Musical Inspiration

I'm going to tangentially relate this post to photography by explaining that I really can't get into a groove/workflow without some kind of music to listen to. My tastes are somewhat all over the place... Feist, State Radio, The Ting Tings, Seamus Ennis, Shiny Toy Guns...

Today, I'm listening to Beats Antique. Back in the day, I was a bellydancer. For maybe like 5 years. Nothing truly professional, but I was in a troupe and we performed and practiced and generally had fun. It's been a while now since I've really danced, and boy am I rusty. But I've been getting back into it on my own, mostly since it's excellent (and fun) exercise. And sometimes I just have to step away from the cameras and do something else creative for a while.

If you're following me on Twitter, you may have noticed me "Blip" this video today. I dig it.



Hope you enjoy. I'm off to dance around the house getting things straightened up, then it's off to a local field of wildflowers for some evening photo ops. Adios!

The Dragon's Egg

I've spent much of my week so far in Connecticut - and thus a lot of time driving. Not that I mind, but I am glad to be staying home today! Yesterday, I had an appointment with one of my beautiful bellydancer friends to take some promo shots for her. We were able to use a gorgeous space - the Dragon's Egg studio near Mystic, Ct. It was actually a bit challenging to shoot with so many mirrors, but the space itself is lovely. A huge, open, nearly round room forms the central studio space. It's walls are covered in either mirrors or windows. This central space is surrounded by nooks for tea or snacks, changing rooms, balconies, and even a loft chock full of mattresses and oriental rugs, for weekend workshop overnighters. The Egg is also stuffed full of odd little items, artwork, fabric, etc. I found this quirky, somewhat bedraggled dragon kite while my dancer friend was getting into costume, and had to take his portrait.

Dragon Kite


I also had a lot of fun during the shoot. It's been a long time since I've been active in bellydance, and I do miss it. It was fun to reconnect with Katie, and play with costuming! Katie teaches classes and holds workshops galore - if you're even a little interested in bellydance I recommend checking her website out. Bellydance is so much fun, and I've made some great friends through it.

More Trash the Costume

Another favorite from my recent bellydancer photoshoot.

Trash the Costume?

Taking a cue from the "Trash the Dress" style, a few bellydancer friends and I ventured out into the swamps and streams of Connecticut to capture some unique photos. This is, hands down, my favorite thus far: