Sawpo's

Sentosa Flowers Festival 2012

2012-01-25T21:02:00.000+08:00

This is my second consecutive year visiting the Sentosa Flowers Festival...

As usual, the place was swarmed by more tourists than locals. This year's festival is a bit of a letdown in terms of the variety & quantities of flowers. Nonetheless, it's still a great opportunity to bring out my camera & work off those calories that I've piled on during the festive seasons.

278 of Project 365: Habenaria

2011-11-27T21:36:00.001+08:00

ISO: 2000

Exposure: 1/15 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

277 of Project 365: 刺, 刺, 刺!

2011-11-27T21:30:00.001+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

276 of Project 365: 开枝散叶

2011-11-27T21:24:00.001+08:00

ISO: 160

Exposure: 1/60 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

275 of Project 365: 红与绿

2011-11-27T21:15:00.001+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/125 sec

Aperture: 4.0

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

274 of Project 365: Ghost Tree

2011-11-27T21:09:00.001+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/500 sec

Aperture: 7.1

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

273 Project 365: 大自然的颜色

2011-11-27T21:01:00.002+08:00

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/40 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

272 of Project 365: 小花

2011-11-27T20:54:00.000+08:00

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/60 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

271 of Project 365: Dali

2011-11-20T18:16:00.000+08:00

Dali: Mind of a Genius

The ArtScience Museum

14 May to 13 Nov 2011

ISO: 1600

Exposure: 1/60 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 21mm

Flash Used: No

270 of Project 365: Boat Ride Through Tasik Chini

2011-10-16T18:44:00.000+08:00

Detour to Tasik Chini on our way from Kuantan to Singapore.

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/125 sec

Aperture: 3.5

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

269 of Project 365: 两小无猜

2011-10-08T18:14:00.000+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/320 sec

Aperture: 6.3

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

268 of Project 365: 吊桥

2011-10-08T17:55:00.001+08:00

Taken at Sungai Lembing, Kuantan - Malaysia

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/250 sec

Aperture: 7.1

Focal Length: 23mm

Flash Used: No

267 of Project 365: 大炮

2011-10-08T17:23:00.000+08:00

Taken at Bukit Malawati, Kuala Selangor - Malaysia

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/640 sec

Aperture: 9.0

Focal Length: 17mm

Flash Used: No

266 of Project 365: Blooming, Full Bloom & Withered

2011-10-08T17:04:00.000+08:00

An interesting picture which sees the 3 stages of the life of a flower from blooming, full bloom & withered.

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/125 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 40mm

Flash Used: No

265 of Project 365: Shih Tzu

2011-10-08T16:45:00.000+08:00

Her name is Barbi, a 6 months old Shih Tzu, adopted by my cousin & her friend.

This is my first time taking picture of a dog & it's really not easy to get a clear picture because the object is in constant movement.

In this case, Barbi only stay put when we place her on a chair too high for her to jump off. Maybe that explains the sulky face :)

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/4 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 38mm

Flash Used: No

264 of Project 365: Film

2011-09-18T19:41:00.000+08:00

I finally managed to use up this roll of film which I took using the 35mm Twin-Lens Reflex Camera.

The film was sent for development yesterday and would be ready for collection on 20 Sep 2011.

Pretty excitied to see the final results but I think I might have ovrerexposed or overlaped a film pictures because initially I wasn't sure how much to turn to the knob for the next grid.

Well, this was meant to be experimental, and it's all in good fun, any mistakes mades are lessons learnt.

Stay tune for the posting on some of the pictures I've taken!

ISO: 200

Exposure: 0.7692308 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

263 of Project 365: 中秋节

2011-09-12T20:39:00.000+08:00

月圆人团圆

中秋节快乐

ISO: 1250

Exposure: 1/30 sec

Aperture: 3.5

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

262 of Project 365: 上色

2011-09-07T21:42:00.000+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/160 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 39mm

Flash Used: No

Dinner @ Kraze Burger

2011-09-04T22:16:00.000+08:00

Dinner at Kraze Burger @ MBS

Semi-Nude: For those who prefer a low carbo diet

Salad with fried chicken strips

261 of Project 365: 对比 - Set of Wheels

2011-09-04T21:58:00.000+08:00

两位都以轮子代步，但感觉却截然不同。

看到这个画面，心理有许多感触和些许的感伤。

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/200 sec

Aperture: 6.3

Focal Length: 23mm

Flash Used: No

260 of Project 365: Vantage Spot

2011-09-04T21:39:00.001+08:00

I wonder why he chose this particular spot......

