Category Archives: Photography

Enter the Wolf Moon of 2018..

Happy New Year!

Today begins with that, and a new Full Moon or Super Moon (given its fullness and slightly closer position to Earth) on this night.

This first Full Moon is also known as the Wolf Moon, according to some ancient naming tradition unclear in origin. It is said that wolves howl more during this time, though not at the Moon but toward the night sky. Reasons I believe, are their use of the open sky as better acoustics to announce their presence, and communicate with each other.

Meanwhile, I did not feel like howling, and felt shivers from the cold air during my short time in the outside today. I took the above pic during a needed walk after a long sleep recovering from the long night before, and the tough year that ended.

So, onto new things ahead, which will be exciting with some curiosity and daring moves to be done. Then perhaps, I will feel like howling.

– Orion T

Snowy Wires Above.

img_7967

The electric transportation wires cross-crossed on Broadway and Pine in Seattle’s Capitol Hill are a mildly interesting sight to behold. Seeing them layered with snow bring a further specialness to the quiet night last Sunday, on Christmas Eve.

– Orion T

A Celebration of Seattle, a Holiday Season Gingerbread Village Tribute

This year’s (25th) Gingerbread Village at the Sheraton Hotel in Downtown Seattle, is a celebration of the city itself and a must-see for local holiday deco enthusiasts.

This year marks the silver anniversary of the famed annual presentation, with “25 Years of Cheer: A Celebration of Seattle,” a creative, sugary take on visions of Seattle’s future, and past. There are multiple large displays, with structures, landscapes, things made mostly out of reinforced gingerbread, frosting, candy bits, gummies, jelly beans, frost, and other sugary silliness combined with LED lights and some animatronics. Each display developed from the work of an architecture firm and lead “chef.” Last year’s Gingerbread Village theme focused on Harry Potter, and Star Wars the year before.

Below are some pics of each display. Enjoy!

For those who wish to visit and view, The Gingerbread Village is now free to the public until January 1, 2018. It’s all located by the Sheraton (still hosting) across the street from at the City Centre building. You are also encouraged to also give a monetary amount to the JDRF Northwest Chapter. For more site and event information including bios on the designers and builders (and to donate directly), visit www.gingerbreadvillage.org.

– Orion T

Pictures of Today 11/26/2017, Lights-Go-Round

img_4012

Today, after the sun fell, I passed by a special carousel in Seattle’s downtown Westlake Center, which only comes out for the holiday season around here. I had my good camera with me and took the above picture.

I enjoy the beauty of unfocused lights, as this setting gave much to the eye in variety and sizes. I love every megapixel of this moment. So much loved, I didn’t bother with cropping and or editing the result.

I then shot another picture, this time further our and focused, seconds before someone jumped on the horse…

img_7918

There is a special brilliance of a great carousel when fully illuminated at night. You see one, take a moment to stop and appreciate. Then maybe, go for a ride.

– Orion T

 

Picture of Today 11/20/2017, The Cold Scene

img_7913

I little earlier today in the afternoon, I recall the temperature at 45 degrees (F). The rain was heavy from the morning, and then came a break after with mild winds. Coming out to lunch, I felt the remainder of chill air.

The effect felt refreshing. Not sure why. I think perhaps, there’s something natural about this, mixed with the view of the trees over the fence upon Myrtle Edwards Park, with Elliot Bay in the distance. There, I noticed the leaves nearly gone from the trees, so much more than those of the inner Seattle City. being near the water, I am guessing the winds have done more work here, allowing more cold air to pass through from the sky above.

– Orion T

Picture of Today 10/7/2017 II, Seattle before the Rise

img_7799

The Seattle downtown area before the full sunrise., around 6:30 pm. This view came from Pier 66, where I was also taking shots of the Harvest Moon (see the previous post).

I loved every second of this moment.

– Orion T

Picture of Today 10/6/2017, Late Harvest Moon in the Early Morn

img_7800

I went for a walk this morning walk before the sunrise, after taking on a small errand delivery. Seeing the Moon shining bright and illuminated partially in the clouds, I remember it’s the Harvest Moon!

Yes indeed, this Harvest Moon was glorious with its heavy moonlight, enhanced by thinning clouds. Almanac.com best puts it, “The Harvest Moon is the full Moon nearest the start of fall or the autumnal equinox. This usually means it coincides with the September full Moon, though it can also fall nearer to the October full Moon, occurring anywhere from two weeks before to two weeks after the equinox.”

