There are many times during my time shooting sports that I am faced with a non-ideal situation. Here I present one of them, at the LMU Gersten Pavilion. FIrst, the lighting was very dark, and second, the color temperature was just horrible. Well you kind of have to play the cards that you are dealt, so I tried to make the best of it. I don’t really like spending lots of time editing, since we are on deadline every single game. So you do your best and see what you can get. Here are some photos from the Gonzaga at Loyola Marymount game I covered earlier this year. Loyola Marymount Lions forward Ashley Hamilton (5) drives the ball defended by Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Elias Harris (20).

Loyola Marymount Lions forward Ashley Hamilton (5) looses the ball while attempting to drive toward the basket.

Loyola Marymount Lions forward Quincy Lawson (20) attempts to dunk the ball defended by Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Elias Harris (20).

Loyola Marymount Lions forward Alex Osborne (15) attempts a shot defended by Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Guy Landry Edi (10).

Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Kevin Pangos (4) goes up for a shot defended by Loyola Marymount Lions forward Ashley Hamilton (5).

Loyola Marymount Lions guard Ayodeji Egbeyemi (24) and Gonzaga Bulldogs center Robert Sacre (00) fight for the rebound.

Loyola Marymount Lions guard Ayodeji Egbeyemi (24) and Gonzaga Bulldogs center Robert Sacre (00) fight for the rebound.

Gonzaga Bulldogs center Robert Sacre (00) grabs a rebound on top of Loyola Marymount Lions forward Ashley Hamilton (5).

Gonzaga Bulldogs center Sam Dower (35) and Loyola Marymount Lions forward Ashley Hamilton (5) fight for the rebound.

Loyola Marymount Lions forward Ashley Hamilton (5) and Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Elias Harris (20) fight for positioning during after a foul shot.

Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Gary Bell (5) goes up for a layup.

Gonzaga Bulldogs center Robert Sacre (00) celebrates with his team after a shot.

Loyola Marymount Lions guard Anthony Ireland (3) goes up for a shot defended by Gonzaga Bulldogs guard David Stockton (11).

Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Mathis Keita (25) blocks a Loyola Marymount Lions forward LaRon Armstead (12).

Loyola Marymount Lions forward Alex Osborne (15) makes a shot defended by Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Elias Harris (20).

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Melody and I planned to snowshoe more this season, but our plans were foiled and we were only able to go out one time. Maybe next year will give us a little more time and weather to head out again. I wanted to hike around the San Jacinto area in Palm Springs as a little hike to familiarize us with the type of exertion and weather we should be expecting. I don’t think Melody was planning on this hike being tougher than on solid ground. Well, we had to first ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tram to get up to the San Jacinto Wilderness. This gives you spectacular views of the rock face as you scale thousands of feet up.

When we got there, we were welcomed by this cute fellow.

His owner was just showing him off to everyone. No one could resist to pass him.

We decided to head out into the wilderness without our snow shoes on. It wasn’t really deep during the beginning sections.

But we soon decided to try out our new kicks. Here is Melody struggling with her set.

After a few miles, we started to get a little hungry. This could have been because we didn’t really eat a hearty breakfast.

Our delicious Trek mix from Trader Joes.

I asked Melody to pose for a second in the woods.

Melody’s new kicks.

As we were headed to our final destination, here is Melo.

Round Valley.

We took a another way back, and the views were gorgeous.

I think the next few are funny. Notice how Melody has the same expression for all her photos! I should make a where is Melody with these!

Lastly, a sad Melody after she fell on a steep decent down the snow.

This last summer, the X-Games were hosted across the street from LA Live. I was in the prime location on top of EVO, so I didn’t have to wait in the crowds and I had an aerial view. Here are two photos I took that day, I just discovered that I had this post as a draft and was looking for it.

I don’t usually make the trip up to Westwood to cover a game, but there are some games in particular that might need a little extra media attention. This was the case when the Lady Volunteers visited UCLA at their new home this season, the John Wooden Center. Pauley Pavilion was undergoing some renovations, which provided an extra hurdle in terms of photography. The lights were low and eradiating a weird hue, but the game was as good as any would get. Tennessee would eventually win by a large margin with a final score of 84-64. Tennessee Lady Volunteers head coach Pat Summitt prior to the game against the UCLA Bruins.

Tennessee Lady Volunteers guard Meighan Simmons (10) attempts to move the ball past UCLA Bruins guard Mariah Williams (5).

Tennessee Lady Volunteers forward Alicia Manning (right) and UCLA Bruins guard Rebekah Gardner (left) fight for the ball.

Tennessee Lady Volunteers forward Glory Johnson (left) attempts to steal the ball from UCLA Bruins guard Mariah Williams (right).

