FPC PoM, Jan 2007: Airic Espenida

Our Photographer of the Month (PoM) is a newbie, having just upgraded his camera from a P&S to a DSLR. He sure must be very inspired to shoot as he was able to send quality entries to both the month's theme and OTS photo contests!

And in both contests he wins, bagging the grand award for the OTS!

When the results of the OTS contest came in, I instantly knew who the PoM for January is. Well, no guessing about that! Anyone can tell, actually, by just keeping track of the discussions on the thread. Therefore, presenting to you our PoM for January, 2007: Airic Espenida, known in flickr as "Ryuji23."

Ryuji earned the award by accumulating more points than the others who participated in the FPC events (announced in threads, where members should sign up to qualify for points) and submitting entries to the monthly Theme and the On-the-Spot contests. When January ended, Ryuji was awarded the following points:

We sent a flickr mail to him on the night of validating and finalizing the scores, and asked him a few questions:

FPC: How did you react and feel when you read our flickr mail?
Ryuji:I was a bit surprised because I never expect to win such award, the first thing that comes to my mind is "Hey! Is this for real?"I knew there were many FPC members that have much better composition than mine and it was just luck that I won, but I'm very happy for it.

FPC: How does if feel to be the very first PoM of FPC?

Ryuji: All I can say is "WOW!" I'm very much pleased and also motivated to improve more to enhance my composition because I'm still considering myself as a newbie.

FPC: What does the award mean to you? And how will it affect your photography?
Ryuji: This award means so much to me! It raised me one level up on my current skill. Though it's still a long way for me, I'll take the challenge to improve more. I will continue to ask pointers from the skilled members in our group. And I will always be proud as a member of FPC.

I just want to say thank you! I didn't expect anything, all I want is just to shoot and improve my composition, and this award is very special, I always consider myself as a newbie in photography and I'm looking forward to learn more from the PROs here in FPC.

- end -

Shutterglass

Our featured photographer for this week is a prolific poster in the FPC discussion threads and a regular starter of fresh topics (or excerpts from other discussion groups and internet sites), which oftentimes educate, occasionally amuse, but always are focal points for bonding among members.

He likes to "slug it out" with the other members in a friendly fashion, exchanging banters and jokes, and of course, relevant information. He has an inquisitive mind, which led him into the colorful (sometimes B&W) world of photography, and it just might equally be the reason why he never runs out of topics to talk about.

And if you are wonder why his flickr screen name is "shutterglass," I failed to ask him that during the interview! Hehe... Does he break the glass of his lenses often? Or is he a melancholic touchy person who "shutters like a glass" when not tactfully handled? Or does it have something to do with the eyeglasses he wear? Maybe if we read on you might find hints. Let's start with his personal profile.

Data Vitae
Full Name: Don C. Garchitorena
flickr Screen Name: shutterglass

Present Address: Project 3, Quezon City
Occupation: Product Data Specialist of a rapid response supplier of technology solutions for business, government and educational institutions as well as consumers in the US, with over 100,000 different products from companies such as Compaq, Microsoft, Apple, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Toshiba, Cisco, etc.
Current Gear:
camera body = Nikon D50
lenses = Nikkor 50mm f/1.8; Nikkor 28-80 f/3.3-5.6; Quantary 70-300 f/4-5.6 Macro
Favorite Photographic Subject: In order: People (Candid/Posed), Places, Objects
Favorite Photographer: Manny Librodo
Dream Gear: Knowing the ever-changing models in a few months time, its hard to dream for the ultimate gear. I rather defined dream gear as realistic gear, as I dream for it, then one day i get to hold and maximize its potential.
Photographic Ambition: Solo exhibit is one. Being recognize having a different style in capturing and freezing subjects in time is another.

Tiendesitas is again alive and bustling with Friday "gimmickers" who come here to dine while watching musical performances by live bands at a close proximity. We were here last Friday when we shot another FPC member who is also a rapper. I'm back again. But this time, I will shoot questions at Don who has arrived earlier from work and is waiting for me (shame, shame) among the patrons of the eateries at the center of the premises.

