Red-Ringed Tupperware Party with (ineffective) Tin Foil Hats

[Maureen Souza]

For some reason...this seems to be a fairly secure group. Maybe because we are always drunk...we just don't know any better.:rolleyes:
Oh Gawd, THAT'S whats wrong with me! I haven't had a drink yet. Excuse me while I go mix myself a spicy Bloody Mary........

[Permagrin]

Ha ha ha....you guys are really all a hoot. I knew I couldn't deflate any egos herehttp://photo.klein-jensen.dk/smilies/0468.gif

For some reason...this seems to be a fairly secure group. Maybe because we are always drunk...we just don't know any better.:rolleyes:

Hey, I was going to say we were quite secure because our imaginary friends always tell us how wonderful we are...but your answer makes much more sense...(anyway, my imaginary friends aren't nearly so nice, or eloquent...)

[Woolburr]

Egg Zactly. Better make it a double to get caught up.

[puddlepirate44]

Oh Gawd, THAT'S whats wrong with me! I haven't had a drink yet. Excuse me while I go mix myself a spicy Bloody Mary........

Um... are you at work? :rolleyes:

[saravrose]

Hey, I was going to say we were quite secure because our imaginary friends always tell us how wonderful we are...but your answer makes much more sense...(anyway, my imaginary friends aren't nearly so nice, or eloquent...)

I need imaginary friends....:confused: :confused:

[puddlepirate44]

I need imaginary friends....:confused: :confused:

We got ours on eBay. Cheap. On the "Buy It Now." Really.

[wu_wei0]

Oh Gawd, THAT'S whats wrong with me! I haven't had a drink yet. Excuse me while I go mix myself a spicy Bloody Mary........
I've had one beer today- hours ago. I'm behind, it seems.
I did finally have pie, though.

[Permagrin]

I've had one beer today- hours ago. I'm behind, it seems.
I did finally have pie, though.

no pie yet...half a lager so far...

[Permagrin]

I need imaginary friends....:confused: :confused:

they aren't too bad, if you don't let them interfere too much with your stuff...

[Woolburr]

I actually am invested in an imaginary friend rental company....I can share the details with anyone that is interested.

[Permagrin]

I actually am invested in an imaginary friend rental company....I can share the details with anyone that is interested.

Wow, maybe you're the guy we got them from on Ebay...(I want an exchange...mine arrived with aberrant chromosomes...)

[Woolburr]

Wow, maybe you're the guy we got them from on Ebay...(I want an exchange...mine arrived with aberrant chromosomes...)

If that is the only anomaly....then consider yourself lucky. They may be imaginary....but boy do they have more than their fair share of quirks.

[Permagrin]

If that is the only anomaly....then consider yourself lucky. They may be imaginary....but boy do they have more than their fair share of quirks.

Yeah...your right...not everyone can be like me. ;)

[Woolburr]

...NC...

[Permagrin]

...NC...

http://LC-images.smugmug.com/photos/112605542-L.jpg

[saravrose]

I'm watching Titanic.. why did I like this movie?... it's truly terrible..

[Permagrin]

I'm watching Titanic.. why did I like this movie?... it's truly terrible..

That movie made more money than any...EVER...and I hated it!

[Maureen Souza]

Um... are you at work? :rolleyes:
Nah.... I work Monday through Wednesday nights.

[saravrose]

That movie made more money than any...EVER...and I hated it!

it is soo depressing.. and everyone went and saw it and we all knew how it would end... I was maybe a freshmen in highschool and I cried and cried... :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[puddlepirate44]

it is soo depressing.. and everyone went and saw it and we all knew how it would end... I was maybe a freshmen in highschool and I cried and cried... :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Yeah, I was going to go see it, but someone told me that the boat sank. Geez, ruined the whole movie for me.

[Belmondo]

Good music. Decent special effects.

Better movie than Poseidon Adventure.

[saravrose]

Good music. Decent special effects.

Better movie than Poseidon Adventure.

the new one or the old one?...

[Permagrin]

Good music. Decent special effects.

Better movie than Poseidon Adventure.

oh no...the OLD poseidon adventure is a classic...when I was a child we called it "Tidal Wave Tip over Ship"....(in fact, that's what I still call it ) :lol: :lol:

[Belmondo]

the new one or the old one?...

Either one, but especially better than the new one.

Saw the new James Bond movie this afternoon. It was pretty good, and I think the new guy will make a fine 007.

[saravrose]

Either one, but especially better than the new one.

Saw the new James Bond movie this afternoon. It was pretty good, and I think the new guy will make a fine 007.

I have never actually watched a James Bond movie...

[Maureen Souza]

I have never actually watched a James Bond movie...
Ohhhh, they are all hunky...Sean Connery, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Bronson. Nice manly men and great eye candee.

[puddlepirate44]

I have never actually watched a James Bond movie...

*feels light headed, passes out on floor*

[liza]

That is the shade I remember....I bet Permie denies owning it though.:lol:

I don't blame Permie for denying it. But I do remember seeing it on Wu's head. :)

yes, and those were the "discreet" photos, so you should thank me...
I didn't even POST Liza's...

Please don't. Victoria will no longer be a Secret if you do. :lol:

Speaking of Liza....did she survive her CT scan? Haven't seen a report.

I survived. It took longer for me to change into the hospital gown than it did for the scan. Quick and painless. I was a little concerned when the tech asked if I had a follow up appointment with the doctor and then advised me to call the clinic by the middle of next week if I haven't heard anything. I hate it when they do that! Now I'll be worrying until I speak to the Doc.

They are all looking for a sugar daddy that drinks more than they do and leaves his credit cards lying around?

Not really. I'd settle for one that's breathing, as long as he wants a normal, stable relationship. I'm finding that there are a lot of "serial daters" out there. While they're a lot of fun, there isn't much substance to them.

I think you are mixing Sari and me up. She may not like that too well since I'm old enough to be her mom.

We both are. ;)

I've had one beer today- hours ago. I'm behind, it seems.
I did finally have pie, though.

I can't have either one. The kids are here, so I won't be doing any drinking, and the pie would blow my diet.

it is soo depressing.. and everyone went and saw it and we all knew how it would end... I was maybe a freshmen in highschool and I cried and cried... :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

I cried until I was sick, and so did my oldest son. He kept asking me, "Why did they kill Jack, Mommy?" That just made me cry all that harder. I never want to see that movie again!

I have never actually watched a James Bond movie...

Are you serious? I loved Sean Connery in those movies. And still find him extremely attractive for an old coot. :lol:

[Permagrin]

All right Sari...what'd you say to puddle...he's walking around here saying "must find happy place, must find happy place"....


:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
(My favroite was Pierce Brosnan...but I happened to like Sean Bean, who guest starred on one, much much more....)

[Claire]

Bond? I liked Roger Moores humour, but Pierce Brosnan was the hunkiest one lookswise.

Connery is sexier now he's older than when he was young.:)

[Permagrin]

Please don't. Victoria will no longer be a Secret if you do. :lol:



I survived. It took longer for me to change into the hospital gown than it did for the scan. Quick and painless. I was a little concerned when the tech asked if I had a follow up appointment with the doctor and then advised me to call the clinic by the middle of next week if I haven't heard anything. I hate it when they do that! Now I'll be worrying until I speak to the Doc.



RIGHT! I didn't want have to post it in the "other" section, so I refrained :lol:

(and don't worry about what the tech said...I'm always getting injured, always having tests and they ALWAYS say "if you don't hear from your doc....call"...it's standard procedure)

[liza]

Connery is sexier now he's older than when he was young.

True. He's one helluva nice looking man.

RIGHT! I didn't want have to post it in the "other" section, so I refrained :lol:


Thanks so much for not posting those. Wyatt caught me doing my dance routine today while we were out scouting photo locations downtown:
http://www.smugmug.com/photos/112627004-M.jpg

[Permagrin]

Practicing for Dancing with the Stars? ;)

Are you teaching him to never leave home without his camera? (each time I think he's framing better and better)

[liza]

Didn't know they used a pole on Dancing with the Stars.

