Dusk and day at Coledale in the Illawarra, NSW.

Posted on May 9, 2017 by Andrew McInnes Photography

Stunning, if fleeting, colour and drama at Coledale, in the Illawarra region of NSW.

Coledale 2AM-002791
©Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Aerial (drone) photo of wave wrapping around rocks.

Coledale 2AM-000161
©Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Freedom and playtime on the beach.

Coledale 2AM-007447
©Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Coledale 2AM-007450
©Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Another splendid summer day at Coledale Beach.

Coledale Beach 2AM-009728
©Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Cheers 🙂

Wombarra Headland and Wombarra Rock Pool, NSW.

Posted on December 23, 2016 by Andrew McInnes Photography

A short series of images from Wombarra in the Illawarra, NSW.

Wombarra Headland 2AM-009394

Wombarra Headland 2AM-002817

Wombarra Headland 2AM-009406

Wombarra Headland 2AM-009408

Wombarra Headland 2AM-002847

Wombarra Rock Pool 2AM-009706

Wombarra Rock Pool 2AM-009712

Wombarra Rock Pool 2AM-009725

Cheers.

Thunder and lightning – Wombarra and Austinmer, NSW.

Posted on December 15, 2015 by Andrew McInnes Photography

Last week (early December, 2015) we witnessed a wonderful series of lightning storms in the northern Illawarra area of New South Wales, Australia. Surrounded, but not underneath any particular cell, the light and drama at Austinmer and Wombarra was spectacular!

Here is a panorama of one of the lightning storm cells bathing Austinmer Beach in amazing light.

Austinmer 2AM 9850-9852 Panorama © Andrew McInnes

Stormy light over the Pacific, incorporating a little of Keswick House.

Keswick House 2AM 9854-9856 HDR © Andrew McInnes

Just a little further north is the village of Wombarra, from where the following three images were captured.

Wombarra Headland 2AM 9864-9866 Panorama © Andrew McInnes

Wombarra Headland 2AM 9867-9869 Panorama © Andrew McInnes

Wombarra Headland 2AM 9887-9888 stack © Andrew McInnes

The final two images include the Wombarra rock pool.

Wombarra Rock Pool 2AM 9900_9903 stack © Andrew McInnes

Wombarra Rock Pool 2AM 9913-9914 © Andrew McInnes

’twas a wonderfully dramatic sky, with quite the lightning show that was ongoing for quite some time. I hope you enjoyed these images.

Cheers 🙂

Some “snapshots” from around Fremantle, Western Australia; January-February, 2014

Posted on March 5, 2014 by Andrew McInnes Photography

Here is an eclectic assortment of images from near my home in Fremantle, Western Australia for the months of January and February, 2014. Being a coastal and historical port town, there is much variety and options for activities and scenery.

Crepuscular-Rays-2AM-005269---EOS-5D-Mark-III

Crepuscular rays (God-beams) as we enjoy our morning breakfast on our Mediterranean style courtyard at home.
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Dog-Beach---South-Beach-2AM-002163-EOS-7D

Who says that dogs don’t “smile”?
South Beach-2AM-002163
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Green and gold – Australia’s National Colours.
Illyarrie/Red-capped gum 2AM-003304
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Santa revisiting to kiss mum under the mistletoe?
Santa 2AM-002528
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Recycling – just a little fun image taken at home this lovely summer morn’ as my bride enjoyed hot mint-tea with honey.
Honey Bee 2AM-004025
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Floral delicacy and delightfully aromatic – Frangipani.
Frangipani 2AM-003114
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Airborne – higher than the moon?
Kiteboarding 2AM-002816
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Airborne times two.
Kiteboarding 2AM-002934
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

An adult White-cheeked Honeyeater feeding two fledglings early on a glorious summer day.
White-cheeked Honeyeater 2AM-002411
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

After hanging inverted to forage in this eucalyptus tree, a Little Corella takes flight flashing its pale yellow underwings, blue-grey eye ring, and muted pink above the beak.
Little Corella 2AM-004182
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Paella cooking at the Bather’s Beach food market; lots of families enjoying communing, a nice breeze, and sun on our faces – life is good.
Paella 2AM-002205
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Unexpected.
Pebbles 2AM-002488
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Odd…
Pebbles 2AM-002496
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Some assorted structures/architecture/patterns…

