I would like to share some of the shots from yesterday’s photoshoot with JC.
Thank you for viewing. Feel free to post your comments and suggestions below.
I would like to share some of the shots from yesterday’s photoshoot with JC.
Thank you for viewing. Feel free to post your comments and suggestions below.
Last night, I had a chance to shoot some of the members of ISRS. It is a great opportunity to try my new Manfrotto 420B Combi Boom Stand which is an advanced birthday gift from a very good high-school friend. Below are some of the output from last night’s shoot.
I would to personally thank Nher, Shazmeen and Kuya Donald for this wonderful opportunity. I look forward to shoot the other members of the group in the future.
For a very long time I have always wanted to have the photography gears that professional photographers use. In my journey of trying to acquire those gears I found out that the brand that the professionals use aren’t cheap. Same reason why I have always been looking for the “Cheaper Allternative”. The Yongnuo YN-460 Flashgun & Yongnuo CTR-301P remote flash triggers are just some of the cheaper alternatives that I was able to acquire. And today, another I finally received an addition to my cheaper alternative photography gears, The Phottix Easy-up 60x90cm (42″) Umbrella Softbox with Grid. Compared to the more famous Westcott 28 in. Recessed Front Apollo Softbox, the Phottix easy-up softbox is 50% cheaper. I never got a chance to see a Westcott Apollo in person so I cannot really compare them in detail. Anyway, below is a sample shot using the Phottix Easy-up softbox. I must say this is a good bang for the buck.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: 5 December, 2011: As the Capital prepares to welcome the world’s leading DJs and artists for the biggest electronic music festival in the region, four internationally renowned spinners have taken the time out to send aspiring Arab DJs some helpful advice.
Yousef, Italoboyz, Markus Schulz and Slam, who jet in to Abu Dhabi later this week for the most anticipated electronic music fiesta the Capital has ever hosted, Creamfields Abu Dhabi, say, one of the most important things to remember is to be yourself.
Yousef, one of the most popular Arab DJs on the international circuit, said: “Following the crowd and social conformity within music is always temporary.”
Over the last few years, Yousef, an Egyptian based in the UK, has become a popular fixture on the music scene, playing worldwide to tens of thousands of party revelers. The most valuable piece of advice, he adds: “I would encourage a love for music, and make the DJ understand that being a real DJ is not a fashion accessory; it’s a passion.”
American-based German trance DJ Markus Schulz, who revolutionized trance music in the United States, had this piece of advice for aspiring young Arab spinners: “Find the groove that feels absolutely right for you and stick to it. So many DJs try to be all things to all people, and it just can’t happen. You can’t possibly have a true representation of yourself if you are trying to please every other person out there. It just isn’t possible. Find the style of music that moves and inspires you and stick to it!”
Native Italian duo Italoboyz, aka Marco Donato and Federico Marton, who are now based in London, suggested experimenting with sound and taking risks.
“Try to play music according to your real taste,” they said. “Don’t stick to the charts; try to play music that has a timeless feeling. Imagine hearing it yourself in a few years’ time and see if you will still like it. If the answer is yes, you have it.”
Slam, made up of Stuart McMillan and Orde Meikle, said: “Use the internet to build your knowledge of the multifaceted genre that is electronic dance music.”
The Glasgow-based pair, known throughout the clubbing-world for their house and techno sound, added: Choose your own path, start doing your own parties with friends, try to do radio production, and create your own record label. Finally, approach clubs to guest on nights; get busy.”
Partygoers and music lovers can see the DJs ply their trade this weekend. For the first time Creamfields Abu Dhabi 2011 will be held over two days at the YAS ARENA. Dance fans will enjoy over 24 hours of the world’s finest electronica Live and DJ talent.
Headlining the third installment of the annual electronic dance fiesta will be Tiesto, deadmau5, Magnetic Man, Ferry Corsten, Katy B, Laidback Luke, Tinie Tempa, and a host of special guests.
With multiple dance stages and arenas, as well as a host of weird and wonderful festival entertainment dotted around the YAS ARENA fields, Creamfields Abu Dhabi is now firmly established as one of the leading festivals in the region.
This year’s event is expected to attract even more with some of the hottest DJs spinning all weekend against a backdrop of cool chill out areas, VIP platforms, shisha lounges, massage areas, oxygen bars, heaps of whacky merchandise, rides, vendors and other exciting activities across the festival.