We're never without a camera, since I take my DSLR's with me everywhere. He's quite taken with my 10D and is learning about aperture right now. I've taught him how to change lenses, mount the flash, and shoot in AV to learn basic DOF technique. Although I've cropped the image above a little just to get rid of dead space, he still does well in terms of composition.

[Permagrin]

Didn't know they used a pole on Dancing with the Stars.

We're never without a camera, since I take my DSLR's with me everywhere. He's quite taken with my 10D and is learning about aperture right now. I've taught him how to change lenses, mount the flash, and shoot in AV to learn basic DOF technique. Although I've cropped the image above a little just to get rid of dead space, he still does well in terms of composition.

Wow, if that was one of his AV shots, I'm even more impressed...the DOF is perfect.

[liza]

Here are a couple more that he did. The first is blown out a bit due to the time of day. And the second and third ones are photos he entered in the fair last summer. I like the one of the cat, just because it's artsy and a little different.

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/112627006-M.jpg

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/112637955-L.jpg

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/107048912-M.jpg

[Permagrin]

Those are cool.
How'd he do (with his entries)?

I'm almost afraid to ask what the cat is standing in :lol:

[Woolburr]

It doesn't appear to be electrified....so the cat is safe for the moment...as long as Peter is in hiding. And it doesn't look like a litter pan either....rofl:lol:

[Woolburr]

True. He's one helluva nice looking man.



Thanks so much for not posting those. Wyatt caught me doing my dance routine today while we were out scouting photo locations downtown:


Whoa...cool....pole dancing with the stars!

[liza]

Those are cool.
How'd he do (with his entries)?

I'm almost afraid to ask what the cat is standing in :lol:

Wyatt managed to walk away with 3rd place in the nature category, which is difficult to do. Not only is it an adult competition but also the one with some of the best photographers in the area. I entered several images and got nothing.

Whoa...cool....pole dancing with the stars!

I think we should start a new television series. What do you think? :lol:

[liza]

Oh, and the cat is sitting in a cast iron skillet. I was cleaning the stove and put it on a kitchen chair, so the cat felt obliged to jump in. Wyatt was lucky enough to have the camera in hand at the time.

[Woolburr]

Wyatt managed to walk away with 3rd place in the nature category, which is difficult to do. Not only is it an adult competition but also the one with some of the best photographers in the area. I entered several images and got nothing.



I think we should start a new television series. What do you think?
:lol:

In this day and age....stuff like that sells. I'm all for making a quick buck.;)

[Claire]

I really like thos animal shots Liza. Love the cat.

[Permagrin]

afternoon all!

Well, oddly enough we've got snow in our forecast for the next couple of days...that's pretty strange for here on the valley floor....

[saravrose]

afternoon all!

Well, oddly enough we've got snow in our forecast for the next couple of days...that's pretty strange for here on the valley floor....

I have a LOT of snow.. ;) :cool:

[Claire]

For us we're back to fall. It's dark and raining a lot. :(

[Woolburr]

A balmy 70 here today....I am not complaining.

[Permagrin]

The weather switches around here so much it's killing me...I may only be 39 but I've broken too many things...and feel like an OLD UNCLE! the temp will be in the mid-50's and cruisin' along just fine and then comes PAIN and I find out the temp's dropped to 29....

It's a very weird fall for us. Summer ran late...way too hot for way too long...then one day the curtain dropped and fall was just "HERE". It lasted a couple of weeks and then winter has been sending forray's our way, just to let us know he's around the corner...I like fall, but it's really mostly been non-esistant this year...

[Woolburr]

Remember the old saying..."It's not nice to fool Mother Nature"? She is just getting even with you.;)

[Claire]

I'm hoping this winter will be mild. and if there will be snow, let it only be nice snow that goes away quick.

[liza]

It was in the low 70's here this afternoon. I did a portrait session with a toddler at the state park and wore a short sleeved t-shirt. It was unusually pleasant. Hope that's the case tomorrow, because i have two more sessions. No rest for the wicked, I suppose.

[Woolburr]

Same forecast for here tomorrow...more nice weather...low 70's. I'll take it.

[wu_wei0]

mid 60s to low 70s through tuesday. then a high of 42 and low of 17 on wed night. maybe I should have josh do some weather sealing before he leaves tomorrow. They are going back a day early. Jess has a class she can't miss. :(

[Woolburr]

That sucks that they have to go back early....you haven't had time to get all your projects done!

[wu_wei0]

I just had him change lightbulbs (ceilings are 12 ft tall). Other than that, the only project I had for him was to talk to me. we've had a great time. Lots of good storytelling. :) Just what I needed

[Woolburr]

I just had him change light bulbs


I was thinking of the light bulbs....you had previously mentioned that it would be nice to see again after sunset....;)

[Woolburr]

Just some holiday warm up. Should I add ribbons?
http://www.pbase.com/woolburr/image/70762534.jpg

[liza]

That would be lovely, Wool. I need to put together a holiday wreath for the front entry.

[wu_wei0]

ribbons would be nice. I've been saving my pennies all year to stock up on hnadblown glass bulbs that the art students sell. I plan to go to the woods and shoot them some sunrise. actually, I could probably do what I want in my own back yard. I'll have to see what sunrise is like in the backyard in themorning. I've had this shot in mind for over a year.
we didn't get any pics done while the kids have been here. I wanted to redo some hand shots of jess, and reshoot the shadow lovers. I think they'll leave before ths un gets to the right part of the sky tomorrow. :( wish I had studio lights.

Yes, seeing after sunset can be beneficial, although not always needed. we got some of those 5 year bublbs for some of the places. Maybe get a few more for when mike comes at chrismas - he's 6ft 3 so can reach with a chair. for some reason they don't like me perching on counters and holding on to lean out over the void to change a bulb. You should see what I do to change bathroom light!

Yummy dinner! angel hair pasta and garlic shrimp with spinach, baked artichoke hearts, a good chardonay. . . I miss having someone to cook for

[Woolburr]

I probably will skip the ribbons on this tree. It is located along the interstate. I was looking at something else and pulled off on the shoulder...saw this and snapped a shot. Just thought it had a holiday look to it.

[saravrose]

I am going to buy a little christmas tree for my livingroom while i'm down here... jee whiz, you go back to where you can listen to the radio and all that's being played is Christmas carols... isn't it a little early?

[Woolburr]

I am going to buy a little Christmas tree for my living room while I'm down here... jee whiz, you go back to where you can listen to the radio and all that's being played is Christmas carols... isn't it a little early?

If tonight isn't Christmas eve...it is a little early for carols.:rolleyes:

[wu_wei0]

I am going to buy a little christmas tree for my livingroom while i'm down here... jee whiz, you go back to where you can listen to the radio and all that's being played is Christmas carols... isn't it a little early?
way early. I don't get in the christmas carol mode til the evening of christmas.

Oh, Sari, thanks for the comment that youwouldn't mind being mistaken for me.:) that was sweet. I guess I'll have to keep ya ;)

[Woolburr]

This is the shot I was after when I ended up with the pine cones.
http://www.pbase.com/woolburr/image/70765108/medium.jpg
The bigger version is located here....BIG (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=2313066#post2313066)

[liza]

Cool, Wool. I love old, dilapidated barns.

[Woolburr]

Cool, Wool. I love old, dilapidated barns.

If you like old barns...I have a few...HERE. (http://www.pbase.com/woolburr/rural_decay_barns)

[Permagrin]

You guys want to hear a story that's just riddled with pathetic failure?

