7 Deadly Sins shoot in White Box Studio

While others hit the beach, traveled out of town, or made their own reflections and confessions during the Holy Week, I, on the other hand, did the 7 deadly sins. I SHOT the 7 deadly sins, that is.

Since I was on a staycation in Manila and didn’t have any plans for the long weekend, I became busy brainstorming concepts for Zone V's contest this April and convincing my friends to model for me. Oh, I didn’t have to convince them. They were more than willing to do it for me. “Wish our jobs were like this, ‘no? We just have to sit, let the make-up artist put our make-ups on, iron our hair, and pose for the camera, that’s it!” said one of my friends while we were shooting. It was like I was the one giving them a favor—allowing them to do what they love to do, while I was also doing what I love to do.

It was my first studio shoot ever and I never thought I would enjoy it so much since I’ve usually done travel photography all this time. Argent Dulce, with his wife Chi Dulce, let us rent their White Box Photography Rental studio in Binondo, Manila where we did the shoot that Good Friday. Chi did a great job with the make-up of the girls and she even did re-touches and make-up changes in between sets. Argent and his assistant also gladly assisted me in setting up the lights, props, IR trigger. He made it easier also for me by telling me the camera settings (ISO, shutter speed, aperture). (Argent, by the way, is also a photographer). Their 80-square meter facility is actually quite complete: strobe lights, standard reflectors, light railings (ceiling rack), and other modifiers, plus a make-up room. This time, it’s a controlled environment without waiting for the sun to set or a perfect moment to arrive. Everything was under my control.

Since I couldn’t make up my mind which of the seven sins to shoot in particular, I decided to do ALL and just chose my favorite shots. I did Sloth, Envy, Vanity, Anger, Gluttony, Greed and Lust. The girls and I brought props and clothes and I already had like a storyboard or pegs for each sin which I emailed to Argent and Chi prior to the shoot. I knew I had to come up with unique ideas for each. I made ready our poker set and real money for Greed, and Yellow Cab pizza, chocolates, and chips for Gluttony (which we happily finished all!). Our last set was Lust and we almost didn’t do it since we were quite drained already that afternoon. My friends also had a special request not to post those set on Facebook (they knew it would cause some controversy for their part). Nevertheless, I still decided to go for it while agreeing to keep them for our own eyes—and for Zone V’s—only. We were giggling our heads off! My two STRAIGHT friends were trying hard to contain their laughter in those photos.

I didn’t realize it would be harder for me to choose photos since I had to sift through a couple of hundred shots. I finally came up with my top choices for my entries with the help of some comments of my friends in my Facebook album: Gluttony (a girl seated on the floor devouring pizza and chips) and Greed (a girl betting in poker). But my gut feel was telling me to submit Lust instead of Gluttony. After a long debate with some friends and with myself, I gave my Greed and Lust entries.

I never imagined my Lust entry would make it on the Top 5 entries! (And I heard my Greed was on the Members’ Cup). Sometimes it’s just really the choice of your photo entries. I went with my gut feel. Yeah, you should go for what your heart tells you. That won’t hurt.

It was a whole different adventure that Good Friday for me. At least we weren’t exactly sinning… We were just shooting. And who would have thought I was shooting winning shots? It was a good Friday indeed.

PS. Wondering what my Lust shot entry? It was two girls about to kiss each other... (Sorry, can't post it here...)

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WHITE BOX STUDIO

Unit 1004, World Trade Exchange Building 215 Juan Luna St., Binondo Manila

Call 871-1659 or text 0917-5721004 for more details

Or visit http://whiteboxstudiorental.multiply.com

My First Travel Photo Exhibit entries

I was estatic to see my photos in"The Philippines" Travel Photos Exhibit held in IMAX Mall of Asia last April 21-25, 2010. "You're now famous!" commented my uncle in my Facebook album of the exhibit. Hmm, I don't think so, but I'm sure Zone V Camera Club is.

