I recently shot the first ever “Kids Only” Spartan Race, in Stamford, CT. We had perfect weather, but a lot of back lit subjects. Gave me the perfect opportunity use the new speedlite…and holy crap. I’m officially a daytime flash addict. 

All shots on Cannon 70D, using either 10-22 ultra wide or 24-70 2.8 lenses, with 600EX speedlite. Aroo. 

Everyone knows where they were the morning of 9.11.01. Living only a few miles outside the city, the skyline looms as a daily reminder. But - we move forward, and the Tribute in Light is a beautiful remembrance. 

All shots with Canon 70d and Canon 24-70 2.8L, ranging from 5-15 second exposures. 

I missed the Coney Island Mermaid Festival to start the summer, but I made sure to close the season with “The Biggest 50s Party of the Year.” Anywhere they have Hula-hooping for Make-a-Wish, I’m in. So many favorite hotrods again this year. As always, I wanted to get more people in the shots. Next year I think I’ll go later in the day and see if there are more rockabilly folk. 

Here’s the first batch. All images via Canon 24-70 2.8 II, on the 70d. 

Or should I say, slow moving photographer? Get it? Ehhhh.

I shot a mini obstacle course on behalf of Spartan Race & Spartan Kids this month. Tough lighting, in combination with some athletic kids, made for some motion blur. A few shots in I think I found my rhythm though, and was able to dial in the right settings for some fun shots. Letting my Speedlight do some heavy lifting was definitely appreciated. 

The 70d kept up, and it was awesome to make use of the focus system in that environment. In all, I’m pretty happy with the take. 

A few points of note:

• Batteries, batteries, batteries. It might be time for a battery grip, and the flash eats AA’s for breakfast.
  
• Drink more. And when you think you’re fully hydrated, drink a little extra. 
  
• Sharpening and noise reduction, when used sparingly, are your friend. 
  

Here’s a few favs from the day. All shots taken with Canon 70d, using either Canon 24-70 2.8 II, or (mostly) Canon 10-22 3.5 ultra wide. All shots used the Canon 600EX-RT Speedlite. 

Made a quick stop at the MOMA this weekend. 

I kind of wish I had spent more time there, and had done a little research before just walking in. Initial observation: it sort of seems like “being at the MOMA” is a huge part of going to the MOMA, if that makes any sense at all. Still, a pretty awesome place. 

Not loving the noise I’m getting with my 70D when shooting at ISO 800. It could just be me being picky, but it seems really noticeable. 

Just a few shots from the day, all taken on Canon 70D, with 24-70 2.8 or 10-22 ultrawide.