Raul Rodriguez Photography: Blog https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog en-us (C) Fotoluminate LLC [email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Mon, 16 Mar 2020 06:37:00 GMT Mon, 16 Mar 2020 06:37:00 GMT https://www.photographybyraul.com/img/s/v-12/u658098663-o122390991-50.jpg Raul Rodriguez Photography: Blog https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog 120 120 Another Gables Beauty https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/3/another-gables-beauty This beautiful Tuscan villa home, located on the Biltmore Golf Course, was a pleasure to photograph.  I have no doubt I donated several golf balls to their back yard charity fund over the years!

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/3/another-gables-beauty Tue, 04 Mar 2014 21:15:41 GMT
Gables Luxury https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/2/gables-luxury Another beautiful Gables Estates Luxury home.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/2/gables-luxury Wed, 19 Feb 2014 23:46:35 GMT
Play Ball https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/2/play-ball Fun shoot with one of my favorite clients that completed construction of the new wellness center at St. Thomas University.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/2/play-ball Wed, 19 Feb 2014 21:22:15 GMT
Gables Paradise https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/1/gables-lot This lot in Coral Gables has tremendous potential for a luxury home.  Beautiful trees and your own grotto!

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/1/gables-lot Thu, 30 Jan 2014 22:09:24 GMT
Gem in the Grove https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/1/gem-in-the-grove Beautiful styling in this modern Coconut Grove residence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/1/gem-in-the-grove Thu, 30 Jan 2014 21:55:05 GMT
French Provincial https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/1/french-provincial Beautiful weather to capture the beauty of this Gables Estates French Provincial charmer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/1/french-provincial Sat, 25 Jan 2014 05:28:19 GMT
Beautiful Estate Revisited https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/1/beautiful-estate-revisited Back to this beautiful home for a few shots of the exterior due to a fresh coat of paint and a sparkling white roof.

Why not add a panorama to the mix!

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2014/1/beautiful-estate-revisited Thu, 23 Jan 2014 03:05:25 GMT
Hidden Beauty https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/12/hidden-beauty This spectacular estate was a pleasure to photograph.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/12/hidden-beauty Fri, 27 Dec 2013 03:43:58 GMT
1970s Revisited https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/12/1970s-revisited 1970s Revival!

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/12/1970s-revisited Thu, 12 Dec 2013 04:00:00 GMT
Black and White in Color https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/11/black-and-white-in-color Fun fashion shoot with one of my favorite models Victoria.  I chose the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach - they have plenty of natural light in certain areas and you can't go wrong with clean white backgrounds.  We went undercover with minimal equipment not to attract the fashion police!  I chose my very discreet Fuji X-E1 and spectacular 35mm f/1.4 lens to capture Victoria's beauty. 

Victoria's patented and insured with Lloyd's of London long legs did the rest!

 

 

 

 


Victoria the Queen of Facebook & the iPhone! Just couldn't resist.

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/11/black-and-white-in-color Tue, 26 Nov 2013 16:30:21 GMT
Cutler Bay Revisited https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/11/cutler-bay-revisited Here's another Cutler Bay beauty that we finished shooting with the cooperation from mother nature.

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/11/cutler-bay-revisited Tue, 19 Nov 2013 22:31:38 GMT
Classic White https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/11/classic-white Finally finished shooting this beautiful home in Cutler Bay.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/11/classic-white Wed, 13 Nov 2013 19:56:41 GMT
Fun with Bellies & Graffiti https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/10/fun-with-bellies-graffiti What a fun shoot with a great young couple expecting their first baby.  Not your typical maternity shoot in the colorful Wynwood district.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Fotoluminate LLC Maternity Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/10/fun-with-bellies-graffiti Mon, 21 Oct 2013 00:36:59 GMT
Another Charmer https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/10/another-charmer Another beautiful home captured!

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/10/another-charmer Fri, 18 Oct 2013 14:39:36 GMT
Cutler Bay Revisited https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/10/cutler-bay-revisited Here's another beautiful home from Cutler Bay that was waiting for a Photographer's eye.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/10/cutler-bay-revisited Wed, 02 Oct 2013 13:33:24 GMT
Cutler Bay https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/10/cutler-bay Blue skies means many opportunities to capture the beauty of luxury homes.  Here's a beauty from Cutler Bay.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/10/cutler-bay Wed, 02 Oct 2013 13:32:11 GMT
Gables Charmer https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/9/gables-charmer Fun shoot capturing the beauty of this recently completed North Gables charmer. 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/9/gables-charmer Sun, 29 Sep 2013 01:17:19 GMT
Nouveau Plantation Home https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/9/nouveau-plantation-home This home reminded me of a modern version of a Southern Plantation with the long drive way, majestic oak trees and vintage architectural style.  What a beauty both inside and out.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/9/nouveau-plantation-home Tue, 17 Sep 2013 03:42:52 GMT
Another Beauty https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/9/another-beauty Managed to squeeze this one in before the daily afternoon rain.  Very classy and stylish home.  A joy to photograph!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/9/another-beauty Fri, 13 Sep 2013 03:01:12 GMT
Gables Beauty https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/9/gables-beauty Great opportunity to photograph this beautiful home in the North Gables area.  The exterior shoot was delayed several days due to the gray skies but we managed to catch a glimmer of blue this week in the early morning.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/9/gables-beauty Sun, 08 Sep 2013 14:10:45 GMT
Gables Gem https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/8/gables-gem After a week of rain we were finally able to shoot this Gables gem with majestic oak trees.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/8/gables-gem Sat, 31 Aug 2013 14:46:54 GMT
More Food! https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/8/more-food More images were added to the Fotoluminate Food & Beverage Stock portfolio using the Tamron 90mm f/2.8 and Canon 5DMKII combo.  Lighting with 3 Einstein studio strobes in a product lighting set up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Food and Beverage Photography Fotoluminate LLC Raul Rodriguez Photography beans food food backgrounds pasta photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/8/more-food Tue, 13 Aug 2013 00:09:46 GMT
Beans https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/8/beans Beans were the flavor of the day.  Mr. Bean would have been proud!  Great shoot for the Fotoluminate Food & Beverage stock portfolio.  All images captured with the Canon 5DMKII and Tamron 90 f/2.8 macro lens.  Here's a sample of the colorful images.

Boxes of beans

Boxes of beans Boxes of beans Boxes of beans Boxes of beans Boxes of beans Boxes of beans

Boxes of beans Boxes of beans Boxes of beans

Assorted beans

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Food and Beverage Photography Fotoluminate LLC Raul Rodriguez Photography beans black beans chick peas garbanzo green peas kidney beans legume photography pinto beans red beans stock photography white beans https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/8/beans Mon, 05 Aug 2013 23:41:44 GMT
Senior Keys https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/8/senior-keys Nice senior portrait shoot with the lovely Casey in the Florida Keys.  Images captured with Canon 5DMKII/70-200mm f/2.8L & Fuji X-E1/35mm f/1.4

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Fotoluminate LLC Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography Senior Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/8/senior-keys Sun, 04 Aug 2013 18:40:18 GMT
Colors https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/colors These colorful images are from a local nursery and will be used for a print advertisement.