Tennessee Lady Volunteers guard Meighan Simmons (10) moves the ball down the court against the UCLA Bruins.

Tennessee Lady Volunteers forward Vicki Baugh (right) blocks a shot by UCLA Bruins guard Rebekah Gardner (35).

Tennessee Lady Volunteers forward Glory Johnson (25) attempts to get the ball from UCLA Bruins forward Atonye Nyingifa (center).

UCLA Bruins forward Atonye Nyingifa (middle) loses the ball defended by Tennessee Lady Volunteers forward Glory Johnson (25).

Tennessee Lady Volunteers forward Glory Johnson (25) loses the ball against the UCLA Bruins.

Tennessee Lady Volunteers guard Meighan Simmons (1) blocks a shot by UCLA Bruins guard Rebekah Gardner (35).

Tennessee Lady Volunteers forward Glory Johnson (25) is fouled by UCLA Bruins guard Rebekah Gardner (35).

Tennessee Lady Volunteers guard Shekinna Stricklen (40) goes up for a layup against the UCLA Bruins.

I didn’t have any plans for my Christmas weekend, so after pondering for a while I decided that I should pack up my things and drive to Death Valley. this was around 7pm on the Friday of Christmas weekend, so I had a long way to go in order to arrive at my destination. The first point of interest was Zabriskie Point since I have read a lot about the sunrise at this point. I arrived at the Zabriskie Point parking lot not really knowing what to do, but fortunately for me, I had my 4Runner with folding back seats. I guess this will be my hotel for the night. I wasn’t really able to sleep that night, since it was the first time in the back of my car, but that prepared me for the day ahead of me. I really wasn’t able to see much during the predawn hour as I walked up to the view point, it was completely dark with no moonlight to assist my views. As the sun began to inch its way towards the horizon, many other visiters followed suit. I was able to get an interesting color casted on the iconic Zabriske Point view while others were stumbling around still.

I moved around as dawn approached and gifted me with a wonderful view of the Valley ahead. I wanted to capture the whole scene, but as more and more patrons attended lighting spectacle, I was getting more and more distractions in my view. I decided to move down the viewing platform to get another view of the Valley.

Here is a view of the others as the sun was beginning to rise.

I moved around a bit, also taking time to get a panorama of the area.

As the sun peaked, I was able to see the golden light illuminate the rocks ahead. It was magnificent to see the natural glow, which is my favorite type of light to capture while taking landscapes.

I moved around and soon also took a photo of the other side waiting for the exact moment the light accented the ridges of the stone below.

Later that day I decided to fill my afternoon hours prior to sunset at the Mesquite Dunes, this would give me an idea for the sunrise the following day. The sand directly adjacent to the parking lot was completely trampled upon, I had to hike a good mile or two in the sand to find out where I should setup the next day. I soon headed down to Titus Canyon for an off road run toward the little ghost town of Leadfield.

My car, all dirty.

A view of Titus Canyon from the inside, with Bruce for some reference.

My next destination would be the Racetrack. I had some time to kill, so I decided to check out Ubehebe Crater. This large volcanic crater was massive, you can make out little people at the bottom of the crater. I didn’t have enough time for this adventure and was somewhat exhausted from the Mesquite Dunes hike.

After an hour drive down a head jarring road, I arrived at the Racetrack. I was a little befuddled at first, since the large lake bed seemed barren and lacking the iconic rocks. With a little bit of curiosity, I was able to find some interesting rocks and the tracks they left behind.

As the sun set, I was rushing to get all the rocks I had framed and picked for my trip there. I had a beautiful sky to work with for this piece that I call “Near Miss Collision” or for short Near Miss.

A shot after the sun had set, which I thought was a pretty interesting shot.

I had to drive another hour out in pitch dark, it is early how lifeless it seems during the night. Although the park is called Death Valley, I find it refreshing and intriguing as the landscapes vary drastically in such a short distance. I had to find a place to sleep at night, and wasn’t sure if I would be welcome at the Mesquite Dunes parking lot. I found a few others also squatting the lot, possibly preparing for the next day. Well the next morning was a good indication that these cars were also chasing my same intent, the sunrise. I though I had started late, treading through marked sands as I arrived at the perfect moment to capture both stunning images as well as clear sand.

The eye of life peaks as the sun reaches out to warm the land in it’s sight.

I wanted to get a more abstract view of the dunes, which I usually get through the observation of texture or simplifying the scene. Here are some shots of a beautiful sand dune.

The tracks that I, and many others leave behind in search of our images.

I moved a long, looking for more images during the golden hour.

I had to fill my day up with some sites for this day as well. I drove up to Dante’s View to get panoramic view and images of the lowest point in the States.

