MarkStuttard

threesixsix – 366 – anewdooropens

And so here we are at the end of the project. It’s been tough this year, I haven’t had that much spare time and so keeping up with it has been hard. There has been a couple of times I almost gave in, but am too damn stubborn to do that

For the last shot I revisited a spot I used for the end of my previous 365 project , I didn’t expect the graffiti door to still be there, but luckily it was… just a bit barricaded off. Had to use my height to get this shot, came in handy!

I very much doubt I will do another 365/366… however I will be back in 2013 with a 52 week project to keep my eye in

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threesixsix – 365 – treelined

Only one more day to go….

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threesixsix – 364 – stretch

Well here we are in the final few days of the project, and I’ve just realised I did something very stupid…. back in August I managed to use the same number twice and messed up my system! So originally I had this shot numbered as 363 when it was 364.

I’ve renamed it (and yesterdays)… does mean there is no official ’362′ however I have the right overall number of shots for the year. Annoying but can’t be helped… I may go back and fix once I’ve got the last day out of the way.

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threesixsix – 363 – paved

Well here we are in the final few days of the project, and I’ve just realised I did something very stupid…. back in August I managed to use the same number twice and messed up my system! So originally I had this shot numbered as 362 when it was 363.

I’ve renamed it, means there is no official ’362′ however I have the right overall number of shots for the year. Annoying but can’t be helped… I may go back and fix once I’ve got the last day out of the way.

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threesixsix – 362 – lowdown

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threesixsix – 361 – vertical

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threesixsix – 359 – christmasfeasting

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threesixsix – 358 – magicmushroom

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threesixsix – 357 – belly

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threesixsix – 356 – splash

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threesixsix – 355 – followthelight

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threesixsix – 354 – wetspot

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threesixsix – 353 – empties

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threesixsix – 352 – imprisoned

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threesixsix – 351 – wet

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threesixsix – 350 – windymiller

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threesixsix – 349 – decorative

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threesixsix – 348 – festive

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threesixsix – 347 – twofaced

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threesixsix – 346 – fog

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threesixsix – 345 – blue

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threesixsix – 344 – skelter

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threesixsix – 343 – birdbalance

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threesixsix – 342 – overhead

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threesixsix – 341 – pool

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threesixsix – 340 – morningglow

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threesixsix – 339 – squares

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threesixsix – 338 – watch

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threesixsix – 337 – trace

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threesixsix – 336 – trapped

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threesixsix – 335 – solitary

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threesixsix – 334 – mirror

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threesixsix – 333 – behindthestage

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threesixsix – 332 – nightlights

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threesixsix – 331 – vintage

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threesixsix – 330 – night

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threesixsix – 329 – balloons

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threesixsix – 328 – gooseattack

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threesixsix – 327 – slide

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threesixsix – 326 – stroll

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threesixsix – 325 – wired

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threesixsix – 324 – lightup

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threesixsix – 323 – bulbous

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threesixsix – 322 – moreshopping

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threesixsix – 321 – christmasshopping

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threesixsix – 320 – dollar

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threesixsix – 319 – tubular

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threesixsix – 318 – holey

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threesixsix – 317 – dark

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threesixsix – 316 – stepon

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threesixsix – 315 – blend

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threesixsix – 314 – grow

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threesixsix – 313 – evening

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threesixsix – 312 – lit

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threesixsix – 311 – wave

 

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threesixsix – 310 – morning

The clouds and light caught my eye.

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threesixsix – 309 – long

Morning shadows grabbing my attention on the walk into work.

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threesixsix – 308 – needeachother

So very behind on posting images for this project… have taken them all, but not quite gotten around to processing and posting so well….

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threesixsix – 307 – peace

Often photographed piece from the Northern Quarter of Manchester.

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threesixsix – 306 – smokingkills

Another remnant of Halloween, this mask leapt out to me on the walk into work (not literally!)

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threesixsix – 305 – masquerade

A leftover from Halloween on the previous evening I think…

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threesixsix – 304 – weep

Bit more practice with ICM – I like the watercolour effect it gives this image.

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threesixsix – 303 – scratched

Toying with depth and glass….

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threesixsix – 302 – emerge

Black and white tunnel shot… just for a change!

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threesixsix – 301 – fallen

Simple and seasonal.

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threesixsix – 300 – streak

Evening taxi ride, and no shot to use for the day so far? Experimentation occurs!

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threesixsix – 299 – trail

More groundwork…

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threesixsix – 298 – strip

Going for the low angle again, with an evening shot…

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threesixsix – 297 – tied

More play with focus.

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threesixsix – 296 – skeletal

Winter is coming, and the tree’s are becoming bare.

I rather like this time of year.

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threesixsix – 295 – brown

Getting down with the undergrowth

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threesixsix – 294 – shades

Toying with light and shadow once more.

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threesixsix – 293 – grilled

B&W focus work can always hits the spot.

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threesixsix – 292 – self

Took a similar shot on the recent photowalk but wasn’t happy with the reflection… so went for another go at it on a different day.

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threesixsix – 291 – travel

Another bit of playing with ICM – this time me moving as much as the camera.

It’s an acquired taste, I would imagine I like this shot more than most

 

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threesixsix – 290 – run

Wet mornings, reflective surfaces, black and white. As ever this is always going to make me snap away.

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threesixsix – 289 – guttered

Hanging around in the gutters again.

But the reflection is pretty.

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threesixsix – 288 – ripdennis

Today was a sad day.

Our hamster Dennis has been fighting some recent health issues, and today unfortunately lost that fight. He will be missed.

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threesixsix – 287 – intentional

Whilst on the Photowalk at the weekend, I spent a bit of time learning some tips from the walk leader (David Johnson aka MaxBlackPhotos), specifically on ‘Intentional Camera Movement’. He does some fantastic work with this technique (see some examples here - http://maxblackphotos.photodeck.com/-/galleries/intentional-camera-movement) and I was always curious to how he got such great results.

This is my first experiment following that lesson… still some work do be done but I quite like it as a first stab. I apologise in advance as I may well experiment further with this in the near future!

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threesixsix – 286 – ohonesixone

This is an image I snapped on the recent ‘Worldwide photowalk’ that occurred over the weekend, this one I picked as my 366 image for the day as it just fit well with everything.

I was going for something Mancunian, and this ticked that box being the area dialling code – courtesy of the lomo wall in the northern quarter

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threesixsix – 285 – up

Always look up.

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threesixsix – 284 – abpt

Just little bits of industrialesque detail.

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threesixsix – 283 – wetwalk

A cold and wet early morning, winter is almost here.

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threesixsix – 282 – arched

One of those little details of Castlefield I’ve always walked past, but never shot. Came in handy this day.

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threesixsix – 281 – tripod

Being amused by shadows once again.

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threesixsix – 280 – letitgo

Another interesting little piece of graffiti.

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threesixsix – 279 – burst

I always love that burst of light that can pop through tree cover.

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threesixsix – 278 – bust

Broken umbrella’s can never be resisted!

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threesixsix – 277 – roll

 

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threesixsix – 276 – reverse

Messing around with reflections in B&W once more.

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threesixsix – 275 – streaky

Another rainy day….

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threesixsix – 274 – brewingsky

It was a great looking sky, just aching out for a shot…

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threesixsix – 273 – curvature

Hanging around the arches as per usual…

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threesixsix – 272 – amber

Simple, but I like it.

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threesixsix – 271 – image

Toying with reflections.

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threesixsix – 270 – nowayout

Angles, lines and a sliver of light. What else do you need?

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threesixsix – 269 – urbanjellyfish

Spotting this broken brolly just reminded me of a jellyfish washed up on a beach…

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threesixsix – 268 – grounded

Chasing the pigeons from a low level and this is one of the results… I like it, in a quirky way.

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threesixsix – 267 – truelove

Although I’m behind on processing and uploading, it seems appropriate to be posting this image today as it’s the second anniversary of getting married to my wonderful wife.

If a sign of true love isn’t sharing your brolly in the rain, not sure what is!

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threesixsix – 266 – trifecta

I liked the combination of the three types of architecture here, thought it suited a square crop.