Beautiful daisy Red daisy Pretty Angelonia flowers Beautiful hibiscus Pretty flowers Texas sage Beautiful hibiscus

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography Texas sage beauty bloom blossom botanical gardens colorful daisy flowers hibiscus interior foliage nature nursery photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/colors Thu, 20 Jun 2013 16:31:43 GMT
Cigar Time https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/cigar-time Great shoot with my favorite male model Carlos in downtown Coral Gables.  These images are for my stock portfolio featuring handsome middle age men.  All images captured with the versatile Fuji X-E1 and 35mm f/1.4 lens combo and Lastolite tri-grip reflector for fill.

Handsome man Handsome man Handsome man Cigar smoker Smoking man

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Coral Gables Fotoluminate LLC Miami Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/cigar-time Sat, 15 Jun 2013 18:05:05 GMT
Simple Light https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/simple-light These images were captured for my favorite model and inspirational muse Katarina who needed new headshots for her portfolio.  Photographers often have inner battles in their attempt to conquer the lighting challenge.  Sometimes the simplest lighting solution is overlooked for the complexity of lighting technology.  Simplicity rules in these images.  Diffused lighting underneath a long north facing corridor of columns was the backdrop.  The wide columns served as the neutral background.  The model held a reflector to bounce some light back into her face.  Simple and effective!  Images captured with the spectacular Fuji X-E1 and 35mm f/1.4 combo. 

Beautiful young woman Beautiful young woman Beautiful young woman Beautiful young woman

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Fotoluminate LLC Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography head shots headshots photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/simple-light Tue, 11 Jun 2013 12:11:55 GMT
Aspiring Model https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/aspiring-model Another fun shoot shoot with a gorgeous girl.  Kayla is entering the modeling world and needed headshots.  These images will be used for her headshot card as well as a future composite.  She was a bundle of joy and what a great personality.  I see her on a few covers in the future.  All images captured with natural light using diffusers and reflectors.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography composite headshots photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/aspiring-model Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:34:29 GMT
Wynwood Portraits https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/wynwood-portraits Fun portrait shoot over the weekend with a beautiful young lady in the Wynwood area.  I originally shot a fashion spread in this location a few months ago when the morning light was ideally diffused by a southeasterly sunrise on the north facing wall.  The wall was perfectly diffused back then.  Whole different story this time around thanks to the summer orientation.  The sunlight was positioned against the wall so out came the diffusers to rescue the shoot. Never leave home without a versatile diffuser!  Images captured with the Canon 5DMKII and 70-200 f/2.8L combo.

This image was captured with the fabulous Fuji X-E1 and 35mm f/1.4 lens.  Dreamy bokeh produced by this lens.

No diffusion in these images.  Put some shades on, let the sun do its thing and just have some fun!

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Fotoluminate LLC Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/6/wynwood-portraits Wed, 05 Jun 2013 02:56:40 GMT
Sobe Penthouse https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/5/penthouse Great penthouse shoot in Miami Beach.  Spectacular views from the roof terrace along the intracoastal waterway!

Capri PH3 Capri PH3 Capri PH3 Capri PH3 Capri PH3 Capri PH3 Capri PH3 Capri PH3 Capri PH3 Capri PH3 Capri PH3

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate Fotoluminate LLC Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/5/penthouse Mon, 06 May 2013 23:20:59 GMT
St. Thomas University Leadership Golf Tournament https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/5/st-thomas-university-leadership-golf-tournament Always an honor to shoot the annual St. Thomas University Leadership Golf Tournament held at the Trump Doral Resort.  Since the famed Blue course is undergoing major renovations, the tournament was held on the Red & White courses.  Spectacular day for a golf outing!

Dolphin great Nat Moore in attendance.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Event Photography Fotoluminate Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/5/st-thomas-university-leadership-golf-tournament Fri, 03 May 2013 23:30:00 GMT
Hidden Beauty https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/5/hidden-beauty Hidden beauty in Cutler Bay.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/5/hidden-beauty Wed, 01 May 2013 23:30:00 GMT
Gables Beauty https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/5/beautiful-home Another great shoot in Gables Estates.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Fotoluminate Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/5/beautiful-home Wed, 01 May 2013 23:30:00 GMT
Sushi Heaven https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/4/sushi-heaven Wow, this was a tiring yet very rewarding shoot!  It's been over a year since my last Food & Beverage (F&B) shoot so I had to brush off the cob webs and take the dust off my indispensable macro lens.  This was a complete menu shoot with over 50 plates for a new restaurant in the Brickell Area called Nikko by Sunshine.  The owner is Sunshine which is Nikko in Japanese.  Sunshine creates a fusion of great Asian flavors.  The presentation is spectacular and the food is delicious - I know, I sampled every plate!  One of the perks of a food photographer. 

These images will be used on a new iPad style menu system as well as for web site and marketing campaigns.  Please stop by Nikko (186 SE 12th Terrace) for a great meal and tell Sunshine Raul the Photographer sent you.

Images captured with my Canon 5DMKII and Tamron 90 f/2.8 macro lens.  Lighting with two Einstein strobes and several reflectors.  Sunshine requested bright well lit images with greater depth of field to capture food details in the presentation.

Here's a sampling of the images - let the Pan Asian adventure begin!

For the Duck lovers!

Pad Thai with a Sea Serpent

This should be named the Don King Roll!

Gotta love the Penguin egg!

No Soup Nazi in this kitchen!

Surf & Turf

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Asian Food Food and Beverage Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography Restaurant Photography Sushi photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/4/sushi-heaven Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:31:54 GMT
Moorish https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/4/moorish Enjoyed photographing this beautiful Moorish style luxury home in Coconut Grove.  This is a one of a kind architectural style hidden in the beautiful and eclectic Coconut Grove.  The dark colored wood with the light colored walls made a nice contrast.

Master bath is impressive

Spectacular bay view

Beautiful chandelier overhead

Panoramic view of the front - luxury living at its best!

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/4/moorish Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:02:24 GMT
Hotel Interiors https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/4/hotel-interiors Another fun shoot for one of my favorite clients, The Miami Executive Fantasy Hotel chain.  This shoot was for their Mansion Motel located in Hialeah.  The Mansion's room interiors with the white/red walls and modern styling is quite different from their other hotels.  All images captured with interior lighting which presents a color temperature challenge with the diverse colors and strobe lighting effects. 