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/200 sec

Aperture: 4.5

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

National Museum of Singapore

2011-09-03T00:24:00.000+08:00

259 of Project 365: 走进走出

2011-09-03T00:20:00.000+08:00

ISO: 640

Exposure: 1/4 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

258 of Project 365: In the Pic

2011-09-03T00:05:00.000+08:00

ISO: 640

Exposure: 1/2 sec

Aperture: 18.0

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

257 of Project 365: Hibiscus

2011-08-31T00:01:00.001+08:00

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/640 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

万花筒

2011-08-30T22:15:00.001+08:00

摄于总统府

蜻蜓点水

2011-08-30T20:11:00.000+08:00

黄与黑的。

红的。我喜欢 :)

In The Shade

2011-08-30T20:00:00.000+08:00

Caught this little one hiding in a flower.

不知名的花

2011-08-30T19:54:00.000+08:00

又像胡姬花又像蝴蝶

256 of Project 365: Bumbly Bee

2011-08-30T19:39:00.000+08:00

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/50 sec

Aperture: 18.0

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

255 of Project 365: Starbucks

2011-08-13T19:05:00.000+08:00

My regular: Ice Grande Latte

ISO: 400
Exposure: 1/4 sec
Aperture: 5.6
Focal Length: 45mm
Flash Used: No

Lunch @ Astons Specialities

2011-08-10T23:40:00.000+08:00

Nice food at affordable price.

Warning: Meat extensive, not meant for vegetarians.

IBC Root Beer

Sis: What's a root beer?

Me: Don't know

Sis: Sarsi lor!

Me: ???

Well, I guess Sarsi is a drink better known to the Gen X.

I can't even remember the last time I saw/had a Sarsi, so do let me know if you know where I can find Sarsi.

New York Strip, Medium

Looking at the picture now is enough to make my mouth water again.

Tender & juicy, pure bliss!

Prime Ribeye X'tra Cut, Medium

House Salad

Coleslaw

Garlic Bread

Hickory BBQ Chicken

Sausage Sampler

Wagyu Burger

A bit of a disappointment because the beef patty is a tad dry & I can't really taste the meat.

Huh, could be due to the fact that this was served last, so my taste bud was already blanketed by the succulence of the New York Strip & Prime Ribeye.

254 of Project 365: NDP 2011

2011-08-10T22:51:00.001+08:00

National Day Parade, 9 Aug 2011

Taken at The Promontory @ Marina Boulevard

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/30sec

Aperture: 1.7

Focal Length: 20mm

Flash Used: No

World Class Society

2011-08-07T21:10:00.001+08:00

What does "World Class Society" mean to you?

Mixed Media Installation by Tony Oursler @ SAM

2011-08-07T20:48:00.000+08:00

Racial Harmony

2011-08-07T19:56:00.000+08:00

Da Gu

Mirudhangam

Baya

I am made for SAM

2011-08-07T19:47:00.000+08:00

My passport to the Singapore Art Museum, admission is free.

Check out the details for free admission to the 7 museums under the National Heritage Board here.

253 of Project 365: Installation

2011-08-07T19:41:00.001+08:00

ISO: 250

Exposure: 1/30 sec

Aperture: 1.7

Focal Length: 20mm

Flash Used: No

252 of Project: Identity Issues

2011-08-07T19:29:00.007+08:00

Who am I?

ISO: 800

Exposure: 1/6 sec

Aperture: 1.7

Focal Length: 20mm

Flash Used: No

251 of Project 365: Breakfast

2011-08-07T17:30:00.002+08:00

Sunday morning, 7 Aug 2011, I awoke to the sound of heavy thunderstorm & smell of food wafting from the kitchen.
Here's my breakfast prepared by my mom & sis.
My sis was actually inspired by the "Full Works" breakfast we had at Food for Thought, and here's her take to prepare something similar.
We had rosemary focaccia bread, bratwurst, scrambled eggs with tomato & onion, not forgetting our own grinded coffee.