Because This Moon rises and sets close to the sun cycles, there is more moonlight. This helps the farmers with changes made during the Summer and Fall Seasons. Hence, the Harvest Moon name. The last Harvest Moon was in 2009. The next will be in 2020.

Overall, an awesome sight and reward for waking up earlier than usual. I took the above shot from Pier 66 on the Seattle Waterfront, overlooking Elliot Bay. the sunrise was also beautiful, of which I will feature in my next posting…

– Orion T

Do Androids Dream of Living Computers?

img_7794

I’m much excited for the new Blade Runner 2049 movie coming out soon, but also a bit worried it may not live up to the grandeur of the original, a cinematography and storytelling work of art.

With that in mind, I attended the “Do Androids Dream of Living Computers?” event at the awesome Living Computers: Museum + Labs in the SoDo area of Seattle, last weekend. the event was an homage to the classic 1984 Blade Runner classic movie with its influence on tech, AI, and cyberpunk culture. With that were live performances, Voight-Kampff tests, cosplay, origami foldings, cosplay, AI developments examples, and much more. I had a good time and took a few pics…

 

Also, big thanks to the Living Computers: Museum + Labs for putting this on. The entire place is super great, with many preserved computer machines and new innovations on display. Much of which I plan to focus on with another write-up someday with another visit to the awesome museum. Visit www.livingcomputers.org for more information.

– Orion T

 

Pictures of Today 9/27/2017, Waiting for the Night

img_7763

Today was nice, especially the evening.

I took the above picture on a spur of the moment while working out some plans and enjoying the continuous breath of fresh air. Location is Myrtle Edwards Park, with West Seattle in the distance.

– Orion T

Picture of Today 9/25/2017, Early Risings..

img_7756

Dropped by the friendly neighborhood thrift shops in search of some cords and things today. I see the Halloween decorations and costumes are early up, and ready for the shopping. I enjoy the sights of things most at thrift stores, especially those in Capitol Hill, Seattle.

Above are some masks fitting better for those in spirit for the Mexican holiday, Día de Muertos or Day of the Dead. Its history is traced back further than the popular All Saint’s Eve or Halloween, with its roots reaching back 3,000 years ago in Aztec culture. It’s modern take is the result of many twists and turns through intersecting cultures and religions. Reading up on this, I felt a bit fascinated and curious towards anything locally going on for this coming Day of the Dead, which coincides with Halloween.

Until then, it’s nice to see local shops are prepping early for these interesting spooky days ahead.

Picture of Today 9/21/2017, Goodbye Summer

img_7753

Today is the last day of Summer 2017 for the Northern Hemisphere. I hope you took some great looks at the grown green, especially if you’re in the Pacific Northwest, for it’s all coming down soon. Along with it, the warm weather and brighter days.

Yet, I think there will be as much to appreciate in the coming Fall. Wait and see…

Picture of Today 9/172017, Rain Game

Football seems best on Sunday, more time for casual enjoyment and social gatherings among more sports fans. Today in Seattle, the local Seahawks played the San Francisco 49ers (Seahawks won 12-9). I missed much of the game but heard the 49ers played well and the Seahawks offense was a bit weak.

Meanwhile, the rain happened for much of the day. The drops weren’t heavy but were enough in giving the city a much-needed sprinkle, after the recent smoky weather. Every drop on my head felt good, and I look forward to more in the coming days.

-Orion T

Picture of Today 9/12/2017, Darker earlier…

img_7735

The day is getting darker, colder. The summer is running out…

– Orion T

I took this shot on my way home. Smith Tower is to the right, standing tall since 1914. 

Picture of Today 9/10/2017, Admiring Distance…

Photo Sep 09, 4 15 57 PM

Here is a good day in the wind, where I sway low and look away. I admire the beauty of the distance I see, where time is slowed and clarity is gained. I wish I had more of this in the current days. With longer time and attention given to the distance, I could write more.

Orion T

Picture of Today 8/21/2017, Peek of the Solar Eclipse

Photo Aug 21, 9 43 54 AM

My view of the latest solar eclipse of 2017, above.

Living and working in Seattle, I witnessed a 92% peak of its possible totality. It was a privilege to have that much, being so close to its 100% totality across mid-Oregon state.

Such was an awesome sight from glasses (well worth the trouble in procuring). The time of the moon passing over the sun a little over two hours, with its peak at 10:20 AM. Such was the lively experience, witnessing the awesome power of our tiny moon, blocking the overwhelming presence of our closest star, for just the moment.

