This is why I love photography

 

Caught Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS in the night sky tonight.  I will go out again Thursday, Friday and Saturday this weekend.  The next two days will of course be cloudy.  I'm so glad I went out to photograph the comet which hasn't been seen in 80,000 years by the residents of this planet.  I will be out again so soon.  This was caught with the Canon EOS R6 Mark II with a Canon f3.5-7.1 24-110.  I have a few more pictures on my own website.  As photography is my only source of income, please make a purchase.

Waiting

 

Hoping to catch the aurora tonight.  Got a pretty amazing sunset instead.  It is moments like this, having the closest star set on Ottawa, Canada that we can see the farthest of the farthest stars.  

I am glad I am still able to go out and take photos like this to show how wonderful the world still is in its peace and quiet with no other people around.  Just my camera, myself and nature.

The photo will be available for sale on my own website.

Haven’t posted in a while

I haven’t posted in a while on here.  Just a lot of changes over the past year.  Been single for 2.5 years now and wish I had someone but it’s impossible out there now.  Wasn’t extended at work so out of a job right now.  Looking for a new job but it’s tough out there.  Gotta keep doing this photography thing.  Go to my website and purchase a print to help me out.

website

Haven’t posted in a while

I haven’t posted in a while on here.  Just a lot of changes over the past year.  Been single for 2.5 years now and wish I had someone but it’s impossible out there now.  Wasn’t extended at work so out of a job right now.  Looking for a new job but it’s tough out there.  Gotta keep doing this photography thing.  Go to my website and purchase a print to help me out.

website

Final Cut Pro

 

Last weekend, before I went to the hospital again, I purchased the base Apple M2 Mac mini.  I wanted to start learning how to use Final Cut Pro on an Apple computer.  I had used FCP X about 7-8 years ago before completely switching to an Apple iPad Pro.  Apple released FCP for the iPad Pro last year but that app is just not there.  There is really no good colour or audio correction on the iPad Pro.   

Apple was also still running on Intel chips in those days.  No M series chips back in the 2010's.  I've been working on an iPad Pro for the last 4 or 5 years or so. 

On the weekends that I'm home in between hospital visits where I learn how to walk with my prosthetic, I've been learning how to  FCP X on the Mac mini.  Although pretty fast, much faster than an Intel based computer, it's not so good for video editing longer videos and adding edits such as video noise removal, and colour correction.  The iPad Pro with the M2 chip, 2TB of storage and 16GB of RAM is much, much faster. 

This coming week, I'm getting about 2 years worth of back pay from my job.  The plan is to buy a MacBook Pro with at least 2TB of storage and 64GB of RAM and an M3 Max chip on the inside.  I am hoping that is much more of a capable machine to handle 4k video editing.

I'm planning on using either my Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max with an external Samsung T7 2TB drive and editing off of that with the MacBook Pro.

Recent health issue, leg amputation

Thirteen days ago, I had my left leg amputated below the knee.  It’s been harder on me physically than emotionally.  I used to be outdoors practically every day.  But now I’m stuck indoors.  I was in the hospital for 13 days.  I just got home to the apartment 3 days ago now and it’s hard.  I have no access to a vehicle so it’s hard to go anywhere.  I get tired physically going down the hallway to the garbage shoot.  Mentally I’m ok.  Just the fact I’m indoors is draining.  I’m waiting on a prosthetic leg but I have I have an appointment in 2 months on February 6, 2024 to get a fitting.  I’m on a waiting list to see if anyone cancels so I can get in sooner.  My upper body strength is getting better.  But I’m getting bored and I’m antsy sitting doing nothing in the apartment.  I’m waiting to get approved for OC Transpo which is the local transportation company.  I’m hoping to get approved so I can get outdoors.

In the meantime, I’m uploading shorts and longer form videos to my YouTube channel but I’m not much of a talker.  My channel link is right https://tinyurl.com/dvfk8nzh.  It’d be awesome if you subscribed and watched the some of the videos.  I’m trying to get to 1000 subscribers in the next month or two,  I want to get monetized so I could start making some extra money on the side.  Another side hustle I suppose.  LOL. The goal is to get myself out of the apartment and start doing photography and videography again.  I want to go and move to Calgary and be on my own.  Self reliant.