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/30 sec

Aperture: 1.7

Focal Length: 20mm

Flash Used: No

250 of Project 365: Chained

2011-08-07T12:26:00.000+08:00

ISO: 250

Exposure: 1/30 sec

Aperture: 1.7

Focal Length: 20mm

Flash Used: No

249 of Project 365: Typewriter

2011-08-07T12:09:00.000+08:00

Typewriter on display @ the Singapore Philatelic Museum

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: 1.7

Focal Length: 20mm

Flash Used: No

Food for Thought, SAM @ 8Q

2011-08-07T10:34:00.001+08:00

SAM @ 8Q is an extension of the Singapore Art Museum (SAM) at 8 Queen (8Q) Street.

My second visit to Food for Thought.
I like this place because it is in town but away from the usual mall crowd.
A great place to enjoy my breakfast leisurely, after which I can hop over to the Singapore Art Museum or walk further down to Bugis.

Outdoor area: It can be hot sitting outdoor in our weather, but I noticed vertical stand-up fan.

Tiled table top.

Full Works:

Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Garlic Mushrooms, Chunky Chicken Sausage, Hash Brown, Toasted Brioche with Toasted Tomato Salad
The serving is huge for one person, unless you are a big eater.

Duo of Pancakes with Mixed Berries
Almost half way through before I remember to take a picture.

248 of Project 365: 自拍

2011-07-24T20:14:00.000+08:00

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/1600 sec

Aperture: 3.5

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

247 of Project 365: Pandrol 7747

2011-07-24T20:07:00.000+08:00

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/250 sec

Aperture: 5.5

Focal Length: 36mm

Flash Used: No

246 of Project 365: 小花

2011-07-24T19:53:00.000+08:00

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/250 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 30mm

Flash Used: No

这是我走过的路 22072011

2011-07-24T19:41:00.000+08:00

245 of Project 365: 玉雕

2011-07-23T17:32:00.000+08:00

ISO: 2500

Exposure: 1/6 sec

Aperture: 5.2

Focal Length: 29mm

Flash Used: No

244 of Project 365: 走入历史

2011-07-21T23:54:00.002+08:00

KTM Railway Track

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/800 sec

Aperture: 3.5

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

243 of Project 365: Bracket Fungus

2011-07-21T23:32:00.001+08:00

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/320 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

242 of Project 365: 铁轨旁的花

2011-07-21T23:30:00.001+08:00

Couple in background wearing the traditional Vietnamese Non La.

KTM Railway Track near Tanjong Pagar Terminal

ISO: 200
Exposure: 1/160 sec
Aperture: 3.8
Focal Length: 17mm
Flash Used: No

241 of Project 365: Convergence

2011-07-21T23:29:00.001+08:00

两条平行线也有交汇的时候

KTM Railway Track near Tanjong Pagar Terminal

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

240 of Project 365:Tendril

2011-07-19T23:03:00.001+08:00

Taken at ZenXin Organic Park, Johor Bahru

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/1600 sec

Aperture: 3.5

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

Terracotta Warriors: The First Emperor & His Legacy

2011-07-19T21:55:00.000+08:00

Terracotta Warriors: The First Emperor & His Legacy @ Asian Civilisations Museum

Bronze Bell (bo) dedicated to Duke Wu

Bronze

Spring & Autumn Period (770-476 BCE)

Sword with gold handle

Iron, gold & turquoise

Spring & Autumn Period (770-476 BCE)

Seal

Bronze

Western Han Dynasty (1st century BCE)

Imprint of seal: 卫将长史

General

Terracotta

Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE)

Kneeling Archer

Terracotta

Qin Dynasty

Painted Cavalryman

Earthenware

Western Han Dynasty (2nd century BCE)

239 of Project 365: 稳如泰山

2011-07-19T00:17:00.000+08:00

ISO: 1600

Exposure: 1/6 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

Singapore River Gallery @ Asian Civilisations Museum

2011-07-19T00:06:00.000+08:00

Singapore River Gallery

Miniatures depicting the living quarters of the coolies.

Life After Death

2011-07-18T22:08:00.000+08:00

Life After Death: An Installation by Justin Lee

238 of Project 365: Layers

2011-07-18T20:21:00.000+08:00

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/125 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

Johor Baru (JB) Day Trip: ZenXin Organic Park

2011-07-17T22:05:00.000+08:00

Last leg of the trip was a visit to ZenXin Organic park before we go KSL for shopping, followed by dinner.

This park is huge..... Besides organic farming, there is also a sort of mini zoo.

Johor Baru (JB) Day Trip: Durian Buffet

2011-07-17T20:44:00.000+08:00

After brunch, we went for some retail therapy before heading for our durian buffet at around 3 plus in the afternoon.