I missed him on the first pass through the crowd of garrulous diners and other passersby zipping by. When I backtracked, I saw him waving at me. We shooks hands, exchanged salutatory words and decided to order pancit and bibingka. Then we found a quiet spot away from the blaring music. I put down my little notepad and my pen, then, we began to... eat! Hehe

Now, the interview while we're nibbling at the bibingka:

Person and Family

FPC: Are you married?
DON: No.

FPC: Girlfriend?
DON: Yes. Many! [laughs.] Just one.

FPC: Is she an FPC member too? Also a photographer?
DON: No. No.

FPC: Is she your officemate?
DON: She was my officemate.

FPC: What's her opinion about your photographic passion?
DON: 50-50. I mean she is supportive when she gets me to do something she wants done. Then I get support for photoshoots. Otherwise, the other 50.

FPC: Does she know you shoot models?
DON: Yes. She is matured enough not to get jealous. Arguments are a waste of time.

FPC: How many siblings are you?
DON: We're three. I am the firstborn.

FPC: So, do you support the younger ones financially?
DON: Not really. But when they need something, I help too--financially, and in some other means. However, when it comes to artworks, it's me they need to help.

FPC: Are they also photographically inclined?
DON: No. I am the only one different.

His Photography

FPC: When did you take up Photography as a passion?
DON: That's a long story. It started when I was browsing in the Tipid PC forum (an all-around forum, but primarily for buying and selling). There I saw photos by Filipinos and foreigners. Thus, I was inspired and became curious. I tried copying their shots with my Samsung point-and-shoot camera but, of course, failed. I asked myself: "What do they do to take such photos? Why can't I duplicate their shots?" I had many questions. Of course, I didn't know about DSLRs back then.

That was early 2005. By December, I realized that they used DSLR to take those kind of photos. I thought about how I could buy one of those, considering my salary. Still I went about window shopping, comparing features and prices. In my zealousness, I knew about the DSLR cameras functions before I even bought one!

The opportunity to acquire one came in January last year, when my Boss told me that I would possibly be sent to the United States for training. I thought it would be a waste of time and opportunity not to take photos in the USA. So, I pulled some tricks to be able to save on allowance and buy myself a camera there. After comparing Nikon D50 with Canon 350D, I settled with Nikon. Canon was my first choice, but I could save more with the Nikon.

But even with my new DSLR, I didn't enjoy taking photos with my new Nikon D50 because I didn't know the camera functions then. I read but worked mostly with the camera's automatic settings. I learned real photography is not just snapping shots.

FPC: And when did you learn to use your camera's other settings?
DON: When I joined PhiPho, I read from the threads, from the pros about aperture and shutterspeed priority. And that the automode should be used only in "panic cases." I asked a lot and was thankful to Hydroxycut [another FPC member] for welcoming my questions. I also came in contact with Rus88 [also an FPC member] in PhiPho and it was he who mentioned about FPC's Live Extreme coverage at the PICC Forum.

I wanted to go with FPC but it was late signing up for it. So I contacted the organizers so that my friend and I went there by ourselves as independent photographers. Yet, it was a failed coverage for me because most photos came out blurred. Most of the time I was in panic.

I recognized some FPC members with their IDs but I was shy to introduce myself. But I got this photo with ronrag smiling behind my friend when I was taking my friend's souvenir shot (ronrag didn't know me then):

FPC: What is a good photo to you?
DON: What do you mean? That's a hard one.

FPC: For example, when is a portrait photo good for you?
DON: I guess when I take a long look at a photo and wonder how it was done. When it captures the attention of someone who lingers on that photo. Conversely, when a photo is viewed only cursorily, I think it does not have the qualities of a good photo.