Artist line up for Thursday, December 8th includes deadmau5, Magnetic Man, Katy B, John Digweed, Ferry Cortsen, Markus Shulz, Danny Howells, Yousef, Jochen Miller plus local DJs Greg Stainer, Humaid, Pete Samplers, DJ Xavi & DJ Spider and from Audio Tonic: Mr Mr, Vas Floyd and Raxon.
Friday, December 9th will host Tiesto, Tinie Tempa, Laidback Luke, Marco Carola, Derrick Carter, Riva Starr, Slam Italoboyz, Madjam, Simonne Cooper plus local DJs Natalie Brogan, DJ Genie, Stacktrazz, Mark Pickup & Infusion Dj’s; Smokingroove, Andy Buchan, Charl Chaka and Afroboogie.
This year, to make this event even more impressive, two lucky people will get Creamfields Abu Dhabi VIP treatment, with a two day pass, backstage tour, meet and greet with select DJs and a weekend hotel stay on Yas Island. Visit www.creamfields.ae for more details.
Creamfields Abu Dhabi 2011 is a 21+ event. Tickets at www.thinkflash.ae
Make it a Weekend. Make it a Yas Island Show Weekend. For tickets visit www.thinkflash.ae. Plan your weekend at www.yasisland.com. Stay tuned for the other events and surprises happening on Yas Island this year.

12:00 NOON MONDAY 28TH NOVEMBER
Standing, Seating and VIP Tables on sale 12:00 noon Monday 28th November at www.thinkflash.ae
Prices start at only 325 AED with unique limited Fan Pit Early Access tickets placing fans at the very heart of the Coldplay live concert experience.
Abu Dhabi, UAE. 27 November 2011: Tickets for Coldplay’s New Year’s Eve concert in the UAE capital presented by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), and brought to the capital by FLASH Entertainment – go on sale from midday on Monday 28th November at www.thinkflash.ae.
Coldplay will perform live on December 31st at a unique venue adjacent to the purpose-built ‘Volvo Ocean Race Destination Village’ on the Corniche Breakwater – which from New Year’s Eve until 14th January 2012 will host the six-strong Volvo Ocean Race fleet, its sea-hardened sailors and the more than 100,000 expected fans.
Having last played to 20,000 fans in Abu Dhabi in 2009, the British band is relishing a return to the UAE capital to play for their tens of thousands of fans from across the region and beyond.
Tickets start at 325 AED for General Admission, 495 AED for Grandstand Seating and 695 AED for Fan Pit tickets. The New Year’s Eve show will also offer fans a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to see Coldplay up close, with a handful of 995 AED tickets granting Early Access to the Fan Pit 45 minutes before doors open.
Tickets for Coldplay’s New Year’s Eve concert are on sale tomorrow Monday November 28th 12:00 PM UAE time, at www.thinkflash.ae. For table bookings and information call 800 FLASH (35274) or +971 4 366 2288 from outside the UAE
Travel packages will be available at www.volvooceanraceabudhabi.com
Ticket Categories information:
Fan Pit Early Access (Standing) @ 995 AED
Fan Pit (Standing) @ 695 AED
General Admission (Standing) @ 325 AED
Grandstand (Reserved Seating) @ 495 AED
VIP table information:
VIP Silver Tables of 15 @ 15,000 AED
VIP Gold Tables of 15 @ 20,000 AED
VIP Platinum Tables of 15 @ 25,000 AED
All tables located to the side of the Fan Pit section on raised platforms. Prices set to reflect closeness to the stage as well as the beverage package included with the table.
Abu Dhabi, UAE. 20th November 2011: Seven-time Grammy award-winning rock band Coldplay will usher the New Year into Abu Dhabi, kick-starting the emirate’s historic hosting of the 2011/12 Volvo Ocean Race – the gruelling round-the-world yacht race, widely regarded as the ‘Everest of Sailing’.
Presented by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), and brought to the capital by FLASH Entertainment, Coldplay will perform live on December 31st at a unique venue adjacent to the purpose-built ‘Volvo Ocean Race Destination Village’ on the Corniche Breakwater – which from 31st December 2011 till 14th January 2012 will host the six-strong Volvo Ocean Race fleet, its sea-hardened sailors and the more than 100,000 expected fans.
Having last played to 20,000 fans in Abu Dhabi in 2009, the British band is relishing a return to the UAE capital to play for their tens of thousands of fans from across the region and beyond.
On the back of the band’s latest album ‘Mylo Xyloto’, which debuted at number one in 30 countries worldwide and smashed the record for the highest number of download sales in one week, ADTA is optimistic that Coldplay’s iconic status as arguably one of the biggest bands on the planet will significantly boost visitor numbers to the ‘Destination Village’.