South-Terrace-Home-2AM-003049-EOS-5D-Mark-III

A residence on South Terrace.
South Terrace home 2AM-003049
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

St.-Patricks-Fremantle-2AM-003068-EOS-5D-Mark-III

St. Patricks – Fremantle 2AM-003068
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

Stairway 2AM-003112
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

WA-Maritime-Museum-2AM-002536-EOS-5D-Mark-III

Western Australia Maritime Museum 2AM-002536
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

WA-Maritime-Museum-2AM-003091-EOS-5D-Mark-III

Another stairway.
Western Australia Maritime Museum 2AM-003091
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

WA-Maritime-Museum-2AM-003100-EOS-5D-Mark-III

A third stairway.
Western Australia Maritime Museum 2AM-003100
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

WA-Museum---Shipwreck-Galleries-2AM-002253-5D-Mark-III

This port town, like all port towns, abounds with maritime history; the “Western Australia Museum – Shipwreck Galleries” displays some of this. rugged history.
Western Australia Museum – Shipwreck Galleries 2AM-002253
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

WA-Museum---Shipwreck-Galleries-2AM-002533

More external views of the Western Australia Museum – Shipwreck Galleries.
© 2014 Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

North-Quay-and-Inner-Harbour-2AM-002549-5D-Mark-III

North Quay and Inner Harbour, Fremantle during the “blue hour.” I reckon the cranes look rather Jurassic.
North Quay and Inner Harbour 2AM-002549
© Andrew McInnes. All Rights Reserved.

I hope you enjoyed this brief sojourn around where I live. More posts of Fremantle will follow over time.
Thanks for viewing 🙂

A few quick photo shoots in Halifax and surrounds – Nova Scotia, Canada.

Posted on November 20, 2013 by Andrew McInnes Photography

I recently undertook an express visit with my wife to visit friends who were staying in Halifax for a period. I only managed to get out and photograph on a few occasions but was enamored of the area. Magnificent vistas, abundant maritime history, so ripe with scenery and scenes; I would have thoroughly enjoyed more time exploring and photographing. Nevertheless, here is a sampling of images from the very few times I was able to go walkabout. I hope you enjoy!

This is the first image I captured – I love the posture, gait, and apparent enthusiasm of the youngster; the dog’s tail; and the fact that the father had a bright red sweater on (excellent for ‘pop’ of people out in nature).

Halifax 2AM-000802
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L lens. f4.5 for 1/800 second at ISO 800.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

A chicane of sorts …

Halifax 2AM-000834
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L lens. f5.6 for 1/2000 second at ISO 800.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Although we witnessed some glorious fall color, it was the same old situation of “you should have seen it last week!” 🙂
the next two images include a birch tree – the bark and patterning thereof fascinated me.

Halifax 2AM-000851
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L lens. f8 for 1/800 second at ISO 800.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Halifax 2AM-000860
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L lens. f8 for 1/400 second at ISO 800.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Definitely much color still available around the area, even if the leaves had fallen.

Halifax 2AM-000887
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f4.5 for 1/1600 second at ISO 800.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Early in our visit our hosts took me out for a brief but wonderful excursion to Herring Cove. Although very overcast and gloomy, the light was lovely for scenes that didn’t include much, if any, sky. After this mini-hike it was time for lunch so we stopped in at “Now We’re Cookin’!” where I had the superb gastronomic pleasure of a dozen perfectly fried and ultra-delicious “Digby Clams.”

Here are a series of images from the Herring Cove Provincial Park Reserve from that visit:

I call this image “The Admiral” – hopefully you can deduce why 🙂 I captured one of our hosts overlooking a temporarily tranquil Atlantic Ocean – it was a fleeting opportunity to get the shot, so I did not have time to adjust the camera settings, hence the very slow shutter speed for a hand held shot. Thankfully I managed to be stable enough for a sharp image.

“The Admiral” – Herring Cove 2AM-000977
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/13 second at ISO 400.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Early into the gorgeous walk I found this scene and liked the various elements so much – hence this image to capture it 🙂

Herring Cove 2AM-000976
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/13 second at ISO 400.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Loved these rosehip berries!

