Mira Zaki Photography

Liquid Saunf > Alchemia Chocolate–Infused Polish Vodka with Absinthe, Coconut Water, and Cardamom Bitters

2012-02-03T06:53:00.003+11:00

Enough said :)

Flashback: Marilyn

2012-01-28T17:42:00.002+11:00

Inspired to post this due to my best friend Charlie's adoration for her, and another huge fan- my high school friend Micheal- I give you.... Marilyn.

Film- medium format
Black and white
Location: Hollywood
Model: Jena Leavitt

Priceless- welcome to my arty side :)

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake

2012-01-28T09:17:00.002+11:00

I read that today is National Chocolate Cake Day! In chocolate cake's honor, and also because I wish I had this sinful cake in front of me at the moment- here is a photo I took with my very generous and talented friend Jenn Jung. She has been a chef for many years, and continues to sous chef for every famous face you can imagine. I love collaborating with her and talking for hours about art and food. Doesn't this sort of seem like a Gourmet tearsheet or perhaps even Bon Appetit?

Today... I say.... have your cake and eat it, too!

Henna

2012-01-27T17:39:00.002+11:00

If you know me at all... you will know this.. I love all things ink. Tonight while shooting an Indian dinner at the James Beard Foundation, there was a henna artist there! It was my first henna tat, and the artistry and originality of the designs were mesmerizing to watch :)

Enjoy!

Undoubtedly Frank Gehry

2012-01-18T17:34:00.002+11:00

Frank Gehry's design
Dusseldorf Germany
Summer 2007
Feels like Alice in Wonderland in real life !

West Indian Day Parade

2012-01-17T06:57:00.003+11:00

I seem to be in an extreme wanderlust daydream these days... travel... all those things you want to do because.. its one of those things.....Mardi Gras in good ol' N'awlins.... Carnival in Brazil... I have been dreaming and planning several personal projects that will take me abroad, and so in that spirit, I can finally bring to you images I shot for Edible Brooklyn magazine.

This was my first time to the West Indian Day Parade. It was quite an event to behold and participate in- a true celebration of life, food, and culture which is just my cup of tea. I absolutely adored the costumes and colorful outfits the girls were wearing- these were my fav girls that I found at the end of the festivities. Vive Celebrations!

Purple Nicky

2012-01-16T13:14:00.005+11:00

Nicholette Von Reiche is one of the loveliest people I have met in NY... she and her husband are South African (and I am a sucker for an accent) so I was thrilled when we had to have several meetings to discuss our photoshoot. We had a wonderful time shooting with her. She is a food stylist turned holistic health coach, and her lovely demeanor is the perfect personality required for a coach.

I love my job. And I love that I am able to work with the most talented man in all of NY as my hair, make-up, and fashion stylist. He is a force, a genius, and I am lucky to know and work with him: www.charlesedwardbeauty.com.

These portraits are to tide you over until my website is updated with its very own Portrait section :) Happy Evening to all !

Supernaut Tattoo

2012-01-15T04:01:00.005+11:00

Once upon a December, I was shooting my friend Maji's restaurant in Vermont, I made some wonderful connections and ended up collaborating on many other projects!

One of my collaborations was shooting this incredible tattoo artist named Mike in Easton, PA. Mike is the only real artist I have met so far, and with my ink addiction, it is truly a wonder to meet someone with his talent and mind. His shop is simple, no flash, no examples, all custom work. His work is unparalleled, and I am trying to spread the word- his meticulous style proves to be one of a kind. Anyone and everyone near or not near Easton, PA, RUN don't walk to Mike's shop!!!

Duck Fat Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

2012-01-14T14:56:00.002+11:00

...enough said, right? Prepared by Chopped winner Chef Mike Carrino. Holy greasy goodness !

Pomodori

2012-01-13T17:24:00.003+11:00

Ciao 2012! I was just immersed in the most gloriously gluttonous event for 2 days straight... thanks to Chef Cesare Casella, I was invited to go to the incredible International Day of Italian Cuisine- let me tell you... in proper Italian form, the DAY lasted for 2 days, and it was like a dream.

I could get used to waking up, going downtown to the International Culinary Institute and having non- English speaking Italian chefs demo-ing and preparing several dishes for me all day, while Illy coffee makes my favorite latte, among other wonderful Italian companies providing goodies for any in between moments of hunger. I didn't forget how much I love Italy since I tend to focus on Australia only- it refreshed the passion and love for Europe and for Italian culture. I am actually legitimately looking into learning how to speak Italian once and for all- I met so many lovely people there, and now have some connections!

This photo is simple, and yet one that caught my eye- the ever important staple of Italian cuisine- Pomodori a.k.a tomatoes :)

Enjoy! This year is already so delicious and full of promise :)

2011's Triumphant End

2012-01-01T08:49:00.005+11:00

2011 undoubtedly changed my life. It is difficult to put into words. I never thought I would experience what I did this year.

I loved more deeply than I thought humanly possible....
I let go, I embraced,
I expanded, and retracted
I looked inward to display outward,
I stood behind my lens continuing to do what I love.
I will always fondly think of what 2011 taught me and gave me to keep for the rest of my breaths and heartbeats.

Beginning at the end here- back to my roots- this is a fav photo I snapped when I was in Seattle earlier this year for my first group exhibition.

Happy New Year Everyone!

Holiday Cheer with PEOPLE not food :)

2011-12-21T08:22:00.005+11:00

... I have an ongoing challenge..... I am a niche- which is what every single business person told me to do. Specialize, specialize, specialize. And so I did.... I shoot food. I love to talk, dream, plan, think of, go out to eat, stay in and cook, talk some more about, travel so I can taste and experience.... it is a massive part of my life, culture, identity, and choice of my home- New York City.... however, all this foodism has led to the fact that many do not consider me when thinking of photographing people.

So, take a look! Its not one, but two people!! :) I joke, although it is a genuine challenge that I will remedy with a new sparkly website in 2012. This is my new friend and client, Nicholette and her husband Filip, I cannot find the proper words to express how pleasant they are, nor how much their energy permeates love. So, I leave you with this special additional holiday photo I did while doing a lifestyle with Nicholette, styled by my most amazing Charles Edward.

Happy Holidays to All !

Pistou Restaurant in Burlington Vermont

2011-12-19T12:18:00.002+11:00

You know how you have those glorious "right place, right time" moments? Well, facebook was born, and a few years later... I was wondering why my friend Maji was posting constantly with these mysterious updates about health department inspections, grades, and all this talk of opening a restaurant... was she opening a restaurant in NY and I wasn't aware? She was opening a restaurant but it was in the middle of the wonder that is Vermont.

Emails were exchanged, a plane ticket purchased, and I was on my way to shoot for her beautiful new space in Burlington. I had a truly lovely week that cultivated more projects, relationships, and work- and this is what I leave you with for now- Winter Squash Soup, Creme Fraiche Panna Cotta, and Savory Granola. :)

Fall in Flemington

2011-11-17T17:49:00.002+11:00

This weekend I had the joy of taking a break from the city, and heading to my best friend's family's house near Flemington, New Jersey. Needless to say, the mental break is enough to make me want to go there every weekend... but there's so much more appeal than the quietness of the home and the peace of the town we stay in when we visit. I felt like this was the first time I saw the Autumn so far, and just outside their door were a few deer eating leaves. Inhale this bliss with me...for there is NOTHING like the East Coast Autumn!

Life Changing Lobster Pasta

2011-11-14T02:30:00.003+11:00

... this was the consensus at dinner the other night at The James Beard Foundation. For the 78 people that attended the dinner- we couldn't have been happier to have had the pleasure of this dish- I told Chef Jeremy Sewall to open a Lobster Pasta stand here in the city, and he could retire :)

Boston, I don't know if you realise how lucky you are to have this! Lobster Roe Pasta with Grilled Lobster Tail, Brussels Sprout Leaves, Foraged Mushrooms, and Meyer Lemon Butter.

The Death of Red Riding Hood

2011-11-12T08:41:00.003+11:00

This is my 2nd installment of The Chocolate Show NY because I could not pass up the opportunity to talk about this! Fika is a Swedish chocolate company with one convenient store in my neighborhood, and one shop on Pearl Street. Needless to say, they got my attention with their controversial chocolate sculptures.

I spoke to all the employees as well as the chocolate sculptor, and it felt fantastic to see people pushing the limits and remaining true to the fact that art is... observation, commentary, opinion, subjective creations. I always resonate with things that make me think, or horrify me- and I always remember the things that push the limits... always. Undoubtedly my favorite- dead Red Riding Hood underneath the Big Bad Wolf! :)

The Chocolate Show's Fashion

2011-11-11T13:39:00.003+11:00

Today was my first day, and first time to attend and photograph the NY Chocolate Show. I wish this show was everyday :) I had an amazing, chocolate-filled experience- taste testing, chatting, sharing, and networking= a total win of a day. I got a million samples, and a gift bag for being press. I only wish I knew that there were separate tickets required for the Fashion Show portion the night before....luckily, they had some displays up today.

Without a doubt, this was the most clever and my favorite fashionable chocolate :) Extremely clever, and well-done, and of course very New York.

Enjoy ! :) And I HIGHLY recommend this Chocolate Show to any and every chocolate lover.

A few of my FAVOURITE Things!

2011-11-10T11:50:00.003+11:00

I can't help but feel a little holiday spirit already :)

Did I mention that I love my neighborhood? There's a secret treasure on W. 52nd street called Stiles Market. You could easily pass by it and never see it, (even though there's barbed wire on the top of the building- ha-ha-ha!) but for decades, it has been bringing Hells Kitchen locally grown New York State produce.

It is absolutely a treasure, and one of my favourite parts of my neighborhood. At one point, everything was $1, and with the prices in NYC, I keep Stiles Market in my arsenal as a woman, shopper, foodie, food photographer, and meal preparer. Enjoy a few of my favourite things :)

Make-Up Class with Celebrity Artist Charles Edward

2011-11-05T17:25:00.003+11:00

Hello Blog-iverse! I am doing some late night editing, and just wanted to let my faithful followers know about new classes and workshops my best friend Charles Edward is offering. Tomorrow, the first course is a "How To" with your own make-up. He will show and offer advice on how to re-vamp your look with the make-up you already have! He is a genius ladies, and once you have the magic of his attention, and his talent, you will never be the same. I know I am not :) Come on down to Hells Kitchen and check it out! www.charlesedwardstyle.com for info!

Now, That's Italian! With Mario Batali

2011-11-05T10:01:00.004+11:00

I love my job! The James Beard Foundation was born... and 25 years after its birth, I got a last minute call to shoot for their amazing annual auction and dinner. My response... a resounding YES.

This year, the guest of honor was Mario Batali. I have had such an awesome celeb chef year, and I am so grateful to James Beard for all that they do, and allowing me to be a part of their glorious and meaningful work. Here's the whole crew- I just love everyone's open eyes and smiling faces in this one ;)

A Marvelous Marilyn

2011-11-02T05:04:00.003+11:00

Isn't she a marvelous Marilyn?? I LOVE Halloween, and this was one of my fav costumes that I saw yesterday. Apparently, she normally has hair as dark as mine, so, I give her extra points for pulling off the blondie wig so well :) Simple yet classic and lovely.

4 Bad Ass Chicks from the Moulin Rouge

2011-10-31T08:04:00.002+11:00

Ok, sorry I might be missing the 4 bad ass chicks part :) But, the Moulin Rouge is still here. My good friends Bobby and Ana just returned from their first trip to Paris and London, and it was ever inspiring to talk travel, food,culture, community, and life.

I am currently updating my website and in that intense process, am going through and organising my photos from 2000 to the present (let me tell you its no small feat!) Sometimes I focus so much on the "money" shots for so long, I forget about how many other hidden treasures I have in my photo archives. This was one of those hidden treasures that I have edited, but haven't added to a website or anything else, so I give you the Moulin Rouge :) ( I am sure those 4 bad ass chicks are somewhere nearby!)

Manly, Australia

2011-10-30T01:25:00.004+11:00

Yes, that is actually the name of the town where I took this photograph! If you know me, you will already be aware that Australia is not just a country that I like, and so I won't get on my soapbox about why I feel the way I do about it :)

I met some of the most amazing, generous, humans I've ever met in my life on my last trip to Australia. In Manly, there was a weekly Couchsurfing meetup at a certain bar, and they also had a magician! :) His wallet was always on fire, and he was an extremely clever, sweet man, and entertainer (Hi Jules!) This photo is pleasing to me, and I wanted to share!

Autumn in Vermont

2011-10-29T08:00:00.005+11:00

This is my twitter backdrop at the moment!!! :) (thanks to the suggestion of my darling web designer and best friend in Australia). I shot this a few years ago in Vermont at one of their glorious Farmer's Markets. Vermont is a dreamland that seems fictitious! I was trying to sort out how you could possibly fit so many trees into one place... among being crisp, progressive (nearly everyone I spoke to relies on solar power) gorgeous, and peaceful, it was also yet another haven for food.

Something about the Autumn really resonates with me- all of the senses are stimulated- the changing of the seasons, the preparation for Winter... I find it is absolutely my fav time of year. I also love anything and everything pumpkin (and corn for that matter) so, this is an especially dorky, pleases-me-down-to-my-bloodstream photo for me. :)

Roasted Beet Tart

2011-10-28T05:13:00.004+11:00

NY Women Run The World! :) I was shooting with my extremely talented friend Jenn Jung yesterday at her house in Jackson Heights, Queens. Jenn has worked with every famous chef in the world at this point, and she is one of my favo(u)rite people in general, but her stories are endless as are her talent and skills in the kitchen. She effortlessly prepared ... what seemed like a million dishes all the while chit-chatting with me.

This one was a particular favo(u)rite of mine (I just ate it, too!) because I have spent most of my life without the glorious taste for beets. I couldn't tell you why, I just didn't grow up eating them, and when I discovered them, they quickly became one of my most cherished foods. Something about eating a warm, gooey, sweet, cheesy tart when it is cold outside that makes you feel glad to be alive. The tart was delectable, and I loved her crumbling green table as the backdrop! This sort of looks like a painting in a way, doesn't it?

Painted Chocolate

2011-10-25T15:00:00.003+11:00

This is certifiably one of the coolest things I've ever seen, and eaten :) Having been to France, and spent a fair amount of time in Paris, I would like to venture to say that Parisian bakers are unparalleled in their creative techniques.

The painted chocolate that you see above was part of another delectable dessert from a James Beard Foundation Dinner that I shot. I actually saw these laying on a pan (circular shapes) and did not realise they were edible, I thought that they were bracelets, or some sort of parting gift, hahaha! It still sort of amazes me how the artistry of food can be so intricate and breathtaking. And this one just so happened to be delicious as well.

:)

Black Truffle Pizza with Fontina Cheese

2011-10-24T09:28:00.005+11:00

I was recently dorking out on Meetup.com- and decided to look for dinner/supper clubs in my neighborhood, and join as many food groups as possible in NY.... after all, foodies unite, right? Some of them required that you answer questions before obtaining membership or acceptance into the group- and when I was being asked for my favo(u)rite food... I didn't think I could answer the question. I genuinely struggled because almost everything is my favo(u)rite! I am DEFINITELY a favo(u)rite kind of person- somehow what you like defines you, and speaks about your personality and lifestyle in a way. (yes, forgive me, always waxing philosophic here!)

At any rate, living in NY affords me the opportunity to have authentic pizza at any hour of the day, and it got me thinking that I might not just be a 12 yr old who never grew up, but someone who is consistent in the things that I enjoy to eat repeatedly. This shot was from yet another phenomenal James Beard Foundation Dinner. The restaurant was the Mark Hotel Restaurant, and the genius Chef Pierre Schutz was trained with, and is a part of the ever famous Jean Georges group :) Enjoy- I want pizza. All the time!

Cookbook Photoshoot!

2011-10-17T08:09:00.003+11:00

Just a quick note to share a snippet of my photoshoot with Chef Jonathan Forgash! We had a truly amazing day full of food, great music, and good conversation. I love my job!

This cookbook will be an e-cookbook, and hopefully out sometime next Spring- stay tuned :)

A Little Rouge

2011-10-15T01:02:00.002+11:00

Happy Friday everyone! Today's entry is brought to you by the letter R for red ! My darling best friend Charlie is the most talented and intuitive make-up artist and hair stylist that I have ever met. He is going to be featured on Moxie Q as one of the tastemakers writing about beauty, and let me tell you ladies, it is so worth tuning in for! He is also the most knowledgeable person I've ever met about products, skin, and beauty in general.

One of his blogs will talk about red lipstick, and this was one of my fav outtakes. (I shot the image for the blog= fun!)

Enjoy and happy weekend !

My Glorious Hometown.....Seattle !

2011-10-11T16:32:00.003+11:00

Hello blog universe! I am falling into a nice blogging rhythm here without the pressure of needing to update everyday, it has been coming naturally to me and is quite welcomed!

I had a lovely girls night tonight- which is extremely rare for those of you who really know me- again and again I am finding Australians to be some of the most genuine and kind people on the planet, and while showing my portfolio, I decided I would add a shot from my trip to Seattle earlier this year.

Some of you may or may not know- though I lived in California a long time, I am by no means a Californian. Thank you dad for taking the job in the coolest city I could have ever hoped to be born in! Seattle is my hometown and I have a very strong connection to growing up there. Enjoy my glorious hometown, and pop over for a visit if you have never been there. If you live there- can I crash on your couch next time I visit? :)

Madi Diaz Rocks Mercury Lounge NYC!

2011-10-10T04:13:00.006+11:00

A few years ago, my good friend Phil was in town for the CMJ Festival.The CMJ Music Festival is an annual event where selected bands and artists play at various clubs throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Phil was here for the festival, and I have to mention that he owns the coolest recording studio in Hollywood called Swinghouse. ....living in LA so long afforded me many opportunities to hang out at the studio and meet musicians from all times and walks of life; Phil is my absolute authority for new music (and he should be, yours, too!) because it is his life, and his job. I rarely seek out new artists because there are so few of them that appeal to me. After cab rides deep into Brooklyn had gone wrong to see some new bands performing, the saving grace was seeing Madi Diaz perform. He promised me, she was worth it, and she was.