Remember a while back, I did my first paid portrait shoot? The woman had 4 boys under the age of 12...the family is friends of our but she called and said she wanted to hire me to do their school pictures (because they are home schooled). I said okay. When we talked about price, I thought I was clear on $125 but said that since we were going to buy some beef from them (once they slaughtered their cows) to just take it off of that.

I did a location shoot at a pumpkin patch. 3hrs work, individual and group shots. One of the boys would barely ever open his eyes for his photos so I did the best I could with him. Now I'm not a portrait photographer but I thought the shoot went really well...(except for the child who'd never open his eyes). Please look at this to get an idea...

http://lc-images.smugmug.com/gallery/2061536/1

It took me 8 hrs to PP all the photos and I gave them a disk of 65 (all high resolution) shots...some funny...all for the original price. Anyway, the dad didn't like the photos of one of the twins (the one who was making all the faces) so they called and asked me to come again for a reshoot. Anyway today, they gave me the "amount of beef they thought the shoot was worth". It was 2 steaks. I kid you not. I almost burst out in tears right there...but instead just left...

This probably sounds funny and pathetic, but it made me really wonder if I'm so bad that my work isn't worth even slightly what I quoted? I'd already given them the disk...the photos, everything. And they are "friends" or were...I have no recourse, because of that. But it made me want to sell my gear and take up knitting... :cry:

That's why I posted the gallery link....are these shots that bad? Tell me honestly...I'm completely distraught.

[Woolburr]

No...the shots are not that bad...actually they look pretty good to me....it is hardly your fault that the little t*rd thought he was such a comedian. I am thinking that these people are not real good friends...2 steaks is a total insult.

[saravrose]

You guys want to hear a story that's just riddled with pathetic failure?

Remember a while back, I did my first paid portrait shoot? The woman had 4 boys under the age of 12...the family is friends of our but she called and said she wanted to hire me to do their school pictures (because they are home schooled). I said okay. When we talked about price, I thought I was clear on $125 but said that since we were going to buy some beef from them (once they slaughtered their cows) to just take it off of that.

I did a location shoot at a pumpkin patch. 3hrs work, individual and group shots. One of the boys would barely ever open his eyes for his photos so I did the best I could with him. Now I'm not a portrait photographer but I thought the shoot went really well...(except for the child who'd never open his eyes). Please look at this to get an idea...

http://lc-images.smugmug.com/gallery/2061536/1

It took me 8 hrs to PP all the photos and I gave them a disk of 65 (all high resolution) shots...some funny...all for the original price. Anyway, the dad didn't like the photos of one of the twins (the one who was making all the faces) so they called and asked me to come again for a reshoot. Anyway today, they gave me the "amount of beef they thought the shoot was worth". It was 2 steaks. I kid you not. I almost burst out in tears right there...but instead just left...

This probably sounds funny and pathetic, but it made me really wonder if I'm so bad that my work isn't worth even slightly what I quoted? I'd already given them the disk...the photos, everything. And they are "friends" or were...I have no recourse, because of that. But it made me want to sell my gear and take up knitting... :cry:

That's why I posted the gallery link....are these shots that bad? Tell me honestly...I'm completely distraught.

no. there's nothing wrong with those shots.. they are kids..in fact the light is even there's no harsh shadows everything is in focus.. you did your job... I think you undersold yourself to begin with.. But, you are more than likely dealing with people who think you are pointing the camera clicking away going home and printing.. and nothing else.. there bad. not yours. live and learn don't shoot for them again and ask for the 150 dollars that you agreed upon, and maybe run to walmart and replace the steaks they gave you... You probably won't get the cash but you will make your point... I'm sorry by the way.. sometimes people just suck.

sari

[Woolburr]

I think you need to send them an invoice for the balance due. Minus the $2 for the 2 steaks.

[Permagrin]

No...the shots are not that bad...actually they look pretty good to me....it is hardly your fault that the little t*rd thought he was such a comedian. I am thinking that these people are not real good friends...2 steaks is a total insult.

no. there's nothing wrong with those shots.. they are kids..in fact the light is even there's no harsh shadows everything is in focus.. you did your job... I think you undersold yourself to begin with.. But, you are more than likely dealing with people who think you are pointing the camera clicking away going home and printing.. and nothing else.. there bad. not yours. live and learn don't shoot for them again and ask for the 150 dollars that you agreed upon, and maybe run to walmart and replace the steaks they gave you... You probably won't get the cash but you will make your point... I'm sorry by the way.. sometimes people just suck.

sari

Thanks guys...It has just crushed me. I can't even say...I charged less than half of what they'd have paid to have it done (because I'm a novice at portraits...) and was doing them a favor...I just can't even tell you what it's like to have your hard work weigh in as 2 pieces of meat....

I think you need to send them an invoice for the balance due. Minus the $2 for the 2 steaks.

:lol: (I think that's the first laugh I've had in hours...)

[puddlepirate44]

You guys want to hear a story that's just riddled with pathetic failure?

Remember a while back, I did my first paid portrait shoot? The woman had 4 boys under the age of 12...the family is friends of our but she called and said she wanted to hire me to do their school pictures (because they are home schooled). I said okay. When we talked about price, I thought I was clear on $125 but said that since we were going to buy some beef from them (once they slaughtered their cows) to just take it off of that.

I did a location shoot at a pumpkin patch. 3hrs work, individual and group shots. One of the boys would barely ever open his eyes for his photos so I did the best I could with him. Now I'm not a portrait photographer but I thought the shoot went really well...(except for the child who'd never open his eyes). Please look at this to get an idea...

http://lc-images.smugmug.com/gallery/2061536/1

It took me 8 hrs to PP all the photos and I gave them a disk of 65 (all high resolution) shots...some funny...all for the original price. Anyway, the dad didn't like the photos of one of the twins (the one who was making all the faces) so they called and asked me to come again for a reshoot. Anyway today, they gave me the "amount of beef they thought the shoot was worth". It was 2 steaks. I kid you not. I almost burst out in tears right there...but instead just left...

This probably sounds funny and pathetic, but it made me really wonder if I'm so bad that my work isn't worth even slightly what I quoted? I'd already given them the disk...the photos, everything. And they are "friends" or were...I have no recourse, because of that. But it made me want to sell my gear and take up knitting... :cry:

That's why I posted the gallery link....are these shots that bad? Tell me honestly...I'm completely distraught.

And to top it all off, they're not even big steaks!! :evil:

[Maureen Souza]

Now that stinks, Lisa. Take them their steaks back and ask for your CD back. And don't do anything for them again. I think the photos turned out fine (except for one little brat:)). What a creton the father must be.

[wu_wei0]

either that or give them back two bucks and invoice them. What jerks! Need us to come kick some cheep hiney?

[Maureen Souza]

either that or give them back two bucks and invoice them. What jerks! Need us to come kick some cheap hiney?
I'm up for it;)

[Permagrin]

Now that stinks, Lisa. Take them their steaks back and ask for your CD back. And don't do anything for them again. I think the photos turned out fine (except for one little brat:)). What a creton the father must be.

You want to know the worst part? Next Wed is the day I'm supposed to do the "re-shoot"...I don't want to go but it wouldn't be very professional to not...I'm telling you I just get sick of people some times...:cry:

[Maureen Souza]

You want to know the worst part? Next Wed is the day I'm supposed to do the "re-shoot"...I don't want to go but it wouldn't be very professional to not...I'm telling you I just get sick of people some times...:cry:
Call them up and telll them you have reconsidered. Tell them you spent 8 hours working on their photos and you didn't feel they compensated you fairly. Then you are on the power end of the situation. Now don't be scared to do it. Your time is worth way more than 2 steaks...more like a side of beef!!

[Permagrin]

either that or give them back two bucks and invoice them. What jerks! Need us to come kick some cheep hiney?

I'm up for it;)

You two could do it too! I've no doubt :)

I suppose you think I'm a chump for doing doing it in a more professional way...but I was trying to help out some friends. They aren't close friends but they are (were?) friends.