Herring Cove 2AM-000982
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f4 for 1/100 second at ISO 400.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Herring Cove 2AM-001009
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/15 second at ISO 1000.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Same general scene, different interpretation. My photographic mentor drummed into me to shoot and shoot and shoot a scene from numerous angles/interpretations, with a strict caveat that each composition/interpretation must be appealing to me, not just shooting a bunch and ‘hoping’ one of them will be ‘good’.

Herring Cove 2AM-001011
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/15 second at ISO 1000.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

A portion of the walking trail.

Herring Cove 2AM-001027
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/20 second at ISO 1000.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

More of the meandering walking trail and a very typical scene of this splendid coast.

Herring Cove 2AM-001025
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/30 second at ISO 1000.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

’twas a very blustery gloomy day and the smart one here (that would be me 🙂 ) decides to take a multi-hour exploratory walk around the Halifax waterfront to take in some of the history of this place. When I say it was blustery, it was really blowing! There is a bit of a tale from my home country that goes something like this: “Tie a brick onto a long piece of line and hang it so that it is free to swing. If the brick/string is vertical, there isn’t enough wind to go sailing; If the brick/string are horizontal, then perhaps there is a little too much wind for a sail; Anywhere in between = just right for a sail.” Well, the brick would have been darn near horizontal whilst I wandered around that particular day 😉
This block and blue line appealed to me as they hung and swung, suspended above the dark cold water. Hope you enjoy it too.

“Block and Blue” – Halifax 2AM-000914
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f8 for 1/160 second at ISO 800.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

I find the marine flora and fauna of cold water habitats fascinating, and Nova Scotia in early winter did not disappoint me.This image, and the mussel image following it, were taken on a bucking and rolling floating dock that was doing its non-level best to ensure that either I fell in the cold cold water, or dropped the camera into said water, or fail to get a sharp image of the subjects that were interesting me. I am very thankful that the 5D Mark III handles high ISO noise so bloody well!

Halifax 2AM-000931
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f8 for 1/40 second at ISO 3200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Halifax 2AM-000937
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f8 for 1/30 second at ISO 5000.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Some scenes need capturing, despite the quality (or lack thereof) of available light; I thought this public art installation the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk to be such a scene. This public art installation is a collaboration between Chris Hanson and Hendrika Sonnenberg. One of the lampposts (at rear in this image) is peeing in the ocean. The other two are on their way home after drinking too much – the closest has stumbled and fallen, the other is bending over to check if all is okay with the fallen one.

“Drunken Street Lights” – Halifax 2AM-000946
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f8 for 1/30 second at ISO 5000.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Boardwalk boards (and nails)

Halifax 2AM-000958
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f4 for 1/100 second at ISO 500.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Whilst she isn’t particularly old, this yacht is reminiscent of a time apparently long gone, when vessels actually had lovely lines! Plus, what’s not to like about bowsprits, jib-booms, bowlines, and vertically seamed sails with stitched lines along the leech?

Halifax 2AM-000968
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f16 for 1/125 second at ISO 500.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

A new day, and, well, there were some trees still shedding their colorful leaves, and a stunningly sky, so why not?

Halifax 2AM-001342
Canon 7D with Canon 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 lens. f8 for 1/3200 second at ISO 800.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Halifax 2AM-001400
Canon 7D with Canon 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 lens. f8 for 1/2500 second at ISO 800.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Dusk was rapidly descending on a bloody chilly day when I happened upon this lovely little yawl at rest on its mooring in a secluded and tranquil inlet.

Halifax 2AM-001083
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/10 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Sometimes “hard to figure out at first” is intriguing – to me at least 🙂

Halifax 2AM-001084
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/10 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

A revisit to Herring Cove because the light was “cleaner.”

Herring Cove 2AM-001036
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/15 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

A little ‘overflow’ creek from Powers Pond to the Atlantic Ocean (via Herring Cove).

Herring Cove 2AM-001043
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/10 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

To me these next two images typify coastal fishing hamlets.

Herring Cove 2AM-001038
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/20 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

To my eye, when strolling around town, this image was very appealing. Initial concerns about it being “too busy” rapidly dissipated – likely due to the location of the colored elements, the reflections, and the leading line of the dock. Perhaps I am mistaken?

