2011, Day 038 - Shriveled

I am always surprised by the number of shops selling dried ingredients in Asian markets. This still is in Hong Kong's Reclamation Street Market and appears to be selling primarily dried mushrooms, seafood (squid clearly evident) and sausages. I wonder if there is much of a difference in quality within a market of dried foodstuffs. If you know how to tell a good mushroom from a bad one or what makes a good piece of dried fish please let me know.

Canon 5D Mark II, Canon 24-70/f2.8L

30mm, f2.8, 1/500 sec @ 400 ISO

2011, Day 037 - Kitty

I don't understand the allure of the Super Bowl. Granted for more years than I care to remember it has fallen on my birthday which may increase my mystification but still... Why would you want to watch someone else play a game? Wouldn't you rather play yourself? Or is it vicarious living? Plus, it's so slow and there is all that down time to reorganize. It's like the British during the War of Independence where they expected everyone to take their time and line up in neat rows on the battlefield. Now rugby, there is a game like warfare, fast paced and relentless. If you're going to watch a sport and waste an entire day at it make it an interesting one; alternatively if you're looking to waste your time I suggest cricket test matches...

Sharing in my boredom is Marley, the neighbor's overly friendly cat. He will happily perch on your shoulder and keep you company for blocks before abandoning you to run back home. A slut for attention, he readily falls over at your feet to try to capture your attention.

Canon 1D Mark IV, Canon 24-70/f2.8L

62mm, f4, 1/125 sec @ 400 ISO

2011, Day 036 - Octopod

Today's photo is a special treat for a certain someone who I know to be a big fan of these friendly little beasties...

Canon 1D Mark IV, Canon 100/f2.8L IS

100mm, f11, 1/80 sec @ 200 ISO

2011, Day 035 - Swaddled

Being a relatively new uncle and being lost in a field of fecundity I find myself noticing babies more often. To me they seem like larval humans but I suppose you can't fight nature. What struck me first is that mother and baby have coordinated hats and the symbiosis is so clearly expressed. Despite the demands of motherhood Mom looks adoringly at her baby while maintaining her Portlandian sense of style and individuality.

Canon 1D Mark IV, Canon 24-70/f2.8L

45mm, f4, 1/160 sec @ 400 ISO

2011, Day 034 - Ban snow tires

I was taking a leisurely stroll down Hawthorne today when I was asked "Would you sign a petition to ban snow tires in Oregon?" Hell yes I will! The short version of what if often a long-winded diatribe is that there is no need for snow tires in, it doesn't often get cold enough to warrant them and the only people who own snow tires have 4-wheel drive or all wheel drive.

I made a deal, I would sign the petition if he would allow me to take his picture. Although I would have signed it anyway he agreed. My part of the bargain fulfilled he asked how I would like him to pose and I gave him a little direction. After a couple shots I told him to do whatever came naturally and this is the shot I got which I think is the most original.

I am adding this to my Portrait of Portland project. Activism and community awareness is an essential part of this city's character. The fact that my new friend was having fun at the same time just proves that politics aren't necessarily boring!

Canon 1D Mark IV, Canon 24-70/f2.8L

51mm, f4, 1/125 sec @ 400 ISO

2011, Day 033 - Anxious anticipation

Look at that face waiting eagerly for the return of their person...

Canon 1D Mark IV, Canon 24/f1.4L Mark II

24mm, f1.4, 1/100 sec @ 800 ISO

2011, Day 032 - Nun

My sister and I ran into this nun outside of Man Mo Temple near a lion dance performance. I gave her a donation and took her picture; I like her expression, there is just a hint of a smile without the mocking look of a smirk.

Canon 5D Mark II, Canon 24-70/f2.8L

70mm, f4, 1/250 sec @ 200 ISO