Couldn't resist using the fish eye lens for the distorted effect!

Shot several panoramas as well as 360 virtual tours for their new web site.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/4/hotel-interiors Tue, 16 Apr 2013 01:55:35 GMT
Coconut Grove Style https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/coconut-grove-style Great shoot in Coconut Grove for a new Real Estate client.  Unlike Coral Gables with it's Spanish/Mediterranean style homes, Coconut Grove maintains its eclectic and unique spirit.  This was a beautiful home!

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/coconut-grove-style Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:08:36 GMT
Wynwood Fashion https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/wynwood-fashion Great fashion shoot with my favorite model Nina.  The Wynwood graffiti walls in the midtown area was the back drop.  Nina wore a long white dress so we decided on subtle backgrounds to place a greater emphasis on the model.  Images captured with the Canon 5DMKII and trustworthy 70-200 f/2.8 lens as well as the awesome little Fuji X-E1 with the spectacular 35mm f/1.4 lens.  All images captured with natural light.

We spent the morning in the shade to avoid the raccoon eyes effect.  However, when in doubt and you want to catch that sunlight, ask the model to close their eyes and look up to the sky!

Beautiful young woman Beautiful young woman Beautiful young woman This wooden background is actually an entrance door to an outdoor studio for commercial shoots.

We couldn't resist the alien graffiti wall - Nina's favorite background. Nothing subtle about that background! LOL

We finished at noon and went straight to Gigi's for lunch.  Nina was cold so she put on the Eskimo gear.  With my Fuji X-E1, I captured my favorite image of the day.  Expect the unexpected when you finish a shoot!

Beautiful young woman

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Fashion Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/wynwood-fashion Mon, 18 Mar 2013 22:26:32 GMT
Sights & Sounds https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/sights-sounds Another great shoot with my good friend Jay Brooks.  Jay is the organist at the First United Methodist Church in Coral Gables.  Jay is a premier nationally acclaimed organist.  He had me mesmerized with his improvisations.  Look no further than Jay if you require an organist for a special event such as weddings and concerts.

These images will be used for church publications as well as stock images.  Images captured with the Canon 5DMKII camera and 85mm f/1.8 portrait lens, 15mm f/2.8 fisheye lens, Tamron 90mm f/2.8 macro lens & Zeiss 21 mm f/2.8 Distagon wide angle lens.  All images captured with available interior light.

Some motion blur...

Fisheye views...

These HDR or High Dynamic Range images (7 combined exposures) will be available for sale as prints on my Fine Art America website.

http://1-raul-rodriguez.artistwebsites.com/index.html

and the Black & White version...can you say Edgar Allan Poe

Two more HDR images of the majestic organ pipes.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Commercial Photography Event Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/sights-sounds Tue, 12 Mar 2013 20:29:52 GMT
Hot Chili & Cool Cars https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/hot-chili-cool-cars Fun afternoon with my princess checking out the Hot Chili & Cool Cars event at the Barnacle Historic State Park in Coconut Grove.  Images captured with my Fuji X-E1 and favorite lens, the 35mm f/1.4.  The image quality of this lens and camera combo never stops impressing me. 

Loved the vintage British ragtops!

Cute bubble bee colored Citroen - funky looking ride!

The Austin Healey 3000 MKIII was my favorite.

Nina Standing next to her favorite - the pick up Mini!

We stopped for Sushi in the Grove and this roll was delicious!  The image will no doubt join the stock portfolio.

Gotta love the Harleys in the Grove on a Sunday!

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Event Photography Food Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography antique cars car show stock photography vintage cars https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/hot-chili-cool-cars Mon, 11 Mar 2013 21:14:44 GMT
Elderly Living https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/elderly-living Another fun shoot for Miami Jewish Health Systems.  They needed some lifestyle shots as well as interior images from a newly renovated assisted living facility.  Enjoyed working with this cute elderly lady.  Her late husband was a pro photographer in New York so she had some great stories to share - particularly interesting was his interaction with Jackie O.

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Interior Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/3/elderly-living Thu, 07 Mar 2013 21:37:00 GMT
Graduation Portraits https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/high-school-portraits Quick high school graduation portrait with Shane.  I gelled my Bolero black background with a Rosco 1/4 blue filter to create a light blue/gray shade to the background.  The original background was to be a dark blue with a black gown but I was thrown a curve ball when Shane walked in with the dark blue gown.  Even the simple shoots can throw you a challenge but nothing that can't be overcome if you have the right equipment and forethought. 

Images captured with the Canon 70-200 f/2.8L lens and 5DMKII.

Here's another graduation portrait for very pretty Dayme who graduated from the University of Florida with honors.

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Event Photography Graduation Photography High School Graduation Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/high-school-portraits Thu, 14 Feb 2013 16:30:00 GMT
Studious College Girls https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/studious-college-girls Fun college lifestyle shoot in Gainesville on campus at the University of Florida outside Yulee Hall.  This brought back great memories from my days at UF many moons ago.  This was Michelle's first shoot and she nailed it!

Images captured with Canon 70-200 f/2.8L and 5DMKII.

Beautiful college girls Beautiful college girls Beautiful college girls

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/studious-college-girls Mon, 11 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT
Day at the Races https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/day-at-the-races Fun afternoon with great friends at Gulfstream Park watching the thoroughbred races.  Close to winning the pick 6 $1M stakes but no cigar!

Images captured with the Fuji X-E1 and 35mm f/1.4 lens.

What's a horse race without a lady wearing a hat!

Cigar girl. She reminded me of the pin up queen Bettie Page.  She needs a new headshot so stay tuned for a future Bettie Page lookalike shoot.

Beer Girl

Beautiful Dawn striking a pose

The clouds rolled in...

Sports Photographers on the job...

Dawn & Carlos...Bloody Mary's need a refill!

Dawn and Mary Ann

One big tractor!

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Event Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/day-at-the-races Sun, 10 Feb 2013 18:59:46 GMT
Luxurious https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/luxurious Wonderful assignment photographing this beautiful luxury home in Miami.  Most images captured with the venerable Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 Distagon lens.

A panorama of the entrance with majestic oak trees.

A panorama of the spectacular rear view.

Luxury living at its finest.

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography luxury homes panorama panoramic photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/luxurious Sat, 09 Feb 2013 15:19:27 GMT
Coloring Backgrounds https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/coloring-backgrounds Fun pics with my favorite models Andrea and Nina.  These are going straight to the stock portfolio.  Interesting what can be done with a standard black cloth background.  The background is actually a black 5' by 7' collapsible background.  You simply add a colored gel filter over the flash and voila - you have a colored background.  The color density is controlled by flash power and/or the application of multiple filters.  Simple and vastly flexible with lots of color options.  Lighting consisted of 2 Einstein strobes for key and fill, one Speedlite for hair and 2 Speedlites for the background.  Images captured with the versatile Canon 70-200 f/2.8 and 5DMKII.