Herring Cove 2AM-001108
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L lens. f16 for 1/250 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Speaking of reflections… here are two more from the walking trail at Herring Cove Provincial Park Reserve.

Herring Cove 2AM-001115
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L lens. f16 for 1/60 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

A stunning blue sky, granite, and grass.

Herring Cove 2AM-001062
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/25 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

My final image from Herring Cove showing one side of the entrance to Herring Cove; the great blue yonder is the fabled ornery Atlantic.

Herring Cove 2AM-001066
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/30 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

On the coldest day of the winter thus far (it having snowed the first snow of the season the previous night), we ventured on a quick trip down to Peggy’s Cove – a gorgeous sunset, some ice in the rocky depressions of the granite headland, and it was blowing stink, and we were right on the edge of the Atlantic. Not blowing quite strong enough for there to be whitecaps in the toilet, but darn near!
The following images were all captured within roughly one hour, and again, I present 4 images with the lighthouse in it, each sufficiently appealing to me.

There were some strange light behavior happenings last evening during dusk at Peggy’s Cove – one with my lens glare (this image), the other some neat atmospherics (the next image).

Peggy’s Cove 2AM-001471
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f16 for 1/200 second at ISO 500.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

The three of us who were there together all were mesmerized by the vertical shaft of light – normally I expect to see crepuscular rays, but this instance had only the vertical element. As it was developing I was scampering around trying to find any element for foreground interest. “Beam me up” or perhaps a “batman-like beam.” 😉

Peggy’s Cove 2AM-001488
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1.6 seconds at ISO 100.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Peggy’s Cove 2AM-001474
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/25 second at ISO 400.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Peggy’s Cove 2AM-001485
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f22 for 1/8 second at ISO 400.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

And to wrap up this visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia – Canada, here is a light-painting of the lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove – the primary purpose of the quick evening trip to Peggy’s Cove. I hope you enjoy this light-painting image – is was certainly the most difficult to make: my wife and our host said I looked a bit like a mountain goat running around over the rocks and boulders in the dark whilst painting the scene with my trusty Q-beam II Million power flashlight.

A light-painting – Peggy’s Cove 2AM-001515
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. f5.6 for 30 seconds at ISO 400.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

A few hours in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee.

Posted on October 22, 2013 by Andrew McInnes Photography

On the first day that the National Parks were reopened to the citizens who own them, I drove to the Smoky Mountains to have a few hours in Cades Cove – a truly remarkable location, and a visit I highly recommend.

All images are Copyright © Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All rights reserved.
If you wish to purchase prints please visit my website http://andrew-mcinnes.artistwebsites.com/ or send an Email to me.

I feel so very fortunate to see a family of American Black Bears up close and personal – sort of.

Peek-a-boo 🙂

American Black Bear_2AM-000210
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400MM f/4.5-5.6L lens. f5.6 for 1/400 second at ISO 800 (handheld).
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Mama bear ascends. Such amazing claws/claw strength!

American Black Bear_2AM-000214
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400MM f/4.5-5.6L lens. f5.6 for 1/400 second at ISO 800 (handheld).
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Unlike the assorted yahoo’s who observed the scene with me, I did not approach and stand under the tree!

American Black Bear_2AM-000371
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400MM f/4.5-5.6L lens. f5.6 for 1/125 second at ISO 1000 (handheld).
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

The fog was very thick when I first arrived. This scene/habitat is very similar to that where I observed the bears.

Cades Cove_2AM-000546
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105MM f/4L lens. f22 for 1/5 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

Morning light flashes the prairie through the fog.

Cades Cove_2AM-000553
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105MM f/4L lens. f22 for 1/8 second at ISO 200.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

This is not a monochrome/black-and-white treatment. Rather, the fog and rain and mist altered the light to what you see here.

Great Smoky Mountains_2AM-000528
Canon 7D with Canon 100-400MM f/4.5-5.6L lens. f22 for 1/13 second at ISO 500.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

The lovely winding road that leads to Cades Cove follows a stream for a good portion, and this lone tunnel is always intriguing to me. I stopped to take this image on my way out – the fall leaves are beginning to turn on a show right now!