The picture here doesn’t capture the natural glow as well. But getting the pic was a fun challenge, using another pair of eclipse glasses as a filter over the lens, then trying to focus wild holding the camera and trying not to go blind. All went well, though my eyes definitely needed a rest afterward. Overall, a great experience made better by sharing with others. I shall look forward to the next solar eclipse in the US during 2024, though it will require a little travel. Hmmm…

– Orion T

Wandering Nights of Ocean Beach

img_7619

Time for a rewind, till almost a month ago in San Diego, California. The place, Ocean Beach

The place is Ocean Beach, a wonderful beachside town in Southern California. The time is of two weekday nights, with a few hours to spare before some business downtown. The temperature was fairly warm, with the nearby breeze of the mighty Pacific Ocean nearby. The time was well spent, with light drinks, ruminating, and small talk with local strangers. Such is the wonderful atmosphere of Ocean Beach, where the time is just before midnight.

Here are some pics I took between destinations on the main Newport Ave. Look…

A cool two-dimensional display, guarding a parking lot

img_7614

A very colorful hostel, of which I would like to stay at someday.

img_7620

A colorful place to express one’s image.

img_7622

The upper interior of The Electric Chair, seen through the front window.

img_7623

The front of the famous Burger spot, Hodads…right before closing.

img_7618

A peek inside Hodads before closing. No space is wasted…

img_7616

Another peek into Hodads before closing…

img_7615

An awesome window display of one of many shops on the main street…

img_7626

Another store display of Ocean Beach, but on the outside.

img_7627

A cool neon sign…

img_7624

An alleyway by a bar I visited. Johnny Cash and Jimmy Hendrix welcome you.

img_7619

And past the stores of and streets of Ocean Beach, is an amazing pier that doesn’t close. More on that, I will share in another posting…

img_7628

 

Sunset through a Hazy Sky…

Just days ago, the air in the Pacific Northwest suffered through smoke from some wild fires in Canada. The air quality was bad, with the hazy skies covering the blue. Yet, the good part being the decline of the threatening heat have and awesome sunsets.

I was not around for the height and worst of the air but managed to see this catch this moment last Friday. From the Seattle waterfront’s Olympic Park, I enjoyed this moment of this dim sun falling far beyond Elliot Bay.

Then, I went home.

 

Grow as People…

"Listen to me, Morty. I know that new situations can be intimidating. You lookin’ around and it’s all scary and different, but y’know … meeting them head-on, charging into ‘em like a bull — that’s how we grow as people."

-Rick Sanchez, of the Rick and Morty show.

Picture is taken by me, from outside the 2017 San Diego Comic Con, in a special area event hosted by Cartoon Network's Adult Swim cable programming. I love Rick and Morty, and ready for the new Season 3 episodes.

Late Night Fuzzyness

A personal favorite shot above, showing my mood hours later after first arriving in San Diego two weeks ago.

The location, the end branch of the long Municipal Pier in Ocean Beach. It's a lovely place, no matter the picture. Just enjoy it, in any mood.

– Orion T

More shots to come, later and clearer.

Picture of Today 7/10/2017, Bursts of Leaves

img_1861

“And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.” 

― F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

The picture was taken by me, looking up during the day as the sun briefly came out and they sky turned partial blue, during an otherwise cloudy day.

-Orion T

Picture of Today 7/2/2017, Breezy Sunday

img_7486

Just a lazy Sunday for this time, where nothing matters but the wildflowers in the breeze. The time is around 5:30 pm.

Such is a peaceful moment, after waking up from a long nap on a random chair in Olympic Park, Seattle. The weekend has been kind, with the summer weather I wanted, and time away from the troubles of the world. The cruise ship in the distance is large, with at least six or seven stories above deck. I watch it move slowly across the sparkly waters of Elliot Bay. Such a life I imagine for those many on board; to worry not on things, for the moment.

– Orion T

The picture was taken from my outdated smartphone. However, It does well for closeups. See…

img_7487

The Spring Behind Us…

Photo Jun 09, 6 19 27 PM

I barely noticed the Spring has left.

I think for much of the season, at least for much of the Pacific Northwest, has left brought us cold and rainy weather, full of gloom with lessened sunshine. Such was especially towards the end.

Yet. there were moments. Many of which I either slept through or worked tirelessly on by. Such were the simple walks, enjoying the moments that can not be specialized through any specialized event or happening.

Here are pics of the recent days, of which took place in between the errands and mundane activities of errand-doing and sky-gazing….