Madi Diaz remains one of my absolute fav new artists today. It was amazing to have heard her a few years ago and be impressed, but, to see her last week in NYC perform with even more talent than before, I could feel and see the development and progress she has made as an artist. Madi is also incredibly sweet, humble, and fiercely talented. Her lyrics will break your heart- but they also inspire hope. She sings with the passion which reminds me why I am in love with music.

Fuzzy Kisses and Strong Liquor

2011-10-09T01:11:00.004+11:00

.. was the name of this awesome event I shot for Social Exposure Media. I have never been to the funky, Alice in Wonderland type venue (Mister H Lounge at the Mondrian Hotel in SoHo). The above sign was absolutely one of my favo(u)rite objects I have ever run across in my lifetime! Check out the story written about it- and photos provided by yours truly. I met some truly fantastic people at this Animal Charity Event, and highly recommend this venue for your future events. I am thinking I would love to have an Alice in Wonderland themed birthday party there!

Pro Sound News Tearsheet

2011-10-08T08:49:00.002+11:00

Well, Happy Glorious Autumn to you all. Rocktober is one of my absolute favo(u)rite months... everything just feels a little more harmonious and nicer at this time of year. I always wonder why it is that I am a summer baby who despises the season in which I was born? :)

Anyway, this is an exciting new tear of mine published in Pro Sound News magazine- my friend Lou Brown is a brilliant friend who owns a recording studio in Hells Kitchen. We became fast friends after one photoshoot, and he asked me to come back and shoot his stunning piano for this magazine shoot.

ENJOY! The next tear is exciting, too! Stay Tuned !

Mister H and His Funky Lounge

2011-10-02T01:50:00.004+10:00

Alert- this is not a food post! Look how I have grown :) So, I had the opportunity to shoot this really lovely event the other night- it was for an animal charity (which I always support), and the venue was definitely one of the most interesting spaces in NY. Mister H lounge in SoHo. It had a very Alice in Wonderland vibe, it was dark, classy, and just really f*ing cool. I felt so comfortable there- and met some of the nicest people on earth. I <3 you, NY.

Mad Food Science

2011-10-01T09:16:00.002+10:00

LOVE THE NEW BLOGGER TEMPLATES!!!!!! Hello faithful followers- it appears that my heart belongs to food.... I will try to mix in some other shots, but in the mean time, I am just honoring what I am interested in the most.

This is another fav shot of mine from a James Beard Foundation dinner- truly the best gig a food photographer could hope for. Enjoy my macro shot of basil oil :)

Steak to Salivate For

2011-09-22T16:00:00.003+10:00

I was a vegetarian for 7 years- YES 7 years- and I think my body will eternally be on a quest with vengeance to make up for all of those years without meat. Vegans and veggies, trust me, I respect and admire your lifestyle. I really do, because I have been there... and not just as a phase for 6 months...but I found through the incredible breakdown of my body and for my own personal health, I am stronger with meat in my diet.

This was some exceptionally tender Colorado Chophouse Cuisine deliciousness that I shot at the James Beard Foundation. I am drooling, and want a steak at 2 am. Yes, I do !

:) Enjoy !

Watermelon Juice

2011-08-29T13:36:00.003+10:00

Happy Lack of Hurricane weekend, East Coast! Ok, perhaps that is not totally fair- some areas were affected- but as I am in NYC and was only slightly shoved over by the incredible gusts of wind today, I remain a bit unnerved by all of the media hoopla.

Alas, life goes on, and now I bring you an end of summer beauty- Watermelon juice mixed with something else that I cannot find on the menu... this was from a James Beard Dinner which was themed "Kentucky Estate Wine". The dinner was true to its Southern roots- and I thought this was a refreshing and brilliant way to break up a rather heavy meal. Isn't it pretty?

Strawberry Shortcake Mayahuel Style

2011-08-19T07:28:00.003+10:00

It appears as though food will always win- you don't mind if I post 2 food blogs back to back, do you? OK!

Once again, I feel very fortunate to be on staff at The James Beard Foundation... this particular dinner I was crossing my fingers and hoping I would get to shoot. The theme was East Village Social- where a group of amazing restaurants all hailing from the East Village came together to make several specialty dishes for the dinner. I have never realised just how much of a strawberry shortcake addict I am until I tried this brilliant twist on strawberry shortcake- Tres Leches Cake with Strawberries and Meringue! I would give just about anything to be there again trying to smuggle as many leftover cakes as I could :)

I love this shot- and encourage anyone in NYC to try this at Mayahuel! Enjoy !

Ice Tea Moonlighting As Whiskey

2011-08-07T02:43:00.005+10:00

Greetings and happy weekend to my faithful readers! Its been a jam-packed month with a lot of exciting things that have happened and a lot more on the horizon.

Wanted to share this image I took in my very own home-I love being able to shoot at home and get the brilliant window light at the perfect angle :) I don't know how to not make this look like an alcoholic beverage, it was in fact tea from my darling new client Donna Bells Bake Shop... and I wanted to share. Don't you just wanna grab it and drink it? :)

The Good Left in the World

2011-07-01T22:57:00.002+10:00

Another out of the ordinary post, but absolutely a worthy one. Thanks everyone for following along with me. I've had a very interesting year so far- and I am learning more about love, life, and friendship than I thought possible. I wish I had the words to describe my new friend Charlie... when I feel I can articulate them, I will attempt a future post.... for now I will say that meeting him has changed my life and it is an honor to share in another person's life; friendship and human connection are a gift.

Charlie was the victim of a violent hate crime last year- and this is his interview- please watch.

http://dot429.com/articles/2011/06/28/charles-edward-gets-his-smile-back

New York Times T magazine blog ! ! ! !

2011-06-30T04:35:00.005+10:00

I now interrupt my regularly scheduled blogging for a very exciting new tearsheet of mine :) I photographed a gorgeous new line of vintage jewelry, and the New York Times T Magazine blog published a photo of one of the necklaces. :)

I have also decided that I don't necessarily have to follow all my own rules even for the blog, so, though my next entry was meant to be music- I do believe that I will post whatever is relevant. Thank you for sticking with me loyal readers- more excitement is en route, promise! Happy intro to Summer !

Insane Asylum Beechworth, Australia

2011-06-07T04:57:00.004+10:00

I wonder if there is something in my DNA that causes my fascination with abandoned institutions, prisons, or places of extreme emotional unrest... we can explore that a bit later, but for today's travel entry I am posting once again about Australia!

I was extremely fortunate to shoot at an off the beaten path bed and breakfast in North Victoria, Australia. While I was there- the lovely owners drove me around a neighboring city called Beechworth (which has some amazing honey that has reached all the way to NYC!) This was an insane asylum ,and a MASSIVE one that not only remains abandoned, but is next door to a daycare (hahaha!)

I want to go back and do a fashion photoshoot here :) Enjoy Beechworth!

Chicken n' Waffle Cupcake

2011-06-06T00:20:00.005+10:00

Are you kidding me? This cupcake has to be the best invention...possibly ever ! I was invited to attend the Bust Magazine Craftacular and Food Fair a few weeks ago, and it was one of the most fun things I've done in the city in nearly 5 years :) Well done, Bust Magazine!

The event was in SoHo and filled with just my type of people- local artisans and foodies. I love supporting the locals! When I entered and came across Robicelli's cupcakes, of course I had to stay and chat with them for a bit. They are lovely people with some of the most clever ideas for cupcakes I've seen :) How much more goodness can you get than this? Chicken n’Waffles: Vanilla “waffle” cake, vanilla buttercream, buttermilk soaked fried chicken dunked in pure Vermont maple syrup

Travis Sullivan- this cat plays the sax

2011-06-05T01:11:00.004+10:00

:) Hello blogging world- its been a little while, but rest assured, I am sticking to the short blogging. I guess it would behoove me to use some of my tearsheets in this lovely space- and how apropos that this tear comes right in time for my "music" entry :)

I have mentioned that I was very fortunate to take piano lessons with 2 outstanding teachers/musicians here in NYC. Travis, one of my fantastic teachers, has become a friend, and someone I admire incredibly. Here's a very nice article written about him, http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=39501 and oh yea, that's my photo. Happy Spring to all the NY'ers since it has just arrived, its worth mentioning!

Dollar Fifty a Day

2011-05-21T11:47:00.004+10:00

I am trying to keep up with this blog, trying!!! Hello to my faithful followers- and thank you for being here still :) Today's entry is travel- and I have decided to use an image that I entered into a sort of contest. Check out www.dollarfiftyaday.com for all the details. I promised myself I would keep things short and sweet and I intend to stick to it.

So, this photo was taken on my Guatemala trip last summer (wow I cant believe its been almost a year?! I am convinced time goes faster in NY than anywhere else !) This was in Antigua, where we started the trip- this woman was literally too extraordinary for me to pass by... she struck something deep inside of me. She moved so gracefully, too and actually when I asked her in my terrible broken Spanish if I could take her photo- she agreed, posed, and quickly moved her basket that she used to collect money and put it underneath her. Interestingly, she seemed too proud to show it- look into her soul with me.

Duryea Lobster with Organic Buttermilk and Garden Dill

2011-05-05T00:20:00.004+10:00

The James Beard Foundation is truly a beacon of light in the culinary world. I am extremely fortunate to be on their staff of photographers, and enjoy at least one dinner each month- often 2-3 depending on who may be unable to keep their shooting days.

I was filling in for someone this glorious Seafood Celebration evening. The theme was East End Seafood Celebration with my first NY Chef, Joe Isidori, an exceptionally accomplished man who can claim several restaurants, as well as being Donald Trump's personal chef.

Each time I go to the Beard House I am greeted by the staff who have now become my friends, and I genuinely look forward to being there in the small, crowded, bustling kitchen with a new chef and new delights to tantalize my tastebuds. As a photographer and an observer, I love to see the process of how events unfold, most especially since I grew up watching my mom cook every single day. Each chef has their own style of running the kitchen, a different number of staff members, and a surprising approach to their distinct flavo(u)rs and cuisine. I learn more than I could anticipate, and meet an unlimited number of fabulous foodies to add to my collection.

This was my fav appetizer, and since it was served on spoons I tried to have as many as I could without getting in trouble :) I literally couldn't believe how much flavo(u)r existed on this spoon and within the goodness of the Duryea Lobster with Organic Buttermilk and Garden Dill. I'd love to be there right now so I could taste its glory all over again. Thank you Chef Joe!

Lefty Mohawk Drummer

2011-04-26T06:59:00.004+10:00

This is yet another oldie but goodie! Today's entry falls upon music, and my panic levels rise as I dig for a music shot.. am thinking I will have to remedy this by shooting some more musicians :) Luckily, I have some talented Irish ladies in mind to do a shoot with very soon... stay tuned that one is a huge project in pre-production at the moment :) (among other projects!)

So, this was inspired by one of my best friends in high school- Jake Benge. Jake was my everyday friend, we did everything together.. and when it came time for photography class assignments, he was my fav model. Jake had a mohawk, and is one of the most creative people I know... so we would cook up some fantastic things when we put our heads together. We had this idea for a photo, and instead of developing it normally as I would in the darkroom, I would use a paintbrush with developer on it and then paint in the image.. it was awesome and got me an insane amount of attention. It also encouraged my career in photography because I won a contest with the photo I took of Jake! Eventually, I repeated this process when in photography college and I give to you my musician portrait of Kenny, the lefty drummer of an old band I still love, Nocide.

Cool effect, no?

Roo+ Joey

2011-04-19T13:00:00.002+10:00

Welcome to the travel entry of the week! I thought I would mix it up a bit and post something I shot while traveling that wasn't just a scenic image.

If you've met me for at least a few minutes, you would quickly find out that I have a very intense affinity for Australia. I spent 3 months there a few years ago while in the crisis of turning the big 3-0 and found that once again it was a place I connected to on a soul level.

The first trip I took to the Land Down Under was in 2005 with my sister- and this shot is from a kangaroo sanctuary I believe we visited in Sydney. Australia hits all of your senses, and no matter your lifestyle, everyone can find something interesting and magical about the land. Some of my closest friends in the world are there, among these majestic creatures the pure muscle kangaroos- and their cute little baby Joeys. I loved this moment, and so I share with you Roo +Joey :) and not baby kangaroo Tribbiani :)

Brown Butter Muffin

2011-04-18T03:12:00.006+10:00

Good morning world and faithful followers! (yes I realise it is afternoon, but it is Sunday and it still feels like morning to me :) )

I quiver with excitement at my food entries, and I wish that I could transport myself back to Columbia City, Seattle where I obtained this most divine of muffins. My friend Amanda lives up the road from this phenomenal little bakery... now when I was growing up in Seattle, the neighbo(u)rhoods were quite different.... there was no Columbia City or many of the names that exist today; and I have certainly never seen a community with a CSB- Community Supported Bakery! (functions just like a CSA but for baked goods, brilliant idea)

Part of the joy of traveling is being able to sample cuisine and indulge in the local, seasonal offerings. The weather and agriculture of the Pacific Northwest provides some of the freshest and tastiest produce in the country. I wish I could scratch and sniff this muffin, or ask if they deliver, because I felt like I was literally tasting each and every ingredient in this muffin separately while appreciating how they came together so gracefully and deliciously! I tried as many things as possible from Columbia City Bakery in the 5 days I was visiting, and each time was better than the last. I truly would give nearly anything to be back there right now.. Columbia City Bakery, is it possible you would deliver to NYC? :)

Howie D and Jay C

2011-04-17T08:43:00.004+10:00

Every time I arrive at my "music" entry, I sort of panic a little bit..... ok confession... I panic a lot.... because I don't think I have as many options for different music/musician shots as I do for travel and food, however, I am plugging along :)

Today's entry is a fav of my heart and soul. Once upon a time in 2004, I was in a dark room in the basement of a snooty art school called Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California. It was in that dark room (spare your naughty comments ;) ) that goodness was forced upon me. Upon my ears. Thanks to my friend John, that day in the darkroom changed me and added to my life one of the most talented musicians I've ever listened to- Mr. Howie Day. I wish I could remember what song he played for me when he gave me his headphones to listen to, but it actually doesn't matter. Howie has become my favo(u)rite singer/songwriter, and here in this lovely moment, he is playing a beautiful heartbreaking ballad with his friend and phenomenal singer/songwriter/guitarist, Jay Clifford. I've been fortunate enough to meet them both several times, and they are incredibly stand-up human beings with the most clever minds on the coast :)

P.S. This was taken at Roseland Ballroom in NYC ... and I now live around the corner from there :) Great venue !

A Little Cart of Mexico

2011-04-14T10:47:00.003+10:00

I have been known to be something of a hamburglar ;) (per the Hamburguesa portion of the food offerings) and on this travel entry.. I am finding yet again that my images are blending together and crossing over to more than one category.

So, I take you back to June 2008 in Cuidad Acuna, Mexico where I was doing a shoot for a few days. I absolutely love the colo(u)rs of Mexico, and the delights of the street food. Though this was not a working food cart at the time I shot this, I still loved the colo(u)rs and perspective against the shack in the background.

Undoubtedly, the street food of Mexico remains one of my most treasured cuisines as I half- grew up in Southern California, close enough to head for the border on the weekends and soak up the culture and cuisine just 3 hours away.

Enjoy :)

Authentic Poutine

2011-04-11T08:55:00.003+10:00

Holy-I-am-happy-I-live-in-America greasy goodness! Forgive me foodie world... I have never heard of nor have I eaten authentic Poutine... and for every minute of everyday prior to April 6th, 2011, I wonder WHY!? Why did I not know of this delightful, ultimate rainy day Sunday comfort food for sitting at home watching movies in your pajamas with some french fries in gravy topped with cheese?!

Certainly, this dish is not simply created nor enjoyed. There is a specific balance to the crispness of the french fries, the consistency of the gravy, and the type of cheese that graces the top of this dish. Chef Jeffrey Savage, of Marsh on The Bistro restaurant in Maine, is extremely talented (and the youngest chef I've ever met) was the guest chef at the James Beard House for this meal.

When choosing my assignments for the James Beard House dinners, I usually judge by the menu... so, the menu appealed, but something else was hindering me. When I first read that this chef needed a 24 hour turnaround of image delivery... my brow furrowed, and my curiosity rose. Why was he so important? ... I need to meet him. The menu absolutely blew me away, and for the first time, I enjoyed every single course. The theme was "New and Old School New England" with an exceptional approach to infusing new twists on traditional New England cuisine. Enjoy this authentic Poutine, oh goodness, I think I am still full :)

The Tender Box takes NYC

2011-04-08T12:14:00.004+10:00

An oldie but goodie.. and of course by old, I mean something that was about a year ago ;)

I now bring you to one of the most essential parts of my personality... the alternative/indie insatiable need to rock out! I grew up listening to what my parents listened to: The Abbas, The Carpenters, The Beatles and any other "the" band... while my sisters and I tended to enjoy the 80's sounds of George Michael/Wham, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Cyndi Lauper,Duran Duran, and so on.

Needless to say, music is an absolute essential part of my everyday and my life, and somewhere in between The Abbas and Michael Jackson, I found alternative rock, and I was never the same.(read- Pearl Jam!) In fact, I often get made fun of for traveling for live music, and luckily this time around, the music came right to me.

So, my friend Phil Jaurigui owns the most rockin' recording studio in all of Hollywood, Swinghouse Studios and he manages this phenomenally talented band, The Tender Box. I recall seeing them at their very beginning stages on the day I graduated college (for the 4th time) in Santa Monica at a free show called Summer Strummer. Well, 3 years later, and a hell of a lot of more things to rock about, The Tender Box remains one of my fav new bands. Their energy on stage makes you want to get up and dance, sing, and generally shake it.... so in that spirit, they are doing just that for my very special music entry.

Check them out:
http://thetenderbox.com/
http://www.myspace.com/tenderbox

Madrid's Cinematic City Center

2011-04-06T12:08:00.004+10:00

Europe, in my opinion is a photographer's/filmmaker's dream... every moment seems more cinematic than the last... with its tiny alleyways and picturesque landscape... I find myself wanting to sell everything I own and make films whenever I visit Europe.