I was also able to hike through Golden Canyon and up to Natural Bridge during the day. I have a few photos that were less than ideal but just good for my own sake. Later I decided to check out Devil’s Golf Course as well. This area wasn’t my favorite, but it also showed me how many visitors are very unaware and ignorant on the sustainability of the land. Small salt spheres ideally form to resemble golf balls in the area, but I wasn’t able to see any. Instead I just took a photo of the jagged rocks that permeate throughout the area.

And lastly, but not least the final destination for sunset at Badwater. I had always loved the images produced here, but you have to be both lucky and persistant to get a truly unique image. I may have to come back sometime when there are clouds in the forecast to hopefully get a fiery sky to complement the names of the attractions and Death Valley National Park.

The teams line during the National Anthem up prior to the game between the Houston Dynamo and Los Angeles Galaxy.

While growing to love the soccer as a sport, I also grew to love the MLS. Although the action is different from across the pond, there is a uniqueness about the national soccer scene. The last game of the 2011 season had the Houston Dynamo playing the Los Angeles Galaxy for the MLS Cup. The game ended up as a thriller with the Galaxy edging out the Dynamo by only a 1 point margin, and just one point scored in all. I was happy to see David Beckham finally show the Los Angeles area what he was worth, just before his contract ended. Here are a few photos from the MLS cup that I liked. A general view of the stands prior to the game between the Houston Dynamo and Los Angeles Galaxy at the 2011 MLS Cup.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Adam Cristman (17) and Houston Dynamo midfielder Adam Moffat (16) jump up for the ball.

Houston Dynamo midfielder Danny Cruz (5) goes up in the air while attempting to get possession of the ball from Los Angeles Galaxy defender Todd Dunivant (2).

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Adam Cristman (17) attempts a header.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Adam Cristman (17) attempts a header on a cross defended by Houston Dynamo goalkeeper Tally Hall (1).

Houston Dynamo midfielder Luiz Camargo (17) falls while attempting to move the ball defended by Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10).

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham (23) passes the ball defended by Houston Dynamo forward Calen Carr (3).

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Robbie Keane (14) attempts to move the ball defended by Houston Dynamo defenseman Bobby Boswell (32).

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10) celebrates after a goal.

Houston Dynamo defenseman Andre Hainault (31) slides for the ball from Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham (23).

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10) celebrates with Los Angeles Galaxy forward Mike Magee (18) after the game between the Houston Dynamo and Los Angeles Galaxy.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10) celebrates with his team after a goal.

Los Angeles Galaxy celebrate after the game between the Houston Dynamo and Los Angeles Galaxy during the 2011 MLS Cup.

After the game, I had to get the mandatory jube shots.

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I was happy to get another chance to shoot at the Staples Center, I just love its convenience. Well, the Kings are currently struggling to get into the playoffs. This provides the same predicament as last year where they will determine their fate. But during this outing against the Minnesota Wild, they were able to win 5-2. Here are a few shots I liked from the game earlier in the season. Los Angeles Kings defenseman Matt Greene (2) scores a goal against the Minnesota Wild.

Los Angeles Kings defenseman Drew Doughty (8) moves the puck defended by Minnesota Wild right wing Devin Setoguchi (10).

Los Angeles Kings and Minnesota Wild fight during the game during the second period.

Minnesota Wild right wing Dany Heatley (15) attempts to get to the puck against Los Angeles Kings center Anze Kopitar (11).

Los Angeles Kings left wing Simon Gagne (12) scores during the game against the Minnesota Wild.

Los Angeles Kings goalie Jonathan Quick (32) makes a save against the Minnesota Wild.

Minnesota Wild right wing Dany Heatley (15) attempts a shot defended by Los Angeles Kings defenseman Willie Mitchell (33).

Los Angeles Kings left wing Simon Gagne (12) fights an unidentified Minnesota Wild player.

Los Angeles Kings center Anze Kopitar (11) moves the puck defended by Minnesota Wild defenseman Marek Zidlicky (3).

Minnesota Wild goalie Niklas Backstrom (32) attempts to grab the puck against the Los Angeles Kings

Tonight I took the bus to the Silverlake Trader Joe’s for some groceries, on the way back I noticed a lot of cool fountains right next to the building that I live in. I decided to stop being lazy and get some photos of these places. Well, first off I wanted to get a cool photo of the 3rd street tunnel. Which was pretty scary if you try to avoid the cars coming right at you. I want to get a similar picture of the 2nd street tunnel as well.

A fellow photographer I met up with, while he was making a timelapse video I captured this.

I’ve always wanted to get this photo, I really want to get a portrait here. Maybe in the future?