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threesixsix – 265 – shady

Me and shadows…. can’t help myself.

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threesixsix – 264 – close

Getting close and abstract in the rain.

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threesixsix – 263 – vibrance

Messing around with more puddles, and toying with the colouring.

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threesixsix – 262 – puddled

Manchester has been having one of it’s ‘rainy seasons’ as ever, but at least it leaves these puddles to play around with….

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threesixsix – 261 – walled

This was a quiet day for photography, so had to catch what I could. Just something simple with B&W and light…

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threesixsix – 260 – dramaintheharbour

This is a stitched panorama of Cove Harbour… couldn’t resist that gorgeous sky. Was going for colour originally but loved the B&W version more, thought it gave a nice dramatic feel.

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threesixsix – 259 – housebythesea

The view over the houses in Cove Harbour, out to the sea.

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threesixsix – 258 – shewaits

…. that’s what she does.

Tick followed tock followed tick followed tock followed tick.

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threesixsix – 257 – court

I even find the backstreets and alleyways in Aberdeen!

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threesixsix – 256 – intransit

I always like to play around on a train trip, get a bit of landscape motion going on.

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threesixsix – 255 – homeward

The walk home tends to be a time when I pick up a lot of shots for this project, today being no different.

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threesixsix – 254 – flock

Another interesting little piece of detail found on the walls of the Northern Quarter.

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threesixsix – 253 – weave

Getting up close and personal with barbed wire again…

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threesixsix – 250 – steppingup

Just a little bit of shadowy detail from Castlefield.

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threesixsix – 252 – hung

Just spotted this ‘character’ hanging in a tree near St Anne’s Square… one of those things that called out to me from the corner of my eye.

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threesixsix – 251 – left

Anyone who follows my photo’s knows that I can’t resist a lost object in an odd location!

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threesixsix – 249 – bluewhitegrey

Something simple, just taking advantage of a pretty sky.

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threesixsix – 248 – spin

Messing around with the fisheye in corridors again…

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threesixsix – 247 – shrouded

I like it when the Beetham tower is shrouded in fog, makes me wonder what it would be like to be living near the top, unable to see far…

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threesixsix – 246 – tuned

Loved this piece of graffiti, so wanted to go for a frame filling angle to make the most of it.

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threesixsix – 245 – downtotheend

Another trip to one of my favourite little spots in Manchester… I just love this particular alleyway.

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threesixsix – 244 – eye

Messing around with a different kind of self-portrait, just for a change…

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threesixsix – 243 – morningshadow

Got to love a nice long shadow, was particularly defined on this day thanks to the warm sunshine.

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threesixsix – 242 – eveningrun

Another shot toying around with light, I liked the warm tones being given off by the evening sun.

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threesixsix – 241 – darknessandlight

Was playing around with the variance in light here, got a chunk of lensflare on the shot but I actually think it adds to the image. Bit of experimenting really.

 

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threesixsix – 240 – spudlove

Yet more street wordage from around Manchester…

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threesixsix – 239 – rectangles

Architectural repetition.

In black and white.

Natch.

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threesixsix – 238 – tst

Another little bit of rusty, crusty detail that caught my eye.

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threesixsix – 237 – exitclear

Just a little bit of B&W detail…

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threesixsix – 236 – grittiness

B&W in the backstreets…

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threesixsix – 235 – torn

I always like ripped and damaged posters, played around with the focus a little bit on top.

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threesixsix – 234 – lamped

My eye for lamps and architecture taking over again… B&W obviously

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threesixsix – 233 – strolling

I always like lone figures with umbrellas, one of those things I keep my eyes open for.

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threesixsix – 232 – vii

Fooling around with wine bottles again….

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threesixsix – 231 – settingsun

The setting sun through the curtains gave off a rather Mediterranean feel… you wouldn’t think it was Manchester!

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threesixsix – 230 – venus

Just one of those walk by street shots, simple but it caught my eye.

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threesixsix – 229 – after

In tunnels with silhouettes again. Not stalking. Honest.

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threesixsix – 228 – notgoingout

The great British summer has been far from great… in general it’s been pretty grim to be honest!

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threesixsix – 227 – abovethebattlements

I just liked how the sky looked over the Castlefield Roman walls….

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threesixsix – 226 – loveonthewalls

You tend to find these pieces of heart graffiti around Manchester quite often… guess it’s more loving than normal graffiti.

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threesixsix – 225 – patterned

Black and white repetition, always something that can come in handy.

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threesixsix – 224 – through

If in doubt, find a tunnel.

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threesixsix – 223 – grain

Toying around with little bits of light in darkness again, add in a bit of grain for good measure…. simple but I like it.

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threesixsix – 222 – brokenrecord

Spinning me right round.

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threesixsix – 221 – lightasafeather

Another bit of floaty detail from the canals of Manchester.

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threesixsix – 220 – ibelieve

I love coming across little pieces of street poetry like this, no matter how mental they seem to be!

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threesixsix – 219 – cometothebar

Been a while since I’ve shot some booze containers, but walking past this setup it just seemed that I had to take a shot of it.

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threesixsix – 218 – monstersmonsters

Shopping for wine one evening, couldn’t resist this bottle… just wacky in design and name.

Not quite classical in bottling, but it’s good to try something different sometimes.

As it happened it tasted great too!

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threesixsix – 217 – behappy

Another angle of a piece of street art I’ve shot before, wanted to go for something different – and colourful.

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threesixsix – 216 – surpriseher

Have seen a few peoples shots of this particular find in Manchester, never quite gotten around to shooting it myself till now. Went for the fisheye to make the most of the width.

And just had to be B&W…

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threesixsix – 215 – overgrown

Something simple…. lots and lots of green…

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threesixsix – 214 – pigeonstreet

My pigeon obsession continues…

 

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threesixsix – 213 – lured

I always aim to keep my eyes open on the walk into work, nice if you can spot something to ensure you have a shot for the day early on!

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threesixsix – 212 – strikeapose

Pigeons are creeping into my work steadily lately, but they just keep on posing for me…

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threesixsix – 211 – sundayroast

It had been a long few days, and having been on a health kick as of late seemed like it was the right time to treat ourselves to a nice Sunday roast. We went to ‘Gorilla’, which is fast becoming one of my fave places in Manchester lately, to try out their Sunday roast menu.

We were not disappointed, it was most tasty.

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threesixsix – 210 – remembrance

Am over a week behind in processing images, behind in processing…. really must put a bit of time into catching up soon!

This image was taken in the Imperial War Museum in Manchester, took a visit there recently and watched one of the films they show in the main hall. Very touching stories of war heroics and remembrance.

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threesixsix – 209 – scatter

Am covering early shifts at work at the moment, and not being a ‘morning person’ this is generally me walking into work bleary eyed… doesn’t help when trying to keep your eyes open for photographs! Luckily spotted this, to be used for this days shot.

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threesixsix – 208 – listen

One of those random finds again… there appeared to be some sort of dance festival going around Castlefield, lots of arty types doing ‘things’.

Not sure why this girl thought writing with her feet was a good idea, but hey it made for a shot!

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threesixsix – 207 – floatingbyagain

And more minimalism, surprisingly close to yesterdays shot! Consider it a two day theme.

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threesixsix – 206 – floatingby

Something very minimal, but that caught my eye on the stroll into work. I really liked the flow and reflection in the water as much as anything…

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threesixsix – 205 – guardians

Pigeons seem to work their way into my shots throughout the year, but when they pose for me in such a fashion why not take advantage?

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threesixsix – 204 – throneforatroll

One of my customary walkabouts around Castlefield, came across this setup under one of the many bridges. If only a troll was actually perches upon that chair, would have made for a very interesting shot!

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threesixsix – 203 – reachforthewin

As ever at the moment, I’m massively behind on processing images… so once again playing catchup.

This shot was from last weekend, when there appeared to be some arty drama ‘event’ going on in the city centre. I have no idea what was actually going on here, someone  in a unicorn mask and a lion mask, attached to bungee cords and running at a post. It’s a strange world

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threesixsix – 202 – lineafterline

It’s a damn ugly building, but snippets in B&W can look quite attractive….

