www.markallan.ca NOT .com

How odd. The fact is, ANYONE who knows me, knows that I am more likely to be seen talking, than sitting quietly. I haven't written in my blog since nearly a year ago.
So much has happened, and gone on, and I have take time off from being a photographer; then back at it....lol, with of course 2 months of work to catch up on. There are things that I would have done differently, and things I just wouldn't have done, over the near-whole-year. It would be hard to fill in the entire time, and even if you like my blog, and have been waiting with baited breath for me to continue witting... even you would entirely need a few weeks to read a blog post that is that long. So.. I will give you a few details, mainly if connected to a photos that I am posting, and as I move forward with the blog, and mention something that has happened, I will fill you in... ready to see a whole bunch, a ton, a mountain of new photos?
Cool! I'll be back to post photos right after we take this commercial break.... brought to you by:
www.markallan.ca
It's new.

Today's Post is a Little Different

If I were to be asked, whether I would prefer to be "rich" or "famous"... my answer; without hesitation would be; "neither. I want to be lucky, loved, and happy." I am very lucky. I have been able to find something that I have such a passion for, and I get to share that passion with so many people. That, truely makes me very lucky. Loved, in a broader sense, I feel completely fortunate to have met, and made so many friends in my life, and through my photography (though, not to beat a "dead horse", so to speak.. I am not sure where all my friends were, when the car I was driving to London broken down and I ended up walking down the 401 in the dark, for 11 km before getting picked up by the OPP and mistaken for a drunk walking down the highway... lol.. ). I have a mother who loves, and supports me not matter what I am doing.. and has even become one of my bigger photo fans; and my father, whom at times, does not see eye to eye with me, my choice of career; but true be told.. if I were in trouble (other that walking on the 401 at night...lol), if i were in real trouble, or in need, my father would be the first person to come to my aid (he'd likely bitch about it for years after.. but he'd be there).

Where was I going with that..

oh ya;

For those of you would know me, or read this blog; then you are aware that I have with the help of partner(s) opened a Family Portrait Studio here in Cambridge... Weddings, Maturnity, Children, and Family photos, both in studio and right at your front door... (or local park etc..).

It's something that I feel strongly that I could have done 4 years ago. As you know, in the field of photography, your portfolio is your resume. Four years ago, I had very few kid, family, or wedding photos that could make up a portfolio; but someone very close to me had their frist child :) But for some reason, that person and her child became partise, and portfolio material for another photographer; who was just starting out (and now has a thriving business - in Belville, mind you- nonetheless that opportunity became out of arms reach), and I wasn't bitter, but more of a disappointed that a relative would favor paying a stranger, than allowing me the pleasure of photographing; her now, two boys, for absolutely no cost. Odd :)

Back to the present day... My two cousins have just had children.. within months of each other. If you have a quick look at my blog's new banner, I'll introduce you to Molly.. The younger of the two cousin's kids :) and also to Elysha (oh my I hope I spelled it correctly). I think that you will be seeing alot of these two cutie's in my blogs for a long time to come. I was also lucky enough to met little Billie this weekend. My friends, and proud new parents, Amanda and Tim, brought her by the studio for her first photos; including the "Cutie as a Halloween Pumkin" photo at the top of my post today.. I have known Tim and Amanda for a while now (you'd likely be able to spot Amanda in for of my photos).. and Tim is a big guy. He's a country farm boy, with the size to match.. the only reason I mention it; is because while I was taking Billie's photos, it's also fun, and really touching to watch "new" parents. Amanda check Billie's diaper no less than a half a dozen times, in the hopes that if she had wet her diaper, she won't have to spend a single second longer than she had to in an uncomfortable diaper; and as big a guy as Tim is... when he held Billie, it was with such a gentle love, and pride, that you could almost see a glow around the two of them. It's the reason I wanted to also share the photo of my cousin Kevin walking Elysha... The love and pride in his face is a billboard for a life of happiness.

Am I lucky? Absolutely.. I am already loving this newest chapter in my life, and career in photography. I love what I do, and am so happy, and excited to be able to be a small part, in creating the photos, to capture the memories that will tell the story of friends, family, love and happiness.

I would also like to be able to take your family, and kid's photos.. and be part of recording the memories that will last a life time.

My new Portrait Studio in located in the Hesepler part of Cambridge.. at 165 Fisher Mills Rd, or you can also call 519-220-0100, or 519-594-2291 to introduce me to your family and set up a time to take your families' photos. Let's get started :)

Oh... yes; I am extremely happy.