Quoting from our club's site, our name draws its inspiration from the master photographer Ansel Adams' zoning exposure system - an enduring discipline in the basics of photography. Zone V actively holds regular photo contests, exhibits, joins various photo–related activities, since its inception in the late seventies. It was in 1978 that Zone V Camera Club came to see the light of day to fulfill the needs of several photo enthusiasts seeking for a venue where photography as both a hobby and an art can be fostered and encouraged. Thus was born the Zone V camaraderie. Thirty years have passed; the same ideals for which the club was formed still exist. I'm so happy to be part of this 30-year-old photography club in which several masters are also member. I'm hoping to be a full-fledged member soon (it's not easy as it seems to be a member of this club).

Meanwhile, I'm enjoying my probee period here. Even if I'm still a probee, I get to enjoy being a part of a photo exhibit such as this. Here are two of my photos in the exhibit:

Title: The Scenic Boracay Sunset

Description: I think I already have an obsession with sunset shots and they never cease to amaze me. Everyone must get a glimpse (and a shot) of the orange-filled dusk sky of Boracay. It’s just one of the most beautiful things God created. Sweet sailing in Boracay, world!

Title: The Next New Wonder of Nature

Description: This is the entrance to Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park which features stunning limestone formations and is known to be the longest navigable underground river in the world. Show your support to the Philippines’ official entry in the 7 New Wonders of Nature by voting in http://www.new7wonders.com/ and visiting the river itself.

Slowly, I'm realizing my dreams... :)

"The Philippines" Travel Photography Exhibit by Zone V Camera Club

Zone V Camera Club has been invited by IMAX SM Mall of Asia to join their travel expo this coming April 21 to 25, 2010 (Wednesday to Sunday). We will feature a photo exhibit in the theater lobby entitled "The Philippines" which showcases our travel photos within the Philippines. I'm sure you'd love to visit those places captured by my fellow members.

Can't wait to see one of my photos mounted up there! Finally, I'll be part of a photo exhibit which I never thought I would be. Guess what my entry is... ;)

Getting a new pair of Havaianas this summer!

My slim brown Havaianas needs a new partner!

I've been looking for the next perfect flip flops for this summer but I can't seem to find one in the stores. So... I'm definitely going to MYOH event in Rockwell Tent from April 22 to 26, 2010 to have my own Havs custom-made!

Havaianas Philippines has been doing this for five years now and since it's on it's fifth year, there will be more stylish studs, pins, soles and designs to choose from. (Actually I don't need the studs, I've been looking for a stand out color for me!)

What about you, what's your new Havs design? :) See ya!

Shooting around Laguna Bay Loop

“Meeting time at McDo Silver City at 4am,” said one of the Zone V Camera Club members regarding our Laguna Bay loop On-The-Spot shoot (OTS) the night before. Deep inside, I was saying, “Are you serious?” But I replied “Sure!” and I really did come on the agreed time. Who was I to complain—it’s actually a privilege to shoot and participate in the Club’s first OTS of the year. With my sched blocked off for that event, I was motivated to come up with great photos to submit in March’s contest. Along the way, I realized this is also going to be one of the hardest shoots for me yet since I found out that there should be no editing / post-processing / cropping even on the cam. The challenge is, you have to have the right settings even before you click. Good luck to me, I thought. Nevertheless, I was determined to have a great time shooting and bonding with the gang.

The sunrise must have shaken off our sleepiness that early morning because as soon as the sun started to peep out of the clouds, we went down our cars and prepared our full battle gear—cameras, tripods, filters, the works. We caught the beautiful sunrise in one of the viewing decks in Antipolo, Rizal together with the residents and motor bikers who were resting and sipping their coffees. The morning sunshine made the fishponds in the bay and the mountains looked like gold.

We seemed to have warmed up already after numerous clicks on our cams so we were ready to go to our next destination in Paete, Laguna where a local councilor was waiting for us to tour around Paete.

But wait, along the way, along the vast plains of Mabitac, Laguna, we saw several farmers toiling under the sun. No questions asked, we went down immediately as it was another photo op moment. “Ngiti ka dyan! Baka mapadala ang litrato sa Amerika! (Smile! Your photo might be sent to America!)” said one of the farmers to his fellow.