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threesixsix – 201 – coverage

This is another of my ‘spots’ in Manchester that I pass by to try and grab a shot when in need.

I like the colours, especially on a rainy day where there is a bit of a sheen.

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threesixsix – 200 – under

200 days in already, seems to have flown by! I’ve had some ups and downs with the project this year… but I definitely can’t be stopping now!

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threesixsix – 199 – anotherworld

As ever I’m always checking out the puddles when it’s been raining…

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threesixsix – 198 – worldinmotion

Had a play around with motion blur on the way into work, was purely playing around but I quite liked the final effect, so into the project it goes.

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threesixsix – 197 – hardwareissues

As I mentioned on another recent post, have had a total nightmare with hardware problems and a number of items failing on me around the same time. Took some time on this day to clean up what I could, to get me back up and running as close to normal as possible.

Things are back now, unfortunately did lose a few original photo files which I’m gutted about. Am normally good with backing up, but got caught a little off guard here.

Lesson to be told : always backup kids!

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threesixsix – 196 – leafy

Just one of those walkabout shots on my way into town….

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threesixsix – 195 – eyeballed

Have always quite liked this piece of street art, but don’t think I’ve ever taken a shot of it. Seemed like a good excuse to fulfil the days challenge.

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threesixsix – 194 – eerie

Me with my camera in a tunnel.

What did you think would happen?

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threesixsix – 193 – ghostorbird

When I came across this unusual bit of street-art I thought it was a ghost… but it may actually be a bird. Or a ghostbird.

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threesixsix – 192 – downthealley

Have been spending a lot less time down back alleys lately, so thought I’d rectify that on a bit of a walkabout.

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threesixsix – 191 – walkingintherain

The rain was back with force in Manchester, giving me lots of shiny pavements to play with…

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threesixsix – 189 – diagonal

I love catching a nice moody sky with some of the architecture in Spinningfields, just begs to be photographed.

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threesixsix – 189 – craned

This was taken around Salford Quays, as ever for me the B&W conversion in full effect to bring out a bit of drama in that cloudy sky.

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threesixsix – 188 – notaniceday

I am massively behind on posting again, mainly as I’ve had a bit of a computer nightmare recently… hardware failures have given me more than a couple of problems over the last week.

I think I’ve recovered what I can, however may still be missing a few of my older original files. Still trying recovery methods but it’s a pain to say the least! Thankfully I have been taking the project shots as per normal so can move onwards with that.

This particular day was one of the recent days of heavy rain… in fact I think it was the day where in certain parts of the UK there was a months work of rainfall in 24 hours! With that in mind… I didn’t leave the flat

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threesixsix – 187 – offtarget

A quick walk through the air and space hall of MOSI in Manchester led to this, actually a variant of a shot I’ve taken before.

I like playing with compositions like this, thought it worked well with the textures available.

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threesixsix – 186 – tangled

More barbed wire that I couldn’t resist. Just love getting lost in it within the composition, it’s never-ending.

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threesixsix – 185 – horizontal

Playing with simplicity again, light and lines.

Not to all tastes, but I like the experiment.

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threesixsix – 184 – solo

Something a little bit dark again, but one of those things I like to experiment with when I come across them.

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threesixsix – 183 – supersky

So this is the big halfway point of the project… the point of no return you could say.

I’ve had a tough time with the whole thing over the last couple of months, but not in my nature to give up on it when I’m so embedded in. Now I’ve reached halfway I REALLY can’t stop.

I probably should have taken something symbolic to display reaching this point, but instead it’s a stitched panorama from the balcony, made up of 6 or 7 shots. It was a damn impressive sky.

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threesixsix – 182 – theviewoutside

Something simple, however I’m convinced it’s a little lopsided. Ah well, shall have to live with it.

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threesixsix – 181 – repeat

Took the x100 out on this day for use, though didn’t find much to shoot throughout the day.

As it turns out this shot was taken literally as I got back home instead!

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threesixsix – 180 – webbed

The last stages of a little spider web… think it had been abandoned for pastures new.

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threesixsix – 179 – naturalhabitat

Cheeky little fella giving me the eye. Seemed rude to not shoot him (not quite literally!)

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threesixsix – 178 – fixme

I had to use this piece of graffiti I found, struggled with an angle and couldn’t get closer to it easily, but it did tie in well with the broken umbrella (another one of those sneaking into the project…)

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threesixsix – 177 – caughtup

I dread to think how much I’ve used barbed wire and black and white this year… there’s a theme in there somewhere.

I just find it interesting, it’s photogenic in such cases…

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threesixsix – 176 – raysfromthedark

I had a different shot planned (and taken) for the day, however at the end of the evening this sunset caught be and had to shoot it.

Will save my other idea and retake another day. Always good to have one in the tank.

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threesixsix – 175 – coveredwithshadow

Something simple for today, just playing with shadows and light.

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threesixsix – 174 – grassinthesky

This was not a day to leave the flat.

The weather was horrible across a lot of the country, I think a months worth of rain fell in 24 hours in the northwest –  just crazy horrible weather. Therefore I opted to go for a simpler shot using some greenery on the balcony… and kept myself dry

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threesixsix – 173 – cornered

Toying around with B&W architecture… if in doubt for your shot, sometimes you just got to look up.

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threesixsix – 172 – pierfishing

Another from Llandudno, piece of experimentation with the fisheye on the pier. The clouds did clear over the course of the day, but did manage to get it looking rather dramatic.

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threesixsix – 171 – windpower

Under doctors orders I am off work for a few days, with instruction to relax and rest. Took the opportunity to get a night by the seaside for some fresh air, which definitely seemed to help.

This is the view from Llandudno beach with the wind turbines off in the distance. Just thought it was a rather beautiful and serene scene… quite fitting.

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threesixsix – 170 – cupped

Repetition of shapes and patterns catch my eye – like a magpie to something shiny.

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threesixsix – 169 – behindbars

Locked away… I’d love to get into this particular spot to get a closer look at some of the graffiti behind here.

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threesixsix – 168 – guided

Architecture and black and white… can’t go wrong with that combination

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threesixsix – 167 – puddled

Toying with water some more, I especially liked the double yellows mixed in with the puddled reflection.

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threesixsix – 166 – underpass

Another day, another tunnel.

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threesixsix – 165 – beingbritish

I dropped by the Manchester Art Gallery on this day, hadn’t been for a while so wanted to have a nosey to see what was new. There was a very interesting African art exhibition on, unfortunately with a no photography rule so couldn’t snap anything there.

One of the other areas had this message board, where visitors could write notes – specifically about what it’s like to be British at the current time. I thought this particular message really told the message well… especially with the ‘ditto’ like message to the right.

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threesixsix – 164 – banqueting

Being the second Tuesday of the month, this day meant another gastroclub event in Manchester.

This time around we visited the Yang Sing restaurant, a fantastic spot in the Chinatown area. It’s one of the best restaurants in that area, have always eaten well their previously so was looking forward to what they would do for the event. We definitely weren’t disappointed, as we were treated to course after course of wonderful dishes.

I couldn’t pick one element to go with for the days shot, so decided another montage was in order!

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threesixsix – 163 – barring

Am very behind on both processing and posting these shots, am up to date with taking them but not been handling the other end so well!

This is an area of the walk into work I’ve covered before, but played around with the processing a little to give it a different edge. A little bit of a vintage grainy vibe.

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threesixsix – 162 – facesofmanchesterday

It was the ‘Manchester Day Parade’ at the weekend, an event I always end up photographing. It was also tied in with a Flickr meet, and haven’t been to one of those in ages so was good to catchup with some familiar faces.

Unfortunately I didn’t get the best spot for the parade itself which made it trickier to catch some shots than I would like. With this I ended up going for a bit of a montage of captures, showing some of the faces of the day.

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threesixsix – 161 – polka

Raining again… time to unleash the umbrella’s!

This isn’t mine obviously, I go for the sensible and manly ‘black umbrella’ approach rather than the polka-dot variety.