Mark Allan

The Summer in a Blur

Ok.. part two.. the second coming in one week.. photos from start to finish.

These first photos are from my photo shoot with the two girls from Lindsey. Both these young ladies are beautiful, and very talented.. I expect to see them on the covers of magazines some time soon. (for those following close enough to see that I had started this posting, two days after my last, however, it's been on the back burner for the last few days). So.. there's more to write about.. and to show. There is actually a great deal going on... changes (already) at my studio;

with one partner moving on already. Well, you know, or at least you can read in an earlier blog about the troubles in deciding a studio and business name? It's still early enough to change the name; and put the name in which I had hoped for; forever. "Mark Allan Photography" :) Although we may end up advertising as "Allan Photography".. simply because "A" is the first letter, and therefore puts the studio at an advantage when appearing in phone books, or google, or search engines. But there are things that need to be defined this week. It's going to be exciting.

I have wanted to shoot horses for a while. Horse owners are a breed amongst themselves. In the last few weeks, I have had the chance to shoot 3 pretty girls, and two pretty amazing horses.

There are a few things that are happening, and I feel that they are important to tell you about.. One of my friends, contacted me about an idea she had in order to raise $10,000 for the Cancer Society. She has be affected by cancer with more than one person who was close to her. She would like to put together a calander; photos of people who have also been touched, or affected in some way by cancer. I am going to shoot the entire thing for her, provide my studio and services for nothing more than a smile. I try hard to keep my business life, and personal life seperate; but sometimes, like this, I will share--

Growing up, I was extremely close to my grandfather. He was a second father, a spirital leader, the wisest, and most patient man I have ever known. I watched this man, whom I loved, suffer and die an aweful death. Why is it that we can send a man to the moon, or replace a heart, but we haven't been able to fix, or stop cancer?

If you have been affected, and would like to help out, and take part.. feel free to send me an email and I will share it with the friend who's putting together this fantastic project.

On a much lighter note.. I will be starting winter workshops.. both for photographers, and for models, and for parents of young models..

So I have to run, and hang another door in the back of the studio.. the bathroom door to be exact.. lol.

Remember Me?; "My summer photos"

In the second Superman movie, after Clark gives up his powers, becomes human, and watches as the world gets turned upside down, then gets his powers back and saves the world.. he flies with the Canadian Flag attached to the top of the parliment building roof, back to parliment, and says to the country leader. "Sorry, I was away for so long. I won't let it happen ever again."

Well, I am a superman fan (freak), but I am certainly not superman, and in all honesty, I can't promise to write every week... but I will do what's in my powers to see that I update you as often as possible.
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So, strap in, here comes the stuff you've missed since my last blog. And in the interest of time, and in keeping your interest.. today will be mostly photos. I have been telling you about my new store, and portrait studio, and how it's been taking up most of my summer, with renovating, and getting it ready. Here's a couple things I have discovered; first, if the photography thing doesn't work out for me.. there is absolutely no way that I can "fall back" on a job as a renovater (or proof reader by the way.. but lots to say, little time to say it). And the second thing that I really discovered was; no matter how busy I get, or had gotten... my passion for making photos; just doesn't go on vacation,

and so, I actually have lots of photos to share from even the "renovation period".

It was a fun time discovering black and whites again.. I love black and white photos.. it just seems the a black and white photos gives you the story line, but without the colour; the details are left to the viewer to fill in.

I got to meet a lot of amazing people.. models, make up aritsts, hair stylists.. whom I now also call friends. Ahhh the beauty of facebook (shameless plug.. you can now go directly to my facebook page from here, and visa vira).

In the stretch, I hooked up with a student designer from London; Stephanie Connell. This girl is amazing, and so passionate about her work, and the arts in general (Stephanie is actually the new banner photo for my blog). She's fun to be around, and I hope that I get to work with her again and again. We put together a shoot for 5 of her wonderful designs and made a day of it. Along with Stephanie for that shoot came a hair stylist: Jillian.. (I will post her last name, and a link as soon as possible). This girl fit like a glove with Stephanie's, and my vission for this shoot.. and what she did for the girl's hair that day was fantastic, absolutely amazing! I haven't had a chance to speak with Jill since the shoot (hence, the lack of providing info without permission :).. but I loved what you do! The fashion shoot was longggggggg... ran into the wee hours of the morning, in an old abandoned building, in a cold, dark country side.. but BRAVO! to all 5 girls. Like the professionals that you are, you hung in; and turned it on and up to give great poses til the bitter end.







