Deep Thoughts....Deep Thoughts....

This has been one of the busiest weeks of my life. So busy that I had to halt one of my new painting midweek, something I never like to do. But, sometimes life takes priority…and this is that time.

This week, I give you one simple, yet beautiful, image of a sunset from the highest point in Toronto…YUP! The CN Tower. I have to say, it’s one of the most breathtaking sights I have ever seen.

Anyway, this picture reminds me of a quote from “The Alchemist,” and yes I feel the need to share. I hope I quote it properly, as I can’t seemed to find the page on which it’s written…

The boy was jealous of the freedom of wind, until he realized the only thing holding him back was himself.
I am not sure what it is about breathtaking sites, that makes us remember these important quotes…but it does.

I hope you enjoy this little gem.

Keep making your piece of the world a little better.

Koray (Core-EYE)

Pin Her Up: DJ Miss Kittie

It was about a month ago, after DJ Miss Kittie caught a glimpse of some of my work, that she decided to contact me about taking some promo shots. She said “pin-up style,” and I was intrigued… I mean trying to recapture that 50’s style pin-up girl, with modern day photography… that was a challenge I was looking for. I was in!
 
The initial step, the fun step, was to do the research. Searching the internet for both old and new pin-up style pictures, to see what has been done. Notice I said internet, not library. The idea of doing research in a library was daunting. I couldn’t even imagine what it must be like going to school in today’s day and age, having all that information at your fingertips. I digress.

Knowing we shouldn’t rely on the internet for everything, I decided to try my chances at two books stores…and amazingly…the universe heard my request. I was in Indigo when I found a full color, 270 page collection of Gil Elvgren’s life works for about $14 (on major discount). Are you kidding me?!? Yes please, I took their last copy. This book was not only helpful to myself, for figuring out the shots and poses we should be going for, but also for Miss Kittie, so she could nail down the look she was going for.

The next step was the task of securing a location. Surprisingly, this wasn’t that hard… I scouted a couple of locations, but nothing had the perfect feel, like the Temperance Gallery (Thank you Victor for having us). A beautiful gallery, a great location and a perfect backdrop, to say the least.

Finally, getting the shoot to come together. We arrived at Temperance Gallery at 7PM, on Sunday night (a late one). After a few hours of hair and makeup, paralleled by a quick camera setup, and we were good to go. The photo shoot was fun… there’s no crazy story, it was just fun… the big payoff for all the preparation.

After a few hours of photography, mixed with mambo music and Ice Cube’s greatest hits, it was time to throw in the towel.

A little after midnight, my lighting assistant, Bobby Del Rio, and I decided to head to Sneaky Dee’s for a midnight Fajita and Quesadilla fiesta… ahhh, a reward that’s well worth the wait!

Now, please click on the photos above and below so you can check out the pin-up gallery.

When viewing these photos, please note that the final shots found on my site vary in finish, compared to what will be used for promotional purposes. This is a classic case of “Function over Form.” When being commissioned for work, we have to keep in mind the goal of the end user vs. our vision. However, since this website is dedicated to showing you the world through my eyes… I have decided to finish the photos in the manner in which I envisioned them… ; - )

Enjoy!

Koray (Core-EYE) Salih


This team effort was brought to you by: Ashley Short (hair), Trisha Dolmer (makeup), Bobby Del Rio, Victor Fraser and Temperance Gallery, and DJ Miss Kittie.

 

Simply Repetitive

 

When learning about photography, often you are taught, “pictures containing repetition make for a great shot!”…for example, a row of flowers planted one after the other. Why is that? Why does repetition make for such a great shot? I like to think it’s because we find comfort in things we are familiar with…something that doesn’t vary too much, and doesn’t deviate from the norm. These predictable themes are exactly the reason I try to avoid photographing repetition; that is to say, I like a little variety with my crumpets and tea.

A couple of weeks ago, while wondering around Toronto, I found this interesting mural that I was instantly drawn to…. although it contained a repetitive theme, there were slight variations in it that sucked me in. What was it? This mural, with an industrial overtone, got my number. I couldn’t help but stare at it...it's simple, yet intricate, beauty, the contrast in colors, the different shapes and height of the nails and the raw power that was needed to drive all those nails into the wall. I was sucked in. I love it, and I couldn't help but photograph it.

What can I say? I am another victim of repetition, and although it bugs me a little, I do enjoy the simple beauty of it all.

If you are ever by Toronto's City Hall, walk in the main entrance and look immediately to your right to see what I am talking about. I wish I knew the name of the artist who created the giant mural, but the moment I find out, I will credit them on this website.

Have fun!

Koray (Core-EYE) Salih