We reached Paete and met with Councilor Obet Pascual. He first toured us to a couple of churches (where interestingly, I saw an old man with a weather beaten face that says he has lived through a lot), then to Wawa Park where fishermen set out to fish and dried small shrimps under the sun. After smelling quite fishy, we then went to the councilor’s brother-in-law who had a carving business, which Paete is known for. He said we actually went on the same date of their carving festival where they showcase all the great works of different carvers in their town. Unfortunately, it was scheduled in the afternoon, we were already in Cavinti by that time. We also went to a hill called Tatlong Krus (and by this time I felt dizzy because of the heat), with Matabungka Falls down its slopes.

"I've seen it all... Today is just like one of those days..."

A bicycle under the sun, waiting for a Wawa Park fisherman to ride it.

Three heads soon to be carved and become works of art.

Tatlong Krus pilgrimage.

At lunch time, we finally caught up and had lunch with the other group who started shooting around the town. Thank God for pancit ulam and other orders as I could already hear my stomach rumbling. It was like a feast with the rest of the members, sharing meals, catching up with jokes and stories.

After more shots around town, such as the paper mache products being painted on the side streets, we then set out mid afternoon to Caliraya Resort in Cavinti, Laguna where the rest would stay for the night. Others still got busy shooting around, while the rest hung out for a while and ordered merienda and a round of cold beer. Another group went out on a different shoot mission to Pagsanjan Falls.

Everyone was looking forward to the reservoir and sunset shots in the late afternoon. This was one of my favorite memories in the OTS when we went to the reservoir—suddenly everyone was like child again, excited to go down the slopes to have a better view, find a better angle, to take the best shots.

Here's my take on the Cavinti reservoir. Everyone must have a stock photo of it. :)

And of course, my favorite: sunset shot!

My group set-off to Manila after sunset. Our last leg of the loop tour was at Pagsanjan, Laguna where we shot this monument which every car, bus, jeep, tricycle passes thru whenever you go in and out of Pagsanjan.

The whole OTS experience with no editing / post-processing / cropping was quite liberating for me. I realized that sometimes the best photos are those that happen “serendipitously.” What made it more fun was being able to shoot with a group of people who share the same level of enjoyment for photography—people who love looking at and looking for beauty. I’m already looking forward to the next OTS with my Havs (or this time, my Sanuk) and cam. :)

New Things To Do in Boracay

Everyone just has to book a flight to Boracay at any point of the year. Whether it’s summer or Christmas, or any long weekend, for sure, beach nomads will plan something in that beach. Cross fingers, hope it just won’t rain so you can get a great tan.

Why does everyone feel like it’s a must to back there where it’s always the same fine white sand, crystal blue waters, orange sunset, colorful boats, same beach party scene? ‘Cause there’s always something new to do there each time you back. Here are some things you could try on your next trip:

1. Organize a retreat in Bora. And why not? Even if there are temptations all around, I think it’s the ultimate place where you’d be able to test and practice your self-control. Haha! Kidding aside, it’s the best place to wake up early each morning, walk by the beach, lay your sarong, grab your Bible, reflect on your life and pray. You’ll realize it’s good to be alive and God’s been so good.

2. Get a caffeine fix in Starbucks Boracay. When I first saw this, I was like, “What? There’s Starbucks here? Kulang nalang McDo.” In fairness, they remembered all the coffee addicts who flocked to this beach and all the party people who want to get sober after getting drunk. Besides, it’s an alternative to the Jonah’s fruit shake – a cold mocha frapuccino instead while chillaxing and having a good conversation with friends or even while sunbathing.

3. Get a bird’s eye view of the beach while parasailing. That is, if you aren’t afraid of heights and if you aren’t afraid of the thought that a knot is just holding you. Plus, you get to party like a rockstar while in the “yacht” (they have nice sounds when we were waiting for our turn). Peak rates during summer? Php 2500 for 10 mins. Non-peak? We were able to negotiate up to Php 800.