Beautiful young women Beautiful young women Of course I added myself to the mix for some generic stock images!Handsome man The James Dean leather jacket bad boy look, in this case bad boy middle age man look!

Handsome man

Blue!

Handsome man Beautiful young woman

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/2/coloring-backgrounds Sat, 02 Feb 2013 00:45:00 GMT
Portraits in the Everglades https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/portraits-in-the-everglades I've been planning a day trip along US41 for a few months now with my good friend Aymee and was finally able to make the road trip a reality.  First stop was at one of the Miccosukee Indian airboat ride attractions.  If you want a great ride, look no further than the Panther airboat shop - the airboats are small which translates to speed and fun!

Waiting for our ride to begin at the bright yellow bench!

Colorful bench Aymee's expression was priceless when we hit full speed.  Notice the cotton balls in our ears to soften the very loud engine noise.

Our young guide was full of enthusiasm and shared lots of local knowledge.  Forgot his name but it was with initials like TJ or JT or TL or......

Image captured with the Fuji 18-55mm f/2.8 zoom.

We stopped at a small Indian Village in the middle of the swamp that was last inhabited in 1978.

Sewing machines in the Everglades!  Who would have thunk it!

Of course, what's the Everglades without an alligator!

Florida alligator

Arriving at Terminal 2, Gate 29...

The airboat ride ended with some optional play time with the local critters.  Please don't try this at home!

Next stop the Clyde Butcher Gallery to admire his beautiful black & white landscapes.

Beauty in of the Everglades.  This image was captured in the Grand Cypress Preserve.  The cypress trees are majestic but the real beauty lies in the profile of Aymee.  Love the bokeh of the 35mm f/1.4 lens shot wide open at 1.4.

Beautiful woman

Looking up at God's creation.

This image was also captured with the 35mm f/1.4 shot wide open at 1.4, incredibly sharp image. 

Cypress trees

The trip continued for a short stop to Everglades City.  A VERY small town in the middle of the swamp.  I photographed the yellow bench so of course I went looking for a yellow house as well!

Beautiful little church in small town USA.

The road trip continued to Naples to catch the sunset.  We got ripped off - no sunset!

But I did manage to catch this lady staring into the abyss from the Naples Pier. 

No great sunset but the clouds did provide a dazzling display of cotton balls.

Miss fishing with my father.

Thank you Aymee for a wonderful day in paradise.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Florida Everglades Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/portraits-in-the-everglades Fri, 01 Feb 2013 02:48:21 GMT
Art Unveiling https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/art-unveiling Nice event shoot at the Conrad Hotel in downtown Miami.  The Conrad hosted its 3rd Annual Art Unveiling Event featuring three talented artists.  Here are a few images from the event.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Event Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/art-unveiling Thu, 31 Jan 2013 21:52:04 GMT
My Favorite Model https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/my-favorite-models This old dude is too cute!  Combine an elderly man with an interesting look with just about any background and that spells success in the stock world.  My father is a very popular stock model with hundreds of downloads to his credit.  I love capturing his moments of introspection.  Almost 90 and still going strong - love the ole dude!

Images captured with my Fuji X-E1 and excellent 35mm f/1.4 lens.

Elderly man Elderly man Eyes still sparkling!

Elderly man

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/my-favorite-models Wed, 30 Jan 2013 01:00:00 GMT
365 - Days 19, 20, 21 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---days-19-20-21 Day 19 - Beans!

Another double exposure.  Scene - grocery shopping at Publix with my daughter.  Made a brief stop at the legumes aisle - can you say beans! Got some crazy stares from the onlookers...LOL

Image captured with my handy Fuji X-E1 & 35mm f1.4 shot at ISO1250, f/2.2 at 1/250 sec.

Day 20 - Band Sisters

My Day 20 image is from a portrait shoot (see separate blog post) for a new Country Western group called the Band Sisters.  Four lovely girls with magical voices needed some images for an upcoming promo and cover.  The Band Sisters are on the rise soon to be performing in Nashville.

Image captured with my Canon 5DMKII & 70-200 f/2.8L lens shot at ISO100, 93mm f/5.6 at 1/100 sec, tripod mounted on timer.

Day 21

No frills day.  Scene setting - Sugarcane Restaurant in midtown having lunch with my beautiful daughter.

Image captured with my Fuji X-E1 & 35mm f1.4 lens shot at ISO1250, f/2.8 at 1/50 sec.

For those keeping tabs on me you may have noticed I'm missing Day 18.  True story - I captured a great image in my house on the 18th and the next day I had a sudden lapse of judgement and deleted all images on the memory card!  Finally realized what I did a couple days later and after several attempts to recover the file - no success.  Ay caramba!

For those just tuning in, this is my ongoing attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!! 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---days-19-20-21 Mon, 21 Jan 2013 23:08:20 GMT
Band Sisters https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/band-sisters Fun shoot with a new Country Western group called the Band Sisters hitting the Nashville circuit.  The images are for an upcoming promo and will be converted to a Sepia tone.   Best wishes to these talented singers for a successful launch.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/band-sisters Mon, 21 Jan 2013 17:15:48 GMT
365 - Day 17 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-17 Day 17 - Bikinis & Mannequins

Nothing extravagant today.  This image was from my field testing of the Fuji X-E1 with my new 35mm f/1.4 lens in South Beach.  Image details - ISO200, f/5.6 at 1/50 sec.

For those just tuning in, this is my ongoing attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!! 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography Street Photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-17 Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:25:09 GMT
Sobe with the Fuji https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/sobe-with-the-fuji I decided to spend the morning in South Beach testing my new Fuji 35mm f/1.4 lens.  The little lens really lives up to its top notch billing.  The X-E1 with the 35mm lens makes a perfect combination for street shooting.

Here are a few images from this morning.  Some of these will be joining the stock portfolio.

Have you ever been hounded by those lovely restaurant hostesses on Ocean Drive.  Well I turned the tables on them and captured a few images of willing models.  These shots were all taken with the maximum aperture of f/1.4.  Even at 1.4 the images are very sharp.  This is an exceptional portrait lens that will be used in some upcoming sessions.  Notice the dreamy background rendering.  Love this lens!

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography Street Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/sobe-with-the-fuji Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:11:17 GMT
365 - Days 12, 13, 14, 15 & 16 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---days-12-13-14-15 Time continues and so does my 365 effort.  So far 16 for 16 - not a bad winning percentage!