And the Coldplay announcement is proof that ADTA – which is lead-managing the emirate’s Volvo Ocean Race campaign – is delivering on its pledge to make its stopover an ‘unparalleled highlight’ in the 38 year-old history of the race.
“We promised a destination hosting like no other when we began our Volvo Ocean Race campaign and the confirmation of Coldplay’s New Year’s Eve concert signals our intention to live up to that commitment. With customised travel packages for both the concert and race, we are confident that Abu Dhabi will again raise the bar as a destination of distinction for international sporting events,” said HE Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General, ADTA.
John Lickrish, Managing Director of FLASH Entertainment, spoke of the excitement at securing the band: “In 2009, Coldplay stunned Abu Dhabi with a phenomenal performance that left us in awe. They are a simply stunning live act with a global fan base of millions, rightfully hailed as one of the biggest bands on the planet. We all know and love their catalogue of hits, but with a hot new album to perform this year, Coldplay live in Abu Dhabi is going to be one of the most memorable New Year’s Eve you’ve ever seen….anywhere! We can’t wait.”
Full details on the show will be announced shortly, including ticket prices, times, and race arena details. Tickets will be available soon at www.thinkflash.ae (make sure you’re the first to know when tickets go on sale; ‘like’ http://www.facebook.com/ThinkFlashAbuDhabi and www.facebook.com/abudhabioceanracing)
Travel packages will be available at www.volvooceanraceabudhabi.com
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: 13 November, 2011: Formula 1 ticket holders were treated to yet another thrilling concert performance, with British rock band The Cult and American rockers Incubus lighting up Yas Arena, Yas Island, last night.
Thousands of enthusiastic rock fans raced to the arena, shortly after the qualifying session ended, to secure their seats for the double act who produced a red-hot night of entertainment ahead of the final day of the 2011 F1™ Etihad Airways Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Cult stepped out on stage to a roaring welcome and did not let down their dedicated followers. The popular 80s British band performed some of their greatest hits including Lil’ Devil, Sweet Soul Sister and the Rain, a single from one of their famous albums Love which was released in 1985.
The American rock band Incubus were greeted with a deafening cheer as the group opened its show with Megalomaniac and then moved into tracks off their latest album If Not Now, When, including Promises, Defiance and Tomorrow’s Food.
Alex Daristides a Dubai resident from Australia, said: “It was a great night. We spent a long day here as we originally came to watch the race and decided to stay for the concerts. The setup was great and we really enjoyed it.”
Yasalam concludes tonight with one of the world’s most recognized performers, the legendary Paul McCartney. The show is exclusive to F1 ticket holders.
ABOUT FLASH ENTERTAINMENT
Based in Abu Dhabi, FLASH Entertainment is the regions premier live events company, with a proven track record in delivering fantastic events and experiences for people of Abu Dhabi, of any age, culture or nationality.
From movie premieres, classical shows, international tennis tournaments and megastar music concerts through to creating local community events, supporting local talent, and providing interactive experiences and edu-tainment, FLASH is committed to providing unique entertainment experiences.
FLASH has successfully delivered some of the biggest and most memorable live events in Abu Dhabi’s history. From ground breaking popstars to world film premieres, FLASH has already left an unforgettable mark on the city, and in the process entertained over half a million people.
ABOUT YASALAM
Yasalam was created by Abu Dhabi for residents and visitors to enjoy. It is a unique concept rooted in the cultural fabric, tastes and interests of the UAE appealing to all ages and backgrounds. With parades, simulators, parties, concerts, open-air cinema, art displays and much more, Yasalam means a whole heap of fun and entertainment in Abu Dhabi.
Each year Yasalam promises to be bigger, with more surprises and of course the big names performing on Yas Island. Yasalam events bring together a stellar line up of celebrated local, Arab and international artists performing for tens of thousands at Abu Dhabi Corniche for ‘Beats on the Beach’. Yasalam Live on Yas Island and Live on the Corniche attracts an audience of over half a million every year, from Abu Dhabi, the UAE, the region and internationally. The festival also integrates Abu Dhabi educational and community initiatives with festivities and entertainment throughout the Capital. Yasalam has the support of the government, the business community, the entertainment industry, after-race stakeholders and the people of Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: 12th November, 2011: American pop princess Britney Spears treated her Middle Eastern fans to an unforgettable show in Abu Dhabi on 11.11.11 at the Yas Arena, Yas Island, to open up the F1 concerts in spectacular fashion.