Great Smoky Mountains_2AM-000079
Canon 5D Mark III with Canon 24-105MM f/4L lens. f22 for 6 seconds at ISO 800.
© Andrew McInnes/2AM Photography. All Rights Reserved.

These images are a mere sampling of the wondrous place that is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For more of my images of the park, swing over to some of my earlier/archived posts:

https://2amphotography.wordpress.com/2012/01/05/a-bloody-cold-shoot-in-the-mountains/
https://2amphotography.wordpress.com/2011/08/30/serenity-in-the-great-smoky-mountains-national-park/

Cheers,

Andrew

Malaysia (3 of 3) – Scenes from a ship on the South China Sea.

Posted on October 3, 2013 by Andrew McInnes Photography

This is the third, and final, post covering my recent trip to Malaysia. As it was not a photography or vacation trip, I took one camera with one lens – no tripod, flash, etc. Consequently, all of these images are handheld or rested on objects, and all are taken essentially as ‘snapshots’ throughout the day/night and with whatever light was available, not targeted light. All images were captured with Canon 7D and Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens. Taking images with a slow shutter speed on a moving ship is certainly challenging 🙂

South China Sea 2AM-116929
Clouds and some of the unidentified islands (to me at least) of the South China Sea, photographed through the plane’s window somewhere between Kuala Lumpur (on the Malaysian peninsular) and Labuan Island (just off Malaysian Borneo).

South China Sea 2AM-117331
A glorious dusk on the South China Sea off Borneo. This image includes some of the fender chains at the bow.

South China Sea 2AM-117315
More from the bow of the ship – a spectacular sunset.

South China Sea 2AM-117353
Ripples on a calm, golden sea.

South China Sea 2AM-117354
Gold and steel.

South China Sea 2AM 117300-117310
A ten image panorama.

So long Malaysia, you are lovely and diverse, as are your people.

Malaysia (2 of 3) – Labuan and surrounds.

Posted on September 29, 2013 by Andrew McInnes Photography

This is the second of three posts covering my recent trip to Malaysia. As it was not a photography or vacation trip, I took one camera with one lens – no tripod, flash, etc. Consequently, the great majority of these images are handheld, and all are taken essentially as ‘snapshots’ throughout the day/night and with whatever light was available, not targeted light. All images were captured with Canon 7D and Canon 24-105mm f/4L lens.

Labuan is one of three Federal Territories of Malaysia and is an island off Malaysian Borneo. This photo-blog will include some scenes from Labuan and some from nearby islands (island = Pulau).

Tiara Labuan Hotel 2AM-116933
The Tiara Labuan Hotel, where I stayed for the first few days on Labuan.

Water Village – Labuan 2AM-116956
This is one of the “water villages” on Labuan Island, Malaysia. At high tide the water comes within about one foot of the floors of these homes. The people in this village were lovely, friendly, and apparently content with their lot in life – perhaps those of us with so-called ‘first-world problems’ could learn some lessons from these fine folks. This scene reminded me of areas in Papua New Guinea, where I was raised.

Water Village – Labuan 2AM-116959
A closer look at part of a water village.

As my purpose for this trip was marine related, i.e. working offshore on vessels, there are several images of boats and dry-dock…

Labuan 2AM-117376
A storm and rainbow over a large assemblage of seismic vessels in Labuan Harbor.

Labuan 2AM-117371
Pre-strorm light illuminates a portion of Labuan’s commercial district.

Fishing Boat – Labuan 2AM-117064
A few local trawler vessels preparing for departure. I loved the character of the hulls of these boats.

Labuan Shipyard 2AM-117092
Scaffolding surrounds a ship that is dry-docked (photographed at night).

Labuan Shipyard 2AM-117154
A worker inside a dry-docked barge uses an oxy acetylene torch to cut out great plates of compromised steel that are part of the hull of this barge.

Labuan Shipyard 2AM-117173
Spectacular showers of molten steel sparks – a result of three oxy acetylene torches.

Labuan Shipyard 2AM-117166
Sparks rain down onto the great plates of steel as other plates are being cut out.

Water taxis were abundant and necessary for those, like me, who work on vessels.

Water Taxi – Labuan 2AM-117059
At rest – the bows of several taxis.

