but making them smaller, even if the proper "sensor hammer" is used, doesn't really count does it?The whole point was to make them smaller. I was trying to extend the reach of my Bigma to 10000mm. Mario never did get to my camera for the fix. :cry:

[Killjoy]

IIRC, wasn't Mario trying to make a full frame sensor out of a cropped sensor? :rolleyes:

Edit: Okay, I DON'T remember correctly. I just searched and found it.:p

[S.E.V.]

Then there was Dwight saying he does not do crop bodies, but in turn he own TWO 1Dmark 3 bodies, Dwight those have a 1.3x crop factor on the sensor. WTH!

[Killjoy]

And wasn't SOMEbody going to bring some 1.6 hats for the rest of us last year?
Hmmmmm? :rolleyes:
:lol::lol::lol::lol:

[S.E.V.]

And wasn't SOMEbody going to bring some 1.6 hats for the rest of us last year?
Hmmmmm? :rolleyes:
:lol::lol::lol::lol:

Um yeah I just got the demo model from china, it needs to pass QC then the okay is called into the manufacturing facility in china. Release date is in2-3 weeks.

[Maureen Souza]

And wasn't SOMEbody going to bring some 1.6 hats for the rest of us last year?
Hmmmmm? :rolleyes:
:lol::lol::lol::lol:


Wasn't that you?

BTW, how is your job situation?

[S.E.V.]

Wasn't that you?

BTW, how is your job situation?

Naw, that twas me MO.

Yea Allan, wasn't they supposed to close your Div down? Can you pilfer me a 3ghz quad core before they do?

[Maureen Souza]

Okay, Sevan... I wear a size medium ;)

[Killjoy]

Wasn't that you?

BTW, how is your job situation?

They shut the doors last Saturday. They even had a BBQ on site, that we were able to bring our families to.
The decent part about that was, we actually got to bring our families into the FAB and show them around.
It was a truncated tour, and you could actually see more of the FAB in the photos that I have, but at least they got to see it.


Naw, that twas me MO.

Yea Alan, wasn't they supposed to close your Div down? Can you pilfer me a 3ghz quad core before they do?

If you'd have asked me a couple of weeks ago, I could have gotten you one heck of a discount. :cry:

[brecklundin]

at least one among us remembers this place:

http://rides.webshots.com/album/29170133xKUcmSjFoq
http://www.santabarbara.com/dining/review_read.asp?pk_restaurant=644

BTW, those are the kinda guys I remember visiting the place when I was younger...

It's only about 25mins or so east of Dwight's.

[S.E.V.]

If you'd have asked me a couple of weeks ago, I could have gotten you one heck of a discount. :cry:

DOH! I am looking to build a quead core. F! Das Kooo.

K MO, size medium it is.

[Killjoy]

DOH! I am looking to build a quad core. F! Das Kooo.

I pieced together my PC. I got a Quad Core Q6600 when it was new, and paid less than half of retail.
Not trying to rub salt into the wound. :lol:

It was the motherboard that killed me. I even got it at wholesale, and still paid over $200 for it. :rolleyes:

[S.E.V.]

I got my new build laid out but can't fork up the cash right now. It all got sucked into my family portrait.:rolleyes:

[Belmondo]

DOH! I am looking to build a quead core. F! Das Kooo.

K MO, size medium it is.

I'll sell you a half interest in my Mac Pro 8-core. That's 4 apiece.:rolleyes:;)

[S.E.V.]

I'll sell you a half interest in my Mac Pro 8-core. That's 4 apiece.:rolleyes:;)

You mean you will sell me your mac produal quad core? whats the HD space like?

[brecklundin]

I got my new build laid out but can't fork up the cash right now. It all got sucked into my family portrait.:rolleyes:

oh, sure you say that as if it's a bad thing... :rolleyes: :lol:

[S.E.V.]

oh, sure you say that as if it's a bad thing... :rolleyes: :lol:
No, just the truth.:D

[DwightMcCann]

I can't believe how quiet things have gotten! Is everyone OK? H1N1 spreading through the group?

I am now also learning a bit about makeup ... fancy, high end, fashion photography makeup ... I'm reading a book and will probably be auditing a one day class at Brooks Institute in July.

[Killjoy]

Just in time for you to do make-up on a model for a strobist style shoot? ;)

The H1N1 did hit a local school here last week. :(

[DwightMcCann]

Just in time for you to do make-up on a model for a strobist style shoot? ;)

Perhaps ... one never knows what may happen!

[S.E.V.]

N1H1 not here. I shoot it away with my canon if it come near me. :rolleyes: Everything is fine on my end just playing with eos utilities and live view focusing through the pc on the monitor. New thing to play with for now. I actually like it tethered to the pc. You can see the object focused much better then on the rear lcd screen.

[Maureen Souza]

I am still checking in.

[DwightMcCann]

OK!

[Kevin]

Still here also.

