Early morning coffeescapade from a night owl

When it comes to drinking coffee, my usual go to is a large cup of Mocha with a teaspoon of honey. The sweeter it is the better. I’ve been drinking so many cups for the past few months. This started when I needed to drive my roomie down at Caloundra for her 6 am placement shifts. I was never a morning person.

I’d usually be up late all night, enjoying some quality creativity time til 2 AM and wake up at 9 AM. My lifestyle, however, went from being a night owl to an early bird when I went back to university.

So imagine us rushing at 4:30 am to drive 25 minutes every Thursday and Friday was no picnic. Yet with every seemingly sluggish situation, I find an opportunity. Most days, after dropping Mona (roomie babes) off, I’d drive down to the beach and look for a place to do school work or do some design freelance. I’d end up searching coffee shops the night before, checking if the food is affordable and if there was access to wifi.

So every morning when I drive her, I get to visit a new coffee shop or a new beach. I get to appreciate the sun rising on the other end of the sea and just watch as the waves hit the rocks where I was sitting on. I’d take walks and discover a path where Mangroves grow. I get to talk to people, asking them for directions and just happy to be conversing with someone new. They were all very friendly and wanted to help out the best they can. I’ve been asked many times where I got my accent, but I knew they meant where I came from originally.

A few mistook me as Japanese. I smiled and mention proudly I was Filipino. By then, I realised that one day, everyone would walk every part of the world. No boundaries of race or religion. One day, the beauty of no judgments will be real. The world will just be one. An idea I overheard from a drunken father while he was paying his bill at a Japanese restaurant near our home. It was fascinating how other people see things and how they vocalise their ideas once they’re intoxicated. For now, people wanted to relate, thus the question of culture is still the usual conversation starter.

During the journey, my right foot got badly injured. I was walking with it the whole time, not knowing it had a fracture. I’d limp by the seaside, carefully picking out the right stone to step on. Then I’d sit at the largest, flattest mass I can find and soak in the sun. I’d take photographs of birds scraping for food then fly off where the winds will take them. Then I’d walk back to the parking lot and strike up a conversation with an old man who just 25 minutes ago, was in the sea trying to catch a good wave.

After that, I’d find a bench by the shore, close my eyes, meditate for 10 minutes and appreciate the many sounds of my surroundings. Being present at that very moment. I was not in touch with my senses for the longest time. But Sunshine Coast, a place where people understand the importance of pausing, was so far from the busy city where I was used to. I need not have an excuse to keep my mind at ease. To keep me emotionally healthy and physically aware. The people here understand the impact of meditation and calm. And so I close my eyes with them and appreciate the simple life and its beauty that surrounded me.

Aside from being out by the water, I would do this mostly with a cup of hot coffee in my hand. I’ve been to numerous coffee places, yet I don’t usually end up in commercialized establishments. I mostly go to those privately owned businesses where they design their own interiors and have real chalkboards to show their menu. The ones with bikes and surfboards hanging from the walls and where there would be an open area right next to a giant forest of tall trees. I’d hear the birds sing often and think how blessed I am to go on this kind of adventure.

I’ve been chasing success and money and a “socially-postable” lifestyle to impress my parents and other people, realising that I needed to forget all of that and start finding peace and clarity within myself is more important. There is a lot more to learn, but I am glad that where I am right now, I feel is where I should be.

Hobbling at Costigan Mangrove Boardwalk

The alarm would buzz us awake at 5 AM and we’d have enough time to scramble around to freshen up and heat up some food for the road. I’d drop off Mona at her placement by 6 AM at Caloundra and wait til two in the afternoon to pick her up.

I’d have 8 hours on my plate. Last week, I drove around and visited 3 different beaches and a hidden coffee shop within the area. Since I was still healing from my sprain, the doctor advised walking around so my foot can start feeling normal.

My first stop was at Golden Beach. My intention was to look for a good spot where I can sit and get some work done but I felt like I needed a break. I walked around with my trusty Canon 650D DSLR and took photos of the sun coming up. The view was amazing but the only seat I could watch it from was already occupied by a giant crow. Giving respect to its space (honestly just scared shit cause of its size) I moved on and saw a few people coming out from the woods.

The trees were tall and I couldn’t make out what was on the other side so I hobbled (really) towards the edge of a boardwalk and read Costigan Mangrove BoardWalk.

Oh perfect I said using my inside voice and dragged my bruised foot inside. The view of the sunset from the edges was amazing. I took loads of pictures and listen to the birds singing. I tried taking pictures of the wildlife around me but they were too shy and hid behind the many roots of low wet soil.

It was a short walk but literally breathtaking. Like a walking yoga if there was such a thing. A very good morning to me indeed! Next on the list was a short drive to Shelley beach which I will right on the next day.

I’m giving myself an hour to write everyday cause I think It’s good creative exercise.

Thanks for reading peeps!