FPC: Do you like your photos being critiqued?
DON: Yes, even when the comments are "below-the-belt." I think it is for the good of a photographer to take even those seriously so he is able to adjust his style. However, when it is me who gives "below-the-belt" comments and the photog reacts negatively, I leave and not come back.

FPC: What are your photographic plans in the near future?
DON: To make something financially beneficial out of my photo skills and perhaps a sideline taking photo jobs. It would be good barometer of how well I have honed my skills and surely, a means for me to acquire more gears.

FPC: How do you plan to make that happen?
DON: Hmm... I think it is wise to listen to those who are already in the business and get acquainted with the aspects of it, from package pricing to actually conducting the shoot. Doing that while honing my skills. I know of someone who has a day job and still manages to do paid photo shoots on weekends. That gives me the encouragement to pursue a profitable endeavor even while having a day job. There is living proof so the possibility is realistic.

FPC: Can you expound on your photographic ambition? What kind of photos do you want to exhibit?
DON: Right now I don't know my forte yet but I'm being inclined to taking wedding shots.

However, I am not really sure about that. I can safely say that it will be more of portraits than landscape because it is harder for me to shoot landscape without convenient transportation. For now, it is more convenient for me to shoot portrait.

FPC: Do you remember any photographic quotes?
DON: Not exactly, but I remember Librodo's idea about "being just a hobbyist and never becoming a professiona." It conveys the idea of continuous learning. Even pros can't claim to know everything. I've seen some amateurs inspire some pros to some photographic style.

FPC: Have you had any paid jobs already?
DON: Yes, one. Hopefully, this big one in mid of this year. If I pull through it successfully, it would make me more confident and bankable. It could be a catapult to something bigger, who knows.

About FPC

FPC: Who invited you to FPC?
DON: Rus88 referred me to FPC. Then I think I sent a request to the Admins to approve me as member. But I was not yet posting much in the beginning. I didn't know how to introduce myself. Then there was this modeling thread by ronrag where I tried engaging Karen and LJ in a conversation, starting a friendly light banter. They responded positively and that made me feel welcome.

It didn't take me long to prefer FPC over the other club. I also saw the pleasant atmosphere--there is belongingness even for first timers. Thus, I also started inviting others to FPC.

FPC: I remember you during the Fireworks shoot last October. What was your impression of FPC then? What do you like about FPC since then?
DON: I was impressed at how FPC organized the shooting event. It was my first time to go to the Mall of Asia so I don't even know where the Music Hall is but I managed to be there at the meeting place to meet you and the others before the fireworks display began.

Unlike other clubs who plan photo events but never conducts it, FPC organizes and sees to its completion. I decided I fit in better with FPC. Here is where my skills are being sharpened and noticed.

Additionally, it easier to invite models to an FPC shoot because of the "many possibilities!" [Grins.]

I also recall what Boso said about posting in the threads. You don't get a pointed finger warning that you are off-topic. In other club threads, when you post something intruiging or controversial, others flare up easily. In FPC, everyone is cool and even when conflict arises, it is readily dissipated.

FPC is like a paradise island for photographers. Good reason to invite others.

FPC: Do you think that FPC is headed for "something big?"
DON: Yes. How it organizes and conducts its events, the harmony among Admins and members--these are indicatives that FPC is going somewhere.

FPC: What improvements do you think FPC should make?
DON: More sharing of resources, like workshops. Another example would be the sharing of announcements of photo contests. So that when an FPC members win, we are all proud!

FPC: Finally, what is your message to the FPC admins and members?
DON: Can't say anything about the admins. They are working hard, I can see. To the members: Share, share share! Your knowledge, skills, and resources (for example, easy access to information about studios, their pricing and models' non-confidential info! :D)

- end -

Rob Fontanilla

Before the First Canon Shoot and Run Photo Marathon dinner and awarding ceremonies ended last December 16 at the Palacio de Manila, Flickerians (as FPC Members are also known) were excited to know that about 10 of their photos out of the approximate 300 made it to the top 50 for the theme "Splendor of Manila." Not one of the 10 photos made it to the two spots and so we went home a little disappointed but very much happy with the experience and company of fellow Flickerians.

