FP: "Airistic" Portraiture

Our featured Photographer for this week is FPC's first Photographer of the Month (PoM, Jan 2007). Well, that doesn't bring you much of a surprise; we all know who he is! And he proves to be a repeat contender for February. If indicators are trustworthy, he's going to bag the title again this February! What with two winning entries to the Club's photo contests?!

That obvious matter having been said, let us dig deeper into the person of this prolific newbie, Airic (or Eric) Espenida, known in flickr as Ryuji23.

flickr name: Ryuji23
Real Name: Eric Espenida
Lives in: Angono Rizal
Day Job: Web Quality Assurance Merchandiser/Freelance IT Specialist
Current Gear: Nikon D70s; Nikkor 50mm lens
Dream Gear: Nikon D200 / Nikkor18 - 200mm VR/SB800 flash
Favorite Photo Subject: Portraiture

Favorite Photographers: Manny Librodo, Ross Capili, Daniel Go

Photographic Ambition: Build my own studio, become either Wedding, Events or Fashion Photographer

A JOURNEY INTO HIS PERSON
1. Him and His Family

FPC: How many siblings are you in the family?
Ryuji: I have one older brother so that makes me the youngest in the family.

FPC: Has the place where you grew up anything to do with your passion for Photography?
Ryuji: I grew up in Makati City for the past 20 years. In my childhood days I preferred sketching cartoon characters (I made my on comic books when I was a kid) or loitering around the neighborhood just to observe the environment (church, old houses, buildings, houses etc.). But I didn’t think of taking pictures back then because my parents didn’t want me to use our old film camera just because I didn’t have any idea how to used it.

I lost my sketching hobby when I was in grade 6 when I shifted my attention to basketball. I joined the school's varsity team when I was in high school. I was more a sports- & computer games-minded until I graduated in college, with the degree of B.S. Computer Science, from Adamson University.

My interest in art was somewhat revived when we moved to Angono Rizal a few years back. Knowing the place as the "Art Capital" of the Philippines, I saw most of the works of our famous national artist in galleries and dreamed that someday I could also have my own. However, I haven’t think photography would be my medium then; which I do right now! Hehehe hmmm... But I guess I would engage in art in general rather than photography only.

FPC: What does you family say about your passion?
Ryuji: “It’s an EXPENSIVE hobby!” my folks asked me why I chose photography. I told them that this is one way for me to travel and meet people. Then my dad said, “For as long as you still have an extra for our expenses at home, I think that will not be a problem.” Luckily, I still have my monthly salary left for my hobby! Hehehe But all of them are supportive, especially my dad.

2. His Photography

FPC: When did you take up Photography and what was your inspiration?
Ryuji: I took up Photography only last August 2006; Don (shutterglass) introduced me to this field after he returned from the US where he bought his Nikon D50. I was amazed with its [physical form]; but I still can’t afford to buy one. Luckily, Canon S3 IS is a little bit cheaper so for two months I saved enough cash to purchase my first camera last November 2006.

It was a memorable story because when we bought it in Hidalgo, it was almost closing time and we just ask the store owner to wait for us for a little while because where coming from the office. I’m pretty much happy to have my own digital camera, and I just can’t stop taking photos without thinking about composition; mostly candid.

Then we attended the “Thursday shoot @ OWG.” This is where I met mr. Ross Capili and I was inspired by all the works on his gallery. This is where I also learned to incorporate composition to my photos. Aside from that I also saw the works of Manuel Librodo and I was really astonished about how he composes those portrait images. That’s when I decided to focus more on portraiture and to take those frontal shots.

After two months using Canon S3 IS, I shifted to Nikon and bought a Nikon D70s from Chewy, I bought my 50mm lens from kuya Perry. If I liked my S3 IS before, I’m much happier when I got my D70s. It helps me a lot with my shots.

FPC: As a beginner, how did you accumulate your knowledge about Photography and about taking pictures?
Ryuji: With regards to Photography, I’m not into reading books or articles regarding techniques on how to compose a photo (I often fell asleep when I read! hehe.. Unless its all about computer or FHM hehehe). I'd rather visit ones picture gallery and view all of the artist's works. I prefer looking at the picture itself and study its composition.

I think this technique, helps one understand the composition and then create his own version based on what's learned from the particular images. Some might say you’ll just copying ones idea but hey! A picture is worth a thousand words, every one has a different interpretation on a single picture.

FPC: What kind of subjects inspire you most to take pictures?
Ryuji: Woman with veil or a person showing emotions.

FPC: When is a photo “good” to you?
Ryuji: I think every photo has "good" attributes. It's up to the person how will they interpret its meaning. But primarily, I like close up portrait of a lady showing her emotions.

FPC: Are you a technical person, one that pays greater attention to technical details, or are you a compositional photog?
Ryuji: Now, I’m more of a Compositional photographer. I like to maximize what is available. I’m also of the spontaneous type because there are certain shot that’s hard to plan or complicated to compose--that certain moment you’ll just have to wait, and when that right moment comes, you know that it will turn out a good photograph.