The Femme Fatal recording artist put on one of the most visually creative shows since Beyonce’s appearance on Yas Island two years ago. Not only dazzling the crowd with her high-octane choreographed 90-minute show, she also allowed some fans to share the stage experience after inviting some lucky ones up to perform with her in front of a packed arena.
Hits such as Big Fat Bass, How I Roll and Gimme More kept the crowd swinging under the cool breeze during a night that brought plenty of surprises for her fans that had travelled from across the globe to see her. Spears appeared on stage at 9pm, putting on a memorable show that opened up with Hold it Against Me before she rolled out other favourites such as Lace and Leather and If U Seek Amy.
Fans, many who had arrived early to form a line that snaked its way around Yas Arena, were warmed up by Australian duo NERVO who entertained the 30,000 of music lovers, who waited patiently to get a glimpse of the ‘Till the World Ends’ performer.
Sharjah resident Mohammed Qassim, who comes from Iraq, said: “I drove all the way from Sharjah to attend Britney’s concert. We grew up listening to Britney’s music and I never imagined that I would see her live on stage. The evening was really amazing… it like was a dream coming true.”
The concert series continues tonight (Saturday) with British rock band The Cult and American rockers Incubus. The Yasalam after-race concerts are exclusively for 2011 F1™ Etihad Airways Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders.
Najwa Karam, J-Cole, Nine Muses, Ayman Zbib and Dahab rock the Abu Dhabi Corniche
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: 11 November, 2011: Fans flocked to the Abu Dhabi Corniche early to ensure they didn’t miss out on seeing some of the hottest local, regional and international artists perform on the second night of the region’s biggest Yasalam free beach party “Beats on The Beach”.
On Thursday night, Lebanese megastar Najwa Karam drew one of the most vocal crowds, when she performed some of her latest hits.
Local band Dahab kicked off the night with their unique acoustic sound, followed by the artist regarded as a ‘true pearl in the Arab world’, Ayman Zbib. Korean girl-group Nine Muses belted out some of their favourites, just before Jay Z’s protégé J-Cole hit the stage. Part of Yasalam Live on the Corniche, , Beats on the Beach is a free event and will continue over the next two nights alongside the official F1 FanZone, filled with motorsport themed activities for all the family.
Music lovers are expected to return in their droves on Friday night, for what is being billed as the biggest night of the concert series.
The free event will see a local band The Recipe, Emirati beauty Aryam, British-Indian pop sensation Jay Sean, Example and Fatboy Slim all performing on a jam-packed night.
Friday night marks the first of the after-race concerts, ‘Live on Yas Island’, with Britney Spears, Incubus, The Cult and Sir Paul McCartney promising to deliver world-class entertainment. The Yasalam after-race concerts are exclusively for 2011 F1™ Etihad Airways Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders.To guarantee entry to any of the Yasalam after-race concerts, you must purchase an F1™ ticket for that days concert. Buy now at www.yasmarinacircuit.com
Beats on the Beach is a free event. For more information, visit www.yasalam.ae
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: 10 November, 2011: Thousands of music lovers from across the region grooved to the sounds of some of the hottest local, regional and international artists, on the opening night of ‘Beats on the Beach’.
Former Fugee Wyclef Jean capped off an impressive starry night, which began with local alternative rock band The Flaming Trees.
Fans were treated to the multicultural sound of Korean-pop sensation Seo In-Young, who attracted a large crowd of Asian music fans, while popular Middle Eastern artist Hicham El Hajj was a hit with the Arabic music lovers. Local musicians, Danny Band, also performed on the night.
Tonight’s event will see Najwa Karam, Ayman Zbib, Nine Muses, UK RnB sensation, J-Cole and local band Dahab rock the Abu Dhabi shores. Part of Yasalam Live on the Corniche, Beats on the Beach is a free event and will continue over the next four nights alongside the official F1 FanZone, filled with motorsport themed activities for all the family.
Friday night marks the first of the after-race concerts, ‘Live on Yas Island’, with Britney Spears, Incubus, The Cult and Sir Paul McCartney promising to deliver world-class entertainment. The Yasalam after-race concerts are exclusively for 2011 F1™ Etihad Airways Dhabi Grand Prix ticket holders.To guarantee entry to any of the Yasalam after-race concerts, you must purchase an F1™ ticket for that days concert. Buy now at www.yasmarinacircuit.com
Beats on the Beach is a free event and will continue over four nights. For more information,visit www.yasalam.ae