I’m always interested in the displays on the fourth plinth at Trafalgar Square. Because I’m in London once or twice a year, the art changes nearly every time I revisit. This time exhibit is somewhat different. It’s changing constantly. When I was there earlier this afternoon, this man was reading various messages from the people at the square.
I have around ten books about photography, a couple of which I’ve read at least three times. The basic information is the same and starts to become repetitive – but it’s good to understand the basics. I took an online ‘course’ in 2006 but that didn’t really offer anything more than the books. I decided the best way forward was to play… and play I very much did. I have around thirty thousand images to sort as a result!
I looked around for a suitable course, both in Kuwait and London, and I found a polarised choice. It was either the very basic training, which one can get from a good book, or specialised training in disciplines such as Lighting, Product Photography, Sport Photography etc. General courses are either aimed at a level for people who need to be told how to press a button (sometimes twice!), or are run by artists who encourage you to break the rules and work outside the norms. It would help if they described these norms – but I honestly don’t think they know them.
I finally decided the best way forward is to continue to ‘play’ but to do it in style. I signed up for a Nikon course designed specifically for my camera. They cover functionalities, capabilities, tricks, shortcuts and a general familiarisation with this weapon of mass distraction.
Today was day one of two. The above cheerful boy cycled past Nikon’s Head Office in Kingston when we were taking some practice shots outside.
Whilst I always try to capture my travels when on business, I am inevitably more focussed on the task at hand. Phone-calls and discussions with colleagues mean many opportunities are simply missed. Being on holiday allows me more concentration on my photography.
This post summarises my journey – looking out of my window seat. My favourite shot is the one above of the Thames and Houses of Parliament. Have a look at the larger version for more detail.
The second (and final) selection of matchboxes. Mostly of hotels, and roughly grouped into continents. Some of the matches missed out in the first post (EAT) were added here and there…
The Bellagio (Las Vegas-USA), Sacred Sea Room (Las Vegas-USA), Aladdin (Las Vegas-USA), Luxor (Las Vegas-USA), MGM Grand (Las Vegas-USA), Stratosphere Tower (Las Vegas-USA), Best Western (New York-USA), The Doral (Miami-USA), Pacific Time (Miami-USA) & again Luxor (Las Vegas-USA).
I know the date of this photograph. Since I can’t see any other clues, I’m testing your fashion knowledge. What year do you think the above photograph was taken?
The location is Trafalgar Square in London.
I was standing in the cold trying to get the right settings on my camera; and without a tripod, I had to use a flat surface nearby to keep the camera steady. While doing all of this to get “the perfect shot”, this guy stops walking, takes out his camera, points, shoots and walks on!
When I looked at this photograph later, I really liked it.
My warmest Eid greetings to everyone from a frosty cold London. I wanted to have a photograph of sheep today, but a frozen meal of theirs will have to do.
Eid Mubarak to everyone.
On a frosty morning like today, one of the best feelings is to wrap up well and go for an early morning walk. To be the first person across the crunchy frosted grass is a privilege worth waking up for – even during a holiday.
It was -5°C last night. This was taken at our local park when there were only three other people there, all with dogs. It was dry, crisp and there was no wind.
Within an hour, the park was full of its usual Sunday traffic of rugby and football teams and their small crowds.
It’s freezing, it’s raining, it’s dark and it’s a week-night. Let’s have a party!
I think all we need is an excuse and they’ve found a few and put them together at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. This usually forgotten part of London during winter – especially at night time – came alive. Lots of fun for children aged 1 to 80… Lights, skating, rides (including a roller coaster) and many little novelty shops. The food and drink places looked good too – but we didn’t try any.
If you’re in the area, I recommend a visit.
Regent’s Park London
I hate to advertise … but it doesn’t get better than this.
It’s almost Christmas and we’re in London! Where else but Hamleys? We crossed the road after taking this photo and spent three hours there! THREE HOURS!!
I’m still trying to work out who had more fun…. me or the children? They behaved so well all the way there – and some of the way back.
Happy 2008.
From York Minster (photo) to the Shambles, York is a small version of a large Eurpoean city.
History, architecture fun shops and good weather. All were there throughout our four-day visit. The children even managed to see the Tweenies live!
Watching London go by….
This is one of my favourite night shots of London. I have a large print of it displayed in my office. The unmistakable colours of Piccadilly Circus and the London bus/taxi create the perfect postcard moment.
It was a clear freeeezing night and this was the result of quite a few attempts. The light from the “Sanyo” sign in Piccadilly Circus gave this fantastic result. Apart from a little cropping, nothing was done on photoshop.
 | Marzouq on Getting High |
| Marzouq on Al Hamra |
| Marzouq on Reclaimed Land |
| Marzouq on In the Right Place at the Flig… |
| Marzouq on iTelephone |