Or so we thought.

It turns out that the 1st Runner Up of the "Splendor" theme, Rob Fontanilla, is a Flickerian. So, Andrew, an Admin who knows Rob, called one day and asked if we could feature Rob on the blog. Sure we will! Pat, another Admin, gave me the winner's number and I made contact with Rob, who turned out to be a very busy Professional Photographer and Professor. Therefore, I settled for the e-interview option after several attempts at a telephone interview. The last time Rob said we could do the interview on the phone was the morning of his birthday, and unfortunately I was in the office. So, I sent him the questions and now, take a look at his answers and gain insight into the world of an artist, stylist and photographer.

Data Vitae
Full Name: Robert V. Fontanilla
flickr Screen Name: ROB FONTANILLA

Present Address: Quezon City
Occupation: Professional Photographer and Professor in College of Saint Benilde--La Salle
Current Gear:
camera body = Canon 400D
lenses = 18-55mm kit lens
50mm f/1.8,
flash = 420EX
Favorite Photographic Subject: Glamour, Travel and Portrait
Favorite Photographer: Annie Leibovitz and Richard Avedon
Dream Gear: Canon 1Ds Mark II N
Photographic Ambition: National Geographic job and advertising shoot in New York

Rob's Photographic Mind

FPC: Do you have a family? If yes, how do you find time for your photography? If no, how much of you bachelor life do you spend in professional Photography?
RVF: NONE. I DONT HAVE A FAMILY. Half of my time I spend for photography... part of it shooting if i have [a photo job], and another part as a Professor of Photography in La Salle-CSB

FPC: Do you limit your Photography to a particular category? Which do you like shooting best?
RVF: Actually I dont limit my photography, although I'm inclined to portrait, glamour and travel.

FPC: I read somewhere in one magazine that you must specialize in one area to become professional. Do you buy that idea?
RVF: I don't buy that idea, but it pays to specialize on something. Like a trade mark... The only difference between a pro and hobbyist (although they may produce same result) is that the pro gets paid for.

FPC: Do you think that for a photographer to be recognized, he must have "hi-tech" gadgets?
RVF: Not really, its more about the talent than the gadgets, although I don't disregard the fact that having better equipments has its advantages.

FPC: When is a photograph artistic to you? What makes it an art?
RVF: Everytime. I always consider photography as an art. But if you want to be more specific, its on the style.

FPC: What made you take up Photography? What and who are your inspiration and influences?
RVF: It all started as a hobby. I just love to shoot. And giving up other important things for photography. Inspiration? I like the works of Richard Avedon And Annie Leibovitz.

FPC: What style of Photography have you developed for yourself? What makes you think it is good?
RVF: Actually none. I apply as many style I could think of, during the actual shoot. Shall we say, "Let it be." I dont want to be tied and limit my work based on a certain guidelines. But in my advertising work, it's different. I want an actual layout, I plan ahead, how and what to shoot.

1st CSR Winner

FPC: How did you learn about the Canon Shoot & Run Photo Competition?
RVF: A student of mine told me about this contest.

FPC: Where you with a group or a companion during the competition? Does it matter that you have to have company in such kind of competition?
RVF: Yes, I'm with a group--some camera club members and some friends.

Not really. Maybe for security reasons, that's why you have to have somebody during the shoot, cameras are too expensive. Actually, we got separated during the shoot.

FPC: What was your strategy for the first leg? The second leg?
RVF: First--combination of Static and non static subjects. Second--more on the emotions.

FPC: What places did you go to shoot your entries?
RVF: Actually, to start, Manila Cathedral, then the walls of Intramuros.

FPC: What were you after with the first category? How did you interpret "Splendor of Manila"?
RVF: I just present my subject the way i see it, focus on the subject and add some elements just to decorate my subject, not to over power it. That's basic composition and selective focus on the main subject.