FPC: What or who are your influences in Photography?
Ryuji: Manuel Librodo, Ross Capili, Don Garchitorena, Ronnie Ragonton, Daniel Go, JC

FPC: What are your personal rules for taking photographs?
Ryuji: Just be natural, always show your emotions and be enthusiastic on everything that you do.

FPC: Do you look up to someone as your mentor, or exemplar, in Photography?
Ryuji: I consider kuya Ron as my mentor because he knows much stuff regarding Nikon and how to maximize a Nikon gear.

Manuel Librodo, Ross Capili & Daniel Go: These guys are very good in composing a shot, I often look at there works and study how did they do it.

Like I said, every person has a different interpretation on ones image, so I think getting a few ideas on these people and combine it to create your own wont harm any one :)

FPC: How do you see yourself as a photographer, say, in the next 2 years?
Ryuji: Within the next two years, I think It will still be pretty much the same, learning the basic of capturing an image takes only 2 hours, but mastering it will take years.

FPC: Any plans about going pro? What kind of pro?
Ryuji: Yes, but it still a long way for me. Wedding, Events, Fashion. Either of the 3 or all of them! Hehehe

3. About FPC

FPC: How did you join FPC?
Ryuji: Don Introduced me to FPC, I was encourage when I saw the FPC T-Shirt, so cool!

FPC: What is your first impression of FPC? What is your impression of it now?
Ryuji: Back then it was Just an ordinary Photo club. Now I realize, it's more than a forum. It's like a one big family, group, organization, where there’s no discrimination whatsoever. Everybody shares the same purpose and that is to click those shutter 1000x! Hehehe

FPC: What do you think makes the Club click?
Ryuji: The Bonding, the Camaraderie, and helping each other to learn more or improve more in photography.

FPC: What can you say about the FPC events? The discussion threads? And the administration?
Ryuji: I really enjoy the events! Traveling with the group, have a chance to meet models, having fun on an outdoor shoot, having a nice discussion on the thread, and most of all spending 8 hours a day just looking for those members who post their photos in the groups gallery [Pool]! Hehehe

FPC: Do you envision FPC to be anything in the future?
Ryuji: A well established group, very well known not only in the Philippines but in the World.

FPC: What do you like best about FPC?
Ryuji: The outdoor shoot events of course! Hehe

FPC: You are FPC’s first Photographer of the Month (PoM). Does that put any pressure on you?
Ryuji: Honestly none, because I still consider myself a newbie and there still a big room for me to learn. I am very happy to be the PoM. This inspires me to keep on learning and think new composition but there's still a long way for me and I still got nothing to prove.

FPC: It looks like you are again a contender for the February PoM. That is commendable. Are you trying to prove something?

Ryuji: Really?! Wow! Nope, like what I’ve said it still a long way for me, all I want to do for now is to keep shooting, keep joining the event and never stop taking notes from the PROs.

FPC: Do you see any improvements that FPC should make in any of its activities or programs? What are your recommendations, if any?
Ryuji: I think more photo shoot. I also hope if there are major events like the Hot air Balloon Festival, motor show, concerts, etc. The FPC group should be there and be one of those groups that will officially cover those events.

I hope we can be accredited and recognize this year as one stable photo groups in the Philippines.

FPC: What is your message to other FPC members?
Ryuji: Just keep on Shooting! Always join the Photo Events in FPC and have fun meeting new people or members of these group!

We are one group, We are F.P.C.!

- end -

A Photographer and a Mother

Who is our featured photographer?

She is a person who can see pure heart. she believes what she think is right (not basing on other's opinions) and stand up for it all the way. She loves like there's no tomorrow, a loving person and always making your day full of laughter. She radiates warmth to everyone she knows and shows compassion to others always... she is a believer and through her camera, she documents all the things caught her attention to show her appreciation to the Creator of how beautiful the world He created for all of us and share whatever she has to everyone... in one word, i can say, she is a very true friend/sister.

She is a live wire, one who never runs out of excitement and energy. That's why all of her photographer friends really enjoy her company during photoshoots. I fondly call her "Atchi Jen" (ate in chinese) not only because she is years and years older than me (ok wag magalit ha?) but because she treats me like a younger brother- out there to look after her friend's best interest.

She's a very passionate and talented photographer and a very down to earth person, you can easily get to know her in a instant when you meet her thats why everyone knows her as atchie (sister) jen.

When you're down & want to be cheered up, then, she's the right person She's someone who you can always count on to, someone who values friendship so much, someone who you can talk to anything under the sun & of course she's someone who will give you good advices in life .... she's my 2nd MOM

FPC: Please tell us your full name and then your flickr screen name.
LG: Jenniefer Go Yu, flickr screen name is Lady Guinevere

FPC: Why Lady_Guinevere for a screename? Can you please tell us the story behind it?
LG: Well the story behind my screen name is actually a boring one. Guinevere is a variation of Jenniefer (three e's). Nothing to do with the King Arthur, Sir Lancelot thing (it sure would've added more spice to our life though! Hahaha).