Day 12 - Dog Walking the Shadow

An early celebration of my birthday began at Gilbert's in the Keys on Saturday the 12th with great friends.  A big thanks to Mary Ann & Tony for always providing some unforgettable moments.  Gilbert's is a great getaway from the Miami routine.  Briefly forget your trials and tribulations and enjoy the sights, sounds and libations.  Day 12 was a shadowy day with a walking dog.  The scene was the small dock behind Gilbert's just prior to sunset - the Golden Hour!  Image captured with my Fuji X-E1 and a brand new lens, the Fuji 35mm f/1.4.  A spectacular prime lens with outstanding image quality and a very dreamy bokeh (rendering of the out of focus area in the image) when shot wide open.  Image shot at ISO200, f/5.6 at 1/640 sec. 

Day 13 - Monitor Eyes

Day 13 was almost missed!  This was a last minute shot taken prior to midnight.  The scene was my office sitting in front of my PC.  The monitor created catch lights in my eyes.  Taken with my Fuji X-E1 and the 35mm f/1.4 lens which is quickly becoming my favorite camera/lens combo!  Image shot at ISO2000, f/1.4 at 1/60 sec.  Black & white conversion in Nik Silver Efex Pro2.

Day 14 - In Search of Country

Day 14 was a scouting run to locate a good background location for an upcoming portrait shoot with a country theme.  Country in Miami is an oxymoron!  Shot taken with my 5DMKII and 70-200 f/2.8L lens at 70mm, ISO100, f/5.6 at 1/200 sec.   Sepia conversion in Nik Silver Efex Pro2.

Day 15 - Focus Loss

Day 15 scene was at my parents home with the Fuji X-E1 and the new 35mm f/1.4 lens.  Image shot at ISO800, f/2.8 at 1/160 sec.  Black & white conversion in Nik Silver Efex Pro2. 

My mother is in the background, out of focus, which these days is meant both literally and figuratively as she is suffering from Alzheimers.  The house has a door facing the north which I opened to light the room.  My mother was front lit while I was back lit.  There's a certain glow surrounding her.  The image captured a moment of brief clarity in a world of vast uncertainty!  How long will I be in focus?

I love you Mami!

Day 16 - Birthday

Day 16 scene was at Cibo Wine Bar in the Gables celebrating my birthday this evening with a group of friends pictured in the background.  After a few attempts I managed to get this one.  Shot with the Fuji X-E1 and the 35mm f/1.4 lens at ISO1250, f/1.4 at 1/50 sec.  Black & white conversion in Nik Silver Efex Pro2.  Gotta love the bokeh and grainy look at ISO1250.

 

For those just tuning in, this is my ongoing attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!! 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---days-12-13-14-15 Thu, 17 Jan 2013 02:05:24 GMT
365 - Days 9,10 & 11 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-9 Days 9, 10, & 11

I was very busy with some photography assignments so I had very little time to capture self portraits for my 365 project.  Nevertheless, I was able to keep on track and capture a few daily images with my handy Fuji X-E1.

For those just tuning in, this is my ongoing attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!! 

For those just tuning in, this is my ongoing attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!! 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-9 Sat, 12 Jan 2013 15:17:04 GMT
Beautiful Home https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/beautiful-home I've always been drawn to architecture.  The convergence of intersecting lines and juxtaposition of different shapes is aesthetically appealing to the eye .  The Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 Distagon is a wonderful architecture lens.  I thoroughly enjoyed photographing this beautiful home.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography Real Estate Photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/beautiful-home Sat, 12 Jan 2013 14:23:16 GMT
365 - Day 8 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-8 Day 8 - Sympathy for the Turkey

I honestly did not believe I would make it this far!  But another day bites the dust.  Scene setting - my kitchen, inside the oven, now that's a small studio!  I used one of my favorite lens, the Canon 15mm f/2.8 fisheye.  The creativity potential for this lens is only limited by the users ability.  I placed a Canon 580EXII Speedlite inside the oven manually powered at 1/32 and triggered by a Pocket Wizard.  The light was bounced off the ceiling of the oven to soften the blow.  The 5DMKII was set at ISO 800, f/8 at 1/25 second shutter speed.  Focusing on these super wide lenses is relatively simple since they have such a great depth of field.  B&W conversion using Nik Silver Efex Pro2.

Now you know what a turkey feels like on Thanksgiving day!  God bless the Turkey!

For those just tuning in, this is my ongoing attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!! 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography self portrait https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-8 Tue, 08 Jan 2013 22:18:01 GMT
365 - Day 7 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-7 Day 7 - Taco Heaven

This was a no frills photography day.  I hit the road to check out some bags for my new Fuji at Pitman Photo and stopped along the way at my favorite fast food Tex Mex restaurant Taco Rico on US1.  The couple of ounces of Mayan blood running through my veins demands a Mexican fix before I hit extreme Yucatan withdrawal!  I was a happy camper!  Image taken with my handy Fuji X-E1.  By the way, the wait staff must have thought I was missing a few screws by the funny stares. LOL   

For those just tuning in, this is my ongoing attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!! 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-7 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 22:43:17 GMT
365 - Day 6 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-6 Day 6 - Curious George

Ok, let's ditch the black background. How about my bookcase? That can work but we'll need a shallow depth of field. The equipment - my Canon 5DMKII with the venerable Canon 85mm f/1.8 portrait lens shot at ISO100, f/1.8, 1/200 sec lit with 2 Einstein strobes at very low power with 24 inch Lastolite soft boxes. B&W conversion with Nik Silver Efex Pro2.

When was the last time you read Curious George?

For those that just tuned in, this is my ongoing attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!!

 

 

 

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography self portrait https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-6 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 16:07:22 GMT
365 - Day 5 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-5 Day 5 - Loafing Around

I'm on a roll!  Set up my home studio for a quick shoot with my Canon 5DMKII and 85mm f/1.8 portrait lens.  Clam shell lighting, that's 2 lights at about 45 degree angles to the subject using my Einstein strobes. Used 2 small lastolite 24 inch soft boxes. Main light to the right set at f/5.6 and fill light to the left set 2 stops less at f/2.8. One speedlite overhead on a boom set at low power for rim/separation or traditionally called a hair light. 

Only had a few minutes to shoot since I was invited to a friends house to celebrate the first soirée of the year. My friends are always looking for a reason to party!  A big thank you by the way to Terri for hosting a great party. It turned out to be a fun evening with Carlos telling some hilarious stories.

Back to the 365.  Never get between a man and his loaf of Cuban bread! I'm speechless...

For those that just tuned in, this is my ongoing attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!!

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-5 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 15:30:00 GMT
365 - Day 4 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-4 Day 4 - the Eyes have it!