Labuan has an active bazaar which was both bustling and fascinating. All manner of goods and services are available including electronic repairs, jewelry, food, tailors, fashion, cobblers, etc.

Cobbler – Labuan 2AM-117069
This shoe repairman was amazingly efficient with his workmanship, and a very pleasant fellow.

Cobbler – Labuan 2AM-117074
Some of this cobbler’s tools of the trade – all manually applied instruments.

Bazaar – Labuan 2AM-117080
A vendor watches a shopper stroll through a portion of the bazaar.

Arrrg! Almost without exception, whatever body of water I may be on, this is what I see, to varying extents (and this is only the visible stuff – I cannot imagine how much chemical contaminants are present). These images, though from Malaysian waters, are not endemic to this place.

Marine Trash – Labuan 2AM-117055
Quite the assortment!

Marine Trash – Labuan 2AM-117056
Trash piled up between two small barges.

As there were several days of downtime awaiting the arrival of the vessel which was the vehicle for my work, several of us – Australian, German, French, American – hired a local boat owner to take us to a few off the nearby islands. These places, though offshore, are not exempt from marine pollution.

Palau Rusukan Kecil - Malaysia 2AM-117011_7D

Pulau Rusukan Kecil – Malaysia 2AM-117011
More marine trash – an aesthetics killer.

More scenics from Pulau Rusukan Kecil, this time sans trash. A thoroughly delightful and complex group of little islands, all very proximal to each other.

Palau Rusukan Kecil - Malaysia 2AM-116996_7D

Pulau Rusukan Kecil – Malaysia 2AM-116996

Palau Rusukan Kecil - Malaysia 2AM-117014_7D

Pulau Rusukan Kecil – Malaysia 2AM-117014
A lovely sense of isolation on this island’s beaches.

Palau Rusukan Kecil - Malaysia 2AM-117027_7D

Pulau Rusukan Kecil – Malaysia 2AM-117027
Tropical paradise.

This next island is designated as a marine park – a “no-take, no damage” island and surrounding waters.

Pulau Kuraman – Malaysia 2AM-116984
The red vessel is the one we adventured with. A lovely place for a swim/snorkel.

The following four images are from Pulau Daat, an island with a village populated by Philippine fishermen and their families. The colors were so vivid – almost startling – so much so that I was keenly wanting to explore and visit with the residents.

Pulau Daat – Malaysia 2AM-117049
The approaching view.

Pulau Daat – Malaysia 2AM-117038
A sampling of the colorful little fishing boats. The fishermen take these little, and highly unstable, motorized vessels offshore to fish – you might notice the outriggers that they troll their lines/lures off.

Pulau Daat – Malaysia 2AM-117040
Home to a fishing family – how about the color!

Pulau Daat – Malaysia 2AM-117044
I was fortunate to spend time visiting with some of the folks whereby verbal communication was challenging due to language barriers. One thing I already knew from my various travels was reinforced though… a smile goes a million miles in human interactions. What started as a chat with the four men (photo-front), soon became a delightful visit with over 2 dozen folks, most of which were children – once they “got their courage up.”

Back to Labuan.

Pond Cleaning Man - Labuan 2AM-116954_7D

Pond Cleaning Man – Labuan 2AM-116954
A worker harvest plants from a freshwater pond at the WWII Memorial.

As my last location before I departed Malaysia was at a dock in Labuan, I’ll close this post with a few images from there.

Labuan Shipyard 2AM-117392
Mid afternoon a storm began building and I was hopeful there might just be some amazing light as dusk approached. I was not disappointed by the storm or the color!

Labuan Shipyard 2AM-117395
Industrial imagination.

Hopefully you experienced some of the sights, sounds, and scents , if vicariously, through these images.

I sure appreciate you visiting.

Cheers,

Andrew

Margaret River Region – Australia’s South West

Posted on December 28, 2012 by Andrew McInnes Photography

A region of diversity famous for its premium wines and stunning wineries, picturesque rural vistas, stunning forests, spectacular coast with both tranquil beaches and world-class surfing, plus fantastic views and proximity to the southward migration of humpback and other whales. Welcome to the Margaret River Region of Australia’s South West.

This is Canal Rocks under heavy swell.

A lovely “chute” with abundant epiphytes – an offshoot of the “canal”.