[Woolburr]

Upon completion of the re-shoot....you need to re-invoice....

[puddlepirate44]

Upon completion of the re-shoot....you need to re-invoice....

Maybe I'll go do the re-shoot and charge them $200. Hmmmm....

[Woolburr]

If they are expecting a re-shoot....then they should be expecting to pay fair market value for the session...these aren't friends, these are users.

[Permagrin]

If they are expecting a re-shoot....then they should be expecting to pay fair market value for the session...these aren't friends, these are users.

I think you are right Wool. They aren't expecting to pay anything for the re-shoot. They know (freely admit) the problem was the child but since they were "paying" me, they expect me to fix it.

[Woolburr]

This is why I quit shooting weddings....I got burned by some so-called friends...I agreed to waive the normal shooting fee....they just pay for the film, developing, prints and albums....When they returned from their honeymoon, I handed them 2 proof albums with 8x10's, 5x7's and 4x6's....I got a bottle of beer....and asked when I was going to give them the negatives....I mentioned the little matter of the materials cost...and was told that I had been paid in beer...they bugged me and bugged me for the negatives....finally...I let them have them...sort of...they had a bonfire one night...I tossed their negatives in the fire.;)

[puddlepirate44]

This is why I quit shooting weddings....I got burned by some so-called friends...I agreed to waive the normal shooting fee....they just pay for the film, developing, prints and albums....When they returned from their honeymoon, I handed them 2 proof albums with 8x10's, 5x7's and 4x6's....I got a bottle of beer....and asked when I was going to give them the negatives....I mentioned the little matter of the materials cost...and was told that I had been paid in beer...they bugged me and bugged me for the negatives....finally...I let them have them...sort of...they had a bonfire one night...I tossed their negatives in the fire.;)

Wow. I'm not worthy to be in your presence. That was totally cool!

[Woolburr]

Wow. I'm not worthy to be in your presence. That was totally cool!

I can tell you that a whole lot of soul searching went into that maneuver...I gave them every chance to do the right thing...and they did already have all the proofs. But after a year of playing games...enough was enough.:evil:

[Lightstream]

OK sickos....I'm back from my expedition; anybody miss me?

[liza]

I can tell you that a whole lot of soul searching went into that maneuver...I gave them every chance to do the right thing...and they did already have all the proofs. But after a year of playing games...enough was enough.:evil:

Good for you. And Permie, I'd tell those jerks to shove the steaks where the sun doesn't shine. I hate people like that! :evil:

[Lightstream]

OK sickos....I'm back from my expedition; anybody miss me?


Hmm....guess not

[puddlepirate44]

Hmm....guess not

I MISSED YOU LIGHTSTREAM!

Actually, we're all in shock over PGrin's recent photo shoot that turned into a slap in the face. Well, at least I'm in shock.... :shock:

[Lightstream]

I MISSED YOU LIGHTSTREAM!


Cool, at least one person noticed I was gone... :) Thanks :)

Actually, we're all in shock over PGrin's recent photo shoot that turned into a slap in the face. Well, at least I'm in shock.... :shock:


I just caught up on thread that has passed me by and I would be appalled by such 'customers' as well. I've cut people off for good, over less. Return the steaks and get the CD back. If they want to enforce their end of the contract they are going to be made to pay for it as well. I would not re-shoot it, professionalism or otherwise, if they don't want to be professional about it, I wouldn't be either.

Well, puddle went to bed but he said if you're gonna use a handgun, be sure to use silver bullets dipped in holy water...

I say dip holy bullets, into spaghetti sauce, shoot the cow, wait for the zombie to come along looking for lunch...offer him a Nikon and then when he's recoiling in horror let him have it with your machete...

Sounds good. Spaghetti sauce. I love it! (had excellent pasta on return from my expedition and cheap pizza and fast food crap.. ironically the best you can get in small hick towns that are so rural it hurts)

Spare the cow, there are others more deserving ;)

[Permagrin]

Good for you. And Permie, I'd tell those jerks to shove the steaks where the sun doesn't shine. I hate people like that! :evil:

My mum just said "You have been insulted and you don't need to take that kind of abuse. If they call and wonder why you're not there on Wednesday....tell them they got much more than their 2 steaks-worth!" (she's very protective of me ;) ).

I suppose someday I'll be able to laugh at my "first two steaks to rub together". Mostly today I just cried. It wasn't just because of the steaks....it was because of the friendship and how it obviously means something much different to them. And because of the work, I work very hard to make an acceptable product...and to me, it was a slap in the face...

I wonder if Ansel Adams ever had anyone say "your work's not worth 3 pieces of meat"....

[saravrose]

Oh.. Permie.. I can tell you.. don't shoot for friends.. don't do favors for friends of friends or in-laws of cousins, or next door neighbors sisters... I have been taught my lesson.. completely. I do think your photos were good. I didn't see any shots that weren't 'printworthy'.. at the very least of this you need to not do the re-shoot.. Trust me on this as crappy as you feel right now you will feel that much worse if you do another shoot for them, go through the work of processing more photos.. your time is worth much, much more than two steaks and worth more than $150 as well... If they want a re-shoot charge them. Either a flat fee or on a sliding scale of sitting time and processing time. Do not give them anything until they've paid up. and tell them very clearly that photographers are not paid in favors returned, that you don't shoot runny nosed brats because you're artistically driven and you expect to be compensated for your time and skill... I'm actually pretty angry for you... I think because i've been taken advantage of as well..


sari

[Permagrin]

Oh.. Permie.. I can tell you.. don't shoot for friends.. don't do favors for friends of friends or in-laws of cousins, or next door neighbors sisters... I have been taught my lesson.. completely. I do think your photos were good. I didn't see any shots that weren't 'printworthy'.. at the very least of this you need to not do the re-shoot.. Trust me on this as crappy as you feel right now you will feel that much worse if you do another shoot for them, go through the work of processing more photos.. your time is worth much, much more than two steaks and worth more than $150 as well... If they want a re-shoot charge them. Either a flat fee or on a sliding scale of sitting time and processing time. Do not give them anything until they've paid up. and tell them very clearly that photographers are not paid in favors returned, that you don't shoot runny nosed brats because you're artistically driven and you expect to be compensated for your time and skill... I'm actually pretty angry for you... I think because i've been taken advantage of as well..


sari

Thanks Sari I'm pretty angry too...but it's nice to have friends that understand!
What happened to you?

[Lightstream]

I've been screwed before, when I was just starting out and everybody gave me as hard a time as possible. Nowadays my approach to business is simple: contracts and payment up front. Product (whatever it may be) does not ship until payment is delivered. No payment? No worries, the product can sit here and may be resold to the next customer (if feasible, well, portraits are not, but other stuff can well be).

DO NOT go back and do the reshoot for them. If you do, charge them premium rates - 3X market rate. I would do that to customers I don't ever want to see again. And get it all in black and white with a witness.

[Permagrin]

I've been screwed before, when I was just starting out and everybody gave me as hard a time as possible. Nowadays my approach to business is simple: contracts and payment up front. Product (whatever it may be) does not ship until payment is delivered. No payment? No worries, the product can sit here and may be resold to the next customer (if feasible, well, portraits are not, but other stuff can well be).

DO NOT go back and do the reshoot for them. If you do, charge them premium rates - 3X market rate. I would do that to customers I don't ever want to see again. And get it all in black and white with a witness.

I'm not going back. I don't remember which one of you said it, but really they have gotten their two steaks worth and then some.

[Lightstream]

I'm not going back. I don't remember which one of you said it, but really they have gotten their two steaks worth and then some.


Good.... I'd also tag their numbers in my cellphone/home phone (home is hardly answered, it's a DSL line anyway) as "do not answer", ignore them henceforth. I feel for you, it's incidents like these that have soured me on the world and people in general, who did their very best to take advantage of me at a time when I was struggling. There are only a couple of friends that I shoot for, and it is all on a not-for-payment basis, I give it to them anyway because they've earned it.