Wow, one more day and one more picture.  This image is a double exposure from my Fuji X-E1 zoomed at 18mm, IS0200, f/4, 1/160 sec.  A very slick feature that's lots of fun.  The trick is finding the right combination of images that produce a final product that isn't too busy or distracting yet conveys the sense of a single image.  The image was taken in the Wynwood district.  I was accompanying my daughter to an audition in the area and was able to capture a few shots while she did her modeling gig.  This was my favorite.  The B&W conversion using Nik Silver Efex Pro2 rendered a very interesting final product.  Gotta love all the graffiti walls!

For those that just tuned in, this is my attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned as the shutter clicks!!!

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-4 Sat, 05 Jan 2013 04:42:05 GMT
365 - Day 3 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-3 Let's set the scene.  My car!  Busy day running errands so my car was my studio.  The aging Boxster has 95k miles and still running strong.  The place - bank drive through.  The equipment - very simple, my new Fuji X-E1.  A great little camera that can go up against any pro DSLR without hesitation.  Shot with the versatile Fuji 18-55mm f/2.8 zoom lens at ISO 400 f/3.6 at 1/220 sec.  Conversion to B&W with Silver Efex Pro2.  It appears I haven't aged much since yesterday!

For those that have just tuned in, this is my attempt at a 365 photo project - this mad man is hopelessly attempting to capture a self portrait every day this year.  Stay tuned!!!

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-3 Thu, 03 Jan 2013 21:17:17 GMT
365 - Day 2 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-2 I can't believe I made it to Day 2!

Let's set the scene.  My garage!  It's a mess! Let's start with a very cluttered background.  Way too distracting so let's make it out of focus.  One speedlight from the side housed in a Lastolite Easybox.  For you novices that's basically a big lamp shade to soften the light!  My gear - Canon 5DMKII with the 85mm f/1.8 portrait lens shot at f/2.8 at 1/60 sec with the speedlight powered down 2 stops. 

I have no idea what I was trying to accomplish in this image but it's going straight to my stock portfolio.  Some agency will no doubt want to purchase an image of a middle age man trying to screw his head with a power tool!  BTW, I really need to clean my garage!

Handsome man in garage

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-2 Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:44:43 GMT
365 - Day 1 https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-1 Here's my attempt at a 365 project.  My goal is to create a daily self portrait, that's every day in 2013!  There's no specific plan.  At least I don't think I have a plan but rather a whimsical and curious look at myself through the lens.  Impossible!  Why do you ask?  Clueless here!  Perhaps I'll learn some new photographic techniques along the way that I can leverage in my professional photography career. 

Here's day 1.  What do we have here?  Let's start with a black background.  One strobe from the side fitted with a 10 degree grid to control the light spill.  One strobe overhead and slightly from behind for a rim effect and separation.  My gear - Canon 5DMKII with the great 70-200mm f/2.8L lens shot wide open at f/2.8 at 1/160 sec. 

In the mood for a half face! Something dark and somber.  Dude, way too serious!  And you need a shave!  Just for Men is on sale too!  BTW, just got out of bed hence the wrinkled tee shirt!

Handsome Man

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Raul Rodriguez Photography photography portrait photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2013/1/365---day-1 Tue, 01 Jan 2013 23:45:00 GMT
Wynwood Exploration https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/wynwood-exploration Cloudy overcast day today, a photographer's natural soft box, so I decided to explore the midtown Wynwood area for possible portrait backgrounds.  The graffiti walls are endless as is the creativity of these talented street artists.  The Fuji X-E1 did a great job capturing the colors of Wynwood.

Here's a panoramic shot.

Marley's everlasting impact...

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Raul Rodriguez Photography Street Photography graffiti photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/wynwood-exploration Fri, 28 Dec 2012 22:23:13 GMT
Sobe Blues https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/sobe-blues Beautiful day on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach.  Lunch at Pizza Rustica with my princess then off we went window shopping & catching the many sights and sounds of the beach.  Of course, took my new Fuji X-E1 and captured some street shots.

Some Blues along the way...

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/sobe-blues Fri, 28 Dec 2012 00:55:40 GMT
Hotel Room Panoramas https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/hotel-room-panoramas Another great shoot for one of my favorite clients, the Miami Executive Fantasy Hotel chain.  This was for one of their Hialeah hotels.  Here are a few panos from the shoot.  I also shot a few 360 interactive panos that will be included in a future web site redesign.  Enjoy the colors!

Could not resist the Canon 15mm f/2.8 fisheye lens on a few shots!

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Interior Design Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/hotel-room-panoramas Mon, 24 Dec 2012 16:20:55 GMT
National Family Partnership https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/national-family-partnership Quick event shoot at the Poinciana Elementary School in Boynton Beach sponsored by the National Family Partnership honoring their Red Ribbon Campaign against drugs.  The children did a great job decorating the classrooms.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Event Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/national-family-partnership Fri, 14 Dec 2012 15:36:00 GMT
Sobe with my new Fuji https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/sobe-with-my-new-fuji I couldn't resist the temptation!  So I took the plunge and got myself a new toy - the Fuji X-E1!  The X-E1 has the same image sensor as the X-Pro1 but in a smaller body.  I love my Fuji X100 but was missing the ability to exchange lenses so when the XE1 was announced I started saving my pennies.  The X-E1 is a great compliment to my full frame Canon 5D MKII.  The image quality is spectacular!

Here are are few images from South Beach.

The Clevelander before the TGIF crowd!

One of the nice features of the X-E1 is the ability to produce double exposures - way cool feature that can get addicting!

Here's a few double exposures.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Lincoln Road Miami Beach South Beach photography travel destinations https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/sobe-with-my-new-fuji Sat, 08 Dec 2012 01:10:18 GMT
Testing the Portrait Lens https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/testing-the-portrait-lens I asked my friend Carlos to model for me while I tested the Canon 85mm f/1.8 portrait lens.  I have an upcoming engagement shoot and wanted to test the lens in certain lighting conditions.  I normally use the Canon 70-200 f/2.8L for portraits but decided I wanted to capture some shots at the widest aperture possible for some dreamy backgrounds.  Carlos did a great job - he might be the next 40 something Guess model!

Handsome Hispanic Man Handsome Hispanic Man Handsome Hispanic Man Handsome Hispanic Man Handsome Hispanic Man

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/testing-the-portrait-lens Thu, 06 Dec 2012 01:15:00 GMT
Thanksgiving Family Portrait https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/family-portrait Time to roll down the white seamless paper and take some family shots for Thanksgiving.  My mother is battling the dreadful Alzheimer's disease.  Only the lord upstairs knows how much time she has left so I decided to capture some loving shots with my parents and the rest of the family.  I capture so many images of all types of people but seldom do I make time for the ones I love so dearly so here's a few of the family. 

I decided to add these to my stock portfolio and they are selling like hotcakes!Cute ole farts do sell! My father with the stylish beret...

Grandmother and family

Grandmother and family

My daughter and niece - Girls just wanna have fun!