I was extremely fortunate to have done an independent study class while I was still in studying at Brooks Institute of Photography. I decided to make up my own class, and get credit for it, by sending my mentor professor photos that I was shooting on a weekly basis. The trip initially was meant to take me to 7 countries in 2 months, but when I found out that my favo(u)rite band on the planet, Pearl Jam was touring there at the same time... I couldn't stop myself from following them. Now, I know what you are thinking, "that is stalkerism at its best!"... but the rest of Europe did it, too as Pearl Jam hadn't toured there in a while :)

So, 2 months, 13 countries, and a minimum of 7 Pearl Jam shows later (may I add with over 100 different songs and sets each time I saw them) I present this cinematic type image of a plaza in the middle of Madrid, Spain. I will never tire of the arches, the architecture and the 3-D views that Europe provides.. a delicious delight for the visual people of the world. :)

Sebastian Smith Photography

2011-04-04T13:59:00.006+10:00

I now interrupt my regularly scheduled blogging to spread the love about a very talented friend and colleague, Sebastian Smith. I met Sebastian in January of this year at a networking party for photographers, and we have become fast friends.

I give to you my Sebastian Smith Photography interview including deep thoughts, insights on life, and the general musings of an artist... check out his brand spanking new website www.sebastiansmithphoto.com (it looks amazing!)

MZ: How did you become a photographer?

SS:I became a photographer while I was Military Police in the Air Force. Through circumstances, I met this photographer and I was quite taken with the fact that someone could make money by taking pictures. I thought, "How brilliant! Making a living by traveling the world with a camera." This photographer opened my eyes to all different types of photography and eventually to Helmet Newton; and my world was changed. I had never seen images like this. I didn't know someone could create images like that. I was shocked and inspired. I was smitten.

MZ: Where do you find your inspiration?

SS: Mostly in everyday life, because little things I see or hear, if I pay close enough attention, speak to me. These little things tell stories that go far beyond the surface. I also pull from the strong women figures from my childhood. If you look at the women in my work, they are not weak or docile. They exude strength.

MZ: What's your life philosophy?

SS: Get up early and stay 2 steps ahead of the sun.

MZ: Best advice for young photographers?

SS: If photography isn't the first thing you think of when you wake up, and the last thing you think of when you go to bed, find another career. Because if you don't have the passion of a thousand burning suns, you'll starve to death. I promise.

MZ: What equipment do you use?

SS: I have tried every camera and lighting system out there...but what I decided works best for me is this: I currently use the Sony A900. I feel it's the overall best camera on the market for commercial / advertising / fashion shooters. It has the best and sharpest lens' out there and when you couple that with the huge image size and how utterly easy it is to use, it's a no brainer. Everyone that has picked up my camera to "play" with, is instantly sold. That itself speaks volumes. My lighting kit is the Profoto D1 airs. Again, a no brainer system to use. I follow a pattern of not wanting to worry about the difficulty of my equipment. I just want to shoot, so I use equipment that works with me and not against me. I live in a plug and play world and I love it. The Profoto D1's provide a surprisingly beautiful light. This Sony / Profoto combination is one that I find works so well, that I couldn't think of using anything else.

MZ: Your fav part of each day?

SS: Waking up at 5 am and realizing that I have another amazing day ahead of me!

That's all, folks! :) (below is a fav image of his and a photo of him, too)

Daily Doughnut

2011-04-03T06:18:00.007+10:00

said in Homer Simpson's voice... mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.......doughnut.....

My family consists of major foodies, and I thank them for instilling in me a love of food and culture as prep for my career. They are Food Network/ Travel Channel/ Best Thing I Ever Ate doughnut enthusiasts... I, however, being the incredible sweet tooth that I am, am not a huge fan of doughnuts. Now, don't get me wrong, I do enjoy the lighter bodied ones like zeppole or churros; and after transporting $60 worth of Doughnut Plant doughnuts to my sister's 40th birthday party in Vegas, I found a new appreciation for the organically made, fresh doughnut.

This shot is a macro-fabulous obsession of mine, I literally can't get enough of the details of life, and most especially when it comes to food. Enjoy these warm and melt in your mouth doughnuts from Seattle's Pike Place Market shop called the Daily Doughnut! And if you are lucky enough to live in Seattle, I bet this will make you go out and buy some :)

Jump Out of The Car Shot

2011-04-01T12:34:00.002+11:00

... literally :) This entry is meant to be my "music" category, but I am cheating a bit because this falls under Music and Travel categories.. or pehaps it's just extreme efficiency :)

So, a few years ago, I did a shoot in Mexico and Texas, and as we were driving.. I literally jumped out of the car for this moment, and asked these gentlemen in a rushed horrible California-Mexico-Spanish accent if I could take their photo. They were thrilled, and this remains one of my fav images. Enjoy!

Falling in Love

2011-03-30T12:48:00.003+11:00

This quote from the documentary "Art in the 21st Century" provided the simple yet profound observation for how I feel about many places in the world, namely Australia.

"But, why do we fall in love with a place? Sometimes its because its exotic and full of energy and other times because its huge and empty and full of possibility; the kind of place where almost anything could happen. I think we fall in love with places for the same reason we fall in love with people, and our reasons are irrational and passionate and hard to explain and sometimes when we fall in love with a place, it becomes part of us forever."

This was a small alleyway I discovered on my own in Melbourne. DeGraves Street brought me much joy, and though this shot is on my website, I wanted to share it as I am planning to go back to Australia in July once again to fall irrationally and passionately into the soul of the city.

Amuse-Bouche

2011-03-29T13:59:00.004+11:00

... is a French word for a single bite appetizer, or hors d'oeuvre if you will :)
I am extremely fortunate to be on the photographic staff at the James Beard Foundation. This means that at least once a month, sometimes 3x a month, I get to shoot a fancy dinner, and eat it-- ahh one of the best gigs imaginable for a foodie :)

This shot was from the dinner put on by Mark Gallaudet and his crew from the Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia on March 23rd. Every chef I've met has been incredibly friendly and kind- Mark was certainly in this category, and the food was of course delectable. I loved the garnishes they used for their amuses- so have just one bite of this Allegheny smoked trout, with crisp pear, and trout caviar :)

Bono and Eddie

2011-03-28T00:34:00.005+11:00

Once upon a time... in Honolulu, Hawaii... the best possible concert was dreamt up by the music gods. My sisters' fav band, U2, decided to play with my fav band, Pearl Jam. And all was well in the world :)

A bit fuzzy, but this moment was exciting to see Bono and Eddie on stage together- and yes this is how close I was :) Rock on with me! :)

Pacific Northwest Heartbeat

2011-03-22T11:03:00.004+11:00

Hello friends and family! I am back from all my traveling and am finally ready to continue with this blog- appropriately on the subject of ... TRAVEL for this entry :)

I had the incredible good fortune to be able to go back to my hometown of Seattle, Washington for about 5 days at the beginning of the month. I was visiting, while also preparing for my first group exhibition! It was an absolute dream of a trip and I am clamoring to go back as soon as possible. Seattle.... is like a person for whom I have an unwavering affinity for. Seattle is... my home, my roots, a beautiful city that I connect to and cannot wait to continue to discover it as an adult while reminiscing in the days of my youth every time I am there.

I was staying with my friend Amanda in Columbia City (which never existed when I lived there!) and I took the Light Rail and walked all over my lovely city while shooting to my heart's content. This was downtown near Pioneer Square, I couldn't help but turn this into a black and white photo. :) Enjoy my glorious Seattle !

Herbs 'n spice, n' everything nice!

2011-03-07T12:44:00.004+11:00

Ahhhh there's no place like your 2 homes! I just arrived back in NY from Seattle for my first group exhibition! Seattle was particularly healing and soothing... we had a fantastic turnout for our show, and I connected with friends old and new. I always find it interesting when I experience reverse culture shock- and there was much discussion about the concept of "home" while I was soaking up the cuisine, my roots, and my undying affinity for the city I was born in. :)

I am following a pattern for this blog, which is: I began with a music image, and then decided to continue with my passions and post food and travel images as well. We land on food for today's entry- because my time in Seattle involved an incredible amount of discussion, cooking, shopping, and eating. While this shot is technically elements of food- I still loved shooting them. These are some lovely herbs and spices shot at my chef friend Rena's home in the Autumn. She has a fantastic sense of food styling and presentation, so I couldn't help but snap a few photos of this for her and for myself.

Does it bring you back to the glorious Autumn ?

She just wants to ROCK !

2011-02-27T03:57:00.003+11:00

I have incredible friends! I find myself at a loss for the proper words to describe my friend Sarah. She is genuinely one of the most talented people I've ever met in my life. She is exploding onto the music scene and there are things in the works that she isn't allowed to tell me yet, but, I look forward to hearing what the big secrets will reveal.

Sarah is the person I have worked with the most- I am not exaggerating for once ;) I have thousands of photos of her from the shoots we have done in Santa Barbara, LA, and New York. She remains one of my most dear friends, a muse, an encouragement, a dream realized. You will see her again, I promise.

This photo was the result of our magical creative collaboration- unplanned, in between shot, which are always my fav at the end of the day. I give to you- Sarah- who just wants to rock :)

Prague's Wooden Lion

2011-02-25T14:41:00.003+11:00

I was recently putting together a stock submission, and happily came across this oldie but goodie travel photo. (and when I say old, I mean something more than a year old in the photography world can feel like a long time ago.. goodness, yesterday feels like a long time ago to me!)

This wooden carving of a lion on the door to the city hall, Prague, Czech Republic appears to be quite famous. There's something exceptional about Prague... so far it is the most spotless country I have ever been to, one of the most interesting, and one that I did not have enough time to visit properly. As my friend Adela from Prague said to me upon her recent NY visit "Prague and NY have something in common, they are both very photogenic cities". I couldn't agree more! :)

Fish n' Chips

2011-02-22T02:20:00.004+11:00

On February 8th about 12 hours before I was meant to get on a 7:00 am flight to Vegas to surprise my sister for her 40th birthday, I was shooting a dinner at the James Beard Foundation. I appreciate and respect the professional involvement with both photography and food, and was truly honored to be allowed to shoot a dinner at JBF!

So, for those who may not know, the James Beard Foundation is a non profit here in NYC that promotes the Culinary Arts. There are a number of activities going on throughout each month from honoring chefs, journalists, sommeliers, cookbook authors, as well as providing opportunities for chef hopefuls/students. I always feel right at home when I walk into their cozy location.

The dinners have now become so famous they are something of a competition and the chefs invited to make exceptional dinners for their members and any guests who pay entrance for the dinner. The James Beard Awards are considered the "Oscars of the Food World" ;)

The dinner I shot was the crew of Palladio restaurant in Barboursville Vineyards, Barboursville, Virginia. Melissa Close Hart is the executive chef, the theme- Elegant Vineyard Getaway =delectable on every imaginable level. This is one of my fav shots of their version of fish n' chips- Virginia Trout on a potato chip- how clever! It really tingled my tastebuds! Enjoy :)

Double Exposing Bobby

2011-02-21T03:04:00.008+11:00

This is an oldie but goodie :) Back in my photo school days, one of our assignments was a CD Cover. I, of course was overly excited to be forced to shoot a CD Cover, and quickly enlisted one of my oldest and best friends, Bobby, to model for me. This was actually shot on film! I am definitely having my film nostalgia moments lately, however, I have sold all my film cameras... I wonder if it will make a big comeback? Anyway, it was always fun to play around with double exposures, long exposures, and darkroom tricks and techniques.

I give to you Bobby, the ultimate singer/songwriter in the middle of his process (and to me, the process is the most fascinating part of art) :)

The great blue wall of China...

2011-02-20T10:48:00.006+11:00

...(town) The Great Blue Wall of Chinatown, Melbourne! :) I love Chinatowns... every single one of them !! So far, NY, LA, SF, Boston, and Melbourne Chinatowns have been a lovely experience. There's something incredibly tangible that resonates with me about Asia, Eastern thought, philosophy, and lifestyle.... so it is no surprise that I find myself right at home in the Chinatowns of the world.

Colours are an essential part of my function as an artist, a visual person, and a photographer! I respond to colours, shapes, patterns,and this was one of my fav views of the glorious Chinatown wall colours in Melbourne, Australia- my home away from home. The next episode will be music... stay tuned :)

Edible Beer Dinner at Almond

2011-02-16T14:51:00.005+11:00

For about 3 years I have been eager to get Edible magazine as a client. 2 years of vision boards later, my wish became a reality, and I have shot for both Edible Brooklyn and Edible Manhattan. The photo editor, Michael Harlan Turkell, is one of the nicest and most knowledgeable guys around... through portfolio reviews and getting to know him a bit better, he set me up with some really cool gigs for the magazines.

This shot is from a Beer Dinner put on by Edible Manhattan magazine in conjunction with Almond restaurant. I have never been to Almond before, but after this one meal, I vow to become a regular. The people there truly blew my mind... you expect a nice restaurant in NY to be pretentious, but they were some of the most down to earth, good humoured foodies around! (and oh yea the restaurant has so much personality, and cool decor!) The dinner took place in December 2010, and was such a lovely way to celebrate a family style dinner that got back to basics. All food was locally and sustainably sourced, and tasted absolutely delicious. I was thrilled that I had 2 guest invitations, and invited my friends Michael and Hamish (who just arrived from Australia!)

MANY more from this shoot will turn up in your immediate future, and for now I leave you with Michael's fav dish and my fav shot- Shrimp cocktail appetizer :) OH, I just LOVE that little bottle of hot sauce :)

NY State of Mind

2011-02-15T16:15:00.003+11:00

This is the lovely Anna- my first piano teacher. I found her via a plea on facebook to find and I do quote myself " A crazy, passionate, obsessed with music- piano teacher, please!" (mostly quoting word for word ;)

I wish I could explain the power of someone with the ability to teach- to truly be able to transfer information to you and to do it in a way that is understood, absorbed, and processed. Having zero musical background, I was really nervous but ambitious and excited to learn to play my first musical instrument (at age 30, haha!) Anna made everything incredibly easy, relatable, and fun. She even encouraged me to try to play something WAY above my skill level (Bella's Lullaby from the Twilight soundtrack)... and when I finally got some of it down- I will never forget that she said "I can see you playing the piano, truly.. the way you just played shows me you can do it."

We had an amazing shoot at The Mansion on 5th Ave- the most incredible location a photographer could ever dream of! Much more from this shoot to come, but in the pensive mood of this photo- I give you Anna and her NY state of mind :)

Roo

2011-02-13T09:50:00.006+11:00

Just when I got the ball rolling.... had to drop it because I was on a mini-vacation in Vegas! Had an absolute blast with my family, and will post some photos from our whirlwind getaway soon :)

Back to my regularly scheduled blogging! I figure I can keep my own attention as long as I can keep yours, so in the interest of our collective societal a.d.d.- the short blogging continues... this is a fav travel photo of mine from Australia. I believe this was taken in Sydney either at the Taronga Zoo or at some kangaroo sanctuary- either way I adore this photo and wanted to share it. I will never tire of how cool kangaroos are, how fascinating their muscular physiques remain, and how entertaining they are to watch.

Cuddle up with the Roo and I :)

Lamb Meatballs with Salsa Verde Dip

2011-02-09T05:52:00.003+11:00

.... oh yea! I am a board member of a professional photo organisation called ASMP- American Society of Media Photographers- it is just about as close as professional photographers can get to having a union in my opinion. We have an annual holiday party in December, and last year I was in charge of organising the party. I found a fantastic caterer, Monterone, and we ate, drank, and were more than merry :)

I particularly liked this shot of the lamb meatballs with salsa verde dip (that looks like a magical pool of some sort) which went over very well with the crowd :) Have one !

Travis Sullivan on the Sax

2011-02-08T03:45:00.003+11:00

I have finally found the happy medium! Blogging something short everyday is working out beautifully! :) I am even finding myself planning ahead and eager for the next day so I can share photos from the past, present, and perhaps even share some inspiration for future shoots.

Today is brought to you by the letter T for Travis Sullivan :) I met Travis via another amazing pianist, Anna Dagmar. Anna and Travis were both my piano teachers, and for someone like myself without any previous music experience or training, they truly tailored the lessons to my needs and abilities. They are both other worldly talented and intelligent about music theory- highly recommend for anyone in NY looking for music teachers!

So, here's a shot from my shoot with Travis- he is a master jazz musician/sax player/pianist/teacher... shall I go on? We shot at Louis Brown Recording Studio in Midtown West, had a blast and got great images for Travis' label and promo material.

Wonder

2011-02-07T04:38:00.003+11:00

Wonder is the title I use for this image that I snapped during my first trip to Australia! Little did I know ... that was the beginning of an intense love affair with the Land Down Under!

My sister and I spent our time between Melbourne and Sydney on our first trip to Oz.. and while at the Sydney Aquarium, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to take this shot. This was shot on film (likely even transparency slide film) in 2005, and remains one of my fav images.

I love the short blogging! I suppose that means I am officially over myself ;) More travel photos to come- both past and present!

Have a Cuppa!

2011-02-06T04:15:00.002+11:00

I love being inspired by the simplest things that I observe.... as a photographer, artist, woman, and New York transplant, I have very quick eyes. I tend to notice shapes, colours, and patterns all around me. I love the details, the macro, the elements that make up a piece of art.

I shot this while I was shooting my fiercely powerful and brilliant friend Susan's apartment- she is a Feng Shui expert, and when she offered me this artsy cup of tea, I just had to snap a few photos of it before I started to shoot her apartment.

What do you think?

New Year, Manifestation, and Music

2011-02-05T09:30:00.003+11:00

This year is officially dedicated to getting over myself :) I am gonna do my best to post as often as possible, with anything and everything that I am shooting instead of blogging when I am traveling or blogging when I shoot some food (cuz if you've ever had a meal with me, you know... I am gonna make you wait to eat your food so I can snap a photo!)

I did a fantastic shoot yesterday of my friend, Travis Sullivan- a saxophonist, pianist, teacher, and all around talented musician and human being :) I will add some more highlights of the shoot with him as I edit them, but in the mean time, I thought it might be nice to do a "photo of the day" or of the week if I cannot keep up with the photo of the day.

I fully dorked out on this microphone... this alone inspired a 50's type shoot... and that is all. Enjoy! :)

NY TIMES BLOG!!!!!

2010-10-29T16:15:00.006+11:00

Long overdue for a blog entry, but just have to share my excitement for being published on the NY Times Blog!!!!!!!!