FPC: Where do you live at the moment?
LG: San Rafael Village, Balut, Tondo.

FPC: What is your current occupation?
LG: Full time housewife & mom

FPC: What is your current gear? (camera body/bodies, lenses and flash guns only)
LG: Canon 400D, Canon A430, Olympus720sw, Olympus C211 & SonyDCR-PC105. lenses are CANON EF24-105mm L IS USM, Sigma 70-300mm APO DG MACRO, CANON EF100mm MACRO and one flash 580EX, infrared sender(for studio use in place of a flash)...

FPC: What’s your favorite photographic subject or subjects?
LG: kids and animals.

"Hey, No more Pictures!!!"

and capturing moments like this is indeed thrilling for me = )

"Jaws???"

FPC: Any favorite photographer in particular?
LG: everybody's a favorite = )

FPC: Tell us about your dream gear.
LG: My dream gear is a 5D and a 70-200mm L IS USM plus another 580ex.

FPC: What’s your photographic ambition?
LG: Photographic ambition???? be a featured photographer in National Geographics. hahaha

FPC: When I informed you that we have chosen you to be our featured photographer, You reacted "wow, hihihi knilig naman ako...." , Bakit ka kinilig? :D
LG: As commonly known, I am no professional photographer, nor am I educated in photography, as some of my peers here in FPC are. It really made me feel "kilig-to-the-bones" to be chosen as one of your featured photographers, an honor indeed to be included among those whom I think are good photographers. For me, to be told that I am worthy of being featured, is an honor indeed, an achievement, another feather in my cap.

"Don't be Afraid"

FPC: How did you know about FPC? Who invited you to join?
LG: I've been invited to FPC by Robert (rareimages), thus making me aware of this group.

FPC: Is photography to you just a hobby or you would like it to be your business as well in the future?
LG: Photography is just a hobby. It helps me take my mind off things that are troubling me. As a business... who would not want it to, right? But for now, I am content to let this just be a hobby...

"To have and to hold"

FPC: Your Son, What's his name again? Seems like his getting addicted to this hobby also. What would you like him to do with this Hobby for his future?
LG: His name is Jurrick, our eldest son. Well it is not only him who is addicted to photography, even his dad and siblings are. About what I want him to do with this hobby of his, I believe he should follow his heart. My role as a parent is to guide him and to constantly remind him that no matter how good you are as a photographer, you still need education.

FPC: How did you get "addicted" to photography?
LG: A year ago, I joined www.bncxe.org/forum.php, and one of the sub-forums I always visit is the "Dark Room" where members discuss everything related to photography, and post pictures. Seeing the beautiful pictures posted by the members, I started sharing our pictures and along the way I got to know Ogie, Ahia Daniel, Gelbert, Michz, and a whole lot more. Yup, there's a lot if us there posting pictures and a lot of who are able and willing to share tips and tricks in Photography and Photoshop.

I became close and fast friends with all of them. The closest was Ogie who almost everyday together with ahia Daniel & Kuya Nelman, encouraged me and showered me with praises, boosting my morale and fueling my addiction. (In short, BI "bad-influence hahaha). From then on, after meeting each other in different EB's, we would post pics and admire and share stories.

"My love is like a rose"

One day, I woke up feeling dissatisfied with the limitations of my P&S cameras (as per Ogie's prediction). I dreamed of having a DLSR just like Ogie has, but since his was way too expensive, I ended up with a 350D instead :D And if I remember correctly, it was my ahia Daniel who encouraged me to get a Flickr account. Addicted? Nah! I'm more addicted to sharing what I see and sharing them with my friends. Taking pictures is one of my ways of expressing myself. And as we all know, photographs preserve the moment =D (kodak moment!) bow!

And yup! May I, through this, thank all those who have touched my life including my heart? Thank you Ahia Daniel & Ogie Douggie for the constant encouragement when I was just beginning in this hobby of mine. Thank you Karen, you know what for. To JC,Lenard, LJ, kuya Jun & Allen, specially to Bubu, part of my emotional maturity I owe to you guys, so thank you also. Thank you Pat (my sounding board), Kuya Ron (because of your unconditional friendship), Robert & Abby (for being good to me) and Andrew (just because). To FPC, for thinking I am worth featuring, my heartfelt gratitude.

"The Wedding Kiss"

Oops! Special mention pala si Eds, syoti, so many many thanks for your patience in explaining "aperture" at "shutterspeed," etc. At last, now I know what they are = ) And to those I failed to mention, you know who you are ;P I'm sorry because Pat might change his mind if I made the list longer!

And last but not the least, to the person who I owe all this to, Daddy (my King Arthur), thank you!!! Now I am a featured photographer!!! You always say I am playful. Now, I think you can say that I am really serious!

and guys, please do visit www.bncxe.org/forum.php , this is my mother forum, my very first online family and where my hobby started.

Hobbyist from California

"me, myself and the boss" by usclabdog

Remedy "usclabdog" Medina and his lovely wife.