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Portrait Photography Raul Rodriguez Photography photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/family-portrait Fri, 23 Nov 2012 01:15:00 GMT
Wings over Homestead Air Show https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/wings-over-homestead-air-show The weather was perfect this year for the Wings over Homestead Air Show at the Air Reserve base.  Here are a few images that made it to my stock portfolio.

American C-17 Globemaster jet transport airplane American B-52 Bomber Jet Engines American B-52 Bomber Jet Boeing 757 airliner F-15 Eagle Fighter Jet F-22 Raptor Jet F-22 Raptor Jet A-10 Thunderbolt jet

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Raul Rodriguez Photography Wings over Homestead air show airplane aviation fighter jets military photography stock photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/12/wings-over-homestead-air-show Sun, 04 Nov 2012 00:15:00 GMT
MJHS Campus Shoot https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/10/mjhs-campus-shoot Another fun shoot for Miami Jewish Health Systems (MJHS).  As a not-for-profit organization, Miami Jewish Health Systems is helping people of all ages, cultures and religious preferences enjoy longer, healthier, more enriched lives by providing leading-edge care and independence-enhancing services.  Similar to my last shoot at their PACE center, I had the opportunity to photograph the MJHS staff with some of their patients requiring physical therapy. 

The shoot was at the MJHS main campus location.   I also photographed the campus as well as a couple employee headshots including the MJHS Chief Medical Doctor.  A big thank you to Ellen of MJHS!

  

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Portrait Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/10/mjhs-campus-shoot Thu, 11 Oct 2012 03:35:27 GMT
Fontainebleau Hotel https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/10/fontainebleau Here are a few images from the historic Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach.  My favorite comedian growing up was Jerry Lewis.  His classic The Bellboy remains one of my favorites - the movie was filmed entirely in the Fontainebleau in 1960.  The hotel was designed by famed architect Morris Lapidus in 1954 and is an iconic symbol of Miami's modern movement.  The outdoor images were captured with my Zeiss 21mm wide angle lens which is a superb architecture lens for its outstanding sharpness.  After a few weeks of rain we finally got some sunshine!

Couldn't resist the black & white conversion with this strong back lit scene.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Black and White Photography Commercial Photography Hotel Photography Interior Design photography travel destinations https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/10/fontainebleau Sat, 06 Oct 2012 17:12:06 GMT
Miami Executive Fantasy Hotels https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/10/miami-executive-fantasy-hotels Another great shoot for the Miami Executive Fantasy Hotels.  These images will be used in their new web site as well as upcoming marketing campaigns.  I was fortunate to have the beautiful and talented model/actress Dominica from Sweden.  She was a delight to photograph and made my job so easy.  A big thanks to Josie as well for the assignment.  I've only processed half the images so here's a few from the first half of the shoot.

Beautiful Young Woman Beautiful Young Woman Beautiful Young Woman Beautiful Young Woman Beautiful Young Woman Beautiful Young Woman Beautiful Young Woman Beautiful Young Woman

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Boudoir Photography Commercial Photography Hotel Photography Portrait Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/10/miami-executive-fantasy-hotels Fri, 05 Oct 2012 03:42:10 GMT
Miami Skyline https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/miami-skyline These shots were taken from the Venetian Causeway Bridge in downtown Miami with my new super wide angle zoom, the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX lens.  Although I originally added the lens to my collection for wide angle event coverage, I've discovered its a very good landscape lens as well.  The lens is very sharp with excellent color rendition. 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Landscape Photography",landscapes,Miami,downtown,"Miami Skyline";photography, "travel destinations";bridges https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/miami-skyline Fri, 21 Sep 2012 17:12:34 GMT
Shooting Flat Irons https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/shooting-irons The hard work of my recent commercial product shoots is finally appearing on a finished product.  I've been photographing numerous hair care products such as flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers for product packaging images.  The products required complete isolation on white backgrounds.  The packaging is nearing completion and I'm starting to photograph the finished packages along with the products for web marketing/sales.  I never thought I would be taking pictures of my pictures!  Here are a few images.  The original images are actually on the back of the leather product cases.  These are high quality irons that will be marketed at hair care professionals. 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Product Photography Straightening Iron hair care hair flat iron photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/shooting-irons Sat, 15 Sep 2012 03:43:36 GMT
Event Photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/event Helped my good friend Gaea, of Events by Gaea Garrity, with some Event Photography set up images.  Here's a sample of some of the images, mostly shot with my Tamron 90mm macro to create the shallow depth of field.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Event Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/event Fri, 14 Sep 2012 01:30:56 GMT
Real Estate Photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/real-estate-photography Great opportunity to photograph the exterior of an apartment complex in Fort Lauderdale.  Most of these shots were captured with my new super wide angle zoom, the Tokina AT-X 16-28mm f/2.8 Pro FX lens.  I normally use my Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 Distagon for architecture shots which is a superior wide angle lens.   However, I needed to add a super wide lens to my arsenal for event photography coverage.  I hoped to find a lens that could also be used for select architecture images with minimal distortion.  After much analysis I decided to give the Tokina a shot.  The following images, primarily shot at 16mm, were  captured with the Tokina.  I'm very impressed with the edge to edge sharpness at the sweet spot of f/8.  These shots will be used on the apartment website.

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Commercial Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/real-estate-photography Thu, 13 Sep 2012 01:28:00 GMT
Corporate Headshots https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/8/corporate-headshots Great shoot at the Miami JW Marriot in the downtown Brickell area.  I had the pleasure of photographing the corporate headshots for the Director of Food and Beverage and the new Executive Chef.  Chef Daniel is developing a complete new menu for the hotel’s restaurants and I look forward to photographing his new creations in the near future.  Thanks again to the Conroy Martinez Group, a premier Public Relations firm in Coral Gables, for the referral.


 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Corporate Headshots Corporate Portraits Portrait Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/8/corporate-headshots Fri, 24 Aug 2012 01:53:00 GMT
Beautiful Aymee https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/beautiful-aymee Great beauty and lifestyles shoot with the beautiful model Aymee in South Beach.  Most of the shots were captured with natural light and my favorite portrait lens, the Canon 70-200 f/2.8L along Lincoln Road.  These shots are now in my Stock Portfolio.

Beautiful Woman Beautiful Woman Beautiful Woman Beautiful Woman Beautiful Woman These were captured with the venerable Canon 50mm f/1.4, a great portrait lens.