FPC: When the anchorwoman said "Faces of Manila," what images came foremost to your mind? Were this the images you chose as options to submit?
RVF: Actually, no. I looked for happy faces, afraid to show something negative because I know, that's is a no no.

FPC: Did you think that any of your photos would win?
RVF: Actually no. In every contest I'm not expecting anything but its okay for you to wish and hope to win. Actually, Im not expecting I'll win from the first category, because when the host announced that they are showing the top 50, my photo was not shown during the presentation. So, I told myself that I'm not going to win from this category and hope to win from the second one. But suprisingly, they mentioned my name when they announced the second place, and everything is history.

FPC: Is this your fist winning photo contest? If yes, how does it feel? If no, what were the other contests you joined?
RVF: I've won several photo contest way back:

CCP Photo Contest black and white category

Florikultura of DOT

Preview Magazine Photo Contest

Cavite Independence Day Photo Contest

FPPF Photo Contest

Camera Club Photo Contest

Others

- end -

PoW! 5th Week

What was Nate thinking amidst the spotlight beaming?
Was he aware of the clicking of camera photo-taking?
Or at Morrigan was he looking while she was flirting
With the moon shining behind the red clouds looming?

'Tis also possible he was dreaming of a gadget porn

Not a thing that's small, A camera branded "reborn"!
To shoot us all, esp. the woman in "Maskara," untorn,
Who's got mole, 2 moles, shining; no one would scorn!

These are this week's PoW!, in no order of preference:

-1-

"Nate Farnsworth"
by Joachim Guanzon, a.k.a. "джоачим"
Essential exif: Canon EOS 20D; 0.004 sec (1/250) ; f/2.8; ISO1600; 70-200mm @70 mm

Photog's Comment : The rockstar candid. he's my wife's boss. i saw him walking along those lights behind him, so I took a shot and got exactly what I had in mind.

Editor's Comment : What can I say about this pic? It was taken at the spur of the moment and the photographer has captured a very good one. Despite the entire scene being busy and all, the subject simply stands out from the rest of the crowd.

I also liked the way the exposure was well balanced despite the strong lighting directed towards the camera. I this was shot with fill-flash but still . . . look at the subject, look at the background. I don't see any hint of flash in there.

-2-

"Morrigan Moon"
by Ronald Bayan, a.k.a. "captchaos"
essential exif: Nikon D50; 1.6 sec (8/5); f/8; @80 mm

Editor's Comments: For the "Miniature/Diorama" Category, I'd say this one stands out among those shared by Ronald this week. If you browse through the FPC pool, there are other noteworthy creations by him, e.g., the "Jaguar SS 100" and the "Drift Nissan Silvia" in cityscape backgrounds, the sexy "J-Dolls," and another "Morrigan Moon" flying for the moon, even Darth with a cool Ford (did you know that Sith Lords?)! I would have gone for his very imaginative "Obiwan" attack-on-buildings but we always love a sexy beauty, don't we? What more a voluptuous heroine!

Creativity and imagination clearly mark the work of Ronald. It is obvious that he has a deft hand at Photoshop and that's very inspiring! Where else to celebrate his ingenuity but here in FPC's PoW!?

-3-

"Sith Saber"
by Perry Chua, a.k.a. "powerpee"
Essential exif: Canon EOS 350D Digital; 0.05 sec (1/20); f/4.5; ISO400; @ 53 mm

Editor's Comment: This has "GADGET PORN" written all over it. Theres nothing like a photo that makes you feel go and grab the latest toys you could lay your hands on. If this photo made you feel like dirt for not having something to level or to surpass what is featured, then the owner have already won!

-4-

"Maskara"
by John Willy Uy, a.k.a. "joeyuy"
Essential exif: Canon EOS 350D Digital, 1/50 secs, f/5.6, ISO800, @ 35 mm

Editor's Comment: A very unusual approach on portraiture, the lighting is perfect and the angle of the face is well composed. View it Large to appreciate it. Thumbs up!

- end -