Check it out- http://tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/10/28/ristretto-aeropress/?emc=eta1

It's my name on there! I did a shoot for a lovely coffee shop called Everyman Espresso here in NYC... and when I was asked if they could use one of my photos... I was over the moon :) Insert largest font size possible smiley face here- so stoked... and have to give a shout out to my friend and powerful clairvoyant and healer, Maureen St. Germain. I have been listening to one of her meditation/manifestation cd's at night before I go to sleep, and this opportunity came to me. Check her out- she is an amazing woman to know! http://www.maureenstgermain.com/MeditationCDs.html

Here's the edited version of my photo- I didn't get to edit, but I am sooooo happy!!!! :)

The gift of receiving

2010-09-03T02:45:00.005+10:00

Today marks the end of my fundraising campaign for Guatemala via Spot.us. I was truly honored to be the first international story published on Spot.us, and just wanted to give a proper goodbye and the biggest font size possible THANK YOU to everyone who supported me in one way or another :)

I am learning to co-exist with money in a healthier way, and for this I am beyond grateful. Money is just an agreement of a value and when I am in other countries, I see it more as a method of exchange than something that I can't seem to hold onto or have enough of. When I was presented with the idea of fundraising to get to Guatemala, I immediately rejected the idea... really? Just ask my friends for money? How uncomfortable and bizarre! The experience was actually the exact opposite- fundraising was not only humbling and empowering, it was an exchange of good will and energy to make a change in the world.

My SalaamGarage trip with Guatemala has absolutely changed me; I will never forget the things I learned, the people I met, and the experiences I had. It was phenomenal to see the work that Agros International is doing. I saw the literal change in people's lives. I heard the stories of families who survived the Civil War, and who continue to live off the land- but have been provided homes through Agros loans and repayment programs. I have seen entire villages who have graduated from their loan program which means that 20+ families were loaned money to build homes and paid off their loans with interest. The families often engaged in other entrepreneurial endeavours like owning a store, baking bread and selling it between the villages, buying and raising farm animals, planting and harvesting vegetables, creating a community bank, the list could go on and on.

The photos below are the success stories of the people I was honoured to have met and inspired by their undying will to survive and live.

Cordova Family in their store

Rosa Lazaro Cordova showing us how to weave!

Rosa Lazaro Cordova and Nicolas Aviles Cordvova outside of their home

Two girls in the garden at their school

Gabriel Lopez Velasco and community member showing us their farm/crops

Guatemalan women in front of the community oven where they bake bread to sell in their village and across villages

Hen and chicks in Belen, Guatemala

Catarina Ordonez with her certificate to be a midwife; she cannot read and still managed to be a midwife for 30+ years

Community leader Antonio Lazaro Cordova in his greenhouse with tomato plants

Ana Sambrano Rodriguez and her daughter with one of their sheep

Volcano Pacaya

2010-08-24T11:37:00.006+10:00

I love the travel me. She is much more adventurous than the at-home me. As I mentioned in my last post, my inner wanderlust is no longer inner but everywhere, and in the spirit of traveling, I generally end up out of my comfort zone... this seems to be something quite addictive, because I want to find a way to bottle that feeling or to have that feeling all the time. So far, the only solution I have found is to continue to travel. I am generally on a 2 week post-travel high upon returning home and inevitably settle into my routine of life. I am not complaining! I love my routine of life in New York City! But, there is truly something incredible about traveling.. my inhibitions are lowered if not gone completely (and this does not require any alcohol consumption ;) )
my sense of adventure awakened, the blood pumping through my veins- palpable.. and so, I give this dramatic intro because this is just absolutely out of character for me to have HIKED a recently erupted VOLCANO!

The volcano erupted about 2 months ago and actually killed one reporter. I can't say that this made me feel afraid... I was much more worried about a) hiking, b) hiking a volcano and c)my right ankle that has still not fully healed from my accident 2 years ago (wow they were not kidding when they said feet heal slowly). We took a vote the night before to see who was interested in this optional activity. My first inclination was to say no, to be comfortable, and sit at the hotel warm in my bed, hanging out with the hotel poodle, and drinking hot chocolate. But, I am really glad I decided against chickening out.

Another reason this was so significant to me- I do NOT hike. And I don't hike because I don't enjoy it... I don't hike due to my injury, and honestly because I sort of don't understand hiking... walking on purpose? with a stick on uneven terrain just to go up and down???? Now, granted I am a photographer, and so ok, I get it. Hiking brings you to beautiful bird's eye views, or worm's eye views... or just beautiful views.

After the group vote, we were all in and for a mere $16 USD and 50 Quetzales entrance fee. The Quetzale exchange rate is about 8 to $1 so, I felt like a millionaire all through Guatemala :) So off we went, we met some dogs, we chatted with some kids trying to sell us walking sticks... we had our sugary goods ready to go.

I made it halfway up before I decided to use one of their "taxis", which was a lovely horse. I really like riding horses and honestly was attempting something extremely strenuous for my ankle's well-being (not just being lazy). It was a magnificent sight... from the destruction of the recent eruption, every single step we took was covered with volcanic ash and rock, but the air was as clear and clean as though it was the first day on Earth. Corn crops grow throughout the entire country it seems... everywhere we turned was something majestic to lay our eyes upon. Truly, Guatemala is one of the most beautiful countries I have ever been to.

Once we got to the top, we had a time limit- because they were uncertain of the volcano's safety.. it smoked a bit for us, which I just thought was amazing, and luckily, no eruptions. Hike up Pacaya Volcano with us below :)

Boy and horse :)

I love clothes hanging on lines blowing in the wind

Beautiful dog who lives at the base of the volcano

Beautiful dog #2- I love what a specific personality each animal has, namely dogs

Damage from the eruption- but somehow looks intriguing and interesting to me

Agave plant !

Dog who hiked up the Volcano with us!

Corn growing in the distance!!!

NO COLOUR CORRECTION! I love how moody this is...

The view opposite where we hiked up to

DANGER!

I love this- trip member Jody left her backpack there and it sort of felt like an ad to me :)

Antigua to Nebaj, Guatemala

2010-08-17T03:49:00.021+10:00

Hello to my dedicated readers :) Thank you for sticking with me on this blog journey- I am hoping to continue to post regularly. I've found this happens more freely when I am traveling or have just returned from traveling- and so I must continually find successful methods of feeding my inner wanderlust which incidentally has become so large it is no longer inner but everywhere :)

Current conditions: Raining

Location: The middle of the summertime in New York City

Verdict: The rain is absolutely cleansing, healing, and welcome

Mood based on the above parameters: Insert huge smiley face here

I was born in Seattle, and lived there until I was about 9 or 10, so the rain offers me a bit of nostalgia, and the wonderfully overwhelming sense of reflection, renewal, and refreshment. In this pensive mood and relatively quiet Monday, I thought it would be great to continue along my Guatemalan journey.

After a few days in Antigua, we headed to a small town called Nebaj. (but not so small that it didn't make it into Lonely Planet's Guatemala book!!!) En route to Nebaj we happened to make a few stops- namely a beautiful hotel in Chichicastenango- which remains my fav city name in all of Guatemala... where we had a delectable fish lunch and muy rico FLAN! We were very fortunate to have excellent guides and our styles of traveling and eating met by everyone we were traveling with.

Back to Nebaj....which is 1900 meters above sea level and "the Southern gateway to the Ixil region and one of three towns composing the Ixil Triangle." http://www.nebaj.com/aboutnebaj.html It seems that the Ixil region and its inhabitants are not very well known by Guatemalans themselves! (people in Guatemala city, anyway). There was a 36 year long Civil War that recently ended and was again unbeknownst to a large part of the Guatemalan population. SalaamGarage worked for 2 years to get access to the Ixil region and people by partnering with the local NGO Agros International which is truly doing phenomenal things to change people's lives.

Nebaj is the happy medium between rural Ixil villages and modern creature comforts... I was thrilled to find our hotel had a dryer, and I cannot remember the last time I had more enjoyable family style meals every single day. I am trying to sort out how the rest of the world seems to have it right regarding food and consumption- and yet we have it wrong? I am referring to the fact that I had the best tasting, farm fresh, preservative free food on my entire trip... these are easier sources to find than their processed counterparts, but before I go on that tangent I will reign myself in. :)

I quickly fell into a routine of breakfast, lunch, and dinner around the same time- sitting down while eating, chatting, laughing and enjoying our journey. Most shocking of all is that I would be exhausted at the end of each day and fall asleep generally by 10 pm. I fought to keep my eyes open to write in my journal, but, apparently I truly benefit from some sort of order in my life. I always feel like I am being pigeonholed by a "normal" routine or schedule..but I am learning to embrace it and realise that often these things exist in my mind only. Ah, the thoughts of a NY transplant- they never end :)

I thought this post was going to be about the first village we visited, but apparently that will be the next chapter. Enjoy a small taste of Nebaj!

Political graffiti paved every mountain road( I LOVE graffiti!)

Our fabulous waiter, all 8 of us ordered the same lunch :)

Fish lunch!

Major flan high :)

Chocolate volcanic flan high continues !

One of my fav views of Nebaj

Radical green door

Food and market daily in Nebaj

View of street

The gang heading to the Textile store in the rain :) Sort of cinematic, hey?

A rather pushy woman in the Textile store- whew,practice your "no, gracias" before entering!

Another cool street view- market was packing up and going home

Shooooooes!

Hahaha I love advertising in other countries :)

Beginning at the End- Antigua, Guatemala

2010-08-09T02:41:00.004+10:00

Happy Sunday to everyone! The weekends are an interesting time for me in terms of technology- it seems to be a return to our pre-addiction to staring-at-a-screen days. These days are much quieter, perhaps even a bit lonelier? Very few people send emails or find the incessant need to post, comment, or live on facebook as they do during the week... does this mean that a large number of people still have desk jobs and are distracting themselves from work with facebook and other social media? I won't wax too philosophic on that thought because much more important things abound in my head and beg to be organised :)

I find this pattern of blogging after traveling a little bit odd- while I do need the time to digest and encourage the gestation period of processing each trip, I don't like the constant feeling of being behind and catching up. At any rate, this trip was unique and absolutely unlike any other trip I have taken, so that warrants a different approach.

My trip was with the journalism group SalaamGarage. Amanda Koster- founder and photojournalist has handed me my dream and given me the permission to live it! :) Somewhere in the back of my mind- or perhaps the forefront of my mind I knew that there was something more to be done in terms of a career... I was never one of those people who followed the clear and apparent path (I still don't!) I was never the ham of the family who grew up to be in show business, nor the kid who liked to take everything apart and put it back together again for fun and then became a scientist or an engineer... my world was always about observation, reflection, introspection, relationships, and communication. The obvious route for this was the arts- and while it was a bit of a bumpy road to arrive- here I am a self-claimed artist- a photographer.. now THAT'S something I've always done... I just always took pictures. I was observant by nature, interested in behaviour and communication, in light, colour, expression, and how things transpired in front of my eyes. I wanted to continue to explore these things via my camera. It was never a thought process or a decision, really, it was something ultimately natural. And because it was something natural, it prevented me from understanding the true essence of what being a photographer meant.

As I decided to pursue the direct route of photography officially in college- I found this stumbling block- business. Being a photographer means being self employed and being a business- something I wasn't aware of nor did I anticipate or enjoy... but in order to be a successful photographer, those skills are more essential than being able to understand lighting, colour, and composition. While this is paramount to the story that follows, I know it has all been said and done before- I just feel the need to speak about things in order because that's how my brain works (SOMETIMES)! :)

I've neglected to mention that all of this is to say that while I knew that photography was the only thing that I loved consistently, that I was good at... prior to understanding the business side of things, I had this powerful feeling right underneath the surface of myself. I am supposed to do something that matters. Ok, so does that mean I was supposed to sell all my belongings and do charity work? Non profit work? Save the environment by turning off the water when I brush my teeth, recycling as much as I can, and not use plastic bags? Not quite. Inside of me there was this nagging sense, that certain something always in the back of my head that I am meant to do something that MATTERS. Something that is important... but... what? And How?

I now have those answers- SalaamGarage is the something that matters- that causes change and shows the powerful medium that photography is. The next few posts will go more deeply into the work I did in the villages of Guatemala, but I will begin where we began in Antigua, Guatemala a stunning, colonial city with cobblestone streets from the 1500's, character-filled walls with peeling layers of paint and colours beckoning you to touch them and feel the history. Antigua was not hard to fall in love with- I am sharing just an excerpt of what I saw there- Antigua is best explored in person. I hope that this may encourage you to find yourself on these colourful, historic cobblestone streets.

e-

Land of Eternal Spring and love

2010-07-31T09:53:00.007+10:00

It isn't really fair for me to post a blog because I am still traveling through Guatemala and have not had the proper time to digest and process my experience- but I can safely say this has been one of the most life changing trips I have ever been a privilege to be a part of thanks to SalaamGarage and the lovely Amanda Koster (who is the founder of SalaamGarage.)

I am currently overlooking one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen in the 21 countries I have visited. Lake Atitlan is lush, tropical, colourful, and has a primal natural energy. We have just arrived here after having completed our visit to the Ixil Triangle and 3 Mayan villages in Belen, La Esperanza, and Cajixay. Guatemala is mindblowing... I feel at a loss for words, but wanted to blog while I was here.

For several reasons, I decided that I wanted to approach this trip with a clear mind, with no preconceived notions, and I am glad for once that I did not research this country incessantly. I am not suggesting that research nor travel guides are wrong, I just felt that for the nature of this trip- the fundraising through Spot.us, the partnership with the extremely impressive NGO's Agros International and Global Visionaries, I wanted to approach this place and my first taste of photojournalism objectively. There was absolutely no way to remain objective upon arrival into this gorgeous land and country... and even less upon meeting the genuine, indigenous Mayans speaking my new favourite language Ixil (which incidentally made me feel like I was transported directly into the film Dances with Wolves)

The Ixil Triangle consists of several villages and with the help of Agros International- the dramatic improvement and impact on their lives is almost more than can be documented. There is something extremely special about impacting even one human life in a real way- and to see the work that has been done and the incredible spirit of a people unwilling to give up; I have been in tears, and at a loss for words for the past three days. I will always remember the new definition of poverty given to me by Agros International- that poverty is broken relationships, not merely the absence of objects or possessions.

The above photo are some children that I met in the village of La Esperanza which had a tangible vibration of love in the entire village, throughout the air, and in everything I touched and experienced.

I am still fundraising via Spot.us- and feel this is a new path, and yet the path I have been searching for my whole life- to show just how powerful photography can be- and that images can truly make a difference in the world.

Tragedy in Guatemala

2010-06-05T01:29:00.004+10:00

© REUTERS/Casa Presidencial

WHAT A WEEK! I have never thought about one country quite this much before (exception perhaps Australia) In my new endeavor to fundraise for Guatemala, I found that I was learning and growing personally... but truly feeling the power of photography and what a difference it can make in the world. My chosen profession was a choice in the sense that I decided to pursue it as a career; but it was never a question for me. There was never anything else that I wanted to do, that I could see myself doing, or that I truly considered doing. In a sense- it was a no-brainer for me and seemed like a true destiny. I have been quite taken aback by the power of the photos I have seen of Guatemala this week, and the timing couldn't be more perfect. As a visual society, I know that there is power in an image, and I feel the urgency of my trip to Guatemala in just over a month pulsing through my veins.

http://www.smh.com.au/photogallery/world/giant-sinkhole-swallows-threestorey-building/20100601-wtj7.html

I am now offering gifts and prizes for donations- and the survey is also available to be taken. What better time to contribute to Guatemala than now?

Fill out the survey and browse my current offers if you are interested in more!

$25 donation gets a free set of 5 custom printed postcards

$50 donation gets free 8x10 of your choosing from Guatemala or other collections

$350 gets free portrait

$500 gets free family portrait or boudouir session including prints

My pitch: http://seattle.spot.us/pitches/440-poverty-in-guatemala

A survey that can help change the world :)

2010-06-01T13:09:00.002+10:00

This is the first time I have ever fundraised for anything in my life- the experience is quite simply amazing- it has already changed me. I have found that I have a difficult time receiving- but- this experience which I have not fully digested yet, has truly been one that I will not soon forget. There's a brilliant opportunity for people to donate $5 via a marketing survey on Spot.us. I would love the support for anyone that has a few minutes to help me out.

Step 1- Find my campaign

http://spot.us/pitches/440-how-land-ownership-and-sustainable-agricultural-practices-can-eradicate-decades-of-poverty-and-civil-war-in-guatemala

OR you can just type in my name: Mira Zaki to apply the credits to me! THANK YOU !

How it works

* Step 1. Register or log in at Spot.Us (upper left hand corner).
* Step 2. Click the "Earn Credits" button in the header.
* Step 3. Take the painless survey.
* Step 4. Click submit and then browse the pitches on Spot.Us. Click "Apply Credits" - confirm you want to apply credits and bingo!
* Step 5. Feel good that you've helped support civic reporting. Share it with your friends!

Fundraising Part 2! Guatemala calling....

2010-05-26T02:11:00.004+10:00

I have been meaning to update my blog with my latest photography work- REALLY! I really have! And then, the humanitarian effort overtook the need to update my portfolio- so here I begin again with the second part of my fundraising effort to get to Guatamela! This is a brand new experience for me, and has literally changed me from the inside out and I haven't even stepped foot on a plane or onto another land yet. Here is my pitch: http://spot.us/pitches/440-how-land-ownership-and-sustainable-agricultural-practices-can-eradicate-decades-of-poverty-and-civil-war-in-guatemala

Thanks for reading!

Hope, inspiration, and being empowered

2010-04-16T03:06:00.004+10:00

I am truly floored. This doesn't often happen to me- I honestly was going to give up and tell my friend Maggie who is a trip leader/producer for SalaamGarage to cancel my happy hour. I didn't think I could possibly raise the money in time for my deposit.