I have some additional info for you...

The 1-4 is a dust pump indeed. First few frames of my 3D/2N expedition (which explains why I haven't been there) were some cows to show Wool (ie. the NORMAL kind that do not wear sheepskin jackets), and those were done with the 1-4, which blew CHUNKS onto my sensor. Bloody h... It was so bad I could even see them on the LCD...

I have a dust baseline image that was shot and archived on my computer just after the arrival of the 1-4, believe me that baseline looks unbelievably clean. To boot, that's a shot of a camera that's NEVER been wet-cleaned in all its thousands of frames. BAH.

I never really thought much of the XTi's onboard antidust system but now I am giving it a second look because of the 1-4. I don't feel it would confer very much benefit with other lenses, but with the 1-4..definitely. Special case. Makes a good tele-extender 1.6X crop camera too.

Day 2 I switched to 17-40 and 24-105 exclusively because it was overcast and raining, got sticky dust on the sensor instead. Tough conditions. Weather sealing DOES matter on the lenses because those are the ones that displace air, even if the 5D is not weather sealed.

1-4 was mostly a liability this trip, wish I had 70-200 f/4L IS. Canon's price tag is ridiculous, however. Want IS, and want weather sealing, so the conventional f/4 version (which is actually quite attractively priced) is not going to cut the cheese. 70-300 IS may go next time, it has 2 out of 3 things I need, IS and light weight being amongst them.

[puddlepirate44]

http://static.flickr.com/112/306312581_d6dc3c9a52.jpg


grrr...

[Permagrin]

I give people photos, even gift portraits a lot.
I suppose I just expected something different when they said they wanted to hire me.

At first, after the first barrage of hysterics, I thought "I suck. and I'm selling all my gear."

Now I think, even if I do suck, I'll just never do that (for a friend...isn't that sad) again...rather just photograph for myself, my family and for personal enjoyment. I'm just hoping I'll be able to move past this and not always be thinking "well of course you can't get a bird shot, your a rotten photographer..." :(

I was actually going to tell you that once we got my 5D cleaned out, (from apparently it's residual dust that it was shipped with) I've had little to no trouble with the sensor. Even with the 1-4 on it. Admittedly I've not been out in the dusty conditions like I was this summer but I've had it on it ever since I sold the 30D...and I didn't have to clean the 30's sensor when I sold it...I don't know if it was changing how I used it...or if there was just a lot of dust in the camera. I bought it brand new...so there shouldn't have been.

I'm sorry about your dust though. It frustrates me to NO END when I'm on a shoot and find my sensor is dirty. One thing though, the stuff you saw through the viewfinder wasn't on your sensor (you can't see it at all through the viewfinder)...it's probably on your focusing screen. For some reason the 5D's focusing screens are dust magnets. There are several threads running here where people talk about their frustrations with it...and it was the first thing to get mucked up on mine. Now I live with it...I've tried to clean it (scratched it) and so unless I want to buy another one, I've just learned to ignore it.

[Lightstream]

I give people photos, even gift portraits a lot.
I suppose I just expected something different when they said they wanted to hire me.

At first, after the first barrage of hysterics, I thought "I suck. and I'm selling all my gear."

Now I think, even if I do suck, I'll just never do that (for a friend...isn't that sad) again...rather just photograph for myself, my family and for personal enjoyment. I'm just hoping I'll be able to move past this and not always be thinking "well of course you can't get a bird shot, your a rotten photographer..." :(


I have been there many, many, many times before (different area.. not photography).. I really feel for you because I know bad it can get.

I still recall the last incident that happened to me. One of my so-called friends told me to shut up and stop whining. When you already feel *THIS* bad, imagine how much WORSE it is when 'friends' tell you to F off. There was a comment earlier about how one should avoid doing certain things to make women mad enough to hunt one down till the end of eternity.. well, I do the 'eternity' thing too. Payback is a bitch, especially if I put the same meticulous amount of attention to detail into it that I bring to work.

It almost seems a little unfair.. guys are expected to just 'suck it up' and put up and shut up.

I think at the end of the day, shoot for yourself. I'm sick of others putting me down. My policy has always been at the end of the day, if I am happy with the quality of shots I am getting, it is good enough. I don't even feel the need to post them online for others to slam, I will just decorate my own walls with them and be happy. Takes 50% of the work out of posting too.


I was actually going to tell you that once we got my 5D cleaned out, (from apparently it's residual dust that it was shipped with) I've had little to no trouble with the sensor. Even with the 1-4 on it. Admittedly I've not been out in the dusty conditions like I was this summer but I've had it on it ever since I sold the 30D...and I didn't have to clean the 30's sensor when I sold it...I don't know if it was changing how I used it...or if there was just a lot of dust in the camera. I bought it brand new...so there shouldn't have been.

I'm sorry about your dust though. It frustrates me to NO END when I'm on a shoot and find my sensor is dirty. One thing though, the stuff you saw through the viewfinder wasn't on your sensor (you can't see it at all through the viewfinder)...it's probably on your focusing screen. For some reason the 5D's focusing screens are dust magnets. There are several threads running here where people talk about their frustrations with it...and it was the first thing to get mucked up on mine. Now I live with it...I've tried to clean it (scratched it) and so unless I want to buy another one, I've just learned to ignore it.


The 350D's focusing screen is a real dust magnet. The 5D is not so bad, besides it can be opened up and cleaned out. Good thing is that if I bring it in for a sensor cleaning ($15 or thereabouts), I request they do the focusing screen/VF as well, and they do it at no additional charge. Drop off, chill at Starbucks, pick up. Love having a local service center. Will do that when I go home in a few weeks. Yes, it is expensive, but I treat it as one of the operating costs of DSLR ownership and do it once every six months or less. If it is very urgent, I break out the Eclipse/Pecpads.

Interesting to note that after the first professional cleaning my 350D stayed clean for a MUCH longer time as well. The 5D hasn't had this done yet. I believe all the cameras pre-ship with a little bit of dust..

Strangely enough the speck seems to have fallen off today. I just got back and checked the sensor, didn't see it, but blew it out again with the Rocket anyway as part of the usual gear cleaning ritual when I get home. Needed to wipe the gear down too, was shooting in coastal conditions with high winds, sand, salinity, you name it.

[Permagrin]

Well, I didn't buy a lens. I spent the lens money on a bowflex & an eliptical machine. I've gained 40lbs since I broke my hip and I'm only 5'4...40lbs doesn't wear well on me. Anyway, I decided that if I achieve my weight loss goal (I pretty much already eat right, having spent half my life on weight watchers), I'm buying (either the 50 1.2, the 400 5.6 or the 70-200 f4 IS). Wish me luck...because now I've got no excuses for not exercising in the winter :lol:
Dan will be cursing in the garage tomorrow as he assembles both machines :lol: :lol:

[Lightstream]

Well, I didn't buy a lens. I spent the lens money on a bowflex & an eliptical machine. I've gained 40lbs since I broke my hip and I'm only 5'4...40lbs doesn't wear well on me. Anyway, I decided that if I achieve my weight loss goal (I pretty much already eat right, having spent half my life on weight watchers), I'm buying (either the 50 1.2, the 400 5.6 or the 70-200 f4 IS). Wish me luck...because now I've got no excuses for not exercising in the winter :lol:
Dan will be cursing in the garage tomorrow as he assembles both machines :lol: :lol:

Wow.....congratulations on the new purchase! Good incentive. If I put 40 pounds on I would panic.

400/5.6 - birding lens? Go easy on yourself, if you do get this one.. don't feel unnecessarily pressurized to deliver results.

Actually I feel bad.. you can haul a 30D, 5D, 24-105 and 1-4 on location even with a bad hip, and I can't.. well, actually I CAN, just that I feel better when carrying less gear. Should I feel guilty that I want a lighter load?