Flickr name: usclabdog
Real name: Remedy Medina
Lives in: Glendale, California
Day Job: Clinical Lab Scientist, LA County-University of Southern California Hospital.Current Gear: Canon EOS 20D, Canon Ixus 50, 10-22mm, 17-85 IS USM, 70-300 IS USM, 100mm macro, 85mm f/1.2 L, 420EX flash

Our FPC Featured Photographer today considers himself a hobbyist but his photo stream reveals a very creative person whose work could easily be mistaken for a serious amateur and perhaps, that of a seasoned professional. Not very long ago, his photo entitled "coastal view from point reyes" was featured in Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect section. Hobbyist? Yeah . . . right!

His real name is Remedy Medina but he is known in flickr, and in Flickers Photo Club (FPC), as “usclabdog”. He is a clinical lab scientist based in Glendale, California. Although majority of the members are Philippine based, his active participation in the discussion threads is testament to the fact that you do not have to be physically there to make your presence felt. His photo stream features beautiful landscapes of California but more importantly, his family.

**********

"doppelganger" by usclabdog

FPC: Why "usclabdog" for screen name? It sounds a little far from Rem, your real name.

uusclabdog: USC stands for University of Southern California, which is where I work. I am one of the staff of the Core Lab, and during the time that I was creating my account in flickr, I was working like a dog there because a lot of old timers retired and it took us a long while to get some people aboard and be trained.

Actually my real name is Remedy, it was the bright idea of my father, he derived it from his name, Renato Medina, as most Filipinos do when they name their offspring. He thought that I was the remedy for their sadness and loneliness during the time that it took them awhile to have a baby. Kinda cheesy but that’s really the whole story.

FPC: What does your wife think about your hobby?

usclabdog: My wife thought that I was insane when I bought the canon 20D two years ago. She couldn’t fathom that a camera would cost that much. Initially she wouldn’t smile at the camera and most of the capture I have of her was that uneasy scowl on her face that was a cross between a smirk and a pout if one can imagine it.

And since this was before flickr, when I have totally no idea of what or how a full featured SLR or DSLR works. Prior to the 20D, I have a Canon G2 black which was always set in P mode and before that was the Kodak instamatic camera, didn’t know anything about shutter or, aperture priority for that matter.

There was this time when we went back to the Philippines for our vacation and my wife had this high school reunion in PUP and I brought the 20D during that party and it was indoor, I probably took more than 40 pictures, and out of it, 36 were blurred. And finally my wife said to me that line, that up to now, still reverberates very clear in my eardrums, "All that crappy pictures from that expensive camera?" I didn’t know the steep learning curve attached to it.

From then on I tried to read books and google stuffs about photography. Man, I was like a boxer on a comeback trail, like Rocky Balboa preparing to fight Dolph Lundgren (from the movie "Rocky IV"). And I think, I'm way better now than before, still a lot of flubs in lowlight situations but at least now I know how it happened, unlike before when I was totally clueless.

Nowadays she’s ok with this hobby, she’s actually impressed with some of the pictures that she would suspect that it wasn’t me who took it,... oh well =)

"point reyes lighthouse" by usclabdog

FPC: Do you have kids? Do you want your kids to be hook up with photography as well like you?

usclabdog: I have a 5 year old boy and a 10 year old daughter, both adorable and smart kids; I wouldn’t mind them making it as a hobby. Photography I think is also another medium for self expression and it is something that one can give as well as receive in terms of visual enjoyment.

FPC: How do you divide your time with your family and photography?

usclabdog: My family is with me every time I bring my camera with me. The drawback with that is the fact that kids doesn’t enjoy sceneries like adults, they get bored easily. Most of my pictures are taken during our family vacations and my wife does a good job of making them pre occupied while I try to shoot my pictures.

FPC: At the moment, photography is a hobby for you. Do you have plans on doing some professional work someday?

usclabdog: I would like to keep it a hobby. But if I’m going to do some professional photography, it would be by the way of photojournalism.

"carmel sunset" by usclabdog

FPC: Other than photojournalism, what’s your favorite photographic subject or subjects?

usclabdog: Landscapes, people/ street photography and now I'm beginning to like portraitures.

FPC: Do you have any other photographic ambition?

usclabdog: Although I like to take landscapes and sceneries, I'm always moved by images of people. I'm always inspired by those images that show determination, sacrifice, love, heroism, compassion, etc. It may not be realistic, but it is a dream of mine to do a photo-essay or photo documentary that will convey those messages.

FPC: Do you have any favorite photographer in particular?

usclabdog: I'm not gonna go far on this and I'm gonna go local, I am a total novice when I joined flickr and right away, it is Farl's images and photo tips that helped me learn exposures and most importantly, how to see things creatively, I'm almost always surprised at how he can come up with those stunning images from simple objects and make dramatic composition of those places that he has been too. On the other hand, since time and life magazines were the ones that gave me the first impressions about photography, I can say that the works of those photojournalists, especially James Nacthwey are my favorites.