4. Ride the Zorb ball! It’s crazy! You roll down a hill inside a giant plastic ball for a good 30 seconds. There are two kinds of Zorbs you can try: First is the Harness ride where they strap you in the sides of the ball and you roll head over heels (your head will spin, I tell you). The other is the Hydro where they add water inside the ball, then you ride down the hill (you’ll laugh ‘til you cry). Prices range from Php 300-580 per person and is located in Yapak. You can rent a tricycle going there.

5. Go hotel hopping with friends. Didn't book in Station One five-star hotels? You can always hang out there at least. Order a cold drink in Two Seasons. Go around and “canvass” in Boracay Regency or Discovery Shores. You can say you stayed there… in pictures, at least. ;)

6. Meet new friends. Who knows you might finally meet your Mr. or Ms. Right. But you can always settle first with Mr. Cute Pet. Then sparks fly. J

7. Play with fire with fire dance people. Kids, don’t try this at home. But even if you don’t have the "fire twirling", "fire spinning" skills, it’s always nice to watch the experts’ performance while sipping a cold mojito in the couch by the beach at night.

8. Paraw sailing towards the sunset. Aaahh… How romantic. Just play it by ear though. It’s not safe to do so especially if it’s windy.

9. Jumpshot as always and other crazy ideas. Your Boracay trip isn’t complete without The Jumpshot (then posting it to your profile). It’s like telling the whole world, “Yey! I’m in Bora!”, “Yey! I got a tan!”, “Yey! I just got engaged!” Then you could always try other silly shots by the beach.

10. Take amazing photos of the sunset. I think I have this obsession about sunsets already and I never get tired of it. It’s just the most beautiful thing God created. After a much-hypedManila Bay sunset, you should always get a glimpse (and a shot) of the orange-filled dusk sky of Boracay.

Sweet sailing in Boracay, world!

Beach Clubbing at Canyon Cove

Another nearby chill-out place to go to is the Canyon Cove Beach Resort at Nasugbu, Batangas. Good news is, it's open to public, unlike most of Nasugbu beaches that are exclusive for their club members only.

We had a chance to stay here in our segment's Kick-off last year. It wasn't fully refurbished at that time (not sure if it already is now), and some condos and buildings looked creepy ruins. Oh, this used to be White Cove Beach Resort (which I never got a chance to go to before) and unfortunately, as I learned, the Evercrest group (the former developers) had some financial problems so the development did not push through then.

Now with the new management under the developers of Canyon Woods, the hotel and swimming pool areas are completely built and maintained, and over-all, a good place for relaxation and fun-filled activities (not to mention some boy-watching too!).

They have decent toilets and shower areas, and provided beach activities like kayak and banana boat. It's the only resort inside the cove so the beach doesn’t get too crowded unlike other beach areas in Batangas. It offers a South China Sea-view from the hotel room balcony; the rooms are well-designed; bathrooms have separate bath tub (thumbs up!) and shower. My roommates and I were lucky to get a room with a separate living room area. The amenities and food are pretty decent as well.

What's also great is... after your noon time check-out, you can easily drive to Tagaytay for lunch!

Resort

Far East Road, Piloto Wawa Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines

Telephone: +632 520-6400

Main Office

2 & 3/F ACT Tower,135 Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Salcedo Village , Makati City

Telephone: +632 892-9827

2 1/2 to 3-hour drive to Laiya, San Juan, Batangas

If you're looking for the quickest beach getaway... then the destination to Laiya, San Juan, Batangas is it.

We just had to hit the beach for my cousins Monique and Isay before the they leave again for the States. Bora escapade seems to be not feasible anymore due to our tight schedule so we drove to the nearest destination in Batangas. It's a 2 1/2 to 3-hour drive from Alabang (if there's no traffic). You can actually go if you're into those spur-of-the-moment road trip.

We went here on a cold weekend of January and stayed in Taramindu Beach Garden Inn for the day. Don't be deceived by their website though. The place looked spacious but when we saw the place, I guess it's one of the smallest resorts in San Juan with probably less than 20 rooms (more on hotel type and not cottages). Nevertheless, the food was good. They have ala carte or set menus which were budget-friendly for its quality.

Don't get too excited with the beach of San Juan, Batangas as well. It looks amazing on photos but once you step on it, it's not that great. Their sand is a combination of little stones and sand with some glass in some areas.

