OPERATION: LABOR DAY FOR $1K+

so if you recall a post i made last year (sep 2010), i challenged myself with the task of trying to find a getaway for the labor day weekend for under $1k all in.  it was such a fun idea that i decided i would try it again this year.  after some research time with expedia, the choice was made:  CHICAGO 2011!

for a sports fan like myself, chicago might be a sort of utopia.  the white sox, the cubs, the bulls, the bears, and the blackhawks all reside here and if you time it right, you can definitely hit up at least two of the four teams at any given time during the year.  you will also hear a lot about the food and i can now officially vouch for it as well.  the food options are many and each choice leaves you in a confusing daze as to trying the next delicious meal or revisiting the one you just had.

but what really attracted me to the windy city was the awe-inspiring and much talked about architecture.  it is one thing to read about and see in pictures, but actually seeing the chicago skyline in person is something to behold.  considered to be one of the birthplaces of modern architecture, chicago has a lot of beauty to offer as you wander the streets and strain your neck looking up, down, and over your shoulder.  as a novice fan (aka archi-nerd) this was an important destination on my travel bucket list.

having only spent the long weekend in chicago, i left a lot behind - a few tourist must sees and a few little known but very worthwhile spots (as recommended by locals).  i intentionally left them behind because i know for a fact that this is a place i will definitely go out of my way to see again..and again.  note: i spent more than $1k this time around.  i chose not to limit myself to a self-imposed budget and splurged wherever i could.  the result is an enjoyable weekend full of highlights with no regret...hence the $1k+...

but enough of me talking, enjoy the pics and captions from the facebook album i put together (no fb account required).  there is nothing like the combo of pictures and words to really tell the story.  maybe you'll like chicago.

click here: facebook album


de jesus. out. and inspired.

SINGER SHOOT

i recently had the pleasure of working with one of my photo mentors (@jcruzfotodotcom) for a fashion shoot at henry singer.  i was brought on to carry and setup equipment and also take some photos in between.  obviously this wasn't an opportunity i couldn't pass up so i also managed to get some photos of jeff in action as well (hopefully he doesn't mind - photographers always seem to have a tough time when they are on the wrong side of the lens).

with my current fascination with ties, this was a perfect opportunity to "shop" for the latest and greatest in men's fashion while helping jeff out with the shoot.  the management at henry singer were very co-operative and even allowed us full reign of the store on a sunday afternoon when they are normally closed for business.  unfortunately because of contractual arrangements with the models and the fashion designer, i am unable to show you the final images from the shoot, so hopefully these candids from the afternoon will satisfy your appetite.  the designer was talented, the models looked great.  makes the job of the photographer that much easier.  it truly can be said that for fashion design - many young ladies coordinate...

 

check out jeff's other work at jcruzfoto.  he's pretty good stuff and even better people.

de jesus. out.