FPC: Tell us about your dream gear.

usclabdog: A full frame sensor, 24-70 f/2.8L, 16-35 f/2.8L, 50 f/1.2L, 24-70 f/2.8L, 70-200 f/2.8L, Epson 80G picture viewer, Wacom Intuous, Mac pro.

FPC: How did you know about flickr? And how did you get "addicted" to it?

usclabdog: I learned about Flickr from mboogiedown, I stumbled on her Myspace webpage and I saw her pictures there, at that time I dont know much about photography and I asked her about where she learned to shoot pictures like that. She gave me the link to her photo stream in flickr and I was amazed at how good she is. Once I saw some of those awe inspiring work and creation of her and of those people here in flickr, I got hooked right away.

FPC: How did you know about FPC? Did another member invite you to join?

usclabdog: I remember being there in that thread that JE created for the planning and the initial push to create this group. He is also the one who invited me here.

FPC: What was your initial impression of FPC?

usclabdog: I know right away that this isn’t going to be just another pinoy group here in flickr. I know those guys who created the group are driven and are really motivated to prove that this is going to work.

FPC: What do you think about it now?

usclabdog: I'm not surprised at all, at how fast and how strong FPC have come along. It is poised to do a lot of great things and I'm really excited at the possibilities. Its one thing to be a progressive group in Flickr but it’s really a great accomplishment to be able to establish an identity, outside of this cyber community.

"coastal view from point reyes" by usclabdog

This photo was feature in Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect not very long ago.

FPC: Your photo "coastal view from point reyes" has been previously featured in Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect section. So how did it feel?

usclabdog: That’s a proud moment, I told my wife right away =). I’m not sure if it was the first picture selected on Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect section, but at least here in Flickr I know it is the first one. I was really surprised that it got selected, not bad for a picture that I tried to snatch away from that day's fading light.

FPC: How long have you been living away from the Philippines? Nag-balikbayan ka na ba?

usclabdog: I was 22 when I started working abroad, spent almost 7 years in both Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, I get to go home every year when I was there, but when I finally decided to immigrate here in the U.S. it took me almost nine years before we were able to go back last august of 2005. Bitin na bitin yung one month to make up for those nine years, kaya were really looking forward to the next one.

FPC: There's an ongoing Nikon vs. Canon "asaran" in the group's discussion threads. Since you don't seem to be taking part on those threads, we'd like to ask what's your take on this? Do you believe that one brand is really better than the other?

usclabdog: There's a lot to learn from those guys, honestly I don’t know how Nikon cameras perform, I've never used one. But with the 20D that I’m using, I wasn’t happy with the dull colors that it produce, that’s why I played with the parameters and created the setting that I use now. On the other hand, a coworker of mine who bought the d200 complained about her blurred pictures of birds, which she later found out was not really blurred, she later learned from one of the photography forums, that the d200 has the tendency to soft focus, so she also changed the setting to make it sharper. It's the camera's strengths and weaknesses that I think we should learn to take advantage of, or be able to work around with.

Knowing how your camera performs and its limitation is more important I guess. Add to it is ones ability to see things creatively, compose and visualize the final image, and then if it’s really a good picture, Nikon or canon? Who cares, right?

"pin cushion" by usclabdog

FPC: Any word on anyone who wants to go into this hobby? Photography, I mean.

usclabdog: To those who want to go into this hobby, just read and study other people's work. Blurred pictures are fine...... as long as you don’t keep on making them. hehe. I mean, practice and learn how your gears work, and if it’s a recurring problem, please call technical support; maybe it's an OE problem which is more likely the cause..... (Operator Error!!!) and that’s something they cant help you with.... In that case you have the option of returning the camera to the store or try to learn and read anything out there about how the damn camera works. That's based on my own personal experience. LOL.

FPC: Any message to fellow FPC members?

usclabdog: Sa mga kapwa ko FPC members...Ang masasabi ko lang ay ito;Ikaw......ako.......tayong lahat.......magkakakapatid. .....bwehehe!! Where else will you find such a different cast of characters? I mean it in a good way hehehe ...you guys are the best!

FPC: And before we forget . . . the ever-popular question - boxers or briefs?

usclabdog: oh yah, I use both. Boxer during summer, para well ventilated. Briefs during winter to avoid shrinkage hehe.

Old School Is Still Way Cool !!!

His photographic methodology defies the norm, twist the rules when there aren't any rules in his text book to begin with, finds satisfaction in things that we find odd and surreal. He experiments with chemicals and uses cheap, flawed old cameras to create his masterpieces.

Hmn... sounds like a character from an old Hollywood horror movie?? not really, he's a LOMOHEAD!

Our FPC Featured Photographer is no other than Jimmy Hilario (a.k.a. Stitch).

Expired films, Cross-process, Light leaks, Saturation and Double Exposures are just few of his favorite terminologies.

He has 70+ photos in Flickr's Explore/Interestingness section. With that figure, it is probably safe to assume that he is up there with flickr's finest members and probably one Flickr's most popular local members.