....and yet, I DID! And $100 extra to go towards the rest of the trip- I am beyond grateful to all of my friends for their unwavering love, support, energy, kindness, donations whether through time, love, prizes, or all of the above- to all the people I don't know who showed up for the happy hour, and to everyone in general good spirits for your support and love! I paid my deposit- and now for everything else to fall into place :)

A huge thanks and extra hugs to Maggie for her support, positivity, and keeping me in line- loads of love to you all- I will hope to continue to update while getting back to my regularly scheduled food programming. The Spring has brought with it more possibilities than I could have dreamed of- when I think back to my intense sickness in February, I feel like I am a completely different person today. In the words of one of my fav authors- Henry David Thoreau I feel I am truly embracing these possibilities and letting go of fear..." Go Confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you've imagined" :) Onward!

Love :)

Happy Hour Success! Guatemala here I come!!!

2010-04-15T01:31:00.005+10:00

Last night was the SalaamGarage fundraiser/Happy Hour here in NYC, and it was AWESOME! The turnout was great, and my raffle was very successful- I raised a total of $454!!! I only have $46 to go! And ONE more day to do it! If you want to help me and my entire deposit be a matter of donations- you all would rock my world! :)

Thank you to everyone- here is my chipin page:

http://mirazaki.chipin.com/guatemala

(please note the remainder of what I earned has been earned in cash, and does not show on the chipin page)

Cheers !!

UPDATE!!! NOW I ONLY HAVE $26 to go! :) http://mirazaki.chipin.com/guatemala

Guatemala- where my photojournalism begins! And Happy Hour kicks things off!

2010-04-12T11:13:00.012+10:00

Come one...come all... New Yorkers and tri-state area people alike... SalaamGarage Happy Hour this Tuesday April 13th in NYC!

Party - Benefit
Date: Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Time: 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Location: The Globe
Street: 158 east 23rd Street (Btw Lexington and 3rd Ave.)
City/Town: New York, NY

I am going to Guatemala in July (there it is, I said it!) with SalaamGarage to create a documentary project to help Agros International, an NGO that helps put land ownership into the hands of the indigenous Mayan people of rural Guatemala. Not only is this reason enough to be a part of this trip, but there are also food related stories!!! My project will be a photo documentary of the families in rural Guatemala. I continue to be in love food and travel photography, so I am taking those two passions and channeling them into a cause that will help cause positive social change by helping tell Agros International's success stories.

SalaamGarage has partnered with the NGO Agros InternationalAgros International to help their cause. Participants like me choose which stories they would like to focus on. Community members have already agreed to being a part of our proposed stories. The 2 stories that spoke to my heart the most were the following:

Jacinto and his family have been working together to support their daughter Engracia’s needs. Jacinto participated in the bread-baking course offered by FUNDAP, and built a wood-burning oven from what he learned in the training. Now the entire family works together to make fresh hot bread daily and sell it in Trapichitos and neighboring Agros community Xeucalvitz. They have also put a sign on the road in between the two communities advertising for the bread. With this bustling business, Jacinto and his family are closer to realizing their dreams.

Francisco, one of Jacinto and and Catarina’s seven other children, is an 11 year old boy living with his family in Xeucalvitz, and is in charge of eight goats. Francisco is also the youngest participant in the trainings about caring for the animals and milking them for consumption and sell. “I want to tend animals when I’m older, so I’m learning everything I can now.”

This trip and the nature of the project is already changing me from the inside out- I am raising the money with a deadline of April 15th to give my deposit, and will be co-hosting a SalaamGarage Happy Hour in NYC complete with a raffle and FABULOUS prizes donated by my amazing and fantastic friends :) (this also makes me realise that I have a whole load of friends who are authors, I never knew that until several of them donated books, haha!)

The coolest part? The trip of course, but Salaam Garage is based in Seattle (my hometown, what!) and they will be hosting a Happy Hour there on the same night for the artists in Seattle who will be on the Guatemala trip! Simultaneous happy hours on 2 coasts- truly awesome!
If you or someone you know is in the NYC area- please join us on Tuesday April 13th for the Salaam Garage Happy Hour:

The Spring time has brought innumerable possibilities and opportunities for me- I am continuing to bathe in all the inspiration. Thanks for reading :)

Anyone who can't make it and would like to support me can visit my chipin page to donate. Click to see how much I have raised so far!

http://mirazaki.chipin.com/guatemala

Cheers everyone :)

Ecuador and Guatemala- 2 meaningful opportunities to inspire

2010-03-26T07:16:00.013+11:00

Starting off with photos that seem appropriate to my subject this time around- hang on- there's loads to discuss :)

My fav "jump-out-of-the-car-for-the-photo" photo ;)

A little bit of Mexico : )

In the middle of the night as I was tossing and turning in bed, I was attempting to string together my thoughts- and what it was that I could say to get my point across? I thought for far too long what I wanted to say about these 2 opportunities that I have before me, and I felt that more could be less in a situation like this. It all starts with a dream, an idea, a thought- right? I am not sure if many of you know that my innermost desire has been photojournalism. I am also uncertain that there ever came a point where I decided this was what I wanted- it was just always natural- to be an observer, to document what I see and to understand people in a way that others perhaps haven’t been able to see on their own. Now, coupled with the strong desire to travel, see the world, be changed by just the mere absence of my daily routine and thought processes, I wanted to not only be a photojournalist and tell stories through my photos- there has also been an incredible need for self-preservation/protection. I have been under the impression that in order to be a photojournalist, you have to be willing to die. Now, I think that it is a noble thing to be willing to die while working- doing what you love and are most passionate about, but I was not willing to take that risk per se- so I buried my photojournalism dreams and continued on with my photography anyway finding my niche and interests. I have always felt somewhere deep inside me...as sure as the famous photo of the Afghan girl on the cover of National Geographic with the stellar, piercing green eyes- that I wanted to be a part of something that mattered. I suppose that's why I had trouble with a lot of my jobs- I couldn't see the relevance long term- and since I am not a person that is motivated by working my way to the top or by monetary gain, I had to keep searching for something- anything that was good and worthy and made a difference.

A little background on me that might not be as apparent or for those of you who don't know me-I have been shooting since I was about 11 years old- and this is when I took my first international trip to Egypt. My parents are Egyptian, and since I said I wanted to take pictures of the Pyramids, my mom delivered. I spent 3 months in Egypt and I think that the experience there will always stick with me- this trip was fueled by the desire to photograph the Pyramids, and after winning a junior high school competition with that photo, I felt like this was not only something that I loved to do- but that was natural for me, and that I really could do something with my photos. I also had an exceptional amount of hope that I could contribute to humanity, to society with the use of my camera and photos. The next reasonable step would have been to study journalism, but, that wasn't exactly what happened with me. After I graduated from college for the 4th time with a BA in Commercial/Advertising Still Photography- I knew that deep down the insatiable wanderlust could not be quenched by traveling just for the sake of traveling. There had to be more- and now I have 2 brilliant opportunities before me that I am hopeful I can take and learn and make a difference in these small South American communities. To contribute- please visit my "Chip-In" page "http://mirazaki.chipin.com/ecuador-and-guatemala"

I have never been to South America before, so these opportunities are doubly as exciting! They are best described by the trip leaders/ organisations- so here is a description of Ecuador followed by a description of Guatemala put on by a selfless, and impressive non-profit called Salaam Garage (www.salaamgarage.com) I hope you will help me be an author, a storyteller, and a participant in 2 exceptional opportunities to inspire, document life, and 10% of the trip cost of Guatemala goes directly to the community/participating NGO committed to breaking the cycle of poverty for rural families in Central America and Mexico by enabling landless communities to achieve land ownership and economic stability.

Ecuador- a colleague of mine, Ashok Sinha, has put this trip together- he has beautiful work and has traveled all over the world photographing the human condition-
www.ashoksinha.com

I'm organizing a trip to Ecuador (Otovalo/Imbabura region) this summer. I have partnered with a local anthropologist (who I met on my last assignment there for Budget Travel Magazine) which will enable us to get extraordinary access and opportunities to observe, photograph and immerse in the culture of the Ecuadorian Andes.

There will be a mixture of exclusive private portrait sessions as well as public settings such as the San Juan festival in Zuleta. In addition my anthropologist partner (Trinidad Ordonez) will be accompanying us throughout the entire length of the trip.
I think it will be a great way to pursue our own projects (be it photography and/or travel writing) and learn from each other's work as we get to explore the elusive communities in Ecuador over a 8-day period. (June 20-27, 2010). We are also considering a group show of participating photographers at the conclusion of the trip.
Let me know if you're interested in learning more about this. The total number in the group is a max of 8 and we currently have 2 spots left.
The price includes top-class accommodation, all meals, local transportation. It does not include airfare to/from Ecuador.

Guatemala with Salaam Garage:
"SalaamGarage is a storytelling, citizen journalism organization that partners with International NGOs and local non-profits. Participants (amateur and professional photographers, writers, videographers, etc.) connect with international NGOs, create and share independent media projects that raise awareness and cause positive change in their online and offline social communities.
We are the media now. Join us."

“SalaamGarage coordinates trips for citizen journalists (that means you) to places like India and Vietnam in conjunction with non-government organizations like Seattle-based Peace Trees. The destination is the story, as these humanitarian journalists report on the people they meet and discoveries they make. Their words, images, and video are posted to the social web to gain exposure and because these stories just need to be told.” Max Gladwell, The Huffington Post

Guatemala: July 23-Aug 3, 2010

Here is a link to the itinerary on Salaam Garage's website if you are interested in seeing what the trip is about: http://salaamgarage.com/trips/guatemala1/

Not only are both trips a brilliant opportunity and introduction to South America- they are both meaningful and food related! I couldn't think of a more perfect way to
start a photojournalism portfolio while still remaining true to my passion for food.

Here is the link to my Chip-In page and will also provide my home mailing address if anyone requires it to mail payment instead of donating online.

Thank you for reading my blog and following me along my ever-changing path ;)

Lots of love and inspiration :)

Coleslaw, Chicken Curry Salad Sandwich, Kale, Crumble, and more! Sounds like a picnic- eh?

2010-03-19T10:09:00.012+11:00

I was starting to think that the groundhog lied to us about an early Spring… although, the past few NYC days are indicative of a truly gorgeous FULL Spring season. I am grateful to live in a city where I can yet again experience the full 4 seasons ☺

Brought to you by the lovely Andrea Beaman and myself- a lighter more Spring-y menu here to match the changing of the seasons which seems to be bringing a wonder of abundance, change, and growth. I welcome it- and hope you enjoy this menu. It was again, absolutely organic, and delicious to eat. (and this would be a fantastic menu for a picnic in the park! Or if you live in California, you know.. just a picnic for the everyday weather)

Coleslaw can never be done too many ways- :)

Chicken Curry Salad Sandwich on a whole grain roll- YUM!

Kale and white beans- minus the fart foam !

I believe this is Sea Bass soup- am I right?

Nishime Vegetables with Kombu- I called this one "crazy sushi picture" cuz.. that's what it looks like.

Nishime Vegetables with Kombu

Geeky macro shot of pesto pasta on an orange bell pepper and some arugula

Pesto Pasta with whole milk cheese!

The Great Wall... oh no, just Pear Crumble! I love seeing another fruit besides apples in a crumble :)

Pear Crumble

Gluten Free Goodies and beating the last of the Winter Blues

2010-03-13T05:10:00.011+11:00

Slight shift here as well as a bit of a flashback to a few blogs ago! My dear friend Chef Rena Unger (website coming soon) is one of the most creative and loving people I’ve ever met. Her mind never rests- and so we became quick friends chatting and bonding about everything under the sun with the majority of our conversations revolving around, or ending up inevitably back at our fav topic- food.

Rena teaches classes about holistic health in her home, and I was fortunate to be able to attend and once again be spoiled by the deliciousness that is her healthy, organic cooking. In her Gluten Free Class, I had some of the most delectable dishes I could have ever imagined- I didn’t get to photograph all of her dishes- but there are a few below.

After the Gluten Free Class, Rena taught a Winter Blues class, and it was a true festival for the tastebuds ☺ Only Rena could make the most clever ice cream combinations and make me eat it in the Winter time. I met Rena through Andrea Beaman, and it is sort of magical to come together with kindred spirits- people who inspire, and change your life with the most subtle acts of kindness- as well as by pronounced acts of sharing and giving. I am a better person because I have met these two lovely ladies- and they spoil and insist on continuing to feed me as long as I take photos of their creations.

Coconut Curry Butternut Squash Soup with Brown Rice Sesame Crackers. Ok. Everything Rena touches turns to gold and well, something delicious- but the crackers I swear I can't get over, she friggin MADE crackers! I would never do that. But, now I will, because it was easy and unbelievably tasty :)

Spicy Fig& Chocolate Cake with Adzuki Bean Ganache (holy _____ , you have to try this to believe it!)

Fake Out Sweet Treat Corn- inspired by yours truly- during an organic old school-popped-on-the-stove-popcorn phase I had recently :)

Spinach artichoke dip (dairy-free!) with crostini :)

Dairy-free spinach artichoke dip with daikon, you won't believe it doesn't have dairy!

French Onion Quiche with a side of Kale

French Onion Quiche extreme close up :)

Sesame Pear Granola

Fig & Ginger Brown Rice Pudding

This makes me feel like ice skating in a Winter Wonderland theme somewhere :) That might be difficult because I don't ice skate, but you get the idea!

Ginger Ice Cream!

Comfort Food Part 2, Sickness, and a snowy February

2010-03-05T03:15:00.011+11:00

Forgive my unintentional absence, February decided to be one of the most difficult months for me. Hellish sickness took over for a few weeks, but I refused to let it win! Feeling much better, and determined to keep going…. I will try to update weekly- almost caught up to the present, ALMOST! ☺ *** waxing philosophic for one moment- I am fascinated by illness/sickness in the sense of my own experience. I have had my fair share of being sick in my lifetime and when it is a really intense sickness, there is something very primal about it- nothing else seems to matter besides feeling better… has anyone else noticed this? The dorky anthropological, sociological, side of me loves to analyse things- and it is sort of funny how everything fades away in the face of sickness. ***

Despite the snowstorms, which I find glorious- the groundhog told us it will be an early Spring- but I am still catching up on the end of the Winter/Comfort foods photoshoots. Once again, this was a shoot with the lovely Andrea Beaman. All of her delectable dishes have recipes on her website. So. Click and drool ;) ☺

Now let me tell you- growing up with a Middle Eastern family has made me a snob about Middle Eastern cuisine- and Andrea Beaman absolutely blew me away with this homemade hummus complete with crostini, it was sensational !

Black Eyed Peas with Chorizo

No, I cannot shoot without feeding my macro addiction :) Black Eyed Peas with Chorizo

Sauteed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry and Balsamic Reduction

Oysters, dear! Anyone else excited for Alice in Wonderland in 3D? Oyster Soup macro for my inner nerd :)

The non-macro shot of Oyster Soup :)

Oyster Soup with bacon

Spicy Stewed Chicken with Winter Veggies

Savory Winter Root Vegetables (oh yum!)

Beautifully baked pear complete with cinnamon stick :)

Beat the Winter Blues with warm, comfort food

2010-02-09T15:00:00.016+11:00

I am certainly among the minority of the population that prefers Winter over Summer time- and in fact left the country last summer to spend my Summer in the Winter of glorious Australia. Having grown up in Seattle was likely the reason that deep inside me was comfort in the cooler climate, an appreciation for the full 4 seasons, and an ability to enjoy this otherwise frustrating season for most of the universe. What can I say? Perhaps I was a beatnik from Antarctica in one of my previous lives. Winter time makes me feel content, and like I want to curl up under a blanket and read until I fall asleep- or write and write and write until I have nothing more to conjure up in my brain.

Even though I enjoy the Winter- there have definitely been those moments of "Winter Blues" and excessive hibernation. Not in the terms of a seasonal affective disorder, but just a sort of melancholy and wonder why sometimes I have been sleeping longer than 8 hours- or feeling like I am constantly on the verge of something big about to happen that is continually delayed. Oh yes, I tend to wax philosophic very quickly :) But, I digress....

I have been exceptionally fortunate to have Andrea Beaman as my regular client- she cooks the most healthy and delicious food which I happily take home with me after our shoots and devour. Both she, and another dear friend of mine Chef Rena Unger have taught classes and workshops on "How to Beat the Winter Blues" or to address the fact that there is an actual scientific reason that people are less motivated in the Winter time. After the holidays, there inevitably comes a sense of depression and since the natural order of the universe is in hibernation, we may feel the effects of that in our daily life as well. It is good to know that you are not alone! Fear not, public! There IS a cure... comfort food! From healing bone stocks, soups, and stews to the wonderfully comforting baked creations we can make to energise ourselves, there are several dishes that can help you feel satisfied and hopeful without cramming something offensive like Kraft Macaroni n' Cheese down your throat for some semblance of feeling comforted. Enjoy- and yes, I am starting with dessert :)

I am telling you- I do not like baked apples with the exception of when they are made in French cuisine, but this apple won me over. And it is important to start off with dessert :)

Nerdy macro shot number 1 :)

Action "reduction pouring" shot :)

Delectable baked apple with nuts and all sorts of goodness

Nothing like healthy fried rice and veggies by the windowsill

Sizzlin' Stir Fried Rice and Veggies :)

My nerdy inner artist loves macro shots- can you tell? :)

Soba noodles with cabbage, carrots, and scallions

Isn't that a stunning blue bowl and chopsticks?

Hearty Winter and Veggie Lentil Stew topped with my fav new green leafy veg- KALE. Sweet Kale shot, you gotta admit :)

Hearty Winter and Veggie Lentil Stew with Whole Grain Bread ( won't make you toot either, because the beans/lentils are soaked overnight :) ) Topped with my fav new green leafy veg- KALE

Tahini Noodles (house made dressings and sauces are truly unsurpassed)

Tahini Noodles (soba noodles with tahini sauce, scallions, ginger, and a sprinkle of confetti peppers :) )

Food, GLORIOUS Food! Healthy Holiday Meal photoshoot

2010-01-28T16:15:00.017+11:00

I bet you only thought you could go back in time in Photoshop- well Command+ Z and head back to November with me (sorry for the dorky photographer joke)

I have decided that I will give myself a deadline to update my blog weekly with what I have been doing for the past few months and hopefully will get to the present soon ;)

So, my October shoot was with the lovely Andrea Beaman- one of my favourite clients and a brilliant chef. We have started doing a once a month shoot, so look for more delicious updates. Recipes can be found on her website: www.andreabeaman.com and you may see some familiar photos on her site, taken by yours truly :)

So Command+Z with me to November '09 and Thanksgiving/Holiday meal madness. I was fortunate to attend one of Andrea's cooking classes and we had a photoshoot the following day with all the same recipes that she prepared for the class with a few additional delectable dishes added to the mix. There's nothing quite like mom's cooking for the holidays- or well your family's cooking and traditions. I happened to be in California for the holidays with my family and found that when mom didn't cook this year- it was a sore disappointment. Of course the 2 times that she decided to not cook for one reason or another, she ended up cooking anyway! Having said this- and having a disappointing prepared meal- I look forward to the holidays this year when I hope to prepare some of these dishes no matter where I might be (unless I happen to be back in Australia because it will be summer time there, and turkeys and hot weather just don't seem to go together in my opinion ;) )

So- grab a fork, or a spoon, or whatever you may need and see if you can taste any of these from your computer screen!