[Permagrin]

Wow.....congratulations on the new purchase! Good incentive. If I put 40 pounds on I would panic.

400/5.6 - birding lens? Go easy on yourself, if you do get this one.. don't feel unnecessarily pressurized to deliver results.

Actually I feel bad.. you can haul a 30D, 5D, 24-105 and 1-4 on location even with a bad hip, and I can't.. well, actually I CAN, just that I feel better when carrying less gear. Should I feel guilty that I want a lighter load?

No don't feel guilty. Before all this, I was hauling the MKIIN and the 70-200 f/2.8. That was nightmarishly heavy...so the 5D and the 30 together seemed lighter than the MKIIN. the 1-4 is lighter than the 70-200 2.8 so really it was just the weight of the extra lens. (It just seems like a lot ;) ).

It was nice to go out last week with just one camera (even though it frustrated the heck out of me to have to switch lenses if I wanted a landscape shot). I do want a good bird lens. We have too many wonderful raptors around here that fly by and I'm just not able to capture their beauty....it's making me NUTS!

It's taken about 18mo to gain this weight but the problem is that I'm not being able to stop gaining...so I've got to do something about it. The eliptical and the bowflex were originally both made specifically for people with injuries...(I've broken my shoulder and my ankle and my wrist too...) so I bought these two and am hoping that I'll be able to use them get back into shape. I used to be a cross country runner and I was the (shortest and fastest) guard in womens basketball that our team ever had...I'm not used to being fat...it takes a terrible toll on me.

[Lightstream]

No don't feel guilty. Before all this, I was hauling the MKIIN and the 70-200 f/2.8. That was nightmarishly heavy...so the 5D and the 30 together seemed lighter than the MKIIN. the 1-4 is lighter than the 70-200 2.8 so really it was just the weight of the extra lens. (It just seems like a lot ;) ).


Thanks.. I really find weight makes a difference to how I move and I shoot. As I said, I'm not a static shooter, I move a lot, walk a lot, drive a lot, and at the end of the day I am so tired that it takes all 3 stops of IS to help me. One shot that I figured should have been within safe IS handhold limits of 3 stops was not - apparently I was so tired and unsteady that I needed to both bracket ISO 1600 and turn on the stabilizer to save the shot. Turned out to be one of my favorite shots from the mission and I am lucky to have that.

1D is almost exactly equal to 5D + 30D weight (all of them including batteries). This is why I like the 350D.

I know how the 1D + 70-200/2.8 setup feels.. I have one rig that works that way.. ouch. It is fine at events, where I actually walk and move around less than at landscapes (where you are continually moving to see all of it).


It was nice to go out last week with just one camera (even though it frustrated the heck out of me to have to switch lenses if I wanted a landscape shot). I do want a good bird lens. We have too many wonderful raptors around here that fly by and I'm just not able to capture their beauty....it's making me NUTS!


I believe you'll get there....keep trying.. turn on the additional 6 AF points and good luck with your 5D. Frame loose (if you can) and crop later, it makes it easier to get the subject into the frame.


It's taken about 18mo to gain this weight but the problem is that I'm not being able to stop gaining...so I've got to do something about it. The eliptical and the bowflex were originally both made specifically for people with injuries...(I've broken my shoulder and my ankle and my wrist too...) so I bought these two and am hoping that I'll be able to use them get back into shape. I used to be a cross country runner and I was the (shortest and fastest) guard in womens basketball that our team ever had...I'm not used to being fat...it takes a terrible toll on me.

All the best with your mission.. I hope it works out for you! BTW, I'm sure you've thought of this already, but has a hip specialist talked to you about the options? They might have solutions that we haven't thought of.

[liza]

It's taken about 18mo to gain this weight but the problem is that I'm not being able to stop gaining...so I've got to do something about it. The eliptical and the bowflex were originally both made specifically for people with injuries...(I've broken my shoulder and my ankle and my wrist too...) so I bought these two and am hoping that I'll be able to use them get back into shape. I used to be a cross country runner and I was the (shortest and fastest) guard in womens basketball that our team ever had...I'm not used to being fat...it takes a terrible toll on me.

My friend, Amy, uses an elliptical, too. Her hip joints have deteriorated so she can no longer run marathons, and she had also been packing on the weight until she started working out. And look on the bright side. If you start working out with that Bow Flex, you might look like that lady in the commercial with the buff body who wears a bikini when she's 50. :)
Makes me wanna buy a Bow Flex to tone these abs.

[Permagrin]

My friend, Amy, uses an elliptical, too. Her hip joints have deteriorated so she can no longer run marathons, and she had also been packing on the weight until she started working out. And look on the bright side. If you start working out with that Bow Flex, you might look like that lady in the commercial with the buff body who wears a bikini when she's 50. :)
Makes me wanna buy a Bow Flex to tone these abs.

HAHAHAHAHA :lol:
If that EVER happens, you can bet I'll be posting a photo here with pride :lol:

Thanks Lightstream. I have been to several specialists and use the exercises they've recommended...but they've done all they can for me. I'm able to use an elliptical but just hated going to the gym...this erased that prob. The bowflex was a bit of an impulse buy...but it was on a killer sale. And I've SEEN those commercials...and read the testamonials (more than 50 pages of people my age, injuries included, that have used it with great success)...so I'm willing to give it a go. So is husband...so now we've got two hobbies (ewww, exercise just shouldn't be called a hobby) to do together...he used to lift weights and has all the "fitness" know how, but for the last fifteen or so years, the know how has been gathering dust...so now we drag it back out. I'm excited to be at least taking a positive step. I'm going to let him take ONE photo of me where I'm not wearing a big coat or something to hide how I look...so that when I'm done, I'll have a comparison photo. Hopefully I'll be pleased!

[liza]

Well, my friend who works out with the elliptical is just as buff if not more so than the Bow Flex Lady. So if you're dedicated and can change your eating habits, you should be able to wear that bikini! :)

[Lightstream]

HAHAHAHAHA :lol:
If that EVER happens, you can bet I'll be posting a photo here with pride :lol:

Thanks Lightstream. I have been to several specialists and use the exercises they've recommended...but they've done all they can for me. I'm able to use an elliptical but just hated going to the gym...this erased that prob. The bowflex was a bit of an impulse buy...but it was on a killer sale. And I've SEEN those commercials...and read the testamonials (more than 50 pages of people my age, injuries included, that have used it with great success)...so I'm willing to give it a go. So is husband...so now we've got two hobbies (ewww, exercise just shouldn't be called a hobby) to do together...he used to lift weights and has all the "fitness" know how, but for the last fifteen or so years, the know how has been gathering dust...so now we drag it back out. I'm excited to be at least taking a positive step. I'm going to let him take ONE photo of me where I'm not wearing a big coat or something to hide how I look...so that when I'm done, I'll have a comparison photo. Hopefully I'll be pleased!

Sounds good and we look forward to seeing the 'victory photo' :D

I hate working out myself.. really hate it. The only way is to get me to do that is walk long distances for a photo op, that's why I pack myself off on them often and necessarily.

[liza]

Sounds good and we look forward to seeing the 'victory photo' :D

I hate working out myself.. really hate it. The only way is to get me to do that is walk long distances for a photo op, that's why I pack myself off on them often and necessarily.

I can't wait to see the victory pic myself.

I'm not one to work out at the gym, but I sure like to run. I have to do it on the high school track, though. If I ran around town, I'd probably fall and break something. I'm such a klutz! :lol:

[Maureen Souza]

I'm not going back. I don't remember which one of you said it, but really they have gotten their two steaks worth and then some.
Ummm, that was me. And good...they don't deserve you.