If I'm not wrong, I think 2 baskets of durians had been selected before hand for our group. The durians weren't exactly fantastic but we did get to taste a variety of different durian ranging from yellow to white meat, sweet to bitter taste to cater to different taste bud.

There were also curry vegetable, bee hoon & water melon for those who don't eat durian or still hungry after their durian.

Johor Baru (JB) Day Trip: Kampong Visit

2011-07-17T19:07:00.003+08:00

Date: 16 July 2011

Destination: Johor Baru, Malaysia

After being caught in the jam at the custom for hours & witnessing at least 2 dozens Ferrari zooming pass our coach (no kidding, this was the highlight of our whole trip), we finally made it!

First stop, a kampung visit where we were supposed to have our breakfast.
Actually, it was already past 11am by the time we digged in.

Sour Sop

Fried mushroom

Fresh mushroom

Jambu freshly plucked from the tree.

The gadget used to pluck the jambu was a modified plastic bottle.

Creative, simple & effective!

Cute little girl posing for us :)

There are alot of flies all over the place so such fly trap was a common sight.

237 of Project 365: Durian

2011-07-17T18:27:00.002+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

Glow

2011-07-17T17:38:00.000+08:00

No special effect, the stems seem to glow.

Nature's Colour

2011-07-17T17:28:00.000+08:00

Antz Attack!

2011-07-17T17:24:00.000+08:00

Close Up

2011-07-17T17:14:00.000+08:00

Back side view

Side view

Top view

Lunch @ A-Roy Thai

2011-07-15T21:17:00.000+08:00

Everything is hot, hot, hot! Shiok!

Catfish with mango salad

Olive rice. One of the dish which is not spciy.

Morning glory

But this is the local kang kong unlike the real morning glory I had at Tawandang or Bangkok.

Green curry beef

236 of Project 365: Muffin

2011-07-15T20:42:00.000+08:00

My sis conducted a baking session on making muffin specially for my cousin who came all the way from Kuala Lumpur to learn from her. Shown here is the output of their combine effort. My contribution is taking pictures & eat.

Bon Appetit!

ISO: 800

Exposure: 1/8 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

Les Exclusifs De Chanel

2011-05-07T14:15:00.002+08:00

"What if we could capture time and hold it in a bottle, along with all of its treasures and promises? What if time - both past and future - was revealed from one bottle to another, until it was all held in a unique collection of fragrances? The time of CHANEL; time that comes back, if only to fly away again."

"Twelve identical bottles; twelve pure forms; luxurious simplicity: an expression of the genius of CHANEL. A collection of rare fragrances, composed in the past by Ernest Beaux - the exclusive perfume creator for Mademoiselle Chanel - and in the present by Jacques Polge - the "Master Perfumer" for the House. A way of reinvesting time and celebrating something that goes beyond fashion: the spirit of CHANEL."

Unboxing Beige from Les Exclusifs De Chanel.

Les Exclusifs De Chanel is only available at the Shoppes @ Marina Bay Sands.

This is by far the biggest bottle of perfume I owned at 200ml, but it's not the most expensive on a per ml basis. If you have read my earlier post, you would know when my love for perfume began.

It's always so pleasurable and enjoyable to shop at the flagship Chanel store at MBS because of the outstanding level of service. Shopping at the store is more than purely transactional, the Beauty Advisors would share the history & philosophy behind each product and this is where I had a taste of "going out of the way" service from the Beauty Advisors to provide the best shopping experience.

A special magnetic cap that ensures that the logo would stay align to the bottle.

The twelve creations of Les Exclusifs De Chanel:

1. No. 22

2. Gardenia

3. Bois Des Iles

4. Cuir De Russie

5. Eau De Cologne

6. 31 Rue Cambon

7. No. 18

8. Coromandel

9. Bel Respiro

10. 28 La Pausa

11. Sycomore

12. Beige

235 of Project 365: Beige Chanel

2011-05-07T13:47:00.000+08:00

"I take refuge in beige because it's natural." said Mademoiselle Chanel.

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/80 sec

Aperture: 1.7

Focal Length: 20mm

Flash Used: No

Chijmes

2011-04-17T23:12:00.000+08:00

Chijmes

Lunch @ Gyu-kaku (牛角)

2011-04-17T21:53:00.000+08:00

Gyu-Kaku @ Chijmes

I finally found a place that serves BBQ meat that's worth trying. It's quite a leap of faith to try this place considering that the cost of the meal is going to be, well very expensive, but I guess the craving for great BBQ meat overrides all.