Photo Jun 03, 2 14 00 PM

Don’t forget the blooms, for they will be gone soon!

Photo Jun 07, 7 31 03 AM

Morning squirrel, I see you!

Photo Jun 07, 4 42 25 PM

My hangout these days in Freeway Park, by the convenience of my work walking commute. It’s my place to read comic books and respond to texts.

Photo May 20, 11 48 52 AM

Kite in the sky, GO!

Photo Jun 09, 6 06 41 PM

Hey, a seagull!

Photo Jun 09, 6 07 33 PM

Two seagulls!

Photo Jun 09, 6 08 43 PM

Many seagulls!

Photo Jun 09, 6 18 25 PM

Another beautiful sunset..

Photo Jun 09, 6 19 27 PM

Even when the sun hides…

That’s all. Now, on to the Summer!

Orion T

 

 

 

A Fallen Bloom

Photo Jun 01, 7 32 32 AM

Above is a time last week, between the sunshine and gloom. The morning brought some Spring rain, gentle and calming for an otherwise busy week.

I passed a tree with fresh pink blooms, a casual wonder to behold. Upon the ground, were freshly fallen blooms still wet from their recent shower….

Photo Jun 01, 7 31 19 AMPhoto Jun 01, 7 30 25 AM

The location is within Freeway Park in downtown Seattle, by the Cultural Landscape Fountain. You may find me there on the weekdays, walking through on the morning or evening. Sometimes there, I sit down on a nearby bench and ruminate.

Orion T

Wonderful Honkfest West 2017 happenings…

Photo Jun 03, 12 04 55 PM

The weekend in Seattle held plenty for those with little in time, especially moments with great band music.

For me, I spent a little time for the second day of HonkFest West, a three-day grassroots, non-profit musical festival run and produced by volunteers. Much of the big sounds are from street bands coming from a variety of locations and backgrounds, to perform along three days in local areas. All performance are free and open to the public. However, donations in monetary supp ort are highly encouraged.

I had a little time on Saturday, passing through Pioneer Square’s Occidental Square, where nearby folk can hear the music and cheers from around the block. Coming closer brought a special awe to ears, with large group performances involving all the best instruments of the big band sound. I mainly stuck around for two main featured bands.

One group being The M9 (the M is Minor), a local band using high-energy in its brass combinations to bring about “global fusion sounds of the rich Balkan Romani brass tradition form the core of a repertoire which excites, invigorates, and inspires curiosity about one of Europe’s most misunderstood minorities.” Here’s a sample:

The other being Love-Bomb Go-Go, a PNW band from Portland, Oregon, a retro-future intergalactic band group dressed in funky attire, using an awesome blend of brass and dance. They are on “a mission to mend, with music, the divisions of civilization; seeking universal equality and striving, even, to re-establish purposefulness for each and every life.” Here’s a sample:

After both bands, I was treated to another gathered performance of the M9 and some added performers for another amazing jam session.

I share some choice pics I took of the excitement, below. For more on Honkfest West, check out  www.honkfestwest.org.

Photo Jun 03, 11 53 58 AMPhoto Jun 03, 11 50 50 AMPhoto Jun 03, 12 02 38 PMPhoto Jun 03, 12 03 57 PMPhoto Jun 03, 12 08 47 PMPhoto Jun 03, 12 10 27 PM

– Orion T

Of the 46th NW Folklife Festival, 2017

Photo May 29, 3 36 10 PM

This Memorial Day Weekend, I took a little time out to check out the 46th annual Northwest Folklife Festival. The event is a wonderful combination of music (mostly) and artists gathering for free (donations highly encouraged) performance for the thousands of visitors present.

All located in the Seattle Center by the world-famous Space Needle, there was something extra special added to the grand mix of delights. That, being a full weekend of warm weather, supported by the blue sky and the sunshine. After nearly half a year of wet, cold, and gloomy weather, such kindness felt deserved for the locals and an extra bonus for incoming tourists.

I meanwhile did not spend as much time as needed, being that I had many errands and some projects to work on. Still, there were some good hours I got at the NW Folklife, checking out a nice variety of international sounds. Here, are some highlights in pics (with some video links)…

“3 Play Ricochet, ” bluegrass band.

Photo May 29, 3 33 03 PM

The”New Genesis Gospel Choir,” I think. I forgot to write this one down, but the schedule I believe matches the time I took the pic.