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threesixsix – 160 – burgertime

Decided to check out the new ‘BrewDog’ bar that has opened in Manchester recently, and it seemed rude to not try out the food seeing as it was lunchtime.

I’d heard the burgers were good, and definitely didn’t disappointing. Also gave me a shot for the day as I hadn’t caught much else…

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threesixsix – 159 – hyenakill

Street art around the Northern Quarter of Manchester catching my eye again. The artwork mixed in with the wooden texture… well I just had to shoot it.

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threesixsix – 158 – spiked

A bit more close up detail of barbed wire, another photographic foible of mine.

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threesixsix – 157 – backstreetclubbing

Another spot that I’ve used before, but it’s one of those alleyways of Manchester that I always think looks interesting.

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threesixsix – 156 – underground

I do like a good tunnel, and this is one I’ve not photographed before so couldn’t resist when I spotted it.

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threesixsix – 155 – flagged

The Sunday before the Queens Jubilee turned out to be a rather soggy affair in Manchester, there were various street events planned but the rain didn’t help get the crowds up. It meant I didn’t hang around too much outside too in all honesty.

The damp flags captured the day though.

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threesixsix – 154 – v

Closing in on some architectural detail again, with some symmetry to boot.

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threesixsix – 153 – theprisoner

I spotted the ‘prisoner’ in question a week or so ago in a spot on the other side of the canal – knew that I’d have to grab a shot making the most of this sooner or later.

Black and white just seemed the only way to go…

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threesixsix – 152 – detach

This was another day where I didn’t get out of the flat… so had to experiment with what I had to hand and get a little creative.

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threesixsix – 151 – bunched

Well I said that I don’t take photographs of flowers very often… however I seem to have gone and used them twice in 3 days. Ah well!

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threesixsix – 150 – chased

Messing around in tunnels and silhouettes again….

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threesixsix – 149 – undergrowth

I don’t normally go for flowers…. but wanted to have a toy around with focus. It’s simple but I kinda like it.

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threesixsix – 148 – leo

I’ve taken a very similar shot to this in a previous year, however I wanted to see how the extra fisheye distortion could work with a face of stone like this.

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threesixsix – 147 – splash

I’ve photographed this fountain many times (and will probably photograph it more), but went for a different angle with the fisheye this time to try something new.

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threesixsix – 146 – locked

This was the first time I’ve used the x100 in a while, been so caught up toying with the D700 lately just haven’t given her much attention.

Little bit of a walkabout on this day gave me this effort though, appealed to my love of darkness and shadows.

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threesixsix – 145 – redskyatnight

Although the current heatwave doesn’t agree with me, it does give off some beautiful sunsets.

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threesixsix – 144 – goingup

Always look up… you never know what you will spot.

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threesixsix – 143 – brown

As ever the canal side walk into work helps me get shots on some days, especially when the light gives off some interesting  glimmers and shadows.

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threesixsix – 142 – faceofstone

Ah I do love a good gargoyle.

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threesixsix – 141 – covered

Decided that fresh air was much needed on this day, so we took at trip out to Heaton Park to get out of the city a little.

Turned out to be a nice day for it, not too hot and just pleasant for a good stroll around. Obviously had the camera to hand, and played around with the fisheye to get some nice wide shots…

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threesixsix – 140 – pierced

We took a walk around the new Mediacity development on this day… to be honest there isn’t a great deal to see yet.

The new bridge there is relatively cool, I quite liked distorting it with the fisheye and a bit of dramatic B&W skywork.

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threesixsix – 139 – smileofadove

I liked the two images on this piece of street art… when approaching it just thought it was a smiley face, but was interesting to see it up close.

Minimal, but I like it.

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threesixsix – 138 – dontworry

A bit of local graffiti… as ever (for me) these things suit some B&W handling.

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threesixsix – 137 – watercolour

I love the ripply reflections on the canal, particularly on a sunny day.  Gives off a bit of a ‘painting’ vibe, which appeals to me.

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threesixsix – 136 – followthelight

Three days on the trot in the flat and was going a little stir crazy. Had to get a little creative in the corridor with the fisheye.

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threesixsix – 135 – darkclouds

Yet another day of not getting out and about… always makes it tough with a project like this.

Decided to play around with a panorama from the balcony, the ominous sky looked pretty cool so thought it would make a useful subject.

(click to enlarge… needed due to those panoramic proportions!)

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threesixsix – 134 – in

Another day in the house, so another day to get creative… and a little blue.

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threesixsix – 133 – unwanted

I like an image that can tell a story, and abandoned flowers in the canal could mean one of many things…

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threesixsix – 132 – redeye

A bit more street art for day 132.

Simple but I liked the lines and curves on show here.

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threesixsix – 131 – linear

A bit of a stairwell that I managed to get an interesting angle on… without much time out and about lately for photography I’ve had to get creative with my finds.

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threesixsix – 130 – underground

Still playing a little bit of catchup with processing and posting here.

A bit of streetart for this day, one of the interesting finds on the streets of Manchester.

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threesixsix – 129 – structural

Am way behind on posting up my project 366 shots, as I’ve not been too well over the last week. I have managed to take shots every day however (some better than others as I haven’t been out too much)  but just have to get back into the mentality of processing and posting.

This is actually from the recent Edinburgh trip anyway, so was just delayed due to not getting to processing these shots.

We stayed in Leith for out trip, and on the last morning I had a bit of an early walkabout to see what I could catch. I always find construction cranes very photogenic.

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threesixsix – 128 – purr

Am way behind on posting up my project 366 shots, as I’ve not been too well over the last week. I have managed to take shots every day however (some better than others as I haven’t been out too much)  but just have to get back into the mentality of processing and posting.

This is actually from the recent Edinburgh trip anyway, so was just delayed due to not getting to processing these shots.

We took a trip to Edinburgh zoo on this particular day, I can never turn down a chance to go to a zoo at the best of time. We did get a chance to see the Panda’s, however we caught them when they were sleeping and so not very photogenic! Instead I went for this beautiful beastie for the shot of the day.

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threesixsix – 127 – close

Am way behind on posting up my project 366 shots, as I’ve not been too well over the last week. I have managed to take shots every day however (some better than others as I haven’t been out too much)  but just have to get back into the mentality of processing and posting.

This is actually from the recent Edinburgh trip anyway, so was just delayed due to not getting to processing these shots.

I couldn’t resist getting at least one photo of a typical ‘Edinburgh close’, they just look great and especially in B&W.

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threesixsix – 126 – goforth

On the second day of our trip to Edinburgh, we took a trip over to the Forth rail bridge which resulted in a boat trip under the bridge itself, and to an island in the Firth of Forth.

The Forth rail bridge itself is a spectacular piece of engineering, though difficult to get a shot that’s not been done countless times before. I opted for a bit of B&W from the boat, and thanks to a bit of dramatic sky it came together in my eyes.

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threesixsix – 125 – flowersinthewindow

Bit behind on posting images for the project, as we’ve just been away in Edinburgh for the long weekend. Was nice to get out of the city for a few days, had a good time!

Nice to try to grab some shots outside of Manchester for a few days too, though I didn’t get many shots on the first day… and guess this could have been taken anywhere!

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threesixsix – 124 – overtheedge

I’ve used this staircase at work for shots before… thought it would be good to experiment with the fisheye to see what could be done…

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threesixsix – 123 – branchingout

One of the things I missed from my old Sony NEX camera (maybe the only thing!) was the fisheye converter…. so I’ve gone and got myself a second hand fisheye to play around with this format a little more.

I’ll try not to overuse it, but expect to see some fishy images over the next few weeks….

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threesixsix – 122 – wakeup

I think I struggled to wake up at all today… maybe this sign was telling me something.

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threesixsix – 121 – barred

Little rusty details of repetition.

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threesixsix – 120 – clubtropicana

Loved this little find… of course it’s in a puddle, as ever I keep my eyes open for these things!

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threesixsix – 119 – eveninglight

A bit of golden glow towards the end of a Saturday evening.