[Sibil]

I am watching too

[DwightMcCann]

I am watching too
But who is watching the watchers? Oh, I know, the Chinese! :-)

You guys might want to drift over to G&N to see what I've been doing lately to prepare for this event ... well, sorta' --- here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=705589) and here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=702525). Maybe I need to take a poll to find out if anyone really has any interest in my proposed educational exercises ... if not, it will not bruise my ego to just sit around, drink and take hummingbird pictures with everyone else ... it just seems a shame to have all this equipment and not share, but I'm willing.

[S.E.V.]

But who is watching the watchers? Oh, I know, the Chinese! :-)

You guys might want to drift over to G&N to see what I've been doing lately to prepare for this event ... well, sorta' --- here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=705589) and here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=702525). Maybe I need to take a poll to find out if anyone really has any interest in my proposed educational exercises ... if not, it will not bruise my ego to just sit around, drink and take hummingbird pictures with everyone else ... it just seems a shame to have all this equipment and not share, but I'm willing.

Some nice shots there Mr. D ;)

[Killjoy]

I have an interest in the strobist style shooting. :p

And yes, I agree with Sevan, nice shots.

[S.E.V.]

I have an interest in the strobist style shooting. :p

And yes, I agree with Sevan, nice shots.

I think I got bit by the stobist off camera flash bug, after a small off camera flash workshop I attended the past Saturday.

[Killjoy]

Robert, (brecklundin) I tried to send you a PM, but either you turned it off, or it's full.
I'm hoping you are getting e-mail alerts from this thread.
I'll be in town this weekend.
Are you still able to go shooting?

Anyone else up for a day of shooting?

[scrapgirl]

Oh I wish we were available. We have a yard sale going on Saturday and I think Sevan will be at the track Sunday. Bummer. What adventure are you looking to go on?

[DwightMcCann]

Oh I wish we were available. We have a yard sale going on Saturday and I think Sevan will be at the track Sunday. Bummer. What adventure are you looking to go on?

Well, I invited you two up for all sorts of stuff ... casino, miniature horses, studio play ... guess I know which end of the stick is buttered! But like you, this weekend I have a VIP event at the casino Saturday and a club shoot with my son in Santa Barbara on Sunday.

[Killjoy]

What adventure are you looking to go on?

Well, it all starts off with my nephews HS graduation tomorrow in Santa Maria.
From there, my wife and daughter are going to head home.
I on the other hand will be headed for points both South and East of there.

I'm headed over to that big hole in the ground (The Grand Canyon).
On over to Antelope Canyon with a stop at Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend.
Then South a little ways to Sedona.

After I'm done playing in Arizona, it's back to California.
I'll be visiting a Wolf Sanctuary, and the Wild Animal Park.
Then a little cruise up Highway 395 towards Bodie and Mono Lake.
From there, it's West into Yosemite.
If I time it right, I'll be in Yosemite for the Photo Gathering on the 27th.

Then home.

I should have a story or two (or at least a couple of photos to share) for the BBQ. :p

And yes, I will be meeting other photographers along the way.
Funny thing is, it's mostly from other photography forums. :confused:

[Killjoy]

Oh, and a stop off at Samy's Cameras. I won a $250 gift card from there. bw!

[S.E.V.]

Well, it all starts off with my nephews HS graduation tomorrow in Santa Maria.
From there, my wife and daughter are going to head home.
I on the other hand will be headed for points both South and East of there.

I'm headed over to that big hole in the ground (The Grand Canyon).
On over to Antelope Canyon with a stop at Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend.
Then South a little ways to Sedona.

After I'm done playing in Arizona, it's back to California.
I'll be visiting a Wolf Sanctuary, and the Wild Animal Park.
Then a little cruise up Highway 395 towards Bodie and Mono Lake.
From there, it's West into Yosemite.
If I time it right, I'll be in Yosemite for the Photo Gathering on the 27th.

Then home.

I should have a story or two (or at least a couple of photos to share) for the BBQ. :p

And yes, I will be meeting other photographers along the way.
Funny thing is, it's mostly from other photography forums. :confused:

O o o, Horse shoe bend in page AZ. Try to get to Slot Canyon if you can. I missed Roberts workshop.

http://www.robertrfletcher.com/0909SlotCanyons.htm

Have fun man.

[Killjoy]

That's an awesome link Sevan. Although I won't be going on that particular trip myself, Antelope Canyon is one of the places I am going to.

With that link, you have given me a few more ideas (and a place to stay). :D

Thanks

[S.E.V.]

That's an awesome link Sevan. Although I won't be going on that particular trip myself, Antelope Canyon is one of the places I am going to.

With that link, you have given me a few more ideas (and a place to stay). :D

Thanks

No prob man, He is doing a few more of those work shops this year. I would love to do one of them if I can.

[Maureen Souza]

Sounds like a cool road trip, Alan!

[Belmondo]

Sounds like a cool road trip, Alan!Indeed. I'm a bit jealous.

We're leaving tomorrow morning and driving up to Seattle and back. I'm tired just thinking about it, and we haven't even left yet. It's sure not like the good old days when I could drive from here to New York in 3 1/2 days.

I still love to hit the road, but the marathon trips of my youth just don't seem to be an option any more.