Photo May 27, 5 24 07 PM

“The Debaucherauntes,” a Jewish fusion folk band

Photo May 29, 3 16 31 PM

“See Beeze,” sidewalk performance

Photo May 29, 3 09 08 PM

The “Bollywood Stars”

Photo May 29, 3 20 15 PM

Greg Youmans, of the “Not Quite Full Harmonic Orchestra” one-man band

Photo May 29, 3 45 30 PM

A picture from my cellphone, showing the great Space Needle, with some reggae band playing. Sadly, I could not stick around to enjoy the entire show.

20170529_180221

That’s all for this year’s 2017 Northwest Folklife Festival. The past years, I covered more time, but at least I discovered some new music with a nice international variety. This year will likely not be last, and I look forward to checking out new acts, and hopefully more pleasant weather.

-Orion T

Picture of Today 5/24/2017, The Excessories Odd-Yssey, Parked

Photo May 24, 10 07 26 PM

A curious minivan remained parked around the corner from home, covered in fashionable accessories and dazzling decorative art.

I admired much but had little time to study further (very busy evening). I did shoot some pictures but regret not getting much further on the close details.

I just did a bit more research and found that the car is named the Excessories Odd-Yssey, decorated by local artist Kelly Lyles. Her website is http://www.kellyspot.com, and definitely worth a look if you would like to see more of this awesome car, and the creative mind behind the wheels.

Photo May 24, 7 22 43 PMPhoto May 24, 7 22 05 PMPhoto May 24, 7 21 44 PMPhoto May 24, 7 21 57 PM

http://interactive.tegna-media.com/video/embed/embed.html?id=2395426&type=video&title=The%20Ultimate%20Minivan%20VIDEO&site=281&playerid=6918249996581&dfpid=32805352&dfpposition=Video_prestream_external§ion=home

Picture of Yesterday 5/20/2017, Bees Together

photo-may-20-11-36-16-am-e1495416696651.jpg

The above shot is from a moment past noon at the 5th Annual West Seattle Bee Festival, yesterday at the High Point Commons Park.

From behind the glass, I and others watched a beekeeper in action, demonstrating the inner workings of the man-made Langstroth hive box. Here, bees are inside and produce honey inside the hive frames, which are eventually raised and managed (from what I understood, please comment if I am wrong or leaving something important out).

Such activity was fun to watch and interesting the countless little worker bees in the process.   Here are some fun facts obtained from the Utah County Beekeepers Association:

  • Honeybees are the only insect that produces food for humans.
  • To make one pound of honey, the bees in the colony must visit 2 million flowers, fly over 55,000 miles and will be the lifetime work of approximately 768 bees.
  • A single honeybee will only produce approximately 1/12 teaspoon of honey in her lifetime.
  • Honey bees’ wings stroke 11,400 times per minute, thus making their distinctive buzz.
  • Bees communicate with each other by dancing and by using pheromones (scents).
  • Honeybees never sleep!

For more bee facts, visit www.utahcountybeekeepers.org.

– Orion T

 

Pictures of Today 5/16/17, Scattered Showers

The quick walk to work this morning had to slow down…

So, I can take a moment to appreciate the quickened beauty of the developed Spring, where after the heavy rains have produced the greenest of results.I often go through the Jim Ellis Freeway Park in Downtown Seattle. Seemingly recently, I am astounded by the sprout of extra fullness and vibrant greens of the surrounding trees, the epic height of this Pacific Northwest wet Spring.

Of which, I have yet to take pictures. Soon, I will snap and share the green views for another posting.

But for the earlier today, I focus more on two lone trees by the often used walkway, not as green but more white in distant sight. I am unsure of their kind. I think these are Sakura trees, but different from the larger prominent Sakura Tree clusters bloomed and shed in the early spring.

Here is one young tree, just after the recent rain of yesterday’s end….

and here is the nearby other…

I enjoyed the sight of both trees while nearly late to the next hour, letting the moment of this in-between display stay still, which shall come to pass very soon. Just one more look for then, and I leave for the day…

– Orion T

Picture of Today 5/4/2017, May the 4th be with you..

“You will know (the good from the bad) when you are calm, at peace. Passive.” – Yoda, Jedi Master
…

Picture by me at Kobi Park in Seattle. Figurine obtained at a yard sale many years ago, for one dollar.

– Orion T

Picture of Today 5/2/2017, a stillness

Photo Apr 30, 4 14 52 PM (1)

“Learning how to be still, to really be still and let life happen – that stillness becomes a radiance.”  – Morgan Freeman, actor and continuing inspiration

I took this picture in Belltown with my phone, on the way home.

– Orion T