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threesixsix – 118 – takeyourmedicine

Bit of an emergency 366 shot for day 118.

I’ve just had to start taking some new medication for a bit of an ailment of mine, the side effects when you start taking it kind of knocked me for six so didn’t leave home on Friday. All makes it a little difficult for the 366 project obviously, so just had to grab this shot to cover the day.

Feeling a little bit more lively today, so will see how getting out and about will treat me.

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threesixsix – 117 – wet

Following on from day 116, this is another shot that is far from my normal kind of work!

I’ll have to go and find something grimy to photograph soon…

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threesixsix – 116 – soft

Had a full and busy day at work planned on Wednesday with client meetings, so had to try and grab a couple of snaps in the house early on as I wouldn’t have the camera with me.

This shot is about as far away from my normal work as you can get… but good to try something different sometimes, right?

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threesixsix – 115 – crocidile

Unusual graffiti spotted…

Not quite sure what spelling the artist was going for, but I kinda liked it in context with the other shapes and lines on offer.

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threesixsix – 114 – sharp

I do love a bit of barbed wire, it’s another one of those things I tend to ‘stop and snap’ when I come across it.

Square format for a change too…

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threesixsix – 113 – texturised

Played around with a quadtich again today, all the textures I came across and I couldn’t just pick one… so went with them all.

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threesixsix – 112 – vortex

Toying around with angles, light and architecture.

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threesixsix – 111 – parallel

For any problems the rain brings, it also brings puddles.

And puddles make me happy.

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threesixsix – 110 – vanish

Something simple for  a Thursday.

Need to get out and about more to get a bit more inventive…

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threesixsix – 109 – openinghours

Still keeping my eyes open for little details on the streets of Manchester.

I wonder when I will run out…

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threesixsix – 108 – spinningaround

Took a walk over to the Manchester wheel today, which is currently being dismantled after a few years in the city. Shame really, but I think it’s probably run it’s course – never seems to get that much traffic anymore.

Whilst there I bumped into a few friends from Flickr, good to see as I’ve not made it to a Flickr meet in ages! Had a quick catchup and natter which was good.

I was hoping to find the actual wheel a bit more dismantled, but the main structure is still there – guess these things take time. Seeing as it was in place pretty much I went for something a bit more abstract in one of the glass windows nearby, and actually really happy with this….

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threesixsix – 107 – sitdown

Even chairs need a rest sometime.

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threesixsix – 106 – intheshadows

Beautifully sunny day here in Manchester… but me being me, just means I use the conditions for some shadow and light work

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threesixsix – 105 – swoop

Feeding the birds again, but loved the quizzical looks that some of the pigeons were giving the camera.

Surprised it distracted them from the bread on offer though!

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threesixsix – 104 – cloudy

Loved the sunset on Friday, the ominous clouds overhead helped… quite unusual skyline all in all.

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threesixsix – 103 – leap

Bit of an impromptu shot this… and if I was slightly quicker I may have done better. I still like it though…

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threesixsix – 102 – timetoreflect

I love a good reflection, and this was directly outside my office… too good to turn down.

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threesixsix – 101 – nomorelies

Another interesting find on the streets/walls of Manchester.

I always love the ‘street poetry’ you can find where you least expect it.

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threesixsix – 100 – teeonethousand

Hardly got any photographs today, just wasn’t spotting anything at all. Thankfully after having a meal in town while we escaped the rain, the remnants of said rain left me with this… which I thought would do the job.

100 days in already… time flies!

Apologies for the incredibly geeky title (if you get it, may just be me), just couldn’t resist.

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threesixsix – 99 – curvy

Had a little walk out by the river on Easter Sunday in order to get my shot, bit of a dreary day but I did get to play around with light and reflections a little.

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threesixsix – 98 – arbeegee

Thought I’d have another play about with a triptych today.

I do like my little details and they fit in nicely with this format.

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threesixsix – 97 – tagged

Bit of graffiti to start off the religious bank holiday weekend.

What do you mean that’s not appropriate?

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threesixsix – 96 – inflight

Slightly gutted I didn’t get the whole pigeon with this, but it was very much a quick spur of the moment shot. I still like it enough to use it for today’s image…though I may try to get this one again another time.

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threesixsix – 95 – pointy

Sometimes you can look up to find a bit of decay, as well as looking down.

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threesixsix – 94 – drip

We appear to have gone from bright sunny days to April showers… much more like the Manchester I know!

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threesixsix – 93 – overmyhead

I seem to have found myself under a bridge. Again.

Like a troll. Again.

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threesixsix – 92 – lightfall

Today we took a walk down to Victoria Baths, both for a nosey around the place in general and also to visit the vintage fair that was on. It’s a really impressive building that is going through a huge restoration project… unfortunately these things need a lot of money which isn’t always easily available.

We took the guided tour which lasted an hour or so, proved to be an interesting way to learn some of the history of the building, and also the (ambitious) ongoing restoration plans. Whilst on the tour my eyes were obviously drawn to some of the more ‘unfinished’ areas, in my chosen shot I did really like how the light was falling through the antique windows…

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threesixsix – 91 – hi

I’m still very much into my black and white, however I guess this is more ‘white & black’ for a change.

I have had a go at a similar shot previously, I just like the look of this area with some hi key B&W work… it looks quite science-fiction to me. Like something out of Logan’s Run. That may just be my geeky side coming out… (again)

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threesixsix – 90 – freezeframe

Had a few options for my shot for this day, however this street performer won out… tied in nicely with some motion blur of passers by.

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threesixsix – 89 – halfandhalf

Had a bit of a walkabout with the camera on Thursday, again another excuse to play around with the D700 to learn its nuances.

It was another very sunny day (we seem to be having unseasonably warm weather this week), and the midday sun doesn’t really tie in with my photography on the whole… however it did allow me to play around with light and shadows somewhat.

I really liked the way the shadows split the frame on this shot, coupled with the symmetry and the brickwork and it all really worked for me.

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threesixsix – 88 – industrial

Back in Castlefield again, on my tour of revisiting places with my new camera gear as I learn it’s intricacies…

I do feel like I’m getting to grips with the D700 nicely now, it’s such a well put together piece of kit and it’s a pleasure to use once you know where all the features/buttons/levers are. Nice and study in my big clumsy hands too

Anyway, ended up with this black and white piece of work – I always like how the shadows fall on the iron and brickwork of the area, with black & white just suiting the place beautifully.

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threesixsix – 87 – morelovelytimes

Sometimes I like to revisit sites of previous shots, to see what different angle I can take on things. This is especially more relevant with a new camera or lens, as you can try something different with the same material.

Today I went back to the ‘scene of the crime’ of the first shot of my 366 this year, thought it would be good to grab this particular piece of graffiti before it gets scrubbed off… though am surprised it’s still there now really!

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threesixsix – 86 – caught

Toying around with the nifty fifty on the D700 this morning, seemed rude to not make the most of the focus and play around with that somewhat.

And I do like a bit of black and white repetition….

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threesixsix – 85 – toohot

Had a quick walk into town today to pick up a nifty fifty for my new pride and joy, and have a general walkabout and to grab a coffee.

Forgot that it was Sports Relief weekend, town was busy and a lot of people were running for charity round a course in town. As part of the event a band dressed as chefs (no, I don’t get the outfit relevance either) were there to motivate the runners, however I think the unseasonal sun and heat for March took it’s toll on this chap… who was having a bit of a rest

Did I mention I love this camera?

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threesixsix – 84 – spittingwater

First outing with the new D700 today, but as I’m on call with work this weekend and had a bit to do in town anyway I didn’t get a great deal of time to play around.

Had a quick pass by the fountains in Albert Square as it’s a spot I tend to visit when I have a new camera or lens, just a good place to try things out.

I definitely need to get to grips with the camera, so many buttons and so many options… but first impressions are definitely positive. The bokeh on the 24-70 lens is fantastic too, need to play with that some more…

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threesixsix – 83 – newtoys

So I seem to have bought myself some new toys!