I'm glad to say that the overall experience had been great & the Wagyu is definitely heavenly.

We arrived at the restaurant slightly before 1 pm on a Sunday afternoon, and we were the first customers of the day. But another family of 3 soon arrived behind of heels.

Considering that there were only 2 groups of customers, we had the full attention of Kali, the restaurant manger & the other staff.

This being our first visit, Kali suggested some of the must-try. So read on..........

This was one of the items we ordered. The Premium Japanese Wagyu. We also tried the Australian Wagyu which my mom liked, while I prefer the Japanese Wagyu.

Piping hot coal which made all the difference to the taste of the meat. The wire mesh will be changed mid-way when it became dirty.

Rock Salt

Rock salt, some spicy & sweet sauce were provided but I think the meat already taste great just on its own, so I didn't really need much of the sauce.

Horenso Salad. Some greens to balance a meaty meal.

My philosophy is BBQ meat is heaty, so I must have my "liang teh" to counteract the heatiness.

This is my mom's preferred Australian Wagyu.

Cow's Tongue. This is simply mind-blowing! I'm really not sure how to describe the taste. I can only say that it taste almost like beef but even better with more bite to it. Get it? Simply put - It's a must try!

Assorted mushrooms cooked in butter.

Oh......Look at the marbling on the beef......

Here's our platter of Premium Japanese Wagyu.

This is my first time eating such premium Wagyu, even as a novice, looking at the colour & marbling of the meat, I can tell that this is definitely going to be delicious. This actually reminded me of the Toro I had at Tsukiji, Tokyo.

Complimentary Milk Pudding to round up a great meal. The milk pudding is really smooth & the brown syrup is just right, not too sweet & the soya powder on top provided a hint of nuttiness to balance the taste.

234 of Project 365: Chijmes

2011-04-17T20:11:00.000+08:00

ISO: 100
Exposure: 1/250 sec
Aperture: 1.7
Focal Length: 20mm
Flash Used: No

233 of Project 365: Keeping Scores

2011-04-11T21:46:00.000+08:00

ISO: 320

Exposure: 1/60 sec

Aperture: 4.0

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

The Merlion Hotel

2011-04-11T21:41:00.000+08:00

The Merlion Hotel by Tatzu Nishi

232 of Project 365: Lamp

2011-04-11T20:57:00.001+08:00

Lamp hanging on Anderson Bridge

ISO: 320

Exposure: 1/200 sec

Aperture: 5.2

Focal Length: 29mm

Flash Used: No

231 of Project 365: The ArtSciene Museum

2011-04-11T20:35:00.000+08:00

It's a boat, it's a plane, it's The ArtSciene Museum. Have you checked out this latest additional to our cultural scene?

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/250 sec

Aperture: 5.0

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

230 of Project 365: Sunset over Sepang Gold Coast

2011-03-01T23:10:00.000+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/1600 sec

Aperture: 16.0

Focal Length: 40mm

Flash Used: No

229 of Project 365: Dragon Fruit Plant

2011-03-01T23:04:00.000+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/250 secAperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

228 of Project 365: Country Road

2011-03-01T22:58:00.000+08:00

Country Roads

Take me home

To the place I belong

West Virginia

Mountain mama

Take me home

My country roads

(Take Me Home Country Roads by John Denver)

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/500 sec

Aperture: 8.0

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

227 of Project 365: Pineapple

2011-03-01T22:38:00.001+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

226 of Project 365: Sunset at Morib Beach

2011-03-01T01:07:00.000+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/320 sec

Aperture: 7.1

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

225 of Project 365: Picture of a Picture

2011-03-01T00:52:00.000+08:00

ISO: 160

Exposure: 1/100 sec

Aperture: 3.5

Focal Length: 14mm

Flash Used: No

224 of Project 365: Melon, Melon

2011-03-01T00:37:00.000+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/320 sec

Aperture: 7.1

Focal Length: 17mm

Flash Used: No

223 of Project 365: Take Flight

2011-03-01T00:31:00.000+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/800 sec

Aperture: 11.0

Focal Length: 23mm

Flash Used: No

222 of Project 365: 倒影

2011-02-28T23:50:00.000+08:00

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/15 sec

Aperture: 5.0

Focal Length: 26mm

Flash Used: No

221 of Project 365: Photography Books

2011-02-21T19:48:00.002+08:00

I bought these 3 books over the weekends at Kinokuniya:

(1) 梅問題の超質感商品攝影手法大公開

(2) DSLR 爱女生

(3) 恋上GF1

I went without anything in mind to buy but was so glad that I managed to get these 3 books, plus the 20% discount for member which was a bonus.

