November update: Japan, Coursework, Stress.

Japan was a fantastic trip for the most part. I absolutely loved the culture, the temples, and the photographic opportunities. I was there for nearly two weeks, but unfortunately have had absolutely no time to go through the 2,000 or so photos. I’m in the midst of research and writing a case study, so most other aspects of fun, socialization, or exercise has taken a massive hit. In fact, this trend will be continuing until June. It’s a rough yearRead more

Photographing Manila as an expat

Took a stroll the other day with a fellow photography enthusiast and Novita through a part of Manila most expats would never dare explore. Between that area and the area we live in, “Fort Bonifacio”, there’s a massive, imposing wall reaching 5 meters in some places. I wasn’t sure if it was keeping them out, or keeping us walled in. The security guards near one entrance just smiled and said there’s no way we could enter. Of course that didn’tRead more

An act of affection in a moment of violence

It’s interesting to see how one culture’s normal activities may seem brutal or cruel in contrast to another. Take, for example, this particular afternoon spent in Banaue, Central Luzon, Philippines. We visited a very remote traditional rice-farming village nestled in the serene valley outside of Banaue, and lived, if for only an afternoon, as they do. For these gentle people, the act of killing a live chicken with your bare hands is just a daily chore – something as naturalRead more

Photo Exhibition

I’ve been MIA lately, as I’m preparing to do a rather large shipment of my photographs to the States. It’s an absurd amount of preparation. I’ll be doing a show in Newburyport, MA (just outside of Boston), on November 17th and 18th. If anyone happens to be in the area, please drop by. I won’t, however, be there myself. One of my friends and former colleagues will be working as my agent for the show. I’ll have about 50 piecesRead more

Quarter Life Crisis: Part One (Life as an Expat)

So begins a new phase in my life. My Quarter Life Crisis has officially commenced. I suppose a good way to deal with this is with some introspection, reflection, and a good round of bullsh*ting about whatever spills out of this confused mind. Without further ado, let the rambling begin. Life as an expat moves through a number of phases. There’s the initial, “Wow, it’s so different and interesting!” first few months of bliss with our newfound relationship with aRead more

Blowing Your Mind

I’ve been reading this thread on Ask Metafilter regarding one person’s search for experiences which will blow their mind. It’s amazing to see the variety of responses, and how many people cite drug-use as the sole answer. (I’m not advocating nor discrediting this, just noting). I realize this is kind of a weird and imprecise question, but bear with me here. Some background – I’ve done a lot of things in my short time on this planet in an attemptRead more