Stroll in the Chinese Garden

I took a morning stroll in the Chinese Garden two weeks ago, checking out the venue for possible photoshoot sessions there. Still a little groggy from getting out of bed not too long ago, I scouted the area for suitable Bamboo, Bonsai, Pagoda and such oriental architectures. Its a nice place to destress, conveniently located in the heartlands. I used my Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 DI for the first 2 shots and the Nikon 85mm F1.8 for the rest. Both lens were shot at wide open or close to wide open (F2 to F2.8) for your viewing pleasure.

Timex Automatic Watch

I recently purchased a Timex Automatic Watch, model T2M517. The watch caught my attention the moment I laid my eyes on it and I knew I was in love. Being quite affordable for an automatic watch and the fact that I was able to get it at a discount, I knew it was a matter of time before I would possess it! The funny thing was I did not know much about Timex. I thought they only produced sporty or fashionable battery operated "indigo backlit" watches which was actually quite appealing, but which I never took seriously. Untill now. The specifications are usually on those of a much more expensive watch, like those costing more than $500!

• 38 Jewel Automatic movement with exhibition window at 6 o'clock
• Fly back date hand at 9 o'clock
• 40 hour power reserve indicator at 2 o'clock
• Stainless Steel case with enamel top ring
• Stainless steel bracelet
• Screw down crown
• Water resistance: 100m

This quick image of the watch was produced with my trusty Tamron 90mm F2.8 macro lens and direct flash.

Window Light Portrait

Window light portraits does not require expensive equipment or elaborate setup, yet they often produce evocative images. Since its done in the shade and sheltered from the elements, it can be done on a scorching mid summer afteroon or on a gloomy downcast or rainy day just the same. Here is a simple such example of a downcast day from that single light source, done not even with a reflector.

Candid Nikon 85mm F1.8 Wide Open Shots

I went to the IT fair yesterday, but I bought nothing there. My pockets are shallow these days and I have to tighten my belt! In the end, I left the place and took some candid outdoor snapshots of this young lady and her friend who went to the IT fair too. Here are a few of the pictures taken with the Nikon 85mm F1.8 wide open at such a close distance for maximum bokeh effect just for the fun of it! I am still impressed with the sharpness acheivable!

Spiral Stairway

Here, to complete the series and for your viewing pleasure, are some of the earlier shots taken with the Nikon 35mm F2 this time.

Nikon 85mm F1.8 wide open

I covered a friend of a friend's Registry Of Marriage this afternoon, where I took photos of the young couple legally unite to become Husband and Wife. I am not one who have much experience in event photography, but I tried my best anyway and I feel happy for them. Following that, however, I met up with another TFCD model nearby, where I can use my 85mm F1.8 again! I tried shooting at F1.8 and here are some of the images made with this lens wide open. Here are the effects for full length body, half body and head and shoulders portraits. Once the focus is locked on correctly, even at full aperture, the sharpness leaves little more to be desired.