High speed sync with a Canon 580EXII speedlite.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Photography Portrait Photography Portraits Stock Photography beauty lifestyles https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/beautiful-aymee Mon, 30 Jul 2012 02:30:00 GMT
Lovers Lane https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/lovers-lane Great commercial shoot last week for the Executive Fantasy Hotel chain in Miami.  I was hired to shoot the interiors of some of their rooms.  These hotels are very popular for their theme rooms which are dark with a mixture of colorful incandescent and fluorescent lighting.  This is a photographers color temperature kaleidoscope or should I say nightmare!  I primarily shot with my Zeiss 21mm lens which is super sharp at it’s f/8 sweet spot.  This is an old school lens without auto focus so live view manual focus at hyperfocal distance was the game plan.  I also experimented with my Canon 15mm f/2.8 fisheye for some interesting perspectives.  The biggest challenge was not getting in the picture – the rooms have numerous mirrors!  I created several panoramics by stitching 6 to 10 images leading to the super wide effect.  Tripod and long exposures were a necessity since I passed on using strobes to maintain the romantic ambiance. 

Three cheers for the lovers!

Bubbles were a must!

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Commercial Real Estate Photography Hotel Photography Interior Design photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/lovers-lane Wed, 11 Jul 2012 03:30:00 GMT
Key West Revisited https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/key-west-revisited My old friend Madeline invited me to celebrate her husband’s birthday in Key West this weekend.  Jose was my very best friend in the high school years; we’ve known each other since we were knee high.  We recently reconnected after many years and I look forward to many more reunions.  So after partying through a rain storm Friday night, I awoke early Saturday morning and started exploring Key West.  Like my recent New York trip, I decided to keep it simple and took my handy Fuji X100 street warrior for the ride. 

Here are a few images from the back streets and not so common sites from Key West in Black & White.

Does anyone ever really rents these things? I just walk! Got a pair of brand spanking new All Stars while in New York recently – reminded me of my high school basketball days!  They may be stylish but are NOT meant for walking!

Backyard of an artist studio…eclectic!

How appropriate are these signs leading to the Key West Cemetery? What’s up with the bullet holes?

Very interesting and diverse architecture.  Key West still has that renegade pirate spirit after all these years.

In search of symmetry…

For the Serendipity lovers…

This must be the doorway to Heaven in Key West…

Of course, can’t leave out the Southernmost point on a stormy day!

 

 

 

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Florida Keys Key West Travel Photography photography travel destinations https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/key-west-revisited Mon, 25 Jun 2012 04:30:00 GMT
New York in Color https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/new-york-in-color Visited New York for a few days to help my daughter move into a NYU dorm.  She landed a summer internship at a well known fashion design house so we packed and made our way to this great city.  It was cold and rainy but that didn’t matter – you just gotta love New York!  I didn’t expect to have much time for Photography so I left my 5DMkII and army of lenses at home and took my Fuji X100 instead.  With my ultimate street warrior, I was able to capture a few interesting shots of the Big Apple on the last day of the trip.

I couldn’t resist the B&W conversion – the clouds were perfect!  By the way, I must have walked the length of a marathon over 4 days!

Here are a few shots of the fabled Brooklyn Bridge.

The Freedom Tower.  The spirit lives on…

There’s still a dark cloud over the site but life manages to prevail…

The 9/11 Memorial entrance.  Set the X100 on a temporary wall, put on a polarizer, activated the neutral density filter, and stopped the lens all the way down to f/16 to produce a long exposure to create the blur effect of the line of visitors. 

9/11 feels like a blur…

Life underground…

Reflections of New York…

Times Square.  Gotta love the huge billboard ads!

Always looking for symmetry and it always manages to find me even when I’m not looking!

Amazing Architecture…yesterday next to today...

Pastels in the Village…

Can't leave out the graffiti...

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Black and White Photography Fine Art Photography New York Travel Photography photography travel destinations https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/new-york-in-color Thu, 07 Jun 2012 05:15:00 GMT
Key West https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/key-west I decided to take a day trip to Key West to unwind. I put the top down on the aging Boxster and made a few stops along the way with camera in tow.   The Conch Republic is no doubt a unique landmark.  Infamous for the “Duval Crawl” in Key West, I decided to capture a few shots with the Lensbaby and create some interesting blur effects which anyone can relate to if they experience the crawl!

Here are a couple shots of the road leading to Gilbert’s.  One of my parents favorite places to dine many moons ago and the place is going stronger than ever!

Took a few shots for the Whale Harbor management for some upcoming promos…

Idyllic…

Arrival at Key West.  Praying and sinning…

One of the few towns where Walgreens announces a birthday!

So close but yet so far to my roots…

Captain Jack Sparrow!

Wondering how many UFOs have been spotted in Key West…

Shots followed by tattoos or vice versa…

Stopped by Bahia Honda on the way back…

Quick stop for a few sunset pics…

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Photography Florida Keys Key West Travel Photography photography travel destinations https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/key-west Wed, 16 May 2012 05:30:00 GMT
Caring for Our Elderly https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/caring-for-our-elderly Fun commercial lifestyle shoot for the Miami Jewish Health Systems Pace (Program for ALL Inclusive Care for the Elderly) in Hialeah.  The staff at PACE was great to work with while giving me the opportunity to capture some caring moments between the elderly and caregivers.  The images will be used for medical publications. 

A big thanks to the Public Relations Conroy Martinez Group for this golden opportunity.

 

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Caring for elderly Commercial Photography Portrait Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/caring-for-our-elderly Mon, 14 May 2012 05:45:00 GMT
Cool Product Photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/cool-product-photography Great opportunity to photograph colorful hair care products.  The company is launching a new product line with vibrant colors and sleek designs.  Products needed to be isolated on a white background.  I took my studio on the road and here's a sample of some of the products.  How do you make a blow dryer look sexy and unique?  Fun shoot!

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Commercial Product Photography Hair Care Products blow dryer curling iron flat iron photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/cool-product-photography Mon, 07 May 2012 14:45:00 GMT
Beautiful Estate https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/beautiful-estate Great shoot capturing the beauty of this Miami Beach bayfront home.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Architecture Commercial Photography Interior Design Real Estate Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/beautiful-estate Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:00:00 GMT
Event at Kampong https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/event-at-kampong Very nice shoot at the Kampong Botanical Garden Friday night in Coconut Grove for Shiraz. Kampong was once owned by Dr. David Fairchild.   Although the Fairchilds lived primarily in Washington, DC until 1928, they created both a home at The Kampong and an “introduction garden” for many of the plants he collected on his expeditions.  Dr. Fairchild often experimented with his plants and some of these experiments remain as part of the heritage collections at The Kampong today.  The Kampong is definitely a hidden treasure in Miami.

The Shiraz staff did a great job setting up a Polynesian theme in the colorful garden setting.  Here are a sampling of  images I captured using a variety of lenses and a handy tripod for some of those long exposures.

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[email protected] (Raul Rodriguez Photography) Event Photography Food Photography Food and Beverage Photography photography https://www.photographybyraul.com/blog/2012/9/event-at-kampong Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:45:00 GMT