Carrot Ginger Soup

Oh yea, the money shot! This was a quick shot and ended up to be my fav!

Beet, Apple, and Feta Cheese Salad on Napa Cabbage

Beet, Apple, and Feta Cheese Salad Nestled in Winterbor Kale- oh my god YUM! An easy and amazingly delightful dish- extremely healthy, too ;)

Sea Vegetables

Sea Vegetables (can cure just about everything)

Organic, free-range chicken with golden potatoes, cabbage, and carrots

Organic, free-range chicken with potatoes, cabbage, carrots and rosemary

Stuffed Kabocha Squash with Quinoa, Duck, and Savory Mushroom Gravy

A different angle of the stuffed kabocha squash with quinoa, duck, and savory mushroom gravy. I am telling you- I do not like mushrooms and this woman's cooking made me eat them!!! ;)

Shooting my heart out, it's delicious!

2010-01-22T02:35:00.016+11:00

Being consistent with a blog is much harder than I thought it would be! It is likely to due to the one and only side of me that is a perfectionist- the aesthetic side :) It is a new year... and yet, here I am going back in time again. I promise it will all come together and I will be living in the present soon.

After I returned from Australia, I found myself feeling as though I was in a foreign country upon my return. I realise there is a fair amount of depression that accompanies the end of a long trip, and I was definitely prone to that feeling long before I even begrudgingly set my feet in motion to get back on a plane and return to the U.S... though there were things I missed about being "home" (don't even get me started on that concept...) I really didn't want to leave Australia, however, there was work to be done- concerts to attend, and people to reconnect to. I quickly got back into the swing of things and set off to cure the insatiable creative a.d.d. that forces me to be constantly busy.

After I ran around and saw as many concerts as I could get to and attempted to have some semblance of normalcy or a schedule, I had to get back to shooting food. One of my favourite clients and all around- nicest person on Earth candidate- Andrea Beaman had a few food shoots planned and I promised her headshots. She ever so patiently waited from June until I arrived back state-side in September. We shot in the park on an overcast day and I picked out my favourites from each outfit change :) Andrea- is truly one of the most amazing women I have ever had the pleasure to meet and know. She is loving, happy, and exudes beauty and wonder in her every move. She is a holistic health counselor, chef, teacher, friend, AND a previous Top Chef contestant. I am including one of the food shoots we did in June before I left to run across the globe to the Southern Hemisphere. Looking at the glorious, healthy organic food she makes always makes me hungry! (and oh yes, I got to eat all of it, let me tell you- her cooking is truly unparalleled, its delicious, healthy, complete with the secret ingredient- LOVE) Enjoy- and thanks for following along with me on this less than ordinary path I have created- although, I know myself, I never do anything normal. Thanks for reading and coming along :)

My favourite :)

What do you think of the hair up?

Very New York- eh?

I love the blue! She is the best model, ever, so wonderful and pleasant to work with!

What a smile!

Andddd the favourite- her favourite featured on her website, too! Very "Top Chef", no?

Fantastic bruschetta

Brilliant Organic chicken soup with a whole grain roll

Organic Quinoa Tabouleh on lettuce- oh yum!

I call this the "school picture" it just looks like a cute little organic quinoa tabouleh face with a bow, am I crazy? :)

OH MY GOD Lemon Sole with soba noodles, carrots, and cabbage- try to make this- it will blow your tastebud's minds :)

Back to my adopted homeland- the final 2+ week stretch of Australia

2009-12-04T05:46:00.021+11:00

The truth lies there.. in black lettering... it has been almost 2 months since I posted a blog entry, this is a bit more difficult than I thought it would be. My apologies- things have been a whirlwind of adventure and busyness since I got back to the USA.. I plan to continue the blog with some outtakes from Melbourne, as well as catching up to my projects for the present day.

And now... we will go back in time for a bit!

I couldn’t wait to get back to Australia.. I was literally on a countdown from the day that I arrived in New Zealand- I constantly heard my own patronizing voice in my head saying “this is my punishment for leaving Australia” which surprised me because I always say that to myself when I go to neighbouring cities outside of NY and everything is suddenly completely unavailable and starkly different… I always say “this is why people never leave NY” (Slight Sex and the City reference there, that I now totally get)

So, I felt a bit torn- I was thrilled to be getting back to what felt like my “home” albeit adopted home- where everything was familiar, comfortable, reachable, able, possible, and where my brain was able to finally do the math for the currency conversions… then there was that part of me that constantly lives in the future- planning for something I knew was looming ahead of me with a date attached to it… September 8…. Doomsday… my brain defaulted to putting it aside and enjoying the last part of my trip…but all the while knowing that the sooner it crept to September- the sooner I would have to fulfill the other end of my airline ticket- and return back to the USA to Los Angeles. HOW? How could that be possible? How could I leave this place? It was not only ridiculous, it was impossible… I seriously considered for some time- getting a job, and just.. well… staying.. because when I am traveling and enjoying myself- I am content to live out of a bag- and the thought of all of the other clothes that I didn’t bring with me, I didn’t miss, all of the things I spend my time collecting, it turns out I don’t need but I ENJOY having, the boxes full of papers, hairclips, pennies, and fortunes from fortune cookies- somehow seem not only irrelevant, they are completely unnecessary. Big inhale of breath! Time to live in the present and enjoy myself….

At the end of my New Zealand tour- with no Ipod, no functioning laptop, and a BEAUTIFUL taste in my mouth from the last person I ended up staying with in Auckland- probably the nicest person I’ve ever met- an osteopathy student originally from England studying in NZ because NZ is sorely lacking people in the medical field and pays them extremely handsomely (there goes another failed attempt at having a niche in the right market… I’ll get it right one day ;) Auckland was a bizarre and underwhelming city to me- fair enough I was only there for a few days- mainly to catch my flight back to my beloved Melbourne- I have never been so thrilled to see an airport before! But, Auckland- along with its bad reputation seemed to live up to its name… I couldn’t find anything authentic about it- I couldn’t even place what it reminded me of? Seattle mixed with ? At any rate, I couldn’t say that Auckland treated me badly, in fact, my stay was so nice that I would go back just to see my new friends.

Upon arrival in Melbourne.. I breathed a big sigh of relief…I was home! Although I had only been to Tullamarine airport a few times, it felt like this was the airport that I was always leaving from- as though I was born here, and just going through the motions of traveling- its surprising to me that I can acclimate to almost anywhere so quickly- I wonder if that is part of being open to- and trying to fully experience the culture and people of the country I am visiting- or whether it was easier on me because Australians speak English?

I spent the last few weeks running around with some of the most thoughtful new friends I could have hoped to ever find.. from the funky graffiti, hip coffee shop and book store lined streets of Brunswick to the quiet Northern suburbs of Northcote and Reservoir, to the extremely relevant and ever changing St. Kilda, I then ended my remarkable trip with 2 of the kindest people on Earth- seriously. If there was a contest, they WIN on every level.. I met Tina and Chris on my birthday- after they drove an HOUR to come pick me up since I was sick and planning to spend it alone- they took me out to the hidden boutique bars in Chinatown- and we shared some delicious Greek food afterwards—when I saw them arrive dressed all in black and driving a gorgeous, fast black car with tinted windows, wide awake and ready to talk all night, I felt an instant connection to these two extremely open-hearted people, and today, I feel like they are some of my closest friends. Tina is a genius web designer, philosopher, friend, and all around- incredible woman… these people … it is difficult to find words that can possibly express how profoundly genuine and deep they are. I count myself absolutely insanely lucky to have them in my life, and to remain in touch with them weekly.

Tina's husband Chris is absolutely her equal- I spend a lot of my time observing people and their behaviours, their relationships... To be around Tina and Chris is sort of a miracle in and of itself because of how incredible they are individually, but when you see and experience them together, you see a couple that not only loves and respects each other, but they really LIKE each other, too. They way that they adore each other is refreshing and invigorating to be around- they are best friends and lovers, and their respect for each other is out of this world- I felt privileged to witness their relationship and to be invited into their gorgeous home in the suburbs of Melbourne and the glorious Mornington Peninsula near Frankston. As fellow night owls, we united- we laughed so much we nearly peed ourselves, we shared food, ran around shopping malls, watched and judged tv shows, watched AFL, visited the Mornington Peninsula, did an impromptu food photoshoot in their kitchen, and just enjoyed each others company. The part that I am still having a hard time wrapping my head around is that… after staying with them for nearly 2 weeks in which I felt I way overstayed my welcome, they treated me to EVERYTHING!!

AND…this part I still cannot wrap my head around.. they drove me to the airport (over an hour from their home) we all slept very late, after 1-2 am … and my flight was at 9 or 10 am… so after getting little to no sleep, they both awoke, happy to drive me to the airport, loaded my luggage for me, and not only STAYED with me, but when I found out my flight was delayed, they had breakfast with me as we tried to waste the time in the airport stores…. Um, what??????? They also kept thinking of clever ways to stop my plane so that I wouldn’t have to leave… I thought for certain I would spend the entire trip home crying- sobbing uncontrollably, because I just didn’t want to come home… luckily, I didn’t… I decided to drown myself in watching as many current movies as I could cram into 14 hours and until my heavy eyelids won.

There’s something that rings inside of me whenever I think of Tina and Chris… their generosity and kindness I still cannot seem to fathom- but I am grateful everyday that the connection through humanity still exists- even if I had to travel 10,355 miles to see it- I have been forever changed by this trip to Australia, and I hope that every single time I go back, I will feel it all over again.

My first AFL game @ Etihad Stadium. I cannot believe the Aussies got my attention for sports- the ONLY sport on Earth I can tolerate :)

My friend and world traveler Paul walking down the funky alleyways of Brunswick

Hahaha, I couldn't resist taking this photo!

This was one of the coolest places I have EVER been to- the most authentic and original chocolate shop/cafe. Delectable beyond words- Coco LOCO beats EVERY other chocolate shop on EARTH!

AHA! That's where Carlisle Cullen lives :)

Luna Park in St. Kilda

Luna Park :)

An old tram @ Luna Park in St. Kilda- apparently you can hire this for parties, haha! :)

Couldn't resist the composition, complementary colours, and the general sign hilarity of this ;)

Cornholio! This corn was fresh and delectable.. yummmmmmmm!

I love selective focus :)

This is what happens when creative people are up at night, feeling hungry ;)

If you look closely in the spoon, you will see all 3 of us who don't like to be photographed :)

Thene and Christian's creative minds made this delicious creation :)

Looking out at the beauty of Melbourne/Mornington

href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_y0glL_FBSps/SxgH9Pj0y-I/AAAAAAAAAno/T9K8X_R7eXc/s1600-h/Mornington_2.jpg">
The GLORY of Mornington Peninsula (right, Tina?)

Venturing into Middle Earth- my first taste of New Zealand, and Honey the Cardinal Sin

2009-10-16T07:50:00.034+11:00

7 August-20 August

(to add insult to injury of my difficult time in New Zealand- I lost the use of 2 of the most important pieces of equipment I brought with me and my lifelines! My Powerbook G4 laptop CRASHED, and then I accidentally washed my Ipod shuffle. The headphones survived, but the Ipod never came back :( WHAT does the Southern Hemisphere have against Apple products? I always have some disaster there with my Apple products!)

Be diplomatic…be diplomatic…be fair… don’t say hate…say that I prefer Australia to New Zealand...

There’s a part of my brain that is perhaps larger than the other sections.It is constantly buzzing- it wakes me up as soon as I lay down to sleep to check just one more thing on the internet, it drives me when the thrill of going to a new place enters into the other parts of my brain….and it is entitled “Planning”, being a woman, a photographer, a student for 10 years, and an artist- I think I have planning down to a science. If one thing doesn’t work out- my brain instantly defaults to another solution, another answer, there’s always another way! And for the overactive, a.d.d. mind of mine- it is essential that I keep myself occupied with several things at once so that I don’t implode. Planning is twofold, really:

1) It allows me to not implode

2) It alleviates the wanderlust overthinker that I am…

Ahhh planning....how I didn't realise what a serious relationship I have with you! It is something that I enjoy- it helps me look thoughtfully towards the future, it is an essential part of being my own business- and a freelance photographer, and for someone who travels it is also an unquestionable necessity of my life… as I get older, I have learned to trust my intuition more and more- go with my gut instincts more often instead of less often so that when something turns out the way I felt that it would- I won't have to kick myself for not having listened to myself in the first place! Carpe Diem, right? Seize the day all the while making sound decisions of course ;)

Ok, decision made! I would start trusting myself and making decisions that I feel are strongly influenced by my intuition.. now having said all of that- I don’t know exactly what happened to me when I decided to hop over to New Zealand. I had spoken with enough people who had: been there, lived there, were born there and then moved to Australia, or just visited extensively… as I often do when I am trying to educate myself about something- I poll everyone, I ask a lot of questions, I am used to researching… but this time I was completely taken astray… I did not research and so the cardinal sin in my book was committed- I wasted almost 2 weeks of my time in a country that I did not even know was 2 islands separated by water- and the chaos ensues on my journey into Middle Earth.

I should have known. From the first moment in the Sydney airport when I was patiently waiting my turn in line, I should have known. I should have stayed in Australia. It was early morning for me- and I didn’t sleep much the night before. There are not many as many flights between Australia and New Zealand as one would think- and most especially from Sydney to Christchurch which actually flies quite often- I should have trusted my instincts, and yet, for some reason, the artist, the wanderlust, the stubborn Taurus moon side of me refused to give in. I got to the counter of Emirates airlines in Sydney, Australia, bleary eyed and exhausted, but ready for a new adventure—the man at the window looked at my creased black and white printout of my itinerary, looked at my passport, and gave me a bit of a frown.
Him:“When are you returning to Australia, ma’am?”
Me: “I don’t know, I only bought a one-way ticket.”
Him: “Oh, you cannot leave the country. New Zealand will not allow you in unless you have a return ticket.”
Me: (slightly thunderstruck) um, what? I cannot leave the country?!
Him: No, you must purchase a return ticket in order to enter the country.
Me: So, can I do that now?
Him: Yes, you can do it at any window, or you may purchase it online- but you will need to print out a confirmation number so that you have something to show New Zealand customs.
Me: (to myself, you have GOT to be kidding me.) Ok, thanks for telling me.

To myself: DAMN IT! Whaaat the hell ! I had so much fun in Sydney- maybe I can call my new friend Amy who said she didn’t want me to leave? Could I? I have her phone number in my moleskin journal… but.. f*ck its so early- I don’t know if she is up for work yet…. On the other hand….I want to go to New Zealand! What a crime to be so close and not see it, and I need some more diverse shots- I really want to see the land and the sheep, and learn about the country. Alright- let me go see how much another one way ticket will be….

I arrive at one of the counters of the mere 3 airlines that fly to New Zealand with extremely limited flying times/availability. Not surprisingly, Air New Zealand is the counter I find myself at and greeted by an extremely friendly lady told me a one way ticket will be $400… is she serious? Do I perhaps have the look of someone with an indisposable income? Ok, my option now was to go back and talk to Emirates, but they told me it was about the same cost- maybe Qantas could save the day (Qantas is one of the best airlines around, I flew with them about 6 times now and have been exceptionally pleased each time) She was much more helpful:“if you cannot make it today, you can extend your ticket for another date in the future if you wish.” That was nice to know that I had options,so I ran to the free internet kiosk provided by Optus mobile. I jumped online and looked frantically at lastminute.com.au and Qantas.com- lastminute.com had a return flight for about $200! Success! I was going to New Zealand- the government would NOT stand in my way. (all those with authority issues, say I!) I !!!!!

I quickly confirmed my purchase- and then realised that my bank account would be overdrawn if a check I wrote would clear at the same time- I worked that out- and then ran over to the ticketing to get the bag tags- oh. They needed the printout of my ticket- damn! I went to not 1, not 2, but 3 different Qantas counters in order to get my printed itinerary fit for the New Zealand government and customs people. I barely made it through- but I did it! I was on my way to Middle Earth- and nobody- especially not the government would stop me! I sort of wish I had just rolled over, and given up, I wish I could have used my intuition at those early hours to peer into my future of frustration, wasted time and money, and confiscation of my recent purchase in Australia.. that, I am still sore about- and will complain about in depth in one moment. ☺

So, I find myself on this airline I have never flown before. Emirates made me feel like a STAR. High class accommodations even for those of us in coach- big, comfortable, beige leather seats, a TV for each seat, they served us brunch though it was only a 3 hour flight from Sydney to Christchurch; so in I settled into my roomy, comfortable seat with my complimentary headphones and crammed in the new Star Trek movie into the flight. New Zealand! Middle Earth from the plane was stunning- almost beyond words- the photos that I snapped with my little point and shoot camera were out of this world. The snow capped mountains were literally breathtaking. I felt hopeful- and for being such a city girl- it always interests me that I have a strong connection to being in nature (mainly due to the fact that I was born in the natural splendor of the Pacific Northwest Seattle)- when I don’t enjoy nor do any nature type activities like hiking, camping, swimming, or other selected water sports- for me- its mainly just BEING in nature and exploring on foot (reasonably so that my bad ankle doesn’t worsen) and shooting.I like to be on my own schedule and timing without any tourguides influencing my experience or telling me what to feel at what time.

