Category Archives: Mostly True Stories

Words only tell part of the story.

Mostly True Stories, People, Places, Things

Hong Kong Slice of Life

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When I saw the Reggae Kung Fu poster, I asked my friend, a native of Hong Kong, if Jackie Chan was in town. I meant it as a joke. He didn’t laugh. He took me seriously.

“No. Unfortunately, Jackie Chan is not in town.” He said it as if he knew, at all times, where Jackie Chan actually was. And, he seemed disappointed he could not take me to meet Jackie Chan. He didn’t mention any Reggae artists.

Humor, especially with sarcasm, doesn’t translate well, mine, or his. My friend told me how much he loves Jackie Chan, how much the people of Hong Kong love Jackie Chan. But, he said, the movies made in Hong Kong look different than the movies made in the US.

“What’s the difference,” I asked.

“I don’t know,” he said. “They’re just different.”

He tried to show me some examples. Grittier, dirtier, darker, faster, more martial arts. “American movies make Hong Kong look…cleaner.”

“Show me your Hong Kong.”

He tried to. I think. The sites we filmed and photographed were carefully selected. I spent nearly a week in Hong Kong, this time, and I still don’t think I’ve seen the city, the ‘real’ city. After all, I couldn’t give a one sentence description. Big, tall, vibrant, energizing, fast paced, harried, smelly, busy, clean, dirty… I could use a dictionary and never run out of adjectives to describe Hong Kong. It is all of those things, and more. So, bear with me. I photographed the things I could see. Slice of Life? I hope so…

Only in Hong Kong could you synthesize Reggae music with Kung Fu action. You might even see Jackie Chan.
While waiting for customers, a shopkeeper checks her device.
Three children snack on the way home from school in Hong Kong.
School just let out. Who had a good day? Who had a bad day?
I couldn’t read the posters, but it did seem like a good place to read.
Outside a Hong Kong apothecary, a sign suggests a slippery slope to regularity.
Matching sweats and jackets create some style on the Hong Kong streets
School uniforms are an important part of life for young people in Hong Kong.
This is how the build those massive skyscrapers.
Over crowding is part of life in Hong Kong, especially in the poor sections.
They look a lot nicer on the inside.
Architecture in Hong Kong makes a bold statement.
Living on the water in Hong Kong is a lifestyle choice.
Hong Kong currents carry ideas and leaves to many parts of the world.
Water means life in Hong Kong.
Repulse beach is a popular resort destination throughout Asia.
Water taxis are an economical way to cross the bay and provide an excellent view.
Any open window is an opportunity where space is at a premium.
Innovation is the mother of invention, they say. With so much to do and so little space, innovation is is contagious.
It doesn’t matter what floor you live on, a clothes dryer is a luxury few can afford.
HIGH end product placement, Hong Kong style.
Mostly True Stories, Places

Hong Kong in HDR

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I don’t shoot everything in HDR. Honest, I don’t. However, Hong Kong is such a visual, visceral experience, quite beyond the ordinary sense, bordering on the overwhelming, that High Dynamic Range imagery seemed to be appropriate. Sometimes, I know, HDR–my HDR shots–skirt quite close to the edge of going over the top. I’m still trying to figure out where that edge is, what’s appropriate for the subject, what’s appropriate for the viewer. I certainly haven’t found that place–yet. I haven’t been doing this long enough. My wife sometimes tells me my HDR shots look like bad ’70s blacklight posters.

C’est la vie.

It’s fun and it looks cool. I can’t draw. I don’t use a brush. But, if I did, my impressionist paintings might also look like bad ’70s blacklight posters.

C’est la vie, again.

I would, at some point like to approach art, not just capture, although, I think I look at the world with a documentarian’s eye. I do enjoy the candid, the natural, the slice of life, the story in the moment.

I didn’t throw all my visual sensibilities out the window when I landed in Hong Kong. I did capture some of those images. Nevertheless, the striking structures of Hong Kong demanded that I shoot more than one image and compelled me to combine them in my favorite HDR tone mapping software. So, if that wasn’t enough of an apology, here is gallery of Hong Kong, HDR style.

And, by the way, I’d love to know if galleries work best for viewing these images, or, if posting them individually over several days is more enjoyable. Thanks, and I hope some of the fun I had in Hong Kong rubs off on you and brightens your day.