Los Angeles Water and Power Department, with colorful fountains that I always admire from afar.

And lastly, I visited the Music Center, which hosts a water show during the day. I will have to get around to these places some other time for better lighting.

Edit, here are a few shots of my friends that followed along the next day. Maria:

Melody!

Although I mostly cover the Ducks during the season, I get an occasional Kings game. It’s always great to cover the Staple Center events because I live so close. I was also excited to see Vancouver, one of the leagues best teams, duke it out with the Los Angeles Kings. Here are a few photos that I liked from the game. I was able to get interesting lighting before the game started, when the lights turned red. It creates a similar effect to black and white.

Vancouver Canucks goalie Roberto Luongo (1) blocks a shot against the Los Angeles Kings.

Los Angeles Kings defenseman Willie Mitchell (33) blocks a shot against the Vancouver Canucks.

Vancouver Canucks goalie Roberto Luongo (1) blocks a shot by Los Angeles Kings right wing Justin Williams (14).

Vancouver Canucks left wing Chris Higgins (20) dives for the puck against the Los Angeles Kings.

Vancouver Canucks defenseman Kevin Bieksa (3) bleeds after being hit against the Los Angeles Kings.

Vancouver Canucks defenseman Keith Ballard (4) checks Los Angeles Kings center Trevor Lewis (22).

Los Angeles Kings center Trevor Lewis (22) attempts a shot defended by Vancouver Canucks defenseman Keith Ballard (4).

Los Angeles Kings right wing Dustin Brown (23) crashes into Vancouver Canucks goalie Roberto Luongo (1)

Vancouver Canucks defenseman Sami Salo (6) scores against the Los Angeles Kings.

Vancouver Canucks celebrate after a goal by Vancouver Canucks defenseman Sami Salo (6).

Los Angeles Kings left wing Kyle Clifford (13) and Vancouver Canucks right wing Dale Weise (32) fight during the first period

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With the LA Galaxy making the number one seed as well as holding the Supporter’s Shield, they gained home field advantage for all playoff games. They were able to defeat both the New York Red Bulls and Real Salt Lake to making it into the MLS Cup for David Beckham’s final season on contract. It has been a tough 5 years for the Galaxy, without a Cup to justify their investment. For this game, I decided to get a few shots up stairs to get a different angle of the teams because there was so much media at the games. Teams line up for the National Anthem prior to the game between the Real Salt Lake and Los Angeles Galaxy.

Los Angeles Galaxy fans chant prior to the game between the Real Salt Lake and Los Angeles Galaxy .

Los Angeles Galaxy line up prior to the game between the Real Salt Lake and Los Angeles Galaxy.

Real Salt Lake prior to the game between the Real Salt Lake and Los Angeles Galaxy.

After that, I went back down for the low angle. Here are a few shots that I liked while covering the Los Angeles Galaxy’s road to the MLS Cup. Los Angeles Galaxy forward Robbie Keane (14) attempts to move the ball up the field defneded by New York Red Bulls midfielder Dax McCarty (11).

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Mike Magee (18) and New York Red Bulls midfielder Dax McCarty (11) hold each other’s neck .

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham (23) and New York Red Bulls midfielder Dax McCarty (11) battle for the header.

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham (23) moves the ball defended by New York Red Bulls midfielder Dane Richards (19).

New York Red Bulls forward Luke Rodgers (9) is stopped by Los Angeles Galaxy defender A.J. DeLaGarza (20).

Los Angeles Galaxy goalkeeper Josh Saunders (12) blocks a shot against the Real Salt Lake.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Chad Barrett (11) is tripped up by an unidentified Real Salt Lake player.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Mike Magee (18) scores a header on Real Salt Lake goalkeeper Nick Rimando (18).

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham (23) attempts a penalty kick against the Real Salt Lake.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Robbie Keane (14) celebrates after a goal against the Real Salt Lake.

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder David Beckham (23) slides for the ball against Real Salt Lake midfielder Andy Williams (77).

Los Angeles Galaxy goalkeeper Josh Saunders (12) attempts to grab the ball against Real Salt Lake defender Chris Schuler (28).

Los Angeles Galaxy and New York Red Bull line up prior to the game.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Robbie Keane (14) attempts to move the ball past a New York Red Bulls defender.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Mike Magee (18) heads the ball in for a goal against the New York Red Bulls.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Mike Magee (18) celebrates a goal against the New York Red Bulls.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan (10) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Real Salt Lake.

Real Salt Lake fans celebrate after a goal against the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Los Angeles Galaxy forward Chad Barrett (11) attempts a shot on Real Salt Lake goalkeeper Nick Rimando (18).

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