Taramindu is located towards the end of the Laiya road, near La Luz Beach Resort. You can go there for a walk and sneak to chill in one of their cabanas for a while. I was surprised that La Luz is overrated. Again, it looked great on photos but it's not Paradise. I cannot totally judge though 'cause I was not able to experience their accomodations.

On the other hand, I was able to take a nice snap in this resort. Cute, little naive girl she is. :)

It was cold, breezy, cloudy in San Juan, sometimes the sun peeps from the clouds... you can fall asleep lying by the shore. A good break before we get busy again the following Monday.

Taramindu Beach Garden Inn

Telephone: (+632) 448-56-11

Mobile: (+63) 0917-824-0024

La Luz Beach Resort

Telephone:

+632 726-6687 loc. 113

+632 726-4977 loc. 106

+632 726-7445 loc. 103

+632 727-7032 loc. 102

Mobile:

+63 (927) 993-8417

+63 (916) 394-4367

A Place to See and Be Seen: The Pen Lobby

Admit it, you would want to see and be seen in The Lobby of one of the best five star hotels in Manila -- The Peninsula. Now, it's not just known for the place where Trillanes et al. sieged after they walked out of their trial and marched the Makati streets, but it is STILL famous for its luscious ice cream desserts and just recently, their Chocolate Symphony Buffet. I know I have yet to indulge in this everything chocolate kind of buffet (but I'm not a fan of chocolates anyway).

After the stand-off, The Lobby has long been renovated. It has this certain warm glow in the afternoon from its tall windows from the sunlight streaming in. It boasts the artwork of famous painters and sculpture in the ceiling.

Last Christmas season, I had the chance to grab a dessert in the hotel with my former colleagues after our lunch reunion in another resto. Oh correction, we didn't "grab," we took pleasure in the taste of their ice cream in their dessert menu. Your taste palettes would really enjoy the rocky road or the double dutch embellished with almonds, chocolate chips and miniature brownies... even if you're not a sweet tooth like me. It's a good place to catch up with good ol' friends while experiencing the delectable treats, especially if you come in after lunch, when it is quiet and there's not much people -- well, unless you're the type who would really want to BE SEEN when you're there. ;)

I'm not sure how pricey this must have been (I wasn't the one who paid the bill) but once in a while, I know I should give myself a treat like this one. Mmmmm...

Contemplative Mood in a Church

"When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers — the moon and the stars you set in place — what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?" --Psalm 8:3-4

Wherever I see this breathtaking view such as this which was in Caleruega Church in Tagaytay, I can't help but give praise to God with his majestic creations - the trees, the sunset, the sky, the hills. Man's creations, no matter how big or intricate a church structure, are nothing compared to His glory you see everywhere. Sometimes I wonder, why does He even bother with us? Yet He loved us unconditionally, I can't find the words how much so.

We caught this sunset in this Dominican church open for couples who are to wed, groups in a retreat / recollection, people to hear mass, or individuals who want to just want to find solitude (with a good view of the Batulao hills). I also found that it is a venue for renewal workshops, study, research, youth camps, marriage and family encounters, leadership seminars, art, music, and liturgy workshops, and environment an agriculture-related activities. This is one of the stop-overs you must come to when you're in the area of Tagaytay, going to Nasugbu.

Caleruega Philippines

Brgy. Kaylaway, Batulao,

Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines

+63 921-2709890 / +63 921-8304226

+63 (043) 706-0348

Ask for: Ms. Jackie / Ms. Melda / Ms. Cristalle

High Time Rollers at Tagaytay Highlands

One of the signs that you know "you've arrived" is if you own a property in Tagaytay Highlands, or you have a share in one of the clubs there. Luxury living in the Tagaytay Ridge, amidst the cool breeze, it's definitely one of the quickest escape from the metro.

I for sure am not an "RK" (Rick Kid), but I do have several high time roller companions who've brought me there in different occasions. One instance is when I joined a photo shoot in Tagaytay with my friend who encouraged me on getting a Nikon DSLR, who then introduced me to the applei photo enthusiasts in which one of them is a club member.