View of the downtown Hong Kong Financial district, Wan Chai.
It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of traffic, people, noise and smog; however, when in Hong Kong, don’t forget to look up. The sky is up there, somewhere.
In spite of the size of the city, the number of people and cars, Hong Kong boasts a remarkably effective public transportation system.
Soaring above the teeming masses, Hong Kong’s endless skyscrapers are home to the most densely packed populace in the world.
Many towering buildings in Hong Kong have been designed with rectangular openings to withstand high winds during violent storms.
Families live aboard Junks and make their living by fishing and transporting passengers across the water.
The Junk is a traditional Chinese sailing vessel. Junks are still part of the seafaring lifestyle for many Hong Kong.
Among the busiest natural harbors in the world, Victoria Harbor is also one of the most scenic.
While it may seem like it, all is not sweetness and light. While there are not many left in Hong Kong, there are still some poor areas.
Bold architecture accents Hong Kong’s optimistic position as a leading global city.
Changing light conditions and swirling storm clouds dance above the soaring buildings of Hong Kong.
A brewing storm lowers over Victoria Peak in the background and the massive skyscrapers of Hong Kong.
Every night for ten minutes, 45 buildings in Hong Kong on both sides of Victoria Harbor synchronize a light show to music.
Looking back toward the city from Tamar Park, Hong Kong.

Mostly True Stories

Utah Travels Photography Exhibit

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Mud Bath
The secret to such smooth, smooth skin could be found in the mud of Lubumbashi River.

I am excited to announce that two of my photos, The Tree of Life and Mud Bath, were selected for the Utah Travels Photography Exhibit. The exhibit runs from March 7 through April 30, 2014. There is an opening reception Friday, March 7 from 6:00-8:00 pm. Come see a great exhibit and say hello. The reception is open to the public.

The Tree of Life
The legendary tree of life thrives in Africa.

Utah Travels Facebook

Utah Travels is a photo exhibit highlighting remarkable photographic images captured by Utahns during their diverse travel experiences.  These photos reflect the beauty, richness and diversity of people, events, nature, culture and all that celebrates humanity and planet earth.

Utah Cultural Celebration Center
1355 West 3100 South
WVC, UT 84119

www.culturalcelebration.org

Mostly True Stories, Places

Hong Kong, a fascinating city

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With a population of over 7 million, Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Known by its initials, H.K., Hong Kong is a world city and international financial center that is part of the big three–New York, London, and Hong Kong–that support the global economy.

I have been able to spend a few days in Hong Kong taking pictures and filming. Over the next few days, I’ll post my visual impressions of the city.

I never feel like I have enough time to capture the full story of the places I’ve been. Hong Kong is certainly no exception. There is so much more to a city of this Magnitude. The city is exciting and beautiful. The people are friendly. Language was rarely a problem. Almost everyone I met spoke English. And, perhaps most important to surviving the long days of filming was the food. In a word, great. I now have a much better command of chopsticks than ever before.

Hong Kong
Hong Kong became a British Colony in 1842. In 1997 China peacefully resumed control of the densely populated financial center.
Mostly True Stories, Places

Aotearoa, the Land of the Long White Cloud

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The traditional Maori name for New Zealand is Aotearoa, or “Land of the Long White Cloud.”  Ocean currents, weather patterns and South Pacific moisture combine for spectacular cloud formations which brood above the mountains, valleys and fjords, of New Zealand and bear witness to the truth of the ancient Maori name.

With the brilliant clouds and sparkling waters, New Zealanders love to sail. Auckland, New Zealand is known as ‘the city of sails’. Some reports boast that there are more boats per capita in New Zealand than anywhere else in the world.  Check any international yachting crew and you’ll probably find a New Zealander.

From my perspective, I could feel pleasant breezes, blue water and plenty of sunshine. Now that I’ve been there, If I had to choose, I’d rather be sailing–in New Zealand.

Clouds, sunshine and rain and clear water.
Can you hear the sea calling to you?
Even if you could sail around the world, why would you ever leave New Zealand?
We’re calling everyone to ride along, to another shore.
At home in the harbor.
Nearly one in every three New Zealanders owns a boat.
With a population of approximately 1.5 million, Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand.
At 1,076 feet tall, or 328 meters, the Sky Tower in Auckland, New Zealand is the highest structure in the Southern Hemisphere.
The western coast of North Island from the air.
Mostly True Stories, Places

Seal Rock

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700 miles from the beach, I can still hear the waves, the gulls and the hungry seals crying from Seal Rock. The salt air mists my face as the waves crash against the rocks. It seems, for an instant, that time stops. The sun stays its descent, just above the horizon, lingering to set the clouds on fire. I can not count grains of sand, swirling at my feet beyond the frothy shore break. The rhythmic flow of mighty waters, spent and spending, captivate with hypnotic cadence. I can not be in two places at once. But in my dreams, my mind returns, while my body, unmercifully, remains. Awake, I hold a shell to my ear and my heart rejoices in the sounds of sea surrounding Seal Rock.