For more creative photos follow my Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/sainah.benz

or check out our freelance design agency website and let’s collaborate: http://www.kulaycreatives.wordpress.com

Sea Salts and Laces

There were no more spaces for me to park as I got to Point Cartwright Beach. I was meeting a friend for a photoshoot. We’ve been planning this for the longest time since we were classmates in Entrepreneur Growth back at the university. The week had been too busy. Working as a Designer, I had my eyes glued to a computer screen for more than 12 hours every day. My eyes could use the rest so I wanted it behind a camera’s eyepiece for the weekend.

The week had been too busy. Working as a Designer, I had my eyes glued to a computer screen for more than 12 hours every day. My eyes could use the rest so I wanted it behind a camera’s eyepiece for the weekend.

I was waiting for a car to go out a drive slot when a small pink vehicle slowly pulled up behind me. It was Jy-leigh, my model. We laughed and waved excitedly. She was with her boyfriend, Toby. I made a quick turn around and drove until we both found parking spots near the pier where everyone had picnics and barbeques while waiting for the sun to go down.

The sun sets in Sunshine Coast are breathtaking! We were chasing this moment as the natural lighting was perfect for the mood of the shoot.

We made our way down the beach to find a vast rock formation area. Jy-leigh, already halfway down the pile of rocks had nicely stepped over the beach’s obstacles. I was fairly new to this so it took me a while to go down. My brain was figuring out where and which rock to step on next to avoid slipping.

Processed with VSCO with a5 preset

“Wait for me! You’re Australian so I’m pretty sure you are very used to this!” I called out while looking at her bare feet. If I walked barefoot down the beach I’d reach the waters bleeding. Point Cartwright had this good strong wind that played our hair around. The salt was unmistakable after I’ve briefly spoken and tasted my lips. We took it’s direction and used that effect to our advantage.

I finally made it to the shore where we’d hang out for the next hour and make our magic.While shooting, the sea waters and winds made a faint film on my glasses, making it a bit blurry for me to see. I squinted for a bit to adjust my sight and decided to just take off my glasses.

Low and behold, all the contrast of colours on the moss covered rocks and the blue of the sea were in vivid visuals! Awestruck, I just stood there, peacefully watching my surroundings. I’ve always wished my eyesight was better. And this was one of those moments.

Jy-leigh, was already on a far off rock, posing beautifully against the waves. She had been doing Yoga and her form and body were just perfect for the shoot. The pictures say it all.

As they most creative individuals quote, the photographer is as good as the model they are shooting. I was quite lucky I get to meet her during my studies here in Australia.

Less than two hours, we packed up and said our goodbyes.
The real biz starts after driving to the university to sit in a quiet spot at the library and pick the best from a bunch.

I love the whole process of taking photographs. And how I feel fulfilled when I finish colour editing the ones that were chosen. I’d want to do this until I get old, I’d think most of the time.

This Valentines, love was popularised by marketing as a couples day when in reality, it’s the expression of all kinds of love. The love between family, friends, a hobby, a pet and even yourself. It is expressed in different ways which make it so colourful and beautiful.

Thanks for reading and Happy Valentines everyone!

Shots were taken by me with a Canon 450D. Colours post processed on #vscocam

The feeling Of Change. Living in Australia.

Australia. It was a 2-year plan to start living abroad, experiencing an independent lifestyle while studying and living amongst strangers that would soon be my friends. It was truly a dream come true. I decided one day that I’d go about shooting pictures around the beach, just walking around and loving the chilly wind of a drizzle. As I look into the sea, I’d always want to pinch myself. Wow. I am in fucking Australia!

For most people, change is hard. It’s a challenge that may either result in fear or growth. And this, for me, was a mix of both. I remembered how we went to an Australian school expo back in the Philippines. There were a dozen great choices but one school won me over simply because it was near the beach. Automatically, the thought that If I’d be knackered from studying, working part-time and doing all the house chores myself, I’d love to see the seaside more than once in a week.

So here we are, living life just fifteen minutes away from the beach. Australia’s Sunshine Coast, as they say, is a tourist spot where most come and go to enjoy the sun. I’ve loved the idea that everyone we’re speaking in English as I’ve never properly engaged with it back home. Judgemental eyes would seep into what came out of my mouth and the reality of it was, most people assume a lot about another simply because you spoke a different language. I know I shouldn’t be bothered, yet I am. It was an enormous nail wrenched out of my system. Open-mindedness is a gift within society. I’d bravely say my hometown lacks a lot of that.

Living outside the family, outside of people who you grew up is honestly, freeing. I miss everyone a whole lot, yet there is something about moving away that gives you peace.

As I ponder about these deep life ideas, I would take walks around Mooloolaba beach. I’d enjoy watching people and giving a moment of myself. With Canon in my pack, I’d take the shots of beautiful animals or people or scenery and freeze that moment forever.

The attitude of liking change and having hopefully, healthy ideas around it is good. Change isn’t easy of course. Whether its origin is from a sad beginning or a happy one, it sets a path that anyone can choose how to end up. I ended up here, working two jobs, studying my second degree in design and striking up a conversation with good-natured strangers. Every different moment, whether it’s riding the bus to work or feeling the mood when the sun sets, everything is authentic, real, and truly worth breathing in. I am thankful every day.