I came to know about books (1) & (2) via a few Taiwanese blogs while (3) was something I was looking for but only see it on the shelf now, so long after the launch of GF1, when a similar book on GF2 is already out in the market. The author of book (1) also has a website which has a trove of information related to everything photography.

ISO: 200

Exposure: 1/30 sec

Aperture: 1.7

Focal Length: 20mm

Flash Used: No

220 of Project 365: Winning Ticket

2011-02-17T19:34:00.002+08:00

Have you bought your winning ticket for the TOTO $10 million Hong Bao Draw on 18 February 2011?

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/60 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

219 of Project 365: Tool of the Trade

2011-02-14T21:56:00.000+08:00

Foundation & Conceal: How apt is thy name!

One end is a foundation brush to lay the groundwork of a perfect canvas & the other end is a concealer brush to hide imperfections.

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/40 sec

Aperture: 5.0

Focal Length: 26mm

Flash Used: No

218 of Project 365: Anchor

2011-02-13T18:10:00.002+08:00

Warning restricted content: Continue reading only if you are above 18 years old.

My old-time favourite beer since young even before Hoegaarden. And this used to be my dad's favourite too. Well, naturally since this was dad's preferred choice, I can only follow his taste & drink whatever he ordrered.

I like this beer for the light taste which is not bitter. This is the new look, maybe with improved formula but I can hardly tell because I have not drunk this for so long. I saw an advertisement promoting this beer & decided to buy a 6-pack for reminiscent sake.

Bottoms up!

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/15 sec

Aperture: 4.9

Focal Length: 25mm

Flash Used: No

Rose Valley @ Cameron Highlands

2011-02-09T20:54:00.000+08:00

Rose Galore

2011-02-07T21:34:00.000+08:00

Taken at Rose Valley, Cameron Highlands

Goose Attack!

2011-02-07T20:21:00.000+08:00

I was in a squatting position taking picture of this goose, while my mom was telling me not to go too close else the goose attack me, before I knew it the goose was coming after me! This goose is fiercer than the proverbial tigress, attacking people without being provoke. The way it bare it chest reminds me of Orangutan or Chimpanzee, thumping their chests as a show of prowess or excitement.

Foie gras, anyone?

217 of Project 365: My Desire

2011-02-06T16:07:00.000+08:00

I'm your Venus

I'm your Fire

At your Desire

Yeah, my baby! And it's an Anroid!

I received this HTC Desire HD as my birthday present (from mom, of course) a few days before Christmas in Dec 2010. Nope, my birthday is still a long way to go in March but I can't wait till then can I?

It was a breeze to synchronize all my Facebook, Twitter & email accounts, and my life has changed ever since. I swear, I'm not exaggerating! On top of taking pictures with my Xiao Bai (Panasonic GF1) for Project 365, the in-built 8 megapixel camera further exacerbate my photography frenzy to a whole new height.

Basically, I'm taking pictures of everything, anytime, anywhere & sharing them instantaneously. Those close to me would know that I'm no cam whore because watashi hate to take pictures of herself or being photographed. And why is it so hard to understand or reconcile why I don't like being photographed? If I love being photographed, I'll be standing & posing in front of the camera & not behind it right?

Notice the synthetic leather sleeve in this picture. This is a life-saver. My JC friend gave this to me & thanks to her & this protective sleeve that my handphone is still in one piece today. I fell down the stairs the very next day after I got this sleeve & my handphone flown out of my hand, down a couple of steps. So glad that nothing was damaged except for my butt & right ankle which, fingers crossed, will heal over time.

This incident also made me appreciate my friends more & truly grasp the meaning of "A friend in need, is a friend indeed". I've not seen this JC friend of mine for years yet she responded when I post my need for advise where I can buy a handphone cover on Facebook. We didn't get to see each other even when I went to her house to pick up the cover from the letter box outside her house as she was suppose to be on her way to Malaysia. I said suppose because she was actually at home with her sick son when I was there to pick up the cover, so we missed the opportunity to see each other & for me to thank her personally.