One of our destinations was in the Highlands Country Club. It's complete with amenities for sports and recreation, restaurant facilities with international cuisine, spa, pool and jacuzzi. Of course our purpose there was not to try allthe works but to shoot and practice what we got. It's a good travel photog destination, just gotta keep a good eye on what you see around.

It's where you can lie down and waste time.

It's where you can have a good quiet conversation with a friend.

Tagaytay Highlands is where an idea can spark and start your whole travel photography passion thing. :)

Tagaytay Highlands

Tagaytay City, Cavite, Philippines

+ 63 (046) 483-0888 or 413-3808

For club chares / properties inquiries:

Belle Corporation

Sales and Marketing Offices

20th Floor, East Tower

Philippine Stock Exchange Centre

Exchange Road, Ortigas Center,

Pasig City, Philippines

+ 63 (02) 635-3016 to 20

Peace and Tranquility at Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife

Guess where this abounding greenery scene was shot? Right in the middle of the thick smug-filled Quezon City! Who would have thought one could still find such fresh and quiet location in the city? Yup, you can get that in Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife.

On the second day of our photography workshop, we drove to that northern side to practice our shooting skills on the park's animals, trees, gazebos, walkways, the lagoon, and people. It was a drizzly Sunday morning but we still managed to get some good shots like this one. Aside from taking photos, you can also jog, sleep under a tree shade, take a date, propose to someone, read a good book, have a picnic, or spend some of your own "moments" here. If you haven't done such in a long time, why not begin it in this park named after Benigno Aquino. :)

Ninoy Aquino Parks & Wildlife Center

Quezon Avenue,

Diliman, Quezon City

+63 (02) 924 6031

Cubao eXpo Marks the Spot

Somewhere in the midst of urban metro Araneta Center, Quezon City is Cubao eXpo -- a haven for artists and art lovers, vintage collectors, Marikina shoe loyalists, food lovers, indie movie enthusiasts. This was the old Marikina Shoe Expo. To name a few shops, there's Bellini's (an authentic Italian restaurant), Mogwai theater (with underground Hollywood and Pinoy films), The Reading Room (for clothes and accessories). One of my favorite stores there is Heima Store, a lifestyle and home design store, formed by partners Bong Rojales and Rossy Yabut. It's not only an interior design store, but there are also lomography cameras, books, accessories, and music. On the second floor is The Kolektib Shared Space which is a venue for classes and workshops.

I came to this store when I joined a two-day Basic Creative Photography workshop at the 2nd floor conducted by photographer Allan Florendo last August. It was meant to improve our composition of photos and after each topic, we went out the store to shoot subjects inside Cubao X. Here's a by-product photo of that workshop which Allan liked.

Mark your maps 'cause you should visit Cubao X soon!

Cubao Expo, Gen. Romulo St.

Araneta Center, Cubao

Quezon City, Philippines

Why Don't We Stop and Smell the Flowers? (The SCTEx Road Trip)

Like this photo taken in SCTEx, "Stop and smell the flowers" is a saying which is not related to flowers at all. It's an idiom which means to stop rushing and enjoy the moment as time passes quickly and it won't return to you again.

Together with my cousins from the States and my tito and tita, we went to a road trip last December 2008 going to Subic where we traveled the SCTEx (Subic - Clark - Tarlac Expressway). But it was LITERALLY a road trip. We just drove to Subic and back to Manila (I wasn't the driver that time) and never had a chance to even enjoy the sights and tour spots in that area. My tito's purpose was bring us to Aling Lucing's Sisig for lunch which was in the riles or railroads of Angeles. Unfortunately, we realized it's still closed since it opens in the afternoon. We just ended up eating in one of the branches of Razon's, where we ordered the traditional pancit luglog and their ever-famous halo-halo. Okay, at least that's not bad at all!

But since we were already in Subic, of course we wanted to see Anvaya Cove, Zoobic Safari, Ocean Adventure (and recently I just heard about this Tree Top Adventure in Subic). I guess we shouldn't expect that when we're with our tito who just wanted to see and drive the SCTEx and who's not the type who would stop and smell the flowers.