I have just completed the sale of my Sony equipment, decided to sell it and move to Nikon as I’m not a fan of the newer SLT Sony models… so seemed like the appropriate time to jump ship. I managed to get a pretty good deal on most of my kit, allowing me to move to a full frame DLSR in the form of the D700. I got a refurbished model, even with the D800 on the imminent horizon the 700 seemed like the better (and cheaper) option for me. Hopefully will get to play around a bit this weekend.

As per my other cameras this beauty will be named, and as ever will be female. Need to decide on a final name for her…

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threesixsix – 82 – wetpaint

I liked the combination of the writing and the shadows for this shot, just those sort of things that catch my eye.

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threesixsix – 81 – againstthewall

Some more of my black and white graininess… I always like the dark and dangerous nature of shots like this.

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threesixsix – 80 – webby

The canal-side walk in and out of work each day is saving me with this 366 project currently, just not getting the time to shoot much else outside of that walk.

Luckily you can get creative with finds and angles along the way…

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threesixsix – 79 – downthealley

One of the many alleys in Manchester that I like to shoot now and again, it’s very photogenic.

For some reason the geeky part of me is reminded of the trench run at the end of Star Wars too….. just me?

Probably….

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threesixsix – 78 – peekingout

I am relying on little details at the moment, keeping my eyes open for interesting finds around the city. Luckily there quite a few in Manchester…

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threesixsix – 77 – fromhigh

Playing around on the Arndale skybridge here in Manchester.

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threesixsix – 76 – outofshape

Managed to have a bit of a walkabout at lunch on Friday, so was on the lookout for little details on the streets of Manchester. Decided to go with the grainy black and white option… it’s so unlike me

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threesixsix – 75 – ouch

Seems like the streets are talking to me again…

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threesixsix – 74 – perspective

Alleys, lines, perspective. I like such things.

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threesixsix – 73 – shimmery

Playing around with reflections in the canals again on the walk home. Lovely sunset tonight helped with the lighting too. May have thrown a bit of texture work into the mix too…

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threesixsix – 72 – stillonshow

Finally catching up a little on posting for the project, more or less.

Today I had to pop round to the Portico library, to drop off some stock for the exhibition I’m part of. Also gave me a chance to look around the exhibition itself a little, as opening night was so busy I didn’t get much time! I am still getting a kick out of seeing my work up on the walls, and the fact I’ve sold a few prints and mounts just makes it even better.

If you’ve visited the exhibition so far then thankyou very much for taking a look. If you haven’t yet and you’re in the Manchester area, please feel free to pop to the Portico to take a look, and let me know what you think!

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threesixsix – 71 – kissingbythebridge

An interesting find today, a little bit of street art down by one of the (many) bridges of Castlefield.

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threesixsix – 70 – keepvampiresfromthedoor

I spotted this odd cross on this door a week or so ago, just didn’t take a photo of it for some reason. On a return visit to the area thought it would work with some grainy B&W handling. Not sure if it does keep the vampires out or not…

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threesixsix – 69 – onandonandonandon

Two days straight of repetition style shots,  but both a little bit different. Fences are a complete cliché but sometimes you need to take advantage of clichés in a project like this….

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threesixsix – 68 – humped

Repetition and little details, a little something that is always worth a capture…. especially on a day where I didn’t get much other opportunity for photography. Busy days lately.

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threesixsix – 67 – tracked

Back in the gutter again

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threesixsix – 66 – emptyeyes

Still catching up a little on posts, so this was from back a couple of days ago… actually Tuesday, which was the first day of the Northern Exposure photography exhibition that I’m part of.

Now what I meant to do was to get a photo of the exhibition itself, with the crowd of people that turned up for opening night. Unfortunately the night itself just went in a total blur, and all of a sudden it was over, and I’d missed the oppurtunity of the shot! Such is life…. and so a feature of the library that I caught before the exhibition started will have to suffice (with a bit of  B&W artistic flourish)

The opening night itself was fantastic though, had a really good turnout (big thanks to those that came that may be reading this), and also managed to sell a handful of items which is always a bonus. It felt great to be exhibiting my work, from starting off properly with photography about 3 and a half years ago, it’s quite a jump forward to being part of an exhibition and actually selling work in such an environment. I wonder what’s next!

For those still interested the exhibition is on till the 29th of the month, at the Portico library here in Manchester. If you go and see it let me know what you think!

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threesixsix – 65 – theurbanfox

The Northern Quarter area of Manchester is always a good place to pop around with the camera, there’s always little details to find if you like that kind of thing.

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threesixsix – 64 – twentyfourhouruse

Prowling the back streets and alleys of Manchester once more, trying to find little details of interest.

I just liked how this door had seen better days, and had some character with the brick work and worn away sign.

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threesixsix – 63 – mouthstofeed

Hanging around in the strangest places again, does mean you can come across some odd & interesting things.

I liked both of these pieces of graffiti on opposite sides of a wall, thought a diptych worked well to bring the pair together.

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threesixsix – 62 – underthedome

On Friday I had to pass by the Portico Library to drop off my photographs for the exhibition this week, seems like it’s been a long time coming but catching up quickly now!

I figured getting a shot of the venue made sense for the project, and especially as it’s such a stunning building. The dome in the roof just looks fantastic, so couldn’t resist.

I would imagine there will be another shot of this place on opening night… however that might have some of my photographs in it

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threesixsix – 61 – eatinghabits

There are some things I just can’t pass by and not photograph, and the wording of this particular piece of graffiti made it one of them.

Though I must say if I did have a crew, they would most likely eat wotsits. In fact I would make sure they did.

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threesixsix – 60 – lineout

Bit of late night shadow work… simple as that

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threesixsix – 59 – thirstyinthemorning

Back in Manchester after the Scottish break, seemed wrong to not take up the opportunity to grab a shot of an empty bottle of booze as I passed by. Can’t resist them.

Not my empty though, honest.

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threesixsix – 58 – rocky

Whenever we’re up in Aberdeen I always want to go down to Cove Harbour, for a few photographs and a walk around. It’s a little harbour that never seems to change, whenever we go it looks more or less identical.

I got a few shots off but this part of the rocks caught my eye in particular, just love the geometry, repetition and shapes.

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threesixsix – 57 – upontheroof

While we were up in Aberdeen we were staying with my in-laws over in Cove. It’s a nice little place by the coast, meaning there are Seagulls everywhere.

Noisy, but cool.

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threesixsix – 56 – babyzeus

So here was the main reason we took the trip up to Aberdeen, the first visit to see our little baby nephew.

There was a time that the name Zeus was being banded around for him, however the little chap ended up being named Mason. However from now on he is always going to be “Baby Zeus” to me.

This is very different to my normal work obviously, but hey I couldn’t not take some photo’s of him!

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threesixsix – 55 – missedthetrain

Our plan for the first full day in Aberdeen was actually to take a trip up the coast to Elgin to visit a friend up there, however we unfortunately made a bit of a mess of our timings and ended up missing the train we ideally needed to get. Thanks to the wonders of the train service the next one was almost two hours later, so we had to change plans.

We still managed to have a great day though, and I managed to get this shot off in the train station which just jumped out at me with the light and reflections…

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threesixsix – 54 – highinthesky

I’ve been away in Aberdeen for the last few days, hence the delay on posting photo’s since the back end of last week.

It’s been a nice break, seeing the extended family and being around some different scenery for a few days was refreshing. Have quite a few shots to work through for the next few days however, might be tricky picking a photo for days 55/56/57 as I have a bit of choice…

54 was straightforward though, bit of an angled shot from the plane flying high as we left England and entered Scotland.

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threesixsix – 53 – onthemove

Yep I’ve been stalking in the rain again… can’t help it sometimes.

Away up to Scotland for a long weekend now though, which means I may just get some different shots with some new scenery to see for a few days

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threesixsix – 52 – wellfed

Tonight was a gastroclub night, first of this year that I’ve managed to make it to.