ISO: 400

Exposure: 1/60 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

216 of Project 365: Coffee Grinder

2011-02-06T15:18:00.001+08:00

I bought this hand-cranked coffee grinder during my first trip to Tokyo in 2008.

I was walking around the underground shopping mall deciding what to eat for dinner when I saw a row of coffee grinders on display at a shop in a quiet corner. Sadly, the shop was already closed. I made up my mind that I'll go back to the shop the very next day to buy a coffee grinder. There were many other designs available but I find this the most practical because the grinded coffee can be stored underneath so you can use this as a grinder & storage as well.

Despite the language barrier, the owner was very patient & helpful in demonstrating the use of the grinder & show me how to adjust the granularity according to preference.

I only started using this last year in 2010 (yes, 2 years later) and found that this was "Made in Taiwan", which doesn't matter because frankly it's not easy to find something that I like & suits my need without hunting it down. My philosophy is see it, like it, buy it. Of course, cost is a consideration, and this coffee grinder cost less than S$30. And it is not heavy so no reason why I shouldn't lug it all the way back from Japan to Singapore. Even till now, I don't see such coffee grinder being sold in Singapore. Of course, you can find it at some niche coffee place or at some hard to reach corner but so far I have yet to see it conveniently available at departmental stores.

Even if I weren't a coffee drinker, I'll still buy this as an ornamental piece because I really like the rustic, retro & minimalist feel.

That's it, time to enjoy a cuppa!

ISO: 320

Exposure: 1/60 sec

Aperture: 5.6

Focal Length: 43mm

Flash Used: No

Sentosa Flowers 3 - 13 Feb 2011

2011-02-06T14:38:00.000+08:00

Sentosa Boardwalk

2011-02-06T12:49:00.000+08:00

I managed to kill two birds with one stone:

Check out the newly opened Sentosa Boradwalk & visit Sentosa Flowers.

Frankly, the crowd wasn't as bad as I would have thought. I think that's partly becasue it's still early & the weather was still very hot so I actually felt that the crowd was thicker in Vivo City than outdoor.

I even saw a queue of at least 20 people in line to go in to the UOB Branch at basement two.

No idea about the temperature but it's really hot with a little breeze. Sunblock -check, sunglasses - check, but I forgot my hat. Well, getting sunburnt or expose to the elements seems to be part & parcel of photography

Yeah, we finally completed the 700m walk to reach Sentosa Island. Get your EzyLink ready for quick & hassle free access. Price per entry: S$1.

215 of Project 365: One in a Million

2011-02-06T11:48:00.002+08:00

This Project 365 is slightly different from the usual which only features one picture, here you can see the series of pictures taken (12 to be exact) and below is the chosen one.

In this case, I spent more than 5 mins squatting under the hot sun to capture these 12 shots. The best pictures are taken when there is sufficient light but the problem is I won't be able to review the pictures immediately on the LCD screen due to the glare from the sun. And to compensate for the uncertainty, I tend to take more shots to ensure that I can have a usable shot. Frankly, 12 pictures isn't alot, there are occasions where I used the multi-shot mode to capture fast moving objects & ended up with at least 30 shots. For professionals, the number can run into hundreds or thousands, as long as you have sufficient memory space & battery.

I guess luck has alot to do with getting the right picture because there were also occasions where none of the shots were nice or usable.

This picture is the 5th shot and there are a few which I also like but I can only choose one. Yes, after taking the pictures, I still have to go through the agonizing & painstaking process of reviewing them & finally settle for the one & only one. Sometimes, it can be quite a dilemma when I really want to post all the nice pictures to my blog instead of letting them reside in my hard disk & let my effort go to waste. Hence, I decided to post some of the nicer ones as well outside the confine of Project 365.

This is also the first time that I used the close-up filter outdoor. It has been really fun but tedious because I keep having to screw & unscrew the filter when I need to take different scenery. So worried that I might drop the filter or my lens will get scratch when I remove the filter.

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/320 sec

Aperture: 7.1

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No

I was deciding between this & the picture above but thought I've posted enough pictures with flowers. Both have nice DOF but the finally picture has a more interesting perspective with the bokeh effect in the foreground.

兔兔来拜年！

2011-02-05T21:43:00.000+08:00

Gigantic rotating rabbit at Resorts World.

But why green? Feng shui?

214 of Project 365: 洁白无瑕

2011-02-05T21:35:00.000+08:00

ISO: 100

Exposure: 1/400 sec

Aperture: 8.0

Focal Length: 45mm

Flash Used: No