It's true, that sometimes you can't always get what you want.. but sometimes you really get what you need.. and more. Since June I had been trying to put together two beautiful blonde models from a long long long way away (well, a 3 hour drive.. on some roads where tractors are allowed to drive right on the road). This shoot actually happenned late in Aug.. and it was worth the wait. These two young models, took my idea for the shoot and made it so easy to get amazingly beautiful shots. We are talking about personal sacrifices on their parts.. braving spider webs, and walking and sitting in waters, that were... well, just say, i was glad to be staying on the banks of the river.
I have so much more to share, but have just run out of time for today.. so I guess, I will pick up tomorrow and show you the rest of "my summer photos".

Thanks
Mark Allan

Cambridge Highland Games - the Scots Won!

I was born in Cambridge. I was raised in Cambridge. I have been lucky enough to travel; I have seen most all of North America and a small place overseas. But Cambridge in my home. Over the span of my life, I have seen signs, convoys of kilts, and heard that unmistakable sound of bag o pipes, every summer. Yet, til this year I have never gone to see, or take part in the Cambridge Highland games. As a kid, I remember my grandfather dragging me to the Fergus Highland games. I also remember it being a case of "have we seen everything, can we go now?" Which is too bad; because yesterday I walked into a part of Scotland, right here in town. Cambridge. The games were held in Churchill park, though I swear by the time I found a parking place, and walked to the site of the games, I could easily have been parked in Scotland.

The Scots are a proud people, both in the present, and in celebrating their history. The bag o pipes music is something that you either love, or don't really enjoy.. and though it was very interesting to watch and listen to approx 200 male, and female baggers, pipping to the same tune; I really find, I am on the side that perhaps gets enough of the bagpipes once a year.

I actually arrived a little late to see the whole day's events.. (the Scot either are very early risers, or the Highland Games were being run from the Scottish time zone.. IT WAS A SATURDAY FOLKS!!!... At any rate, I did get to see a few games.. and even took some photos. Funny how that works sometimes :) The one thing that I really wanted to see, and photograph was the highland dancing. I am, as most people know, a huge fan of the ballet.. modern dance. The discipline that it takes a person to be a dancer, is so over looked by the average person.. Years of conditioning, and practise; which brings me back to the highland dancers, and one.. Rachel ummm.. no last night, just Rachel the highland dancer. This young dancer, spent the entire time I was wondering around, practising under a rain tent.. and at times, hitting her head, and arms and hands off of said tent. Needless to say, it was obvious, even to the untrained eye.. this girl was a highland dancer.. and perhaps I hadn't missed all of the dancing. Rachel, and her mother were very helpful in explaining the competition, and I thank them both. Because I was only able to stay a short time after the dancing started, I fear I missed most of it.. what Rachel's mother (who's name I didn't get, hence, the title "Rachel's mother").. pretty costumes, rather than the male outfits (which is not hard to believe, by the way.. in the time I was at the park, there were many more men, than women wearing kilts). I would like to have seen the other costumes, and in return for being so kind to me at the games.. when Rachel, and/or her mother reads my blog... all of it, there will be a quiz...lol.. I would invite them to call me 519-94-2291.. and I would love to bring Rachel into my studio, and take some photos of all her costumes, including the ones I missed. Absolutely no charge (oh boy, I just heard thousands of jaws hit the floor).. my gift in return for your kindness, and new friendship... although, I may put one of the photos in the studio window.

In the short time that I was at the highland games I took a great number of photos.. all of which I do not have the room to post here.. so if you follow this link, you'll find a web page with a photo gallery called "Cambridge Highland Games". The photos are not for sale, and if you are in one, and wish to have a copy, please feel free to call, or email me to ask for a copy of the photos. For the protection of the people that I took photos of at the games; the gallery, and it's photos are protected from being copied.. be patient.. I have been busy, and will upload the photos Monday.

Last week sometime (yes, I know, if I were writing in the blog after every shoot, I would remember).. I shot another couple together. The photos of Bri and her boyfriend Nat, were so real, that there came others asking if I would shoot the same sort of theme with them. A friend of mine, who is also moving out west (hmm, I shoot them, they move out west).. sent me a message, and asked if I could possibly shoot photos like the bri photos of her, and her friend, and new model.. (the guy, out of nowhere, turns out GQ photos).. The photos turned out great.. and we had lots of fun. And.. I got a bottle of coke out of it...lol.