I am studying Final Cut Pro X on the iPad Pro with the goal of getting a maxed out M3 MacBook Pro laptop so I can edit videos professionally.  That is the goal over the next couple of months until I get my prosthetic leg.  When I do get my prosthetic leg, I’ll be more mobile and I will be out with my Sony FDR AX700B camcorder and my new laptop.  I do have a few goals I’ve set for myself as you can see.  I do have a lot of time on my hands.  So please subscribe to my channel here https://tinyurl.com/dvfk8nzh and watch the videos.  If you wish to contact me, you can email me here.

I have a photographic equipment conundrum

So I have a photography equipment conundrum.  I have 3 point and shoot cameras along with a full frame Leica Q2 Monochrom camera along with a Sony FDR AX700b camcorder.  I also have an 2023 iPads Pro and a Dell XPS 9700 laptop to edit my photos and videos on.  I also carry the new Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max with me whenever I’m outside.  So basically a had a severe case of GAS.  Gear acquasition syndorme.  

I am planning on moving to Calgary in March 2024 and live a nomad type life sleeping in my 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4 door.  I want to support myself by doing landscape photography while in the Rocky Mountains.  I know I’m going to have to get a full time job in the meantime while I do the YouTube and photography thing.  I’ve got pretty much everything figured out as far as living conditions and such.  I just don’t want to take so much equipment with me and have it in the Jeep while I’m away.  I want to carry just one camera and a tripod.

I would appreciate any suggestions as far as equipment goes.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max

The iPhone 15 Pro Max is a game-changer for photographers. Its camera system is nothing short of exceptional, with a large sensor, improved low-light performance, and enhanced computational photography capabilities. The ProRAW and ProRes video features provide unprecedented control and quality for both photo and video enthusiasts.

The Pro Max’s ultra-wide and telephoto lenses offer versatility, while the enhanced ProRAW format allows for extensive post-processing flexibility. The improved Night mode ensures stunning results in challenging lighting conditions.

The A15 Bionic chip’s processing power and machine learning capabilities enable faster photo editing and seamless multitasking. The Pro Max’s ProMotion display with a high refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and precise touch response.

However, the hefty price tag might be a deterrent, and professional photographers may still rely on dedicated DSLRs or mirrorless cameras for certain scenarios. Overall, the iPhone 15 Pro Max sets a new benchmark for mobile photography, making it a compelling choice for photographers seeking convenience without sacrificing quality.

A review of the Sony RX100 VII

 

The Sony RX100 Mark VII is an exceptional camera that combines powerful features with compact portability. Its 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor and Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens deliver stunning image quality, capturing details and colors with remarkable clarity. The camera's autofocus system is incredibly fast and accurate, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in challenging conditions.

One of the standout features of the RX100 Mark VII is its impressive burst shooting capabilities. With up to 20 frames per second continuous shooting speed, you can easily capture fleeting moments and choose the perfect shot later. The advanced tracking autofocus ensures your subjects stay sharp, even when they're in motion.

The camera also excels in video recording, offering 4K UHD and super slow-motion capabilities. The built-in microphone captures clear audio, and the ability to shoot in high frame rates adds a dynamic element to your videos.

In terms of usability, the RX100 Mark VII features a tilting touchscreen and a pop-up electronic viewfinder, providing flexibility in composing your shots. The menu system is intuitive, and the camera offers customizable controls, allowing you to tailor it to your shooting style.

While the RX100 Mark VII is an exceptional camera, it does come at a premium price. However, if you're a serious enthusiast or professional photographer who values both portability and image quality, this camera is definitely worth considering.

Overall, the Sony RX100 Mark VII combines impressive image quality, advanced autofocus capabilities, and versatile shooting options in a compact package. It's a top choice for those seeking a high-performance camera that can fit in their pocket.

The incoming storm

Black and white photography can be a great way to capture the dramatic essence of an incoming storm. By removing color distractions, it emphasizes the contrast, textures, and mood of the scene. When photographing a storm in black and white, look for strong shapes, striking cloud formations, and play with light and shadow to create a powerful composition. Experiment with different exposure settings and post-processing techniques to enhance the drama and convey the storm's intensity in your photographs. Stay safe while capturing those captivating moments!

