The Capitol

The Capitol (Explored)
Originally uploaded by chrias.

This photo was taken at approximately 5:30 PM on Sunday, November 9th. It was so cold outside, I only had time to take this one shot- Well, it's actually three shots all at different exposures- blended together to make a single shot.

This type of photography is called HDR (or, High Dynamic Range). Using this technique one is able to capture the best light available by taking an underexposed (1/50 secs.), overexposed (3/10 secs.), and perfectly exposed (1/13 secs.) shot. I got a few suggestions from one of my contacts on flickr about how to make my HDR shots look more realistic and I think I've got it.

Either way, I was pleased with the outcome.

I've been in a pretty good mood lately, pretty much trying to live up my last year in college. On this day I was having an especially good time. For one of my pharmacy classes we have to make a video that educates the public on some health-related topic. My group picked smoking cessation. On this Sunday I worked from Noon to 3 at the Drake University Box Office (where I basically do nothing except the occasional renting out of a key).

After work I drove to SE 14th and Army Post Rd. to meet up with my group and film the video. When I got there I was pretty excited about using the camera because I had spent most of my time at work getting to know the thing. (Awhile back I had thought about buying one cause I thought it'd be a fun thing to play around with- and this confirmed it.) I was our group's cameraman and absolutely loved it. After we got done filming about how to quit, what options there are to aid in quitting, and filming a mock interview with a former smoker (myself playing the role) I told the group that I would do all the editing and wrap-up of the project. I don't know if this was a good or bad idea. I've never edited video before but I'm sure it can't be that hard. Also, I like trying new things and challenging myself. This is a perfect opportunity to learn something new.

Oh yeah- I mentioned how it was really cold when I took this picture and it's November 9th. I foolishly signed up for the Living History Farms Race on November 22nd. A race that many cross-country runners participate in to celebrate the end of their season. It may be a celebration for them- but for me, more like the Apocalypse or something I'd imagine being similar to that.

This race is a 7-mile trek around the Living History Farms consisting of running, jumping, and climbing through woods, fields and creeks- but I want to do it. I've signed up and I am committed.