I started putting up Christmas decorations tonight. It takes me about a week to get everything done. The tree alone takes 2 eight hour days! If it weren't for my grandson, I wouldn't go thru all the bother...but he loves it all so much and I love him so much. I haven't seen him in a week...he went out of town with his mom for the holiday....am aching to see him and visa versa. He'll be here in the morning.:D :D :D

[Lightstream]

Speaking of partying.....

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1526&g2_serialNumber=3

5 liter self-pressurized mini keg. Fits in most fridges. It is soooo nice to be able to tap your own beer.... :D

[Claire]

Can someone summarize what happened with Perma's shoot?

Perm,sorry you were treated badly. *hugs*

Oh,let's loose weight together. I didn't go to gym this week. BAD Claire.:(

[Lightstream]

Can someone summarize what happened with Perma's shoot?

Essentially got told that all her hours put in on the shoot were worth two steaks in trade for the CD of 65 postprocessed print grade images. Now is that a slap in the face or what?

[Claire]

Two steaks?! What is that? We're not in the 17th Century where you trade services for poultry!

[condyk]

You guys want to hear a story that's just riddled with pathetic failure ... today, they gave me the "amount of beef they thought the shoot was worth". It was 2 steaks. I kid you not. I almost burst out in tears right there...but instead just left...

That's why I posted the gallery link....are these shots that bad? Tell me honestly...I'm completely distraught.

Those shots are perfectly acceptable quality.

...these aren't friends, these are users.

Correct.

I'm not going back. I don't remember which one of you said it, but really they have gotten their two steaks worth and then some.

Good ... I would have have looked them in the eye, judged if they were taking the p*ss and if I really knew they were serious I would have taken the shots back and told them to shove the steak up their a*se ... then I would have had a laugh to myself as I walked up the road knowing what an an ar*e I was not to be clear about terms up front :lol: :lol:

... I just expected something different when they said they wanted to hire me.

Now I think, even if I do suck, I'll just never do that (for a friend...isn't that sad) again...rather just photograph for myself, my family and for personal enjoyment.

Well there is no satisfaction in life by adapting yourself to others based on just one bad experience. Learn and then judge new opportunities case by case. What you propose is just a recipe for holding a grudge or holding yourself back.

Two steaks?! What is that? We're not in the 17th Century where you trade services for poultry!

Why not ... as long as the deal is fair? Problem here was lack of clarity from the outset and Perm was responsible for that and then others taking advantage of the situation.

[Claire]

Good ... I would have have looked them in the eye, judged if they were taking the p*ss and if I really knew they were serious I would have taken the shots back and told them to shove the steak up their a*se ... then I would have had a laugh to myself as I walked up the road knowing what an an ar*e I was not to be clear about terms up front :lol: :lol:


Hm, sounds like something I'd do....I'd taken the steaks if I knew they were VERY nice ones. Like Kobe beef...

[condyk]

Hm, sounds like something I'd do....I'd taken the steaks if I knew they were VERY nice ones. Like Kobe beef...

:lol: :lol: Ok, tell 'em to shove 'em up their 'best end' but then keep them for later!

[Claire]

I'm off to have some "me time". Nice hot shower, Body Shop body scrub, face scrub & I'll smell all nice afterwards. :)

[Lightstream]

Wool.....I shot a Cow for you....

This is a NORMAL Cow that does not wear kick down doors, walk on water, or murder sheep to make sheepskin jackets in cool weather.

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1601&g2_serialNumber=1

[Claire]

I saw a Chihuahua (sp?) yesterday wearing a green jacket with soft collar.

[Woolburr]

Ah...young master Yoda...you have returned from the nether regions...was it a successful relaxation exercise? Mooooooooooooooooooooooo....nice cow dood.

[Permagrin]

Two steaks?! What is that? We're not in the 17th Century where you trade services for poultry!

It was beef...I should frame them...they were the most expensive two steaks I've ever had!

Those shots are perfectly acceptable quality.

Good ... I would have have looked them in the eye, judged if they were taking the p*ss and if I really knew they were serious I would have taken the shots back and told them to shove the steak up their a*se ... then I would have had a laugh to myself as I walked up the road knowing what an an ar*e I was not to be clear about terms up front :lol: :lol:

Well there is no satisfaction in life by adapting yourself to others based on just one bad experience. Learn and then judge new opportunities case by case. What you propose is just a recipe for holding a grudge or holding yourself back.

Why not ... as long as the deal is fair? Problem here was lack of clarity from the outset and Perm was responsible for that and then others taking advantage of the situation.

And Dave, I've REALLY learned a lot from this...now that I've had time to get over the trauma. I thought I was clear, re: the terms but obviously I was not. I guarantee I WILL be from here on out ;)

Thanks everyone for taking a look at the shots and for the encouragements...I really do appreciate it.

[Permagrin]

Oh and Claire, sure, I'm up for the "lets lose weight together". My goal is 50lbs. I don't have a time limit but I'm going to do it. Husband is out putting the machines together now. And I'm really excited. Hoping to head off to Yellowstone next fall and MUST be in better shape to hike it!

[Woolburr]

Oh and Claire, sure, I'm up for the "lets lose weight together". My goal is 50lbs. I don't have a time limit but I'm going to do it. Husband is out putting the machines together now. And I'm really excited. Hoping to head off to Yellowstone next fall and MUST be in better shape to hike it!

About time you woke up. ;) You really don't want to be down to 50 pounds....that is just doing the whole thin thing way too far.:rolleyes:

[liza]

I just gained back 5 pounds and feel like I'm fighting a losing battle with middle-aged spread. I'd like to shed a little and get toned! Got to get in that Bow Flex bikini in a couple more years! :lol:

[Permagrin]

About time you woke up. ;) You really don't want to be down to 50 pounds....that is just doing the whole thin thing way too far.:rolleyes:

I'm not trying to be thin...really...and I don't advocate the rail thin thing by any stretch...I way WAY too much for someone my height. Probably if I told you (which I won't) you'd faint dead away (and I'm guessing you really aren't the fainting type)....50lbs doesn't even put me in the "thin" of the BMI...just in mid-normal...

and I've been awake for quite a while...I'm watching football...though it's a really boring game (SF vs. STL).

[liza]

I'd just like to lose a few pounds at keep my weight at 135. The toning part is really more important to me. Don't know if I'll ever have six pack abs, but i would like my abdomen and thighs to look a bit tighter.

Besides, Claire told me in the 10K Boobs thread that I should have Lorek photograph me for the POTN book. Wouldn't want to look flabby for that. :lol:

[Woolburr]

Any man that pays 10K for a pair of boobs becomes one himself....now what on earth do you do with three 10K boobs?

[Permagrin]

I'd just like to lose a few pounds at keep my weight at 135. The toning part is really more important to me. Don't know if I'll ever have six pack abs, but i would like my abdomen and thighs to look a bit tighter.

Besides, Claire told me in the 10K Boobs thread that I should have Lorek photograph me for the POTN book. Wouldn't want to look flabby for that. :lol:

I'm not going for a six pack for sure :lol: Weight loss and toning are my goal! I didn't even wear a bikini when I could safely do so :lol: :lol: Husband just got the elliptical together...works great. yay.

[Claire]

I'd just like to lose a few pounds at keep my weight at 135. The toning part is really more important to me. Don't know if I'll ever have six pack abs, but i would like my abdomen and thighs to look a bit tighter.

Besides, Claire told me in the 10K Boobs thread that I should have Lorek photograph me for the POTN book. Wouldn't want to look flabby for that. :lol:

Sigh, I used to be so proud of my flat stomach when I was younger. And slim waist. Oh well, **** happens..LOL

I'm aiming towards 60-62kg. I'm waay overweight right now, especially for being half asian. I'll be happy to get into nice clothes, semi-flat tummy,more toned arms & general better strenght & fit.

Bikini? No way. Never liked them. I can deal with the tops, but not the bottoms unless they're sporty.

