Shooting the Chevy SSR

Baldwin Park -- Back in 80s, I used to work as an editorial assistant for Hi-Torque Publications. Part of my job was to shoot motocross products and events, interview riders and write/shoot magazine articles on unique, Volkswagen. The magazine was called VW Action.

In 1984, I was fresh out of collage, and with a loan of $750, I purchased a Nikon FE2 and a lens. After reading through the entire user manual, I began cutting my teeth in the field. Fortunately, I had an office-full of world-class photographers to show me the ropes, as well as an unlimited supply of Kodak Kodachrome 64 and Tri-X 400 film to screw up on. Not all my shots were magazine-worthy--in fact, most were duds.

Eventually, I was able to wrap my mind around all the settings and what they did to make a good photo. I learned how to use light and when to "click" at the right time.

This last weekend, I had an opportunity to shoot a few images of a Chevy SSR. My client may be interested in selling his modern day hot rod, but moreover, simply wanted a few images of his customized ride.

Colonial Boy at History Day

Azusa, CA -- Each year, Azusa Pacific University hosts History Day L.A. The annual event encourages kids to create historical exhibits, posters and papers. They can also do performances and documentary presentations on a historical theme. Featured here, a young boy sits patiently as our first President of the United States, George Washington, enlists solders and prepares them for a reenacted battle.

Santa Fe Dam

Irwindale, CA -- I admit..., yes, I was driving while shooting. But when you see an opportunity for composition forming, you have to take advantage. I did, and two important settings on my camera body were wrong: white balance and focus points. Oh well. It made for an interesting shot anyway.

By the way, I was moving, but only about 2 mph, while waiting for the signal to turn green.

The man cycling is enjoying a cool, but sunny day on the rim of the Santa Fe Dam in Los Angeles.

Red Saturday

Azusa -- Some say that the city of Azusa has everything from "A to Z in the USA..." Today all I saw was red.

A to Z in the USA

Some say the city name, Azusa has everything from A to Z in the... yeah, I hardly think so. But soon, the Metro Gold Line will be extending its track to the Canyon City, about 15 miles from Los Angeles.

I am so glad this little train depot was spared. It's art deco design is reminiscent of the glory days of train travel before commercial flight went mainstream. I would imagine the city will use this structure again, hopefully as a centerpiece for the new train in town.

Views of Downtown From the Canyon City

Azusa, CA--Not far from Downtown Los Angeles is a western-themed town nestled against the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Incorporated in 1898, Azusa is one of the many scenic cities where highway travelers in the mid-century would stop in for a burger and a Coke along Route 66.

From Old Town Azusa (top photo), people can drive a few minutes up the canyon on HWY 39 and catch incredible views of our Southern California sunsets. The photo above was taken last night from within the canyon. LA’s skyline can be seen in the background.