That's it for this time.. blog at you soon.

Mark

Just a Quick Update.

Yep.. still renovating. The studio is ready to be used, and in fact, I have shot twice in it.. which actually helped; so I can fix and change things before the renovation are finished. As soon as I figure out how to use the video camera part of my new cell phone, I will walk through the studio and post a v-tour.

And, to my surprise, and delight, some people actually do read my blog here.. because after my last posting, inviting everyone to pop by.. people have :)

Here is a photo from my very first photo shoot, in my new studio.. and the second as well.. Thanks to Jennifer (who had some of my photos published in Guitar World . com), and Alison, for letting me play. I was particularly considered with lights, and how dark the studio would be for shooting art photos..

So.. once again.. if you thought I was kidding the first time, please come visit me at the new studio.. (you may have to paint a wall..lol)

Short post today..

Thanks

Mark Allan

Happy Canada Day!

I really have been busy, the last few weeks (no, this time I mean it)... renovating and readying the new studio.. which is also a store front portrait studio. The name is Picture That Photography. The name was a little tricky.. I have been dreaming for years of opening my own portrait studio, and having my name across the top.. MARK ALLAN PHOTOGRAPHY. Alas, I have also been looking for a suitable partner. Someone, a newer photographer, eager to learn, full of energy... a fresh look at the world of photography (film is a four letter word for newer photographer...lol). The store/studio, is located in Hespler, Cambridge, at 165 FisherMills Rd., Unit 3. It's sandwiched between Mac's and Titos Pizza.. so lunch break are going to be short...lol. I have spend weeks renovating - removing walls.. building walls... hanging doors. Yep.. I actually hung a regular door, and a pocket door; and both work (little proud of myself :).

So back to the name. Not really all that hard to agree on a conom name.. it was the battle of the logos that began a grinding rut.. we thought we had one that we both liked.. then, not so much.. then the endless versions of logos..

I really just want to take photos.. create memories, create art, share photos that inspire and awe. What do I know about "marketing 101". Well, as it were, and is, the young lady who's my partner is the venture, is a marketing major in university. Research on colours; research on shapes, and "sample" groups of strangers to see if they approve of a logo for the store and portrait studios business. I am a little "old school" when it comes to some things. I certainly appreciate the efforts, and advice that has been given freely, and handed down on what our logo should be, or look like.. but as I thank all the people that took time to review our logo, I am just not all that crazy about a group of strangers deciding what should, or shouldn't hang over my store, or be my letter head, or the crest that I am going to wear on my shirt for a long time to come. I take pride, in making sure that everyone that I take photos of, leaves happy, excited at the photo memories that I was able, and glad to provide for them. I really want my photos to be the resume, the grounds in which people choice to come to this new studio... the photos, and not the sign that hangs over the door. I can, and will promise you, that whether my four year old nephew finger paints the sign over the door, or a marketing team, and sign company puts up the sign over the door; I will still, and most certainly, with pride, and excitment.. make sure that you have the best photos, the photos you had hoped for, before you leave the studio (really, none of that 15 minutes, and pick from what there is, that you get at some studios).
So here's my effort at what I hope you'll see over the doors, when you come visit..

So, even with the renovation.. (just a small note of thanks.. I didn't, and couldn't have done the renovation all by myself.. Ken, thanks for doing all the electrial work, and keeping me safe.. and Sean, thanks for grunt work, and labour stuff, that's not as exciting as.. mm, dropping a light on your head, but still needed to be done... and special thanks to Jen, Megan, and Katie, who, by their own admittions have little, or no renovating skills or desires, but took time out, to come visit, and just keep me company), I was able to get in a few fun, and amazing photo shoots.

I was able to put together "the team" philp -hair, lisa -assistant, and Katelynn Nadon (a fantastic make up artist - hire her!!), and of course the model, Stevie Starr. I had worked with her once before, for a short time, and was waiting to do something elegant, and straight from the pages of any fashion magazine.