Seal Rock
Waves crash against the rocks as the birds and seals watch the setting sun from Seal Rock, Crescent Cove, California.
Mostly True Stories

Where Jesus Walked

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When Christ was accused of rebellion by the Jewish Sanhedrin, he was sent to Pontius Pilate for judgement. Legend says that he ascended the 28 marble steps leading to Pilate’s Praetorium where Pilate questioned him prior to judgement. Three hundred years later, as Rome was converting to Christianity under the leadership of Emperor Constantine and his zealous mother St. Helena, Helena had the marble steps of the Praetorium extracted and sent to Rome. Tradition says that by ascending the steps on one’s knees, the Scala Sancta, Holy Stairs or Jerusalem Steps, will bring Catholic Pilgrims special blessings, especially on Fridays or during Lent. It was following an ascent of these steps that Martin Luther allegedly experienced a prompting from the Holy Spirit directing him to rely on Faith rather than works. This experience was a turning point in Luther’s life and launched the reformation.

Today, Christian pilgrims still ascend the Jerusalem Steps on their knees, seeking for spiritual insight, divine guidance or, in Catholic Terminology, plenary indulgence–remission of temporal punishment as a result of sin. Interestingly, there is a sign at the base of the Scala Sancta instructing pilgrims that climbing the Holy Steps on bended knees does not substitute for sincere repentance. To receive entrance to the true Holy City, one must ascend the golden steps with a broken heart and contrite spirit.

Mostly True Stories, Places

Only the Penitent Shall Pass

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In Rome, the price of repentance is high. The stones are hard, the hours are long, and the wages are low.

The Price of Penitence
Kneeling in the attitude of penitent prayer, this woman remains still for hours, hoping her prayers will be answered with coins in her cup.
Mostly True Stories

Oh Christmas Tree

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The King of Kings was born in a manger some 2000 years ago. On that night, a new star appeared in the heavens. The star gave light to those seeking the Light of the World. From that first Christmas night, lights have been used to symbolize the Christ Child. Sometime during the renaissance, candles were placed on trees at Christmas to symbolize the birth of the Babe in Bethlehem.

Many now bring lighted trees inside their homes during the Christmas season, yet, the purpose and meaning of the lighted symbol has been forgotten or lost entirely. Lights may adorn the festive holiday trees during the Christmas season and then be put away or, eventually burn out completely, yet, the Candle of the Christ Child, the Light of the World still burns brightly.

For those in need, for those who mourn, for those who feel alone, or lost, or forgotten, the Light of the World still shines during this Christmas season and throughout the year. Perhaps the lights of the season, the symbols of Christmas, may remind us of his gift and bring our footsteps closer to him through the kindness of our actions whenever and wherever we may find them still burning.

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. –Luke 2:14

Prayers Ascending
The prayers of those in need rise from this tree shaped candelabra at a Catholic Cathedral in Rome.
Mostly True Stories, Places

Searching for the Spirit of Christmas

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Temple Square Reflecting Pool
The reflecting pool on Temple Square tells the story of Christmas in twinkling lights.

“I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach!”
― Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

This past year I have been in nearly 30 countries. I have stood on every continent (except Antarctica–maybe next year :). I have been away from home more than I like, more than I should. I have been running as fast as I can, working as hard as I am able. I have had some marvelous, even miraculous experiences. Yet, I would choose to stay home, surrounded by family and friends.

Christmas Lights on Temple Square
Surrounded by thousands of twinkling Christmas lights, the Salt Lake Temple stands as a symbol of faith and hope to more than 15 million Latter-day Saints (Mormons) across the world.

And so it was that our family gathered for Thanksgiving. It was a joyous experience to be with those whom I know love me. The day after Thanksgiving, we all went to Salt Lake City to see the Christmas Lights on Temple Square. As is typical when our family gathers, we were in a hurry. It was cold. We ran through Temple Square trying not to lose each other, trying not to knock anyone over, trying not to lose the Grandparents who wanted to keep up but who kept stopping to enjoy the sights. I barely had time to pull out my camera.

The Color of Christmas
Red, a color of Christmas, lights for the Star of Bethlehem, stone for the Rock of Salvation.

After getting separated, and reconnecting (thanks to cell phones), we ended up at my son and daughter-in-laws apartment drinking egg nog and playing “Apples to Apples.” It was fun, and exhausting, in a good way.

When we returned home, I realized, again, that the joy of Christmas is in keeping it in our hearts and our homes.  I do believe there is a gift, given freely by him, whom we celebrate, that lights our homes, our hearts and our minds, even in the darkest of times.

“And it was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim observed, God bless Us, Every One!”
― Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

Star of Bethlehem
Soaring above Temple Square, a star shaped display points across time to the Babe of Bethlehem, born in a manger.