We landed in Christchurch and I had to go through the exhaustive customs and security checks—did I have any fresh fruit, nuts? Have I been on a farm recently? Was there dirt on my shoes from being in the outback of Austalia? Yea, there actually was dirt, and when I was in Mudgee with Amanda we got clear quartz crystals straight out of the Earth. DAMN IT. Remain calm, and claim or throw away. Little did I know that my honesty was to work against me in just a few moments. A friendly woman with plastic gloves on greeted me and asked if I had any food. Ever the honest tell-tale heart with a near inability to lie, I cheerfully say, “yes! I have saffron and honey." Her heart skips a beat. “HONEY?” Uh, (was that the wrong answer? I was just being honest) and I didn’t want to endure the wrath of the “Claim it or INSTANT $200 fine”. I showed her my honey naively thinking that since it was from Australia, it would be allowed in- its not as if I have hidden explosives or an American disease I decided to bring over to ruin the delicate ecosystem of New Zealand. WRONG ANSWER. Honey is the first and foremost thing that they will not allow in the country. Blast it all ! She truly does apologise and says I cannot take the honey in- and I am instantly livid. I paid $7 for honey that I only tasted with a stick, and now they are taking it! WHY didn’t I just leave it in Australia with my new friends? Why didn’t I lie? Do they have honey detectors??? Would I have been imprisoned for bringing honey into the country? SIGH. I complained a bit, and she apologised again while she took my boots and clear quartz to be inspected for the dirt they carried. The dirt was FIIIIIIIIINE. But, I still mourn the loss of my honey- I may even write a letter to New Zealand just to make myself feel better- one thing my mum instilled in me was to never waste- that’s one of the cardinal sins in my book- and while I would like to think they BURN it to destroy it, I was HOPING that somewhere in a customs back room, they were having a honey confiscation party with my beloved natural,only touched once honey from Mudgee.

Still fussed about the ordeal that it was to get through security and customs, I remained eager to see the lansdscape of New Zealand from the worm’s eye view- I arrived at the airport and found… silence. Living in New York City affords you a very interesting characteristic- you tune out noise, but you still have a need to hear it. Sirens blaring, alarms going off, traffic, honking, yelling, music, loud trucks hitting bumps in the road, the occasional dog bark, screeching of trains, stopping of local buses, and sometimes your neighbours chatting as though they were inside your own apartment. Now that all of those sounds were no longer part of my regular day- I adopted the new sounds of Melbourne since I had stayed there the longest amount of time- the sound that chirps when its time to cross the street, the trams stopping and going, and the sound of the tram doors opening, a hush of traffic, people talking… on a smaller scale, Melbourne was still a major metropolitan city complete with the sounds of a hustling and bustling bonafide city.

Admittedly, the silence is slightly unnerving to me- it means in a way that not much is happening- and with my overactive mind- I get bored EXTREMELY easily. I always say that I need to be overstimulated all the time or I die. It’s sort of true. New Zealand was going to be… a challenge. But, I was ready. I went off to the bus, and found my way around fairly easily. What was I doing exactly? Oh yes, shooting! Ok, well, let me begin my research.

I found myself in the calm and hippie-like spirit of Christchurch. I had no idea that there were so many barefoot, dreadlocked people in New Zealand- where was my research knowledge? Why had I completely dropped the ball with this trip? I suppose the “no worries” lifestyle seeped into my veins and into the “planning” part of my brain. My trip back to Australia was already planned down to the last day I would be there and head back to the USA, however, the momentary blip for visiting and shooting in New Zealand continued on… and I struggled the entire 2 weeks I was there. I ended each day wondering “what did I accomplish today? NOTHING!!” “what did I shoot today? Not much?!”

I continued on- ever determined to not give up… transportation then became an issue to add to my increasing anxiety of wasting time and lack of accomplishment.The only way I could get around was by bus which ran on extremely limited services due to the winter time. Where was my 24 hour convenience of NYC? I am not an outdoor sports activity type of person… I don’t camp, I don’t fish, I don’t hike… in order to see more landscape, it would have behooved me to drive around...yet…my brain would literally not allow for me to drive on the left side of the road despite becoming accustomed to it a bit more, The Lord of the Rings tour was cheesy and undoubtedly a tourist trap, what else could I shoot? I was told that I MUST go to Milford Sound in the Fiordland National Park, its one of the rare untouched natural parks/habitats left on the planet… that should be photo worthy right? That was my new goal.. to get to Milford Sound if I did nothing else in New Zealand… now… I can just take a bus and be there in a few hours, right? WRONG!!! From one of the the furthest city South- Queenstown, it still took 10 hours of traveling total to get to the Sound! Now, where am I?! 3-5 hours away from Queenstown by bus... argh!

I eventually made it- and because I was determined to make SOMETHING of my time- I ended up frantically checking into backpacker’s hostels in Queenstown a few times, all the while attempting to find anything nearby that I could shoot to make my trip feel worthy. I even had one of their world famous burgers at Fergburger- (admittedly a clever and delicious little hamburger joint in Queenstown) I didn’t however even get ONE photo of a sheep because the majority of my time was spent on buses traveling between cities.. I didn’t have a chance to eat lamb ( I know, when in Rome, but I didn’t have enough time!) I eventually made it to Doubtful Sound- it was an all day affair with more traveling than actual exploration of the area- and I am still hoping it was worth it- we did have a few strikes of luck in that on my tour we saw dolphins,penguins, and seals which are not always present for the tours.

The tour… was definitely worth it- worth the entire trip to New Zealand? I cannot tell a lie and say that it was… but, I have to say, that I always tell myself “I love being uncomfortable” and not in the sense of enjoying the feeling, but because it makes me step outside myself, to learn and grow. I struggled from the next to nothing activities available in Christchurch to the incredible distance between cities on even one of the islands.I made my way through Queenstown, Wanaka (where they apparently have a movie theatre with couches instead of seats and at intermission they serve you freshly baked cookies!), Manapouri, back to Christchurch and then flew to Auckland to get back to Australia.

It was not necessarily all in vain… the people, were absolutely the friendliest in the world- and I was extremely surprised, to this day cannot believe that they hitchhike as one of their main and accepted forms of transportation! I must have asked about 20 different people if they hitch, and if its safe… because in America, you hitch hike and you die! You end up on the evening news as missing or dead! It made me stop to think that I was behaving as though I was raised in a country of paranoid thieves and killers! (was that true? If even partially true? That America makes me not trust people? I can wax philosophic on that easily.. but I will end this extremely long entry soon) ☺

The sting of my confiscated honey was a hard one to bury throughout my time in New Zealand (and apparently up until today), the incredible expense I endured to get around to places without knowing where I was, and not truly accomplishing as much shooting as I would have liked- I basically wasted 2 weeks of time, only accomplishing shooting some absolutely majestic snow on mountains and traveling to Doubtful Sound (not a very encouraging name of a destination, eh?) but one of the most breathtaking- honestly- one of the few untouched places left in the world- it was magnificent, and I can’t say it was worth all the time, effort, and struggle, but perhaps if my photos sell as stock, I will change my mind. Despite the struggle, not realising I would have to FLY to Auckland- and freaking out every single day about how I was to get from the furthest Southern point on the South Island to Auckland in time to make it back to Melbourne- I found some outstanding new friends in New Zealand whose warmth and hospitality still rings in my memory every time I think about it. So, I suppose, that though I was given exactly what I wanted- to learn, grow, and be uncomfortable- I learned the geography of New Zealand, I learned that in order to visit- I might need to rob a bank to survive, and that there’s water separating the 2 islands… I can’t say that I am fondly looking back on my time there- but- perhaps a picture is worth 1,000 words afterall.. I’ll let you be the judge..but, I still want my honey back.

Goodbye to my beloved Australia- I can see the shape of the country from this airplane shot ;)

The view from the plane- still stuns me!

Purple :)

Pink fleurs

Gorgeous! Abundant plant life and flowers flourishing in the middle of the Winter, even!

Centre of Christchurch

Cool art museum in Christchurch

This helps for those of us that fail at history like I do, interesting how much the Maori culture is still relevant in the culture of New Zealand. I was told they even teach the Maori language in schools, still !

It turns out.. that I like old cars :)

This made me think it was part of a cottage from a fairytale :)

Native statue

I love the architecture of NZ, its completely different from Australia- and well here's some more English influence- I love the red telephone booths!!!

Not a sign you see everyday ;)

Hahahaha, I have no idea what these were there for- but some robots/transformers made out of cardboard boxes were randomly on a main street in Christchurch.

Tower in Lyttleton

Lyttleton

Forgive the dorky artist I am, I thought this was a cool image of raindrops on a clothes drying rack ;)

I like random things like this ;) In the middle of nature, too

Lake Tekapo

Doubtful Sound

A rarity- we got to see the seals :) Reminds me of Pier 39 in SF, albeit with a different backdrop ;)

Gorgeous close up of rock

Native bird (forgot its name) was happily eating banana chips, haha! :)

More of Doubtful Sound- untouched

Goodbye Doubtful Sound

Mudgee

2009-10-05T08:05:00.019+11:00

31 July – August 2

You know how there some friends in life that are your confidantes? The people who you call when something goes wrong- or if something goes right…who you know will be there if you just need to vent, the people who make your day brighter with small things, who know your birthday without the reminder from facebook, the people who know what sorts of things you eat for dinner, and are genuinely concerned with you if all you can think about is a strange or interesting piece of mail? I cherish those friendships- and I adore the friendships that are instant and immediate-where you feel like you have known each other for years instead of just a few hours? Well, one of my dearest friends on Earth, Carly, had this sort of connection with a friend here in Sydney, Amanda. And, when I met Amanda, we also had this instant connection- what a gift, and in the wise words of another dear friend whom I have connected with in Australia, Thene “There is something to be said about connecting with people - it's really a - not so much a miracle but perhaps a blessing of life and being alive.” I couldn’t have said it better Thene ☺ I think that is both of those things- a miracle in a sense and a blessing of life and being alive. I am still taken aback by all the kindness and open hearts and minds that exist here- nothing seems to be troubling to people, they help you without the intention of receiving recognition and without the satisfaction or praise for helping… I had only chatted with Amanda online for most of this year, and when she picked me up from the train station with a big smile on her face and greeted me with a hug, I knew that we would get on very well.

Before I arrived in Sydney, Amanda offered to take me along on a roadtrip to the countryside of Sydney and a place very dear to her heart where she spent many years growing up- Mudgee. Mudgee, a small suburb of Sydney known for its wine and its honey, reminds me in a way of Stanley, although a bit more populated than Stanley, the charms of the countryside were abundant. The reason for the trip was to attend a 60th surprise birthday party planned for her uncle, and I was beyond flattered to not only have just met her and be welcomed into her home and her life, (though I felt like I knew her for years from chatting so much) but to go along to a personal function, such as a celebration as this with 75 members of her amazing family, I was truly at a loss for words. Amanda, is probably the most easygoing mum I have ever met- and after having a 15 yr old, an 11 yr old, and a 3 yr old and she is at the mere age 30, she is truly a gift of a friend and a remarkable human being. I also found out quickly that Amanda was a bit of a celebrity in Sydney- I was surprised as we sat at the McDonald’s drive thru for breakfast that they knew her by name. I sheepishly asked her, "um, how do they know your name?!" She happened to be picked to be on a television show whose premise was to search for Australias’s top psychic. It was called “The One” and I was extremely impressed that she was selected to be one of the contestants. After a few minutes of chatting with her, though, it was evident that she was someone extremely special. We chatted until the wee hours of the night and I must have cried about a dozen times after hearing all of her life stories- I encouraged her to write a book and thanked her for not judging me for being too sensitive upon our first meeting ;)☺ We headed to bed around 2 or 3 a.m. and as I was sleeping in her eldest son’s room- I looked up at the ceiling and saw the glow in the dark stars I once had in my own room at age 15, and smiled as I fell asleep.

The trip to Mudgee began early on Saturday morning, and off we went! Myself, Amanda, her 11 year old daughter Alannah, and her now 3 year old son Ajay, were in tow. With the Twilight soundtrack repeating on the CD player and a few stops for photos at abandoned train stations, we made good time through the splendor of the Blue Mountains and along through a huge apple town called Bilpin, the signs for housemade fresh pies and fruits and vegetables were entirely too tempting, but, we had a party to attend! Chit-chatting the entire way with a wonderful soundtrack and clear road ahead of us, we saw an enormous amount of roadkill. This is why I was referencing dead roos in my previous blog- I didn’t count, but we saw more dead kangaroos than any other animal.. there were also some foxes, some wombats, and other assorted Aussie animals- the occasional cat, etc. Apparently, these animals are not endangered, and it is actually quite dangerous to hit a kangaroo because they are a massive and muscular animal, it does a lot of damage to your car as well as kill them ☹

On a happier note..we arrived in the early evening from an extremely painless roadtrip (for myself anyway) I may actually change my mind about roadtrips- I generally hate them, and not all travel companions are created equally, but, the 4 of us did beautifully on the @5-6 hour trek North to Mudgee. We arrived at the hotel, and immediately I was introduced to about 5 of Amanda’s family members. I am generally very good with names and faces, but, when I meet several people at once, I tend to forget- but I was also immediately whisked away with 2 of Amanda’s aunties to go wine tasting. I wasn’t sure if the tasting would be free, so I shied away a bit until I realised it WAS free, and then it was over. We had about 7 glasses- (just tastings) and I was satisfied for the rest of the evening. Australian wine has always been among my favourites, and it was a treat to experience it firsthand and even organic wines, too !

We got some lunch and settled in- chatting with the family explaining what I was doing there and talking about my camera and my photography. You know- I picked a career that I love and that I enjoy, but, its always nice to know that no matter who I meet, when I tell them what I do- it is so well received, and a topic of conversation for hours potentially. After a few hours, we were off to the surprise party. Upon arrival, I thought for certain there were too many table settings- and then after about an hour, every single seat had been taken! There were at least 75 people at this birthday party- what a huge family! I feel like it was yet again another miracle to meet a friend that I connected with on many levels- and within 24 hours was meeting part of her family. The party was truly fantastic- with toasts, excellent food, and plenty of cake and balloons to keep the children occupied. After we headed back to the hotel- filled with warmth and love- we watched a special on TV about Michael Jackson (whom I still cannot believe has died).

The next morning- we headed over to Amanda's uncle Kevin’s house for breakfast. He announced at the party last night that he and his wife would be glad to have everyone over for breakfast. You can just tell- that he was a business man- he and his wife used to run a hotel- and this was absolutely a serious breakfast affair. There were probably about 30-50 people at any given time rotating between the inside and the backyard where there was a grill going to pick up your preferred protein- sausage, bacon, or ham, and toasters with butter and Vegemite waiting happily to be used. Inside was the egg station- fried, poached? How would you like yours? The amount of love present for this beloved family member was palpable and I was incredibly honoured to be a part of this special event.

We said our goodbyes and “Happy Birthday” wishes and headed on our way to do some honey tasting! Mudgee is known for its wine and its honey- so after sampling every single type of honey you can imagine- including honey with LAVENDER (which was scrumptious) I decided to get one jar, and in a moment- we were on our way back to Sydney.

Jamming to the same music we drove up with, and chatting a bit more- we were soaking in the last of the gorgeous countryside—we wanted to stop at a brilliant abandoned railroad track to take some photos- and en route- we were coming up very quickly to this small moving object. AN ANIMAL!!! Amanda was powering through the roads at about 120 km/hr so thankfully she had a good eye to spot the movement and was able to slow down in time. She screamed in delight, “ECHIDNA!!” and the grin on my face spread from ear to ear. I recall seeing an Echidna in the Taronga Zoo in Sydney 4 years ago, and adored how they were the Australian version of a porcupine. We pulled over, and marveled at seeing this creature up close- I snapped some photos, and Amanda’s uncle lovingly gathered the Echidna up into a towel and put him on the other side of the road to safety. We followed him to make sure he was ok- and he angrily dug himself into a hole to camouflage...at least we didn’t add to the astounding number of roadkill.

Arriving back in Sydney, we had some dinner and headed to bed- in my whirlwind weekend to the countryside, I felt this sense of belonging, and the natural wonder of the Earth resting happily in my memories.

They really are blue- Blue Mountains :)

Gorgeous trees of the countryside of Australia- I miss these trees!

Awesome old church en route to Mudgee- I think I will always love the contrast of yellow and blue

Abandoned Train Station- what an awesome location to shoot!

Train tracks and abandoned train station

Amanda just waiting for her train :) (she might be waiting for a while, lol)

Inside Abandoned Train Station #1

Capertee! Abandoned Train Station #2

Gnarly close up of a tree

Why did the Echidna cross the road?

Echidna close up!

Amanda's hilarious "Uncle from hell" desperately wanted a photo of strangling her on the train tracks- you will always have a laugh around this guy :)

Moon in the night sky

The many sides of the Metropolis of Oz, Sydney

2009-08-21T14:09:00.017+10:00

28 July- 6 August

Sydney, the largest city in Australia, is unquestionable… no joke.. it is….MASSIVE.

I am not certain if my brain is running out of hard drive, or if things are different when you visit them a second time after several years, however, I do not recall this city being quite this expansive. I suppose because I have more time, I am realising how little I saw of Australia the first time I was here. After my trip concluded in Stanley and Victoria- I went back to Melbourne for a few short days before heading over to the airport and awaiting my one-way flight to Sydney. I thought I knew what to expect, but, I didn’t actually realise the sheer size of the city. I had a few hours to spare while waiting for my first flight upon Virgin Blue (which was quite comfortable, excellent airline), so,
I reverted back to a very generous birthday gift (THANK YOU BEN!!!), this was a highly coveted DVD set I’d been admiring and dreaming of for a long time.. it was finally mine… Planet Earth (those Brits and their talent, I tell you)

The flight to Sydney was a mere 50 minutes- apparently the wind was blowing in a favourable direction, so instead of an hour and 15 minutes, which is still an unbelievably reasonable flight, I blinked, and there I was! The 7 dead bodies in my suitcase are starting to annoy me. Was it necessary to bring that many clothes? Its interesting now that I am on the last leg of my trip, I am running out of patience for my insanely heavy luggage. Fair enough, it is winter here, and I truly have been using, layering, and wearing all of my clothing (and the things I brought or accumulated with me are en route to my parents house via a box on a boat) NOTE TO SELF: NEXT TIME YOU TRAVEL, DON’T JUST SAY YOU WILL TRAVEL LIGHT, DO IT! I have been doing laundry almost every week, anyway, next time, I vow to not bring such a heavy bag, no matter if I will be gone for a few months or for an entire year, 3 outfits max, that’s the rule… who will hold me to it?