1. Please tell us your full name and then your flickr screen name.
Jimmy Hilario “Stitch”

2. Where do you live at the moment?
Mandaluyong

3. What is your current occupation?
Art director, graphic designer

4. What is your current gear? (camera body/bodies, lenses and flash guns only)
mainly lomography cameras: LC-A, Holga 120CFN, Kiev35, Smena 8M, Olympus XA2

5. What’s your favorite photographic subject or subjects?
nature and ordinary things you see (e.g., street scenes, buildings, architecture)

6. Any favorite photographer in particular?
Emil Davocol, Jun Miranda

7. Tell us about your dream gear.
Horizon Kompakt, LC-A+, a DSLR (with zoom and wide angle lens) <-- last item is really a dream.

8. What’s your photographic ambition?
Be part or organize photo exhibits, teach lomography to newbies, put up a photo shop that crossprocesses <-- last item also an impossible dream

9. Congratulations on the ongoing exhibit, Ikalawang Banat:Flickristas@The Jewellery, that you organized with jolengs! How was this experience for you? Do you have plans of holding another one in the near future?
Organizing an exhibit is enjoyable. it's nice to bring people together with different photographic styles/equipment and backgrounds. It was fun to have riotous planning get-togethers with the group and just talking about anything under the sun before getting down to business. We will definitely do this again, perhaps on a regular basis.

About the CRAFT

10. We noticed that most of your creations are images taken from the streets whether it be a typical city street or a high-way. since these are a part of your daily life, how were you able to create each images so unique even if its an image of (if not exactly) almost the same subject?
I want to show the beauty of ordinary things because it's there. You just have to capture the moment and with a little help from expired film and crossprocessing, the photos come out differently ;) You'll have to invest in rolls of film though from which you will find (hopefully) some jems.

11. Is there any particular mood that inspires you to take some pictures?
The mood is out there, you just have to spot and capture it. As for my own mindset, I just have to be ready because these moments can happen anytime but you have to get out of your way to find it. Hope I'm not to abstract ;)

12. You've used different photography media (i.e. gears) and processing styles. What is the most challenging and the most rewarding for you?
Film photography is challenging because you don't know what you shot until you develop it. Digital photography is just as challenging because everybody has a digicam nowadays. The challenge is how can you make your shot any different? Since you guys are the DSLR users, I think you know the answer to the latter ;) That said, i think digital photography is a lot easier than film. Even Pat's 3(?)-yr-old daugher is alreadying shooting nice shots ;)

13. Those who had the privilege of meeting you in person seem to agree that you have a mild-mannered personality. Why 'Stitch' as a screen name? That name (and character) is synonymous with mischief and notorious deeds.
Well Stitch is an alien. It's that aspect of Stitch that I picked-up. I'm just moving behind the scenes like a specter ;)

14. Weve heard that LOMO is currently having a steady following here in the Philippines, what makes LOMO Cameras so special that everyone is spending extra time just to buy film, develop, cross process and scan them? for as to its digital counterpart which in every way is much more easier to use?
About the LOMO following in the Philippines, you can check lomomanila.ph (sorry for the plug) and you can see for yourself what kind of people are into this lomo thingy—you will find out that they are the same as digital photographers. Both have a passion for photography. It's just a difference of style and approach to photography. For me, photography is a creative art. It's just a matter of medium—how will you capture the beauty in things?

15. While digital and conventional photography seem to pursue "perfection" and technical excellence, lomography, on the other hand, seem to celebrate gear flaws and technical imperfections. Is lomo "anti-digital" or what can be considered as "alternative photogrphy"?
LOMO is not anti-digital. Perhaps you can say it is alternative photography. And it's true, we look forward to the vignettes, color saturations, scratches and lightleaks; all which are natural defects (or effects) of film cameras which ironically some digital photographers/artists try to simulate—nothing wrong with that. I do it myself with my digital photos.

16. Do you subscribe to the 10 rules of Lomography? (1. Take your LOMO everywhere you go & whenever you go.; 2. Use it anytime — day or night; 3. Lomography is not an interference in your life, but a part of it; 4. Shoot from the hip; 5. Approach the objects of your lomographic desire as close as possible; 6. Don't think; 7. Be fast.; 8.You don't have to know beforehand what you've captured on film. 9. You don't have to know afterwards, either; 10.Don't worry about the rules.
Yep, I live by the lomo rules. Oddly enough, I was already following most of those rules when I started shooting with my Canon G2 in 2002. So when I found out about those rules, I just said “well, what do you know, I have been following some rules without know it.”

17. How extensive is the following of Lomography in the Philippines? And generally what kind of people are attracted to it?
The lomomanila.ph has about 250 members and the yahoo group list has about 300. There seems to be newbies nearly everyday asking about lomography and how they can get started. I cannnot say if it is here to stay even if I want to because it is a question of how long the film supply will last. For some reason, the younger generation seems to be attracted to Lomography. Maybe it's a desire to be different. I'm not sure.