I went for a lovely walk with Casandra.. and shot some "last fashion photos", and the "beginning of her maternity" photos.. congrads !! Wow.. and speaking of Con"grads", and Casandra's.. The 14year old that I have shot in the past.. and will now be looking to shoot to get her portfolio ready, had a graduation celebration this month, and I popped by before she went out to relieve the "stresses" of grade eight..... Casandra.. could have a future in the fashion industry.. look out CNTM. I also met some new friends, and got some pretty cool photos. Stacie, lives in the "sticks".. but only two minutes from a major highways.. her little cottage home, away from the cities grind, provided a beautiful backdrop for her first photos. I look forward to shooting Stacie again... and my newest friend.. and messaging buddy; Megan... she and I have been working out the details for her next shoot.. and like so many others, she thinks that I should be sleeping right now, instead of writing this blog.. lol.

So, consider this your personal invitation to come have a look at the new store/studio.. (just look for the store, without a sign above the door..lol).. I am not giving us shooting fashion, or art.. I love what I do, and I love to create a photo; I am merely adding a place for more family, and brides and grooms, parents to bring their children for amazing photos!!! Thanks everyone.

Oh.. and, in the hopes of finding out, if anyone, actually does read my blog.. simply print this blog message, and bring it with you when you book your next photo shoot, session, or package, and I will see that you receive a 20% discount right off the price of your photos.

Lastly.. inspired, or depressed by the wave of "twilight" fans.. my sister included.. I broke down, and jumped on the band wagon, and created the photo on the right that leads this entry of my blog...

Feel free to drop by, or call me - 519-594-2291, or at the studio itself 519-220-0100..

First, Second, and third times are a charm, with these two

So, remember, a few blogs ago (I know that blogs are a coming fast and furrious now), I had taken some cool photos of Brianne, and Nathan.. it was kind of a going away thing, cuz Brianne is leaving for the west in a couple weeks. Well, with only a short few, couple days til Brianne leaves, I was able to get both her and Nathan out for another photo shoot.

There are a couple things that I want to shoot, or more feel a deep need to shoot before I am done taking photos (no worries, not likely for a really long time)... one of the things, a setting of a man and woman "held close in passion" in a rain, like the rain matters not.. it's only the love that matters. I GOT TO SHOOT THAT TODAY!!! Brianne really worked hard in a cool rain, and thin shirt, and pulled off some great photos.. and along came the spider (Nathan).. and then we made for pretty amazing photos.

Once again, I had a great time shooting the two of them.. I think the photos look amazing... and I can't wait until Christmas to see what "you'll be giving" Nathan for that holiday.

For more photos from their shoot, have a look at my face book account...

Thanks Mark

A Tall, Ball of Nerves, with a beautiful smile.

Nearly a month ago, on my way back into town, I stopped at a shortstop, to get a drink. The young lady working that night, absolutely looked to me like she should be modeling. I am crazy about helping, developing talent from this area.. Sometimes, I brave the wierd looks, or slap in the face, and talk to perfect strangers about modeling, and seeing if they are interested. (as a rule, I don't charge any fees when I find a person like this.. most times, I get the same response.. "I have thought about it, but it's too expensive")

A little aside - When I was younger I had an agent.. not as a model, relax. but as a comdian... what an entirely bad experience, and a rip off.. money to have "them" try to find me work.. money for headshots.. classes, and more money for "updated" headshots. My parents bought me my first camera, and I fell in love. i knew I wanted to be a fashion photographer (not sure if it was for the money, or fame.. but I haven't gotten to either one just yet...lol).. But how to get started... I was lucky to find the right people.. models who had been in the business a long time, and were absolutely fantasic at what they did. They helped me start, and build my portfolio.... and I appreciate it so much, that I will never forget that everyone needs help starting.. and if I can.. I will.. just ask me:)

So, back to my shoot today. Alison showed up.. nervous, with new clothes, and excited! (not sure if she was more excited for her first photo shoot, or that she got to go shopping for new clothes...lol). So we got her changed, and off we went to a few close locations to start. Her new dress got bird stuff on it, and her new sweater got wet grass stains on it... lol really working in the new clothes.. and Alison. I saw the nerves relax, and we headed back to the studio, and got some really wonderful photos. I hope she likes them.. it was a fun day!

See you again... Thanks.

Wild Animal Shoots?

For the last two days, I have heard a wee voice of a baby cat just outside the studio. We hidden in the bushes.. i really hoped that mommy would come back for him. However with the rains last night, and the cries still coming, I just knew someone had to help out.

So let me introduce you to Hobo. My neighbours at the studio location, actually had the same idea, and were able to get Hobo out of the bushes before I was able to return. Nevertheless, Hobo's life is no longer in the bushes, and with a good family.

I don't normally write personal blogs here, but who doesn't like kittens, or happy ending?

Mark