We dined at ‘63 degrees‘ in the Northern Quarter of Manchester, a relatively new French restaurant on the block. The meal was excellent, nice clean tasty French cuisine which I enjoyed thoroughly. The menu consisted of:

-  Frogs legs with spherication of parsley

-  Dorade tartare with avocado soya foam

-  Sea bass with lime meringue and small vegetables

-  Rabbit with cauliflower risotto and 63 degree egg

-  Chocolate sphere with surprise centre

My highlight would probably be the sea bass, fresh tasty and perfectly cooked. The rabbit was perhaps a little bland (and maybe overcooked?) for my tastes, but certainly didn’t let the overall meal down. All in all a success!

As ever with Gastroclub I thought multiple shots would go for my shot for the day, although the difficulty is always the light in restaurants… not particularly condusive to photography.

For those in Manchester and not aware of the gastroclub experience, I highly recommend following Gastroclub on twitter, or checking out the website…. definitely worth it if you like your food!

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threesixsix – 51 – purple

Decided this morning that I had to go for something a bit more colourful today… have been concentrating on B&W so much lately thought it was time to throw something different into the mix.

The lovely purple sky this morning helped, along with a bit of a glowing reflection.

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threesixsix – 50 – lurk

Hanging around in dark alleys again, even on a bright (but cold) winters day. I just can’t help myself.

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threesixsix – 49 – toomuchrain

I can never pass a broken umbrella without taking a shot. Another one of my photographic rules.

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threesixsix – 48 – infinity

Had to improvise a little for day 48, no camera with me for the day as I was out with work that night and didn’t want to keep the camera with me in the bars of Manchester. Snapped this bit of graphical abstract work from the balcony before work.

Bit different for me, but I like it.

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threesixsix – 47 – inthecity

Wet rainy nights in Manchester, something my camera can’t resist. Snapped away at a few things on the wet walk home and this is what shone out to me.

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threesixsix – 46 – feedingtime

I am relying so much on photographs taken in the morning at the moment, am working long busy days and just not having the time for photography elsewhere.

Quite liked this flock of Pigeons though, always good for a shot.

 

 

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threesixsix – 45 – theloveboat

Seemed appropriate, given the day!

 

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threesixsix – 44 – drifting

More black and white… think I may have to find something colourful soon! I seem to generally think in black and white though, so sometimes it’s not so surprising.

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threesixsix – 43 – oldschool

I decided to go a bit old school with my choice of shot today.

When I first started out with my photography ‘properly’ 3 or 4 years back, I took a lot of shots of the rusty architecture of Castlefield. It’s such a great spot for black & white, and as it’s on my doorstep it was always good to go out there and play around with techniques. Thought I would revisit that a little bit on my walkabout this morning, with this shot.

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threesixsix – 42 – coldasice

A bit of a cop out in some respects. This is a variation of my recent shot from day 36 (http://www.markstuttard.com/#/threesixsix/threesixsix-36-brokenhearted).

I was extremely surprised that this balloon was still on the ice… am sure it hasn’t been there for some of the last few days, however it seemed to be back again in almost the same spot! Very strange, almost like it wanted to be photographed.

This version has 100% less empty booze bottles and cigarettes, so quite a bit less grimy

 

 

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threesixsix – 41 – frozenworld

Playing around with reflections in the ice… this could be up there with my fave shots of the 366 so far.

Simplicity wins many a time.

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threesixsix – 40- jaws

Once again the Northern Quarter area of Manchester gives me a subject while I was passing through… couldn’t turn down this lovely bit of repetition.

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threesixsix – 39 – stuckintheice

I love seeing the canals of Castlefield frozen up in this cold weather, it’s just interesting to see them different from the usual. Quite beautiful all in all.

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threesixsix – 38 – curiouspursuits

So today I had to pop by the Portico library here in Manchester, which is going to be the venue of my first exhibition as a photographer. I’m going to be part of the ‘Northern Exposure’ exhibition, which is bringing 3 local photographers together to exhibit work. I  had to go by today to finalise a few things seeing as the exhibition is just under a month away. It’s quite daunting but exciting at the same time, but I think the excitement edges it as I am really looking forward to it now.

While I was there I had a nosey around the current exhibition, which is a very odd collection of dark and strange curiosities, named ‘Curious Pursuits”. Couldn’t resist a snap of this Harpie…. made out of a stuffed birds body and a dolls head. Wonderfully creepy

If you’re in Manchester on March 6th let me know, you can come along to the grand opening of Northern Exposure!

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threesixsix – 37 – justalittle

I’m not one of those photographers that’s into strobes and lighting, or at least the sort that you get using flashes and the like. I much prefer looking for light out there in the wild, be it natural or artificial. It’s especially good for me if it’s got that ‘dark and dangerous’ element to it, but am guessing if you’ve seen some of my work before you’d know that already.

This is another catch on the walk into work, I try and take different routes to give me the chance to find inspiration. Just as well as once again a really busy day, and not much time for shots outside of that…

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threesixsix – 36 – brokenhearted

This image is just something I can’t pass up, my grime seeking eye just caught it immediately. Think of it as an alternative valentines day card

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threesixsix – 35 – whiteout

Well the weather service reported it, and lo and behold we were hit by snow today. Looks lovely but damn it is cold and slippy out there!

It’s a bit of an obvious shot, but had full hands for a lot of today so not much time for photography. Plus it was nice to get back inside in the warm and out of that bitter cold!

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threesixsix – 34 – barging

An early start today, so tried to get a couple of shots by the canal. I liked the smoke stack from this barge, along with the very peaceful atmosphere of the early morning walk to work.

It’s been a very busy but productive week… but am very glad it’s the weekend!

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threesixsix – 33 – neveracrossword

Managed to get out for a little bit of a walkabout at lunch, so thought I would pop by the railway arches off Oxford Road. It’s always interesting to see what you can find around there, and this bit of ‘crossword art’ seemed to be worth a shot.

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threesixsix – 32 – walkinghome

This is the first shot of the project that I’ve ended up posting the day after taking it, but was out and about in town last night with a couple of friends from work, so a good enough excuse.

Even after a few beers (and a cheeky few glasses of wine) I was still on the look out for a shot on the way home, and the moonlight through these branches was just asking to be shot.

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threesixsix – 31 – waiting

As ever, I come into my shot for the day with little to no planning. This is the way my mind and eye works, just nice to see what happens on your path and choose your moment accordingly. For some reason when I was stood at the traffic lights this morning this came to me, and I managed to get a quick few shots off before the lights changed.

Amazingly, that is one month into the 366 project. Crazy how time flies sometimes. Just 11 months to go folks!

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threesixsix – 30 – windowed

I have been meaning to use these Chinese lanterns that are dotted around Chinatown for the recent New Year celebrations, just not quite got round to it yet. On a walk through there on my lunch break today this came to me as a use however. Pretty happy with how it came out all in all!

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threesixsix – 29 – skindeep

Some more street poetry from Castlefield, as ever catching my eye.

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threesixsix – 28 – warbling

Something simple today, but caught my eye on the walk into town today and was screaming for some B&W conversion.

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threesixsix – 27 – sweettooth

Early shot today, mainly as I won’t be taking the camera with me to work as I’m out tonight. A good friend of mine from work is leaving and so we’ll be celebrating/commiserating his departure with large amounts of alcohol… not the best environment for my camera

One of my ‘reserve house shot ideas’ was to get a colourful photo of this box of sweets, a Christmas stocking filler from my lovely wife. Seemed like a good time to do it today seeing as I was in need of such an emergency shot to keep up the project!

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threesixsix – 26 – whoismrbird?

This is the second time I’ve seen a big old ‘Mr Bird’ bit of graffiti recently. I wonder who he may be…

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threesixsix – 25 – nectarofthegods

A rare indoors shot for me, but for good reason tonight.

Today is the day (well ‘night’ theoretically) of the great bard Rabbie Burns, which just gives me a good excuse to partake in a glass or three of whisky. It’s probably my favourite of all the alcoholic beverages I’ve tried to date, and I must admit to having tried a fair few in my time. Having a Scottish wife also means I have an even better excuse to buy new and interesting types of it regularly… and seeing as it’s payday today I may go and buy a new bottle very shortly…

As Burns said himself - ”Freedom and whisky gang thegither”

 

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threesixsix – 24 – ghostwalk

Back in for some blurry ghostly goodness today, caught this image on my walk into work this morning and it really worked for my eye.