Final Cut Pro For the iPad Pro

Final Cut Pro (FCP) is a renowned video editing software developed by Apple Inc. Known for its professional-grade capabilities, FCP has long been a favorite among filmmakers and video editors. While traditionally available only on macOS, Apple has introduced a significant expansion by bringing Final Cut Pro to the iPad, revolutionizing the editing experience for mobile users.

The introduction of Final Cut Pro for the iPad opens up a new world of possibilities for video editors on the go. The iPad’s powerful hardware and touch interface combine seamlessly with Final Cut Pro’s robust feature set, allowing users to create high-quality videos with unparalleled convenience.

One of the key advantages of FCP for the iPad is its familiar user interface. Apple has adapted the software to optimize its functionality on the iPad’s touch screen, ensuring a smooth and intuitive editing experience. Users can take advantage of the iPad’s multi-touch gestures and the Apple Pencil to precisely control their edits, making the process more interactive and engaging.

Despite being a mobile version, Final Cut Pro for the iPad retains most of the features found in its macOS counterpart. Users can access advanced editing tools like multi-camera editing, magnetic timeline, and extensive audio editing capabilities. The software supports a wide range of video formats, including high-resolution and HDR content, ensuring compatibility with professional workflows.

Additionally, Final Cut Pro for the iPad leverages the iPad’s powerful hardware, allowing for real-time playback and rendering of complex video projects. The software takes full advantage of the iPad’s A-series chips and Neural Engine, resulting in impressive performance and responsiveness. This capability eliminates the need for users to transfer projects to a computer for rendering, further streamlining the editing process.

Furthermore, Final Cut Pro for the iPad offers seamless integration with other Apple devices and services. Projects can be easily synced across devices using iCloud, enabling users to continue their work on different platforms seamlessly. Users can also leverage the iPad’s built-in camera to shoot, import, and edit footage directly within Final Cut Pro, enhancing the overall efficiency of the editing workflow.

While Final Cut Pro for the iPad brings a host of benefits, it’s important to note that it might not replace the desktop version entirely. The iPad version may not provide the same level of processing power and screen real estate as a dedicated computer setup, limiting its suitability for complex and resource-intensive projects. Nonetheless, it offers a highly capable and portable editing solution for a wide range of video editing needs.

In conclusion, Final Cut Pro’s expansion to the iPad is a significant development for video editors and content creators. By combining the power and portability of the iPad with Final Cut Pro’s professional-grade editing tools, Apple has opened up new avenues for on-the-go editing. Whether editing on location, during travel, or simply desiring a more flexible editing experience, Final Cut Pro for the iPad empowers users to unleash their creativity with convenience and efficiency.

Leica Q2 Monochrom at night

The camera can essentially see at night.  The above shot is taken at ISO 6400.  It’s a 15 second exposure shot about half an hour after sunset.  Shot at ISO 6400, f5.6, 15 second exposure.  You can see the Canadian government buildings on the left with the Ottawa river in front.  In the middle is downtown Ottawa and on the right is the Museum of Canadian History.  I was out for maybe an hour with the Leica Q2 Monochrom.  I know I took a few shots at f16, about a 74 second exposure.  I want to see if I get the starbursts from the lights in the buildings and the lights on the ground.

If you’ve read this far, can you check and subscribe to my YouTube channel here.

YouTube

If you haven’t followed me on YouTube, please do so here.  If you already have, I sincerely thank you.

My problems with ADD and ADHD

 

I seriously need to take control of my ADD and ADHD.  My mind is just all over the place.  I just can’t keep concentrating on anything for more than a couple of seconds.  I have so many ideas, so many options.  For example, I’m typing this on my Dell XPS 17” 9700 laptop.  I keep wishing I had brought by 2022 iPad Pro 12.9” instead.  But if I brought in the iPad, I’d wish I brought in the Windows 11 laptop.  I can’t win either way.  I use both of the devices for very different things but they’re all the same.  I could do everything on my laptop and I could do everything on my iPad.  The thing is, is that I have both of them.  I wish I had just one device so I could do everything just on that one device.  I could be using Adobe Lightroom Classic on my laptop along with Davinci Resolve to edit my videos.

Last fall, I purchased the Leica Q2 Monochrom.  Fantastic camera.  Amazing piece of equipment.  It’s the only camera I use.  Yet I still have two Canon G7X Mark III’s at home along with a Sony RX100 Mark VII.  I could use these for video as well.  But I have a Sony FDR AX700 B at home for 4K video.  I have way too many options.  I think when I start doing the nomad life just living in my life, I will just use one camera for the video and one camera for the photos.  I think I’ll be using the Leica for just the photography and the Sony FDR AX700B for video.  I’m going to have to learn how to use Affinity Photo ver. 2 on the iPad Pro and I’ll have to keep learning and using Lumafusion for video editing.

I keep using the iPad Pro for 99.9999% of the work that I do.  Lumafusion and Davinci Resolve both run on the iPad Pro like a dream along with Affinity Photo ver. 2.  The problem with the iPad Pro is it’s only 12.9” large and it isn’t 4K.  My Dell XPS 9700 has a 17” 4K monitor and it’s amazingly gorgeous.  The problem with the iPad is the lousy operating system and the lack of Final Cut Pro on the machine.  Multitasking on the iPad Pro is also a bit problematic.  It’s not true or real multitasking.  If Apple just ported the real Mac operating system onto the iPad, it’d be a fantastic device.

What the iPad line is missing a real operating system and some more pro apps such as Final Cut Pro.  The Apple office suite seems to need more of an update as well.  Since I’m going to be the nomad / living out of my car thing, I can only have so many devices with me.  All I really want is one photo camera, one camcorder and one device to edit all these things on. 

The benefits of a laptop is true multitasking, storage and the versatility of a laptop.  The downsides of a laptop, especially my Dell, is the portability and storage along with power consumption.  I could sit in a coffee shop for hours on end but I don’t want to be doing that.

The benefits of an iPad Pro is the size and weight.  I barely notice it while carrying the iPad Pro around with me.  Another benefit is the Apple ecosystem.  I have several Apple devices including the iPhone, the Apple watch and the iPad Pro.  I also have 2 Toshiba T5 SSD hard drives which are small and light. They’re both 2TB in storage size.

All of this info to summarize is I want to move out west to Calgary and do the landscape photography full time.  I sell quite a few photographs on the various stock agencies a month but you cannot sustain any lifestyle on the amount of photos I sell.  I thought of selling prints but I don’t know how many people buy photography anymore.  I just need multiple sources of passive income to sustain a photography career.  YouTube is difficult to do.  Currently I have 47 subscribers.  I would need a few thousand to get any real income from that.  I use Fine Art America to sell prints but those are far few and in between. 

I have to make my photography career work.  Photography is my passion.  People say follow your passion and the money will come.  I wish the money would come a little bit faster.  So here is a simple synopsis of my ADHD and ADD.  An article all over the place.  Like my wandering mind.

Huge changes are coming

At the end of March, this will be my new home for a couple of months.  I figure from April 1st to sometime in November, I will be living in my 2023 Jeep Wrangler Sport.  I’ll putting the two back seats down and basically be sleeping in the back of the vehicle.  I foresee a few obstacles that I will run into.  First will be finding a place to park over night while I sleep.  Second obstacle will be finding a place where I can go do my business at night.  I am 47 now and I need to go empty out the bladder multiple times a night.  Sometimes number 2 decides it wants to come out as well.  I’ll still be working for the government department until at least March 12, 2024.  Until then I want to start a content creation/editing business whether it’s photo or video.

I’ve been shooting photos and video for over 10 years now professionally as a side hustle.  I’m actually really bored with my regular day job.  It’s boring and the job is full of red tape.  I can’t even go to the bathroom without asking my manager.  It’s at least getting to that point.  I’ve been with the feds in some form or another since 2001 or so.  22 years.  In that time, I’ve been married, single and dating.  I’ve been single since May 2022 and at this point I just want to be alone.  With the current state of the world and society, there is absolutely no point in me trying to find a girlfriend.  I am just enjoying my time and being by myself.

Considering I’ll be living in a Jeep which has limited space so I’ll be using coffee shops to edit photos and videos in.  I have two options that I can edit on.  My Dell XPS 9700 laptop with a 17” 4K monitor or my 2022 Apple iPad Pro with the 12.9” screen.  For software, I’ll be using Affinity Photo ver. 2 and and/or Adobe Photoshop.  For video, it’ll be Luma-Touches LumaFusion.  Absolutely love that program.  

I’ll be doing a video later on today because