Project 365: #202 - Watermelon Pride

202 of 365, a photo by caliguyinmn on Flickr.

On Thursday we had our annual watermelon-eating contest at work. Team Strom really upped the ante this year by support Melissa with T-shirts that spelled out her name and all wearing watermelon bandanas. Damon was just one such member but he wore it so well and joyfully so I couldn't not use him as my photo of the day. This shot was taken with my zoom lens and I was reminded how amazingly sharp the photos are with it. I mean, you can see the individual details of every single hair on his face when zoomed into 100%. I'm still blown away by its capabilities and need to continue using it as much as possible since it may very well be the most valuable lens I own for weddings.

Project 365: #201 - Baby Nora

201 of 365, a photo by caliguyinmn on Flickr.

Staying in the black and white world, I was delighted to meet Nora. She is an absolutely gorgeous little girl and I intentionally had my camera at work that day. I had limited time and far from ideal lighting situations but I really love this photo. It is a tender mom and her baby moment and it can happen anywhere, even in the office. I did do a bit of editing to get a softer feel and optimal lighting considering what I was working with, but honestly not all that much needs to be done with a beautiful little a girl as the subject. I am looking forward to doing a "Capella Moms and Children" photo shoot in the near future.

Project 365: #200 - Black Beach

200 of 365, a photo by caliguyinmn on Flickr.

After a busy week, I'm finally catching up on an interesting week's worth of photos. I think it only appropriate to start off with my favorite from the week. As I walking around Medicine Lake I happened upon the beach on the northern shore. It had a few umbrellas like the one in the photo, and it almost gave me a sense of being on a tropical island. Now, no matter how I tried to allow myself to go there, I could not because the mosquitos made sure of that. But, the scene grabbed me and I went into photographer mode. I caught a few stares as I had to stand on the table to get the angle I wanted. I really want to play with black and white A LOT more in landscapes.

Project 365: #199 - Spider Work

199 of 365, a photo by caliguyinmn on Flickr.

While outside last night changing a lightbulb, Monte yelled for me to check out this hideous creature. It was a rather large spider. And it was hard at work building a huge web. Despite it being one of the darkest nights of the month, I knew I just had to get a photo. So, I did that which I rarely do. I utilized my on-camera flash. I know, it was a shock to me as well. But, it was needed to illuminate this ugly thing and it worked really well. Although I hate using it in 99.9% of all photos, man does it come through for that minutest of photos.

Project 365: #198 - Leading Worship

198 of 365, a photo by caliguyinmn on Flickr.

One of my personal favorites to shoot is the worship band at church. It challenges me to capture moving subjects in constantly varying lighting. It also presents an opportunity for me to try out any number of settings to produce different moods and feelings in photos without feeling pressure under limited time. After all, I get to shoot this every Sunday so if I miss something or want to try something new, my next opportunity is only 7 days away. Plus, by practicing I can offer my services to bands once I have better mastered the art of shooting live music.

Project 365: #197 - Sold!

197 of 365, a photo by caliguyinmn on Flickr.

Never have I looked upon a "SOLD" sign with such joy. I am glad I do because the photo itself, I could take it or leave it. But I was so excited when I drove up to the house and saw the sign updated, I had to get a photo. I don't dare get started on the quality of the photo but what it represents more than makes up for its lacking. I have wanted to own a home for awhile but recently saw that dream as a possibility. I had hoped to be looking by the big 3-0 but never thought I'd buy one by then. Well, come August 26th, keys will be in hand and I will be a home owner.

Project 365: #196 - Midday Snack

196 of 365, a photo by caliguyinmn on Flickr.

So, I like squirrels. Yes, I know they are just rats with bushy tails but they are much friendlier looking. At the team picnic on Friday I spotted this guy munching on some crumbs. To my amazement he didn't so much as flinch when I moved to ward him. I have never even dreamed of getting so close and being able to take this photo without my zoom lens. My 50mm got a photo it may never come so close to getting again. Sometimes just having a camera on you can be the best way to ensure you capture shots you normally wouldn't. It doesn't even have to be any special kind of lens you use either. As with life, so goes photography. Be prepared.