I have been working with HDR (High Dynamic Range) portraiture for some time.  This treatment works great for getting significant detail out of and image, but requires significant skill on the part of the digital artist.  There are powers of good and evil at work here and the final image can easily go one of two ways. 

I recently picked up a new Elinchrom mobile studio set.  Wanting to try out the freeze frame capabilities of this system I put it to the test photographing chilies, blueberries, and lemons in this fun series of images.

I recently went on assignment to Joyo Island in the Riau Islands of Bintan Indonesia.  The primary purpose of the assignment was to capture food images from guest chef Heather Berrie, however in between meal time I managed to capture a few images from the island.

Traveling from Singapore by ferry to Bintan with my new Elinchrom Ranger mobile studio was a breeze until I went through customs.  I am not sure if it is the appearance of the case or all the cables, batteries, and what looks like a timing device that set the customs officials off.  But after a long discussion and a signed declaration that I would  be taking my kit with me when I left we were on our way.

The hour and a half car journey to to reach the island ferry was trying, dogging between the motor bikes and the lorries on winding roads through the jungle adds the authentic Indonesian experience that is really only fun in small doses.  Luckily there was a cooler stocked on board and the water leg was only a 20 min journey.  I was able to amuse myself by taking photos of the parting waves against the expanse of calm seas.  Out of the horizon appeared a small  island with towering palms and white sandy beaches.  The welcoming staff greeted us with a refreshing welcome drink under the white sailed tent at the point of the island.  Now we knew the journey was worth it.

Joyo is covered in lush vegetation with thatched driftwood bungalows located along sandy trails that lead to the impressive pool and main villa.  The villas are spacious and decorated with regional antiques and handy crafts.  The antler chandelier in the main villa was fitting and intriguing, but no match for the driftwood deer sculpture.

Meals were served family style on a beautifully set banquet table by the pool.  I spent much of my day photographing food in the kitchen, but the other guests went on an afternoon sail to the surrounding islands while sipping margaritas.  They were relaxed and happy by the time they returned for dinner.

I have included several photos of the island here.  As for images from master chief Heather Berrie, those will come in another entry.