Arrival in Sydney felt a lot like arriving in Los Angeles, and the similarities between the 2 cities are numerous- although, Sydney is a great deal more interesting and diverse than LA in my opinion. (sorry native Angelinos) The first few days, I was staying a bit outside of the city, and had to spend those few days editing my photos from The Stanley, but, once I got into town, it became familiar again and was pure magnificence. It can’t be denied that Sydney has a certain je ne sais quoi, a certain appeal despite some of the most iconic and fascinating areas being the most populated with tourists (and we all know how I feel about touristy things) I was staying in an extremely funky part of the city proper called Newtown. It echoed several different parts of California to me- a bit of San Francisco with its coloured, aging buildings closely settled next to each other, as well as a bit of Venice Beach in its eclectic, multi-faceted culture and locals,a bit of LA proper with its traffic, and confusing roadways being blocked by road work or just too many people in one place. (thank god for GPS!) There were several cafes on every corner, even more antique shops, cuisine ranging from Nepalese, to Thai, to even worthy tasting Mexican food (good on you, Sydney!)

Several times while in Newtown, I ventured to the ultimate touristy spot in an attempt to get a new image for my e-promo. I wanted to use my shot of the scallops from The Stanley and needed a boat/water image to pair with it… and so off to Circular Quay- the hub of ferries and home of The Harbour Bridge and Opera House, I went.

What is it about architecure and lights that are fascinating? I am not sure, but, seeing the Opera House is THRILLING. I snapped several photos, trying to think of a unique angle, or something that hasn’t been done a billion times before, at any rate, it always makes my heart beat a little bit faster when I am standing before a famous icon, most especially one to do with the beloved arts. I STILL have not seen the inside of the Opera House- I mean my sister and I went in briefly the last time I was here, but, we did not get a tour(and this is a tour I actually WANT TO DO!) Its alright because I know I will be coming back again ; )

My brain was working on double overtime trying to get a unique water, boat shot for my new promo- and though I tried half the day, I didn’t capture it until I was on the ferry to Manly for Thursday nights at a pub with some new friends and most especially because I was told that Thursday nights had a magician! Seriously. A real magician ☺

Admittedly, it took me almost the entire 2 weeks in Sydney to find an affinity for it. I am fairly quick to feel the energy of a place, of a person, of a town, and when I arrived- things were so starkly different from Melbourne and insanely more expensive, I felt strongly for several days that I didn’t like Sydney. As time went on, and the more people I met and connected with (including the clever and adorable MAGICIAN) the different sides of Sydney that I experienced, I have found a soft spot in my heart for this metropolis of Oz. I have continually been to parts of Australia that many locals haven’t heard of, and ended up with some friendships that I will keep for a lifetime. Having visited Sydney, Davidson, French’s Forest, Manly, Newtown, Campbelltown, Eschol Park and Mudgee, I have felt the true Aussie experience resonating within me causing an even deeper love and appreciation for this land both city and countryside. ;)

This is why Sydney reminds me of SF!

My fave wall in Sydney

Cool Cafe of many along the streets of Newtown

This is practically straight out of Venice, CA!

Hahaha, I love the signs in Australia- isn't that kind of them to tell you which way to look before crossing the street?

Mystery bird.. does anyone know what kind it is?

On the way to the Opera House, Harbour Bridge to the left, beautiful sunny day as though it were the summer!

Darling Harbour

En route to the Opera House

Opera House part 2

Ha, these guys were actually entertaining, and loved being in photos- I imagine if I lived here, though, they would be annoying like the people in the subway stations in NYC or the people @ 3rd Street Promenade in LA

View from the ferry

Welcome to Manly

I just couldn't resist snapping this photo ;)

Cool water shot

Jules- my main magician man- his wallet was always on fire, lol !

Sydney at night

That's Ripper!

2009-08-12T10:02:00.020+10:00

… was the response of Saffron Michael upon showing him the macro shot I took of one of his Alpacas, Bella… (The Twilight references never stop around here!) Bob and Bella are the Alpacas he purchased to keep his land fox-free , and I have to admit, being up close to Alpacas was quite entertaining. (btw ripper= Aussie for fantastic)

Michael is another laidback, genuinely amiable, and generous Aussie I met during my visit. He is also the only local grower of Saffron in Stanley, hence the name Saffron Michael, who is a regular to The Stanley Pub. This is part 2 of my Stanley adventure, mainly because in the 4 short days I was there, I truly did have a full shooting experience- from the Pub/Bistro/Accommodation to the stunning and silent countryside of Northeast Victoria. It was here that I saw my first official kangaroo of the trip (ALIVE) while truffling for mushrooms like a pig, with Head Chef Richard, I heard a rustling of leaves.. looked up and saw a kangaroo fidgeting around in the trees, then hopped away promptly upon view of us.. that was the first kangaroo of my trip, and that was the beginning of the wuzzle effect- for those of you who are American… and can remember… stretch back with me to your early childhood Saturday morning cartoons- Are you there? Ok. Perhaps it was afternoon cartoons as well- I cannot recall at present- but having grown up watching an insane amount of cartoons on television- (what did we do as kids, JUST watch tv?! Because you know we have all seen the same cartoons- the same episodes- which is frightening to attempt to calculate just how many hours we have watched collectively) So, on one of the most bizarre cartoons possibly, EVER, was the Smurfs- and there was one episode where there were these fuzzy little creatures called wuzzles- I cannot recall exactly where they came from or what the premise was but, I do recall they were furry, round animals shaped like a ball, light pink in colour, and when they hiccupped- they multiplied- thus leaving an overflowing amount of wuzzles in the Smurfs village.. this is how I felt about my kangaroo watch. I began by only seeing a single one- then suddenly, they were appearing in DROVES. I mean, I happened to catch sight of what I thought was 1-3 kangaroos together- and they somehow camouflaged themselves to appear like the trees—as we got closer to them, they hopped away and at one point, I tried to count how many were simultaneously hopping away into the depths of the forest- even with my quick eye, I could only count 15, but I know there were more! Feeling a bit blue about not seeing any kangaroos in all my time in Australia quickly ended with that day. I got my wish- from that day on, I must have seen about 50+ kangaroos, and I did not capture a photo of any of them (alive! ☹ ) however, it was thrilling each and every time. I suppose living in New York City, and having grown up between Seattle and LA- I don’t typically see many exotic animals- nor do I see animals that stand on two legs- granted, there are several gorillas and related primates that I have seen at zoos and in Las Vegas- however, there’s something unique about seeing kangaroos (and their close cousin ? The Wallaby)

The reason I keep referencing live kangaroos, or roos as they are known to the locals, is because on the following week I would take a roadtrip to the countryside of Sydney and would have seen enough roadkill to open a Roadkill Café! (and kangaroo is apparently the leanest meat, but, I still can’t bring myself to try it)

Early on Saturday morning, Michael offered to drive me around the land so I could capture some out of the ordinary photographs of nature- it was heartbreaking and breathtaking all at once due to being able to see firsthand the effects of the Victoria bushfires yet absolutely breathtaking in its beauty and simplicity of purity in land, water, air, and earth. The trees, although burnt completely black, showed signs of life with small sprouting leaves coming out of them... what a hopeful example of how something good can come from every bad situation.

I have had some exceedingly rare opportunities to explore parts of Australia that I probably would have never seen nor have I heard of (not even some locals have heard of the places I went to!) because I was making friendships with extraordinary people who were pleased to show me their land, and happy to just have the company.

As Michael’s truck took us slowly, but steadily up the hills and through the countryside, he showed me the rich land, the unique animals, and the special plant life. I feel in a way, I have truly seen "the outback" from my countryside adventures, and every opportunity I’ve had here to see things off the beaten-path, or things that don’t interest the locals have brought me closer and closer to understanding the glory and distinctiveness of Australia.

Bella the Alpaca :)

Bob with his dreadlocks and Bella :)

Sheep!

Cute lamb hiding behind its mum

Part of Michael's home- gnarly outdoor chimney, stove? Something!

Cool looking plant surviving in the midst of disaster

Wombat hole!

Mount Stanley from a distance

If I remember correctly, this plant dates back 2,000 years?

Aftermath of Victoria bushfires :(

Burnt forest :(

Signs of life

Goodbye to Melbourne and Hello to The Stanley Pub in Stanley

2009-08-08T12:00:00.011+10:00

19 July- 26 July

My time in Melbourne was suddenly coming to an end... and I knew I only had a few more days left before heading off to a major photoshoot. I decided that I would spend my last few days going to some of my new-found favourite bakeries, shops, and restaurants-snapped the last pictures that I could and packed up my bags and headed to the Flinders Street Train Station. This was my first time to actually USE the train station and not just shoot the architecture. I have to admit that I TRULY and quite literally jump at the chance to travel by train; there’s something about being able to reflect while traveling by train- to look out on the land and at times consider your purpose in life.. I find train travel is therapeutic for me. I said a slightly somber goodbye to Melbourne, and was starting to miss it already- then I quickly realised I would be back shortly before I was off to Sydney the following week. New city- new adventure- time for some hard work- I was ready to do the best possible job I could for the owners of The Stanley Pub.

Now, for all you fellow Three’s Company fans out there- I think you will be able to agree with me- when I think of the name STANLEY.. the first thing that comes to mind is Mr. Roper, of course! Every single time I uttered the word Stanley, an image of Norman Fell popped into my head- and if I giggled or smiled, that was the reason ;o)

Through a fellow photographer in New York- I was introduced to a lovely woman called Annmarie- with a smooth and soothing voice like butter- she asked me if I wanted to do an exchange.. photos for their website in exchange I would stay in their adorable accommodations. My answer was probably too emphatic of a YES!!!!! Because I absolutely adore and believe in the exchange of energy, of bartering and helping people by exchanging skills/talents. I would do this all over the world if I could and be content to live out of a bag ( a much less heavy bag than the one I am currently carrying around- which I jokingly say feels like it has 7 dead bodies in it)

So, we set up the shoot to cover 4 days Thursday through Sunday; the end of the week proved to be slightly better for the owners who are a warm and friendly couple running The Stanley Pub/bar/bistro/accommodation in a small, gorgeous part of NorthEast Victoria. Their head chef picked me up from the nearest train station (40 minutes away!) and shared the history of the land and what their region is famous for- Chestnut trees, Apple Orchards, and berries. Here I was yet again, with a HEAD CHEF of a restaurant, shooting the breeze like we had known each other our whole lives. Australia is truly starting to spoil me- I think I will have to find a way to live here half the year- its becoming more than just an interest, an intrigue- it is becoming a love affair and I cannot begin to imagine not being here, not being among the kindness, generosity, and sincerity.. its sort of like the feeling you have when you leave Hawaii for those who have visited- you feel like you could easily live your life on the beach, with tropical cocktail in hand, and Aloha love permeates throughout everything and every person around you…where your biggest concerns are helping people, being in nature, being kinder, and contributing to humanity by doing as much good as you possibly can.

After the scenic countryside drive through Beechworth and into Stanley, we arrived after their lunch service started due to my train being delayed by track work, and yet, I was welcomed and received as a special guest- I met Annmarie first who showed me around their rustic and charming little Pub. I then met her husband Shane who was in an arm sling due to a bicycle accident in the dark (the jokes never ended that weekend- I can just imagine how many he had to endure each week!) but was happily making coffee, pouring wine, while simultaneously running the bar with the greatest of ease, and started chatting with the locals.

Annmarie showed me to my room and mentioned that all my meals and drinks would be on them as well- now- for a foodie, that is practically a dream come true- in my mind the agreement was only for the room- so that was a completely unnecessary, but extremely appreciated bonus. I settled in, and then started to talk business with Annmarie. She printed out a shot list and asked if there were any things that I wanted to shoot specifically in the region for myself. She then told me that their home burned down in the Victoria fires recently, and how she and her family had to start over- they could only grab their cats and a few photos, but every single thing they had was lost. I often feel a sense of pride about not caring about material objects- however, with fire being one of my biggest fears, and the IDEA of literally losing everything you own was presented to me in a tangible way in the form of the person sitting across from me; I just couldn’t imagine it. I admired the courage of the woman before me, and her positive attitude on life- how she and her family continue on with smiles on their faces and a genuine interest in their customers—their perseverance was exceptionally inspiring.

After Annmarie and I confirmed the shot list, I couldn’t resist looking over the French-bistro style menu and trying to figure out what I wanted to order for lunch- I decided to get the French Onion Soup and some Scallops with a Citrus Salad. As most food photographers do- we shoot our lunch and practically everything we eat, so, I stared at the delectable food before me and shot it as quickly as I could- because travel days are undoubtedly my hungriest days- no matter what- the ham and cheese croissant I had on the train seemed to feel like I was a goat eating trash for 500 years when I tasted the food at The Stanley! I knew this was going to be the start of an extremely foodie-dorking-out weekend!

I devoured my soup and scallops and I then shot around the Pub, and chatted some more with Annmarie and Shane. Day turned into evening and as I went into the bar to figure out what I should shoot next, a young girl with bright orange hair approached me- she was Isabella- Annmarie and Shane’s 5 year old daughter. My first instinct being a huge Twilight fan was of course to ask if anyone called her Bella. NO? Ok, so I then took a look at Annmarie with jet black hair, and after a moment glanced over at her husband Shane- with brown hair..hmm... the unfailing fascination I have with Genetics rose to the surface- and I just had to ask “Um, how did your daughter get the orange hair?” Annmarie then posed the question to Isabella who matter-of-factly said, “Its not orange, its Spun Gold” to which I could only respond, “Well, that is of course, much nicer than orange!” It turns out that she got the recessive traits, and the Genetics-nerd in me was in awe and satisfaction ;)

Evening fell, and I decided on eating my dinner without shooting it- I had some very nice French style Gnocchi with vegetables, and feeling for some reason vegetable-deficient, I ordered a side of Winter vegetables, too. I suppose that’s the Californian in me that always wants a variety of fresh vegetables. At least mom never had to force me to eat them :) After dinner, I chit-chatted with the locals and then retired to my room for the evening. Once inside my room my insomnia had no chance (as it has mostly subsided while I’ve been here) and though a bit frosty, I drifted off to sleep soon after laying down under about 4 blankets.

I awoke on my own the next morning and was ready to start all over again. Breakfast at The Stanley is self-serve in a sweet, bright corner room where there is a variety of yoghurts, organic cereals, and fresh fruits. I thought that was extremely clever of the owners so they can at least have a small break from the hustle and bustle of their business. Their personal touch is still present though, in that they set up the meals before they leave well after 1 am, and there’s milk, juice, cream, and bread with locally made butter and jams left for the following morning. I am not a fan of breakfast, not in the slightest, as most of you know, however, I found myself eating cereal and milk with a huge smile on my face and looking forward to breakfast the following day. There's definitely something special put into everything that is touched there it must be magic or love... or both because, I am enjoying things that I normally don't!

I spent the rest of the weekend shooting the most delectable food! Their French bistro menu is absolutely worth the visit alone, but the rustic charm of the pub, the comfortable, silent and peaceful accommodation rooms, and the unbelievable kindness,interest, and heart-felt relationships that Annmarie and Shane have with their patrons is unparalleled. I still giggle when I think of how complete strangers that I met throughout the weekend- whether locals or not were CONTINUALLY welcoming me to Australia. In all of my travels, I cannot recall being welcomed to a country as many times as I have been welcomed here.

The remainder of the weekend included not only shooting a good variety of food from their menu, but also did interior, exterior, detail, nature/regional, and people shots. And though I was working very hard each day, I still found myself challenged and excited to shoot all the different parts of the Pub. I could have easily stayed there for another week or two delving into the small details that make something especially unique- as well as the satisfaction I would have obtained by feeding my complete addiction to my Macro lens ;o)

From the authentic French Onion soup, to the care put into designing the foam on the coffee (with only one fully functioning arm- no less!), it was truly a delight to work with Annmarie, Shane, Richard, and the rest of their staff at The Stanley. I know that nestled in their corner of the world, I have yet again made some true friendships because I arrived with handshakes, and left with hugs.

Welcome to Stanley!

The Stanley Pub!

Exterior view of The Stanley

The Bar!

View from bar seats into the main dining room

Main dining room

The magic window- as I called it- this is where I did most of the food shooting- great light+ rustic charm of the table and chairs= perfect

The Breakfast Room

The Stanley Pub staff in their matching t-shirts

This patron has been going to The Stanley for 30 years! I think his philosophy is the best I've heard "Not a worry in the world" ;)

This is the best moment- undoubtedly. Annmarie is on the left, Isabella in the middle, and Shane on the right. Isabella was being a bit camera shy, so Richard, Head Chef stood behind me and asked her what her favourite thing was that he makes- and she screams CHOCOLATE CAKE!!!!! To which I now refer to this photo, and have titled it: "Chocolate Cake"

Head Chef- Richard McCallum- he affectionately referred to me as "The Yank" after only one day ;o)

Just two words needed: FRESH, BREAD!

Organic housemade Muesli

Twice baked Milawa goats cheese soufflé (OH MY ______ this was scrumptious!)

French french fries, aioli, and beer

French Onion Soup with Heidi Farm Gruyere ($60/kilo!)

Seared scallops with citrus salad (amazing!)

Garfish with a lovely sauce and peas- this is the ONE AND ONLY fish in the WORLD I have never used lemon on, good on you Richard :)

Seafood bisque with a gnarly looking lobster! err or crab? One of the two!

Forgive me- I don't know exactly what is in this dish- besides DELICIOUSNESS! apples, potatoes, and sausage, can anyone help ?

Genovese Coffee and Chocolate Tarte

Stanley Apple Tarte Tatin with Clotted Cream- holy of all that is holy- only French cuisine can make me like cooked apples... no joke- this was the BEST dessert I've ever eaten- I had to order 2... for 2 days in a row ;o)

Red Wine Poached Pear with Chocolate Sauce and Walnut Praline (makes you drool a bit doesn't it?) :)