Liza, you'd look great in Lorek's images I'm sure. :)

[liza]

I'm a bit over my ideal weight, as I'm 5'7" and weigh about 136 pounds, give or take a pound or two. The tummy isn't perfectly flat and needs some toning to look like it did pre-babies. I used to be very, very thin for my height and for years struggled to keep my weight above 120. Now, it's not so much of a struggle. :lol: At least I actually have a "figure" now. I used to be so stick thin, I didn't have much of a shape.

[Lightstream]

Any man that pays 10K for a pair of boobs becomes one himself....now what on earth do you do with three 10K boobs?

They can form a consortium and a working group to discuss the problem of the Three Tits. Schedule a meeting in the boardroom for Monday 9AM and ensure the proceedings are minuted. :p :p http://pix.lightrefineries.org/img/crackup.gif

Ah...young master Yoda...you have returned from the nether regions...was it a successful relaxation exercise? Mooooooooooooooooooooooo....nice cow dood.

Nether regions? No, unfortunately, I did not get laid (although I saw one truly fine chick on the way back.. there is a certain kind that gets me every time, and no, no huge boobs - quite the opposite in fact).

However it was a good vacation.. very quiet, very relaxing, slept well - which I haven't done in a long time. In fact when I got home, tired as I was, I couldn't sleep!

Thanks for the compliment on the cow, while using the 1-4 to get that shot, it blew chunks onto my sensor.. happy I am not... dust so bad it showed up on the LCD!

Out there is so rural it is scary. An acquaintance (also a big city dweller like myself) once remarked that as you drive further from civilization, skyscrapers give way to low rise malls and suburbs, which give way to grasslands, then to cows and horses, and she was quite shocked. Well I can tell you what is shocking, when cows and horses give way to rusted fences, then to potholed roads, then to....

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1567&g2_serialNumber=2


'tis not barrel or pincushion distortion in the image, for this was shot at 50mm full frame, the little building on the right really does lean like that!

I wondered if anybody would yell at me for shooting their place, but it seems that this house is unliveable anyway...

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1573&g2_serialNumber=1

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1564&g2_serialNumber=1

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1570&g2_serialNumber=2


The windmill still turns, although I did not go for the 'prop blur' effect (should have, actually). The overcast day complements it perfectly.

[Lightstream]

And you know it is TRULY rural when you come across these....

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1597&g2_serialNumber=1

Which basically means, the house either burned or fell down, nature reclaimed the land, except for the stone chimneys (which were designed to be fireproof from the get go anyway). :shock:

You could probably rebuild a house around the chimney, unclog it, and it would still serve another few years.

[liza]

Nice images. Kind of looks like the landscape around here, although we have more trees.

[Lightstream]

Thanks Liza :) this is mostly agricultural land, so I believe the land was cleared by whoever lived in those houses, and the trees have not yet reclaimed it. You can see them encroaching in the last picture though, eventually they will retake the land, or maybe not. Large areas of uncultivated land are simply grass or scrub.

Either way....way too rural for me. Happiness is finding a big pizza chain in the middle of nowhere!! :D

[wu_wei0]

Nice images. Kind of looks like the landscape around here, although we have more trees.
I can drive 2-4 miles in any direction and see similar scenes. The whole county population is about 3/4 the size of the last town I lived in, which I thought quite small. The school pop where I taught last (28,000) is larger than that of the town in which I live now.
I like rural, but would like to be a bit closer to some kind of action- or at least less monitored here. :)

Love the photos! I actually shot a few this weekend. nothing great, though.

[Lightstream]

Thanks Wu :) the best photos are still sitting on my hard disk though....there are some really nice ones I should get around to posting.

I am a big city person, having lived all my life in various cities with populations numbering into the millions. Not to say they don't have their disadvantages (I HATE traffic lights with a vengeance), but I also have gotten used to the creature comforts.

[liza]

I can drive 2-4 miles in any direction and see similar scenes. The whole county population is about 3/4 the size of the last town I lived in, which I thought quite small. The school pop where I taught last (28,000) is larger than that of the town in which I live now.
I like rural, but would like to be a bit closer to some kind of action- or at least less monitored here. :)


The nearest town to me has a population of 3,500. And I wouldn't know action if it jumped up and bit me in the @ss! :lol:

[wu_wei0]

The nearest town to me has a population of 3,500. And I wouldn't know action if it jumped up and bit me in the @ss! :lol:
ROFL Think I have forgotten what action is, but if it bit me in the a$$, I surely think I'd recognize it! ;)

[liza]

It's pretty sleepy around here. This town is just like Mayberry.

[Woolburr]

Nice shots Yoda....that looks like my kind of vacation spot. Cows and quiet...I like the city conveniences....but it sure is fun to get away.

[Permagrin]

Nice shots Yoda....that looks like my kind of vacation spot. Cows and quiet...I like the city conveniences....but it sure is fun to get away.

the three C's of vacation
"cows, convenience and cwiet"
(oh wait, must use spell check to see if convenience is spelled correctly :lol: )

[Woolburr]

the three C's of vacation
"cows, convenience and cwiet"
(oh wait, must use spell check to see if convenience is spelled correctly :lol: )


It was spelled right in my post....rofl :lol: :lol: :lol: When I go on vacation...I take my conveniences with me...the whole idea behind having an RV....
http://www.pbase.com/woolburr/image/61424406.jpg

[Lightstream]

Nice shots Yoda....that looks like my kind of vacation spot. Cows and quiet...I like the city conveniences....but it sure is fun to get away.

Actually that's what I felt too....it was nice to be away from the city, wake up looking at the sunrise (and going back to bed ;) ), like I said for some strange reason I slept so much better.

But these are not the best shots... :D

These are more like what I was after..

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1535&g2_serialNumber=2

(pano crop, looks better in full size, click here (http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1533&g2_serialNumber=1))

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1555&g2_serialNumber=2

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1594&g2_serialNumber=2

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1585&g2_serialNumber=2

[Skrim17]

I live in a town of 40,000 and this is the suburbia!

[Lightstream]

the three C's of vacation
"cows, convenience and cwiet"
(oh wait, must use spell check to see if convenience is spelled correctly :lol: )

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/img/crackup.gifcwiet....I like that!!!

It was spelled right in my post....rofl :lol: :lol: :lol: When I go on vacation...I take my conveniences with me...the whole idea behind having an RV....
http://www.pbase.com/woolburr/image/61424406.jpg

NICE! Though I could not quite imagine piloting such a beast down the highway.. my ride of choice is a small 5 door hatch (that admittedly leaves some things to be desired..)

[Permagrin]

It was spelled right in my post....rofl :lol: :lol: :lol: When I go on vacation...I take my conveniences with me...the whole idea behind having an RV...

Oh, nice toy...I'd like one but we've got an HOA and we're not allowed to have boats or RV's here...

again, very pretty shots LS.

[Woolburr]

That is some pretty strange looking landscape...what is the story on the first picture that looks like the brown stuff is oozing over the cliffs? Nice pics BTW...

[Permagrin]

I live in a town of 40,000 and this is the suburbia!

me too

[Lightstream]

Thanks PG, Wool...

The brown stuff is actually the layer of topsoil and earth. This is a very rugged coastline that gets pounded by waves coming in from the Antarctic, with nothing to stop them along the way, and over time they have carved many of the magnificent features along the coast.

http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1543&g2_serialNumber=2

This rock is cool:
http://pix.lightrefineries.org/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=1549&g2_serialNumber=1

It sits on a raised platform, and the water drains quite dramatically after a wave breaks. Plus the waves have carved out the bottom of the rock, so now it rests on its precarious perch.... I suspect in a while it will no longer be sitting so comfortable :D

[wu_wei0]

That is some pretty strange looking landscape...what is the story on the first picture that looks like the brown stuff is oozing over the cliffs? Nice pics BTW...
Looks like maple icing on my computer. Think I want a donut. :)
Yoda- Those are great. I can't see anything like that near here.