Beach Look : My new Napsack

Purchased last minute this canvas bag from SALVATORE MANN. Was doing my business for how many weeks now and I needed a reward! We’re staying with our two team mates here in the province and I saw this stripped top he was wearing. I wanted to surprise him with a fashion shot and here is how my self portrait turned out!

I’m a typical artist who needs a bit of inspirational visual everyday. A self produced shot takes the cake! Hope you guys like it!

And there was Love, Happiness and Brighter Breakfasts!

You know what they say that when you wake up next to the person you love, you feel compelled to wake-up the same way everyday for the rest of your life? Starting early with the one person you consider your partner, your other half or your “life” is something my mentor’s Don and Ivy have shared.

It was on a Wednesday morning at around 4 am when Ica and I scrambled out of bed. Our gadgets were ready the night before, so all we had to do was look comfy and get some breakfast. We met mentor Levy and Ervine down by 7/11 and bought ourselves a few breads at Pandemanila, some chocolate soy milk and anything for the road.

In a short while we have met the happy couple, all smiles and ready to start our little road trip to Subic.

Don Sepe, slim built with a humble stature, was behind the wheel of the car. He was a quiet man, brief in responses but his words were all good. His eyes expressive and his smile sincere. Beside him was the every energetic Ivy Dela Cruz. Her smile was the same, only wider with delight. Her face would light up naturally like things were made of God’s good grace. She was asking question and making great conversation. They were both very interesting considering their age aligned to their success, they have done well for themselves. They were ready, the car filled with a variety of clothes, shoes and other props.

Mentor Levy and Ervine were in a separate car. They were leading the way to Subic. We all went for a quick burger and bibingka break, some bathroom stops and engine heats on the road but at around 2pm, we have reached our destination!

Since my Canon 450D was still collecting dust on the condo cabinet, my battery-drained 350D was the only thing I can keep my hands on. I had made the most out of it I think and was very happy with the pictures.

My flash gun and triggers were the ones that were most used and made Ervine and mentor Levy’s shots look like it was in a fixed studio in an outdoor set. The colors were superb and well taken. Ica and I were the behind-the-scenes shooters and had a nice set of our own. The candid ones were simply the best.

The locations were done by parking on random. Places that we think were nice and sufficient for the mood was grabbed by the collar and bagged like a dog on a mail man. In other words, we were but a positive impulsive bunch of kids on a prenuptial road trip shoot. It was F.U.N !!!

We had lunch at a local Subic mall and had some beef stake and tempura at Tokyo Tokyo. My battery as I’ve mentioned was dying down so I had to ask a new friend of mine, (her name is JD, the manager) to charge a few for me. Ironically, there was a mass black out at Subic so I was left without a camera on hand.

Luckily, after getting through the many leaves of the man-made forest, I was pumping balloons and was enjoying the props making. I watched as the three shot their pictures and was observing how our lovely couple were taking their angles.

At one point, Ms.Ivy had these killers heels on her. She had expressed them as a brief beautification since they were 4 inches high. We were on guard to catch her just in case.

Posing was not easy. But Mr. Don Sepe was a natural on this. Ms.Ivy was having fun and laughing as we dodged cars when we decided to take pictures in the middle of the road. The rush something else, specially if you’re wearing killer heels!

The last three locations were the best ones. We were quick since the sun was our muse and we would like to catch her before she calls it a day. We drove up next to a pier where Ms. Ivy and Sr. Don took out these huge letter cut outs of the first letter of their names. Gigantic plastic multicolored sun glasses were also worn, making them look rather funny. (Alas these shots were on Ica, Ervine and Mentor Levy’s cams. I’ll leave it to them for other succeeding posts.)

Then there was the beach! Oh yes the sun was almost down and a splash of colors were abound! Indigo, purple, orange in different hues were playing, painted on the sky above and reflected on the waters below as a small boat went passing by. It was magical.

Then we shot by the beach side were sand was between our toes as they posed beside their car. It was a bokeh challenge too as we tried to play with the far off city lights.

We called it a night and ate more burgers and some hot wings at Hotshots. God that was a good dinner! Our bites were so big our jaws were happily sore from eating! Luckily, two banana splits were order to level out the pain.

We got home by 3am, exhausted and sticky but contented and happy of the whole day. I flopped down the couch, rested a bit and thought about the wedding the two will be having. I am very much excited to say to them, “Congratulations and best wishes to you…Mr. and Mrs. Sepe! Cheers!”

Hermie : The Hermit Crab from Subic

After three months of juggling freelance work and business, I took the liberty to take a breather and release my tensions through an artistic outlet. Went to Subic and walked barefoot the shores of a small beach. The sands where ash gray, the little crabs were digging their homes underneath. At the very end of the shore were big black rocks. A souvenir was always a must when I go out of town. Thus I picked up a small pink shell, not knowing a small hermit crab was housed inside. I named it Hermie as soon as I saw it’s little head peek out.

Sadly, a few hours after putting it in a plastic container, complete with white sands, shells and fresh water, Hermie died after grabbing a huge chunk of apple. I wanted to keep the shell as a memory but taking out Hermie required light hands. Mine however was as heavy as a construction worker drilling pavement. Hermie resting in pieces.