I do like a bit of a ghostly blurry figure, one of those things I can’t turn down if it’s on offer for a photo!

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threesixsix – 23 – barbed

It’s going to be  a busy week at work, so knew in advance I wouldn’t have a great deal of time for a shot today. To help get around this took a different walking route to work to see if anything caught my eye.

Of course as per normal, I was drawn to something dark and ever so slightly dangerous

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threesixsix – 22 – fallingdown

I haven’t ventured very far today, the weather is miserable here currently. As I’m also still fighting off the back end of this bug and have a very busy few days ahead at work I thought it was best to have an easy chilled day.

I did however make it as far as the stairwell of the apartment block, to get myself a bit more black and white graininess for the project.

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threesixsix – 21 – giveitup

Spotted this and decided to mess around with some black and white graininess.

It’s something I do come back to quite often, maybe not to everyone’s tastes but I just like the rough and ready nature of an image processed like this.

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threesixsix – 20 – red

I’ve may have never been to the particular restaurant chain, but to take their name ‘Thank God It’s Friday’. It’s been one of those weeks, feeling ill hasn’t helped so am glad it’s done and dusted now. I think it will be a restful weekend.

Bit of full on texture work to close out the working week. This red really caught my eye on a walkabout at lunch.

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threesixsix – 19 – specialbrew

Another early morning start today, thankfully feeling better than I have over the last couple of days which helped the early alarm (I’m not a morning person!). The one benefit is taking the opportunity to use the early morning light when I’m walking in at this time, it gives a different perspective on things that you pass by and also means there are less people to get in the way of a shot.

Whilst walking in I just couldn’t resist this empty can, it harks back to many of my ‘alcohol container’ shots which tend to turn up in my photostream fairly regularly.

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threesixsix – 18 – branchingout

Was feeling brighter this morning after yesterdays illness, however only managed a couple of hours in work before being sent home as I didn’t look too well. Another day of rest once I got back home, thankfully feeling a fair bit better now so should be fighting fit for tomorrow.

Once again got a few quick snaps off in the morning on the way in thankfully, to keep the project going without having to resort to indoor photography. These bare branches caught my eye, and I thought a bit of B&W and intentional grain made for quite a dramatic, spooky image.

 

 

 

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threesixsix – 17 – hitthewall

Lucky that I managed to capture this shot on the way into work this morning, as I ended up having to leave early due to feeling unwell. I feel like I’ve been fighting off a bug over the last few days, think it finally got on top of me today. Ended up sleeping most of the afternoon, hopefully will be feeling better after a good nights sleep tonight on top.

The wall may be symbolic of the day, but in general I like these ‘fade out’/minimal focus shots too.

 

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threesixsix – 16 – dranktoomuch

Back to a bit of grime and urban decay today.

On a little walkabout at lunch these barrels just caught my attention, couldn’t resist a shot… which naturally suited some B&W conversion.

 

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threesixsix – 15 – thebigskyrevisited

Seeing as it was a lovely brisk sunny winters day, we took  a trip to Heaton Park for a bit of fresh air and to get out of the city for once.

I managed to get quite a few shots I’m happy with, though something that was in my mind since the start of the trip was to have another shot at a photo I took in the park in my 365 project from 2010, a shot I called ‘The big sky’. I handled it a little differently this time around, throwing a bit of texture in there to give it a bit more of a ‘watercolour’ feel, but overall it seemed right to use that for my project this year too.

 

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threesixsix – 14 – shadowshop

Lovely bright sunny day in Manchester, which gave off some fantastic long shadows around the city. Couldn’t resist snapping some for my shot of the day.

 

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threesixsix – 13 – tunnelling

Early start for work this morning, so was trying to spot anything on my way into the office with that early morning light… or lack of it.

This tunnel stood out to me, I liked the golden glow on the brickwork. The solitary figure just made it stand out more to my eyes too.

 

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threesixsix – 12- leaveflowersatthedoor

Managed to get over to the Northern Quarter today, which is always a good spot when you want a shot or two. So many little bits of detail, there is always something that catches my eye…

 

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threesixsix – 11- puttingontheritz

Another rainy walk home tonight, and yet again didn’t get any shots in the day as it was pretty hectic. This meant I had to try to spot something on the way home to meet the daily requirement… which can be a challenge on dark nights (unless I start stalking people like I did yesterday!)

I actually spotted this on the way back, and the angles, lines and lights just really caught my eye.

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threesixsix – 10 – follow

Throughout this project I am in no doubt that I will be leaning back on some of my photographic foibles…. one of which is the old ‘following a stranger’ type of shot. It’s something that really works to me, quite nice when it’s dark and moody too.

God knows what anyone thinks if they ever see me doing it though, must look like a right stalker.

 

 

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threesixsix – 9 – cobbled

Seems that I’ve been messing around with low down low light shots again… and I do like a cobble or two.

 

 

 

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threesixsix – 8 – hearty

Bit of trademark urban decay today, spotted on a quick walk around the canals earlier, surprised I haven’t spotted this before.

I was very, very tempted to climb through this window… but think the wife may have killed me if I’d have gone exploring

 

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threesixsix – 7 – smashitup

Broken items are another of those things that tend to catch my eye when looking around for a photo, I can’t resist catching a bit of detail of such things.

That being said this broken window had caught my eye when I passed by it on a previous walk, just didn’t end up taking a shot for some reason. Luckily for me it hadn’t been fixed when I passed by today….

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threesixsix – 6 – onthehunt

The rain stopped enough today to be able to get a walk into town at lunch, and it was actually nice bright and sunny (though that appears to have disappeared now).

Spotted this guy running back and forth on a bench in Albert Square while out and about. I can’t resist a pigeon sometimes, am sure there will more shots of them throughout this project…

 

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threesixsix – 5 – rainonthewindows

My earliest taken shot in the 366 so far, this was caught this morning whilst noseying out of the window at home. The windows were still wet from the blustery wet night we went through last night, there were 90mph winds around Manchester allegedly!

Being up on the 12^th floor has its benefits, but it does sound quite apocalyptic when the wind is buffeting against the building at those speeds…

(Please click the image to expand, this page format doesn’t like landscape shots so much)

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threesixsix – 4 – raintown

As much as you don’t want to expose your camera to the elements too much, I do love getting some rainy night shots when the weather is bad.

It’s helpful with this kind of project too, as if you don’t manage to get too many shots in the day it’s always something good to fall back on…

 

 

 

 

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threesixsix – 3 – backatwork

So today was the first day back at work after the Christmas and New Year break, I knew it was coming but it seemed to creep up on me unexpectedly in the end. All in all not too bad a day really, there was plenty to catch-up on but it felt productive overall.

Went for a workstation shot for today, seemed appropriate given it was back to work, plus I didn’t get out and about much. The little figure is just something knocked up with blu-tack, I have named him Marvin

 

(Please click the image to expand, this page format doesn’t like landscape shots so much)

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threesixsix – 2 – atthemovies

It’s the last day of the Christmas break today, and with work looming we decided to take a relaxing trip to the cinema to see the new Sherlock Holmes movie. All in all was a good film, better than the first and with a very enjoyable ending. Was a bit strange watching it after seeing the new series of Sherlock on the BBC last night, quite a jarring comparison between the modern take of the character from the vintage version.

I couldn’t resist getting a few shots off in the cinema before the film began, especially as it was so quiet as you can see!

(Please click the image to expand, this page format doesn’t like landscape shots so much)

 

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threesixsix – 1 – lovelytimes

After completing a couple of 52 week projects last year, I’ve decided to take the plunge again and do a 365 project in 2012, or more specifically a ‘threesixsix’ project seeing as it’s a leap year. Hopefully this will get my photographic mojo working again, as I didn’t take as many pictures in 2011 as in previous years.

To start the year off I am going back to my roots with a bit of urban grime in Castlefield. It’s a part of the world that suits black and white so well.

Happy new year folks, hope 2012 brings everything you want from life.

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