18. It is alluded somewhere that LOMO is for the eccentric, or the "uncommon"? What is your response to this?
LOMO-users are normal people it may appear eccentric and uncommon because fewer people shoot with film. You go to a typical photo shop and ask them about crossprocessing and 120 film and they'll stare at you and ask “What is that?” But I think some photo shops are happy to have a regular clientele who still shoot with film.

19. And lastly, is it boxers or briefs??
Briefs.


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STITCH's TOP 5 PERSONAL FAVORITES

The Inquisitive Glass

Our featured photographer for this week is a prolific poster in the FPC discussion threads and a regular starter of fresh topics (or excerpts from other discussion groups and internet sites), which oftentimes educate, occasionally amuse, but always are focal points for bonding among members.

He likes to "slug it out" with the other members in a friendly fashion, exchanging banters and jokes, and of course, relevant information. He has an inquisitive mind, which led him into the colorful (sometimes B&W) world of photography, and it just might equally be the reason why he never runs out of topics to talk about.

And if you are wonder why his flickr screen name is "shutterglass," I failed to ask him that during the interview! Hehe... Does he break the glass of his lenses often? Or is he a melancholic touchy person who "shutters like a glass" when not tactfully handled? Or does it have something to do with the eyeglasses he wear? Maybe if we read on you might find hints. Let's start with his personal profile.

Data Vitae
Full Name: Don C. Garchitorena
flickr Screen Name: shutterglass

Present Address: Project 3, Quezon City
Occupation: Product Data Specialist of a rapid response supplier of technology solutions for business, government and educational institutions as well as consumers in the US, with over 100,000 different products from companies such as Compaq, Microsoft, Apple, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Toshiba, Cisco, etc.
Current Gear:
camera body = Nikon D50
lenses = Nikkor 50mm f/1.8; Nikkor 28-80 f/3.3-5.6; Quantary 70-300 f/4-5.6 Macro
Favorite Photographic Subject: In order: People (Candid/Posed), Places, Objects
Favorite Photographer: Manny Librodo
Dream Gear: Knowing the ever-changing models in a few months time, its hard to dream for the ultimate gear. I rather defined dream gear as realistic gear, as I dream for it, then one day i get to hold and maximize its potential.
Photographic Ambition: Solo exhibit is one. Being recognize having a different style in capturing and freezing subjects in time is another.

Tiendesitas is again alive and bustling with Friday "gimmickers" who come here to dine while watching musical performances by live bands at a close proximity. We were here last Friday when we shot another FPC member who is also a rapper. I'm back again. But this time, I will shoot questions at Don who has arrived earlier from work and is waiting for me (shame, shame) among the patrons of the eateries at the center of the premises.

I missed him on the first pass through the crowd of garrulous diners and other passersby zipping by. When I backtracked, I saw him waving at me. We shooks hands, exchanged salutatory words and decided to order pancit and bibingka. Then we found a quiet spot away from the blaring music. I put down my little notepad and my pen, then, we began to... eat! Hehe

Now, the interview while we're nibbling at the bibingka:

Person and Family

FPC: Are you married?
DON: No.

FPC: Girlfriend?
DON: Yes. One and only!

FPC: Is she an FPC member too? Also a photographer?
DON: No. No.

FPC: Is she your officemate?
DON: She was my officemate.

FPC: What's her opinion about your photographic passion?
DON: 50-50. I mean she is supportive when she gets me to do something she wants done. Then I get support for photoshoots. Otherwise, the other 50.

FPC: Does she know you shoot models?
DON: Yes. Even nudes shoots. She is matured enough not to get jealous. Arguments are a waste of time.

FPC: How many siblings are you?
DON: We're three. I am the firstborn.

FPC: So, do you support the younger ones financially?
DON: Not really. But when they need something, I help too--financially, and in some other means. However, when it comes to artworks, it's me they need to help.

FPC: Are they also photographically inclined?
DON: No. I am the only one different.

His Photography

FPC: When did you take up Photography as a passion?
DON: That's a long story. It started when I was browsing in the Tipid PC forum (an all-around forum, but primarily for buying and selling). There I saw photos by Filipinos and foreigners. Thus, I was inspired and became curious. I tried copying their shots with my Samsung point-and-shoot camera but, of course, failed. I asked myself: "What do they do to take such photos? Why can't I duplicate their shots?" I had many questions. Of course, I didn't know about DSLRs back then.

That was early 2005. By December, I realized that they used DSLR to take those kind of photos. I thought about how I could buy one of those, considering my salary. Still I went about window shopping, comparing features and prices. In my zealousness, I knew about the DSLR cameras functions before I even bought one!

The opportunity to acquire one came in January last year, when my Boss told me that I would possibly be sent to the United States for training. I thought it would be a waste of time and opportunity not to take photos in the USA. So, I pulled some tricks to be able to save on allowance and buy myself a camera there. After comparing Nikon D50 with Canon 350D, I settled with Nikon. Canon was my first choice, but I could save more with the Nikon.