The view as you descend to Canal Rocks.

A lovely drive through a karri forest.

Boranup Karri Forest.

The now ruined Hamelin Bay Jetty was built in 1882 to service the local timber mills.

Proximal to the jetty ruins is a small public boat ramp.

This is the other portion of Hamelin Bay.

If you are lucky (and perhaps brave), you might be fortunate enough to have the local stingrays pay you a visit – as they did here to my lovely wife. Although massive, these are “gentle” creatures – the worst you may experience is them nom-nomming (chewing) on your toes 🙂

Smooth Stingray - Hamelin Bay 2AM-113560_7D

The “business end” of a massive ray (and another coming in from the back).

Smooth Stingray - Hamelin Bay 2AM-113530_7D_Facebook

Sugarloaf Rock, Cape Naturaliste.

Injidup Point, not far from the mouth of the Margaret River.

Injidup Point.

Dune and clouds at Moses Rocks.

Yallingup, a world famous surf-break which was quite that day, at dusk just before we nestled among the boulders to enjoy a quite beverage and hors d’oeuvres – magical.

A little color and softness among the colorful rocks at Yallingup.

Meelup Beach, a glorious place to take a dip.

Picnic table with a view – Meelup Beach.

Castle Rock, just around the point from Meelup Beach. Climbing the point nearby allows for unfettered views of Geographe Bay and the Indian Ocean.

Same feature, different view/feel.

A ketch at anchor in the tranquility afforded by Geographe Bay – viewed from “whale lookout” at Castle Rock.

This lovely tranquil beach with its clear and clean water also has portions dotted with boulders, some of which are partially submerged.

More rocks, first by daylight, then after dusk – with light added by flashlight.

Hues of blue – a light-painting.

Dusk at Castle Rock.

Ah, the primary image I originally went to Castle Rock for: A light painting with stars and meteorite.
I had to rock-hop in a mad dash once I set the self timer for the exposure in order to position myself such that the shadows/light source were creating the feel I wanted. Thankfully no falls or broken ankles!

Recent shots from surrounding area.

Posted on February 20, 2012 by Andrew McInnes Photography

Per a previous “encouragement” by my photography mentor – Wyman Meinzer – to see the beauty where I am, I have been trying to shoot several times each week, regardless of the weather, wind, and anthropomorphic elements cluttering the scene. I figure I better just run with what there is to capture. Here is an assortment which I hope you enjoy.

I reckon you weren't expecting this though! Perhaps Deere & Company would like this one for their advertising? Wishful thinking.

More tractors heading out from the Port of Galveston.

Wetlands proximal to our neighborhood (same area in previous blog: "blessed-rain...").

Same area as above but this time I was going for the "African Serengeti" feel (ignore the modern looking "huts").

Serengeti 'ish. (Smith Point, Galveston Bay).

The view from our back deck/porch - it seems it hasn't been calm for months. The glow on the clouds is a result of Texas City petrochemical plants - thankfully we are located upwind of this.

These lovely White Pelicans are only in the area while they overwinter.

White Pelican preening.

Nearby Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge (BNWR). This area was, until very recently, dry enough to run a tractor and plow through. However, the Houston area has received in excess of 11 inches of rain for the first 8 weeks or so of 2012.

BNWR again.

Endangered Kemp's Ridley sea turtle in rehabilitation at Texas A&M University at Galveston's Sea Life Facility.

Kemp's Ridley sea turtle (same individual as above).

Cold and foggy morning at Texas A&M University at Galveston campus.

Definitely NOT the Serengeti. This is the same shrimp boat featured in a previous blog ("Texas City Dusk..."). I was limited on time and the clouds were starting to look wonderful so chose to re-shoot the trawler.

Simple but interesting to me.

Sunrise and an offshore rig in Galveston Ship Channel.

Atmospheric clouds - as opposed to the cloud of swarming mosquitos as the missus' and I tried to enjoy a cold beverage watching these clouds and the dusk.

I took this picture on Valentine's Day of two red-eared slider's "smooching" (please indulge my foray into anthropomorphism) - must be a real "toe-curler" of a kiss (check out the right-rear foot of the big one on the right).

Andrew McInnes Photography

Imagery © Andrew McInnes

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