But even with my new DSLR, I didn't enjoy taking photos with my new Nikon D50 because I didn't know the camera functions then. I read but worked mostly with the camera's automatic settings. I learned real photography is not just snapping shots.

FPC: And when did you learn to use your camera's other settings?
DON: When I joined PhiPho, I read from the threads, from the pros about aperture and shutterspeed priority. And that the automode should be used only in "panic cases." I asked a lot and was thankful to Hydroxycut [another FPC member] for welcoming my questions. I also came in contact with Rus88 [also an FPC member] in PhiPho and it was he who mentioned about FPC's Live Extreme coverage at the PICC Forum.

I wanted to go with FPC but it was late signing up for it. So I contacted the organizers so that my friend and I went there by ourselves as independent photographers. Yet, it was a failed coverage for me because most photos came out blurred. Most of the time I was in panic.

I recognized some FPC members with their IDs but I was shy to introduce myself. But I got this photo with ronrag smiling behind my friend when I was taking my friend's souvenir shot (ronrag didn't know me then):

FPC: What is a good photo to you?
DON: What do you mean? That's a hard one.

FPC: For example, when is a portrait photo good for you?
DON: I guess when I take a long look at a photo and wonder how it was done. When it captures the attention of someone who lingers on that photo. Conversely, when a photo is viewed only cursorily, I think it does not have the qualities of a good photo.

FPC: Do you like your photos being critiqued?
DON: Yes, even when the comments are "below-the-belt." I think it is for the good of a photographer to take even those seriously so he is able to adjust his style. However, when it is me who gives "below-the-belt" comments and the photog reacts negatively, I leave and not come back.

FPC: What are your photographic plans in the near future?
DON: To make something financially beneficial out of my photo skills and perhaps a sideline taking photo jobs. It would be good barometer of how well I have honed my skills and surely, a means for me to acquire more gears.

FPC: How do you plan to make that happen?
DON: Hmm... I think it is wise to listen to those who are already in the business and get acquainted with the aspects of it, from package pricing to actually conducting the shoot. Doing that while honing my skills. I know of someone who has a day job and still manages to do paid photo shoots on weekends. That gives me the encouragement to pursue a profitable endeavor even while having a day job. There is living proof so the possibility is realistic.

FPC: Can you expound on your photographic ambition? What kind of photos do you want to exhibit?
DON: Right now I don't know my forte yet but I'm being inclined to taking wedding shots.

However, I am not really sure about that. I can safely say that it will be more of portraits than landscape because it is harder for me to shoot landscape without convenient transportation. For now, it is more convenient for me to shoot portrait.

FPC: Do you remember any photographic quotes?
DON: Not exactly, but I remember Librodo's idea about "being just a hobbyist and never becoming a professional." It conveys the idea of continuous learning. Even pros can't claim to know everything. I've seen some amateurs inspire some pros to some photographic style.

FPC: Have you had any paid jobs already?
DON: Yes, one. Hopefully, this big one in mid of this year. If I pull through it successfully, it would make me more confident and bankable. It could be a catapult to something bigger, who knows.

About FPC

FPC: Who invited you to FPC?
DON: Rus88 referred me to FPC. Then I think I sent a request to the Admins to approve me as member. But I was not yet posting much in the beginning. I didn't know how to introduce myself. Then there was this modeling thread by ronrag where I tried engaging Karen and LG in a conversation, starting a friendly light banter. They responded positively and that made me feel welcome.

It didn't take me long to prefer FPC over the other club. I also saw the pleasant atmosphere--there is belongingness even for first timers. Thus, I also started inviting others to FPC.

FPC: I remember you during the Fireworks shoot last October. What was your impression of FPC then? What do you like about FPC since then?
DON: I was impressed at how FPC organized the shooting event. It was my first time to go to the Mall of Asia so I don't even know where the Music Hall is but I managed to be there at the meeting place to meet you and the others before the fireworks display began.

Unlike other clubs who plan photo events but never conducts it, FPC organizes and sees to its completion. I decided I fit in better with FPC. Here is where my skills are being sharpened and noticed.

Additionally, it easier to invite models to an FPC shoot because of the "many possibilities!" [Grins.]

I also recall what Boso said about posting in the threads. You don't get a pointed finger warning that you are off-topic. In other club threads, when you post something intruiging or controversial, others flare up easily. In FPC, everyone is cool and even when conflict arises, it is readily dissipated.

FPC is like a paradise island for photographers. Good reason to invite others.

FPC: Do you think that FPC is headed for "something big?"
DON: Yes. How it organizes and conducts its events, the harmony among Admins and members--these are indicatives that FPC is going somewhere.

FPC: What improvements do you think FPC should make?
DON: More sharing of resources, like workshops. Another example would be the sharing of announcements of photo contests. So that when an FPC members win, we are all proud!

FPC: Finally, what is your message to the FPC admins and members?
DON: Can't say anything about the admins. They are working hard, I can see. To the members: Share, share share! Your knowledge, skills, and resources (for example, easy access to information about studios, their pricing and models' non-confidential info! :D)

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