tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48471609495368500352024-03-08T11:10:09.790-08:00Benjamin Luk Photography | NewsBenjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-42594774430540151932014-04-27T09:04:00.004-07:002014-04-27T09:46:30.352-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Buy us a 6-pack!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7112/14033447984_298cb5a3f7_h.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2897/14029784422_30906cbfa1_o.jpg" height="690" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>(Beer helps fuel our creative process. </i>© 2014 Shannon Mackay, Benjamin Luk Photography.<i>)</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We go through a lot of beer here at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">Benjamin Luk Photography</a>. Every night we spend editing and every day we spend in our studio, we knock back a few brews. Obviously, we're not just stumbling around drunk all the time – we'd never get any work done if we were – but during an all-nighter edit session, a cold pint goes a long way. That's where you come in.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If we've done a good job for you or if we're currently working on your photos, consider buying us a 6-pack! You should see a button in the top right of this page. Many thanks! You guys are the best clients in the world.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.</div>
Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-79045959808107170632013-04-28T23:01:00.004-07:002014-04-27T09:07:32.775-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Amanda Palmer at Whidbey Island Winery<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8537/8684295191_ca5477ec9b_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_amandapalmer_blog-4467" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8259/8684295339_4700ed583f_z.jpg" height="600" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>(Amanda Palmer rocking the uke at her private Whidbey Island Winery show. </i>© 2013 Benjamin Luk.<i>)</i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It was over a year ago that assistant <a href="http://benjaminlukphotography.blogspot.ca/2011/08/perspective-lauren-mulcahy-intern.html" target="_blank">Lauren Mulcahy</a> first asked if I was interested in pitching in for <a href="http://amandapalmer.net/" target="_blank">Amanda Palmer</a>'s <a href="http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/amandapalmer/amanda-palmer-the-new-record-art-book-and-tour" target="_blank">Kickstarter</a>
with her so we could go to a private house party where she'd be
playing. Admittedly, I didn't know Amanda's music well, but I'd known
her since <a href="http://www.dresdendolls.com/" target="_blank">The Dresden Dolls</a> so I agreed. On April 23rd, Lauren and I hopped in a car and headed down to <a href="http://www.whidbeyislandwinery.com/" target="_blank">Whidbey Island Winery</a> where a fellow Amanda fan named <a href="http://twitter.com/freedomzoom" target="_blank">Zoe</a> was hosting the show. There were ukuleles and cameras everywhere.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8396/8684295667_a8c1695858_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_amandapalmer_blog-4507" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8531/8684295765_24bbcf626e.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>(Amanda also brought her friend, Jason Webley. </i>© 2013 Benjamin Luk.<i>)</i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
From where I was sitting, I made do with a <a href="http://www.canon.ca/inetCA/products?m=gp&pid=2062" target="_blank">Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM</a>.
The light was fairly good and it was a nice reminder of my roots; I'd
first gotten into photography with the intent of shooting live music.
Being limited in my lens choice was a great learning opportunity too.
I'm getting more accustomed to packing lightly and creating great images
while doing so. To the folks at Whidbey Island Winery, I'll be back.
It'd be a beautiful place to shoot a wedding.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8536/8685412956_b0f0a8fd3f_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_amandapalmer_blog-4499" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8393/8684295543_a6c6c7232e.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>(Amanda pounding away on the keys. </i>© 2013 Benjamin Luk.<i>)</i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.</div>
</div>
Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-76246768741647841002013-04-11T01:18:00.000-07:002013-04-11T01:19:11.065-07:00PERSPECTIVE: The Gear Collective<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/gearcollective" title="Click to view The Gear Collective on Facebook."><img alt="gearcollectivefbthumbnail" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8387/8639925316_5f619ab486.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>(Want to borrow high-end camera gear in Vancouver for free? Join us at The Gear Collective. </i>© 2013 Kinta Maeda.<i>)</i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In late 2012, <a href="http://twitter.com/darkedgemedia" target="_blank">Roman Seregin</a> of <a href="http://www.darkedgemedia.com/" target="_blank">Dark Edge Media</a> and I were kicking around the idea of a rental house that allowed us to share gear rather than trying to generate profit. It seemed more a pipe dream than reality. After all, with a concept so simple, why hadn't it been done before in Vancouver, a city that thrives on community and creativity? Nevertheless, we started small with a soft launch on Facebook (seen <a href="http://www.facebook.com/gearcollective" target="_blank">here</a>) and are currently looking for active and engaged members. E-mails zipped around, lawyers were called, and we now have the groundwork for what we hope will become Vancouver's foremost gearshare community. Want to borrow a <a href="http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/cameras/ef_lens_lineup/ef_35mm_f_1_4l_usm" target="_blank">Canon 35mm f/1.4L</a> for a weekend with no fees? What about a <a href="http://en.nikon.ca/Nikon-Products/Product/Digital-SLR-Cameras/25488/D600.html" target="_blank">Nikon D600</a>? Maybe a <a href="http://www.profoto.com/us/products/generators/battery/acuteb-600" target="_blank">Profoto AcuteB 600</a>? That's only what we have right now with two members. We hope to build up to eight dedicated members, four Nikon and four Canon. Applications for membership can be sent to <a href="mailto:info@benjaminluk.com">info@benjaminluk.com</a>. Good luck.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.</div>
Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-91934984942521767252013-04-10T03:49:00.002-07:002013-04-10T03:55:56.554-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Sarah & Matt's Engagement<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8112/8636308445_7aeca27914_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_sarah+matt_derez-3250" height="267" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8251/8637415574_39575a5206.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>(Meeting in the middle in Gastown. </i>© 2013 Benjamin Luk.<i>)</i></span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My lovely friend and colleague <a href="http://www.sarahaliciathomas.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Alicia Thomas</a> has always been there for me over the years. In fact, I'm still not sure when our first shoot together was; I only know we bonded over glamour shoots when I still had my studio in Port Coquitlam. She's a talented hairstylist and went on to work full-time in a salon. I left my glamour studio behind and now do a modest number of weddings each year. I suppose it was only a matter of time before our paths crossed again professionally. She's getting married to her man <a href="http://www.twitter.com/amattstory" target="_blank">Matt</a> in October and needed engagement shots. In two separate sessions due to time constraints, we shot through Gastown and Mount Seymour.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8524/8637415788_f56c15249b_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_sarah+matt_derez-3442" height="267" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8545/8636308493_d7cdb2c275.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Matt and Sarah getting chilly on Mount Seymour. </span></span></i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">© 2013 Benjamin Luk.</span></span><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">) </span></span></i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Starting for 2014 dates, a confirmed wedding booking now means an opportunity to get an engagement session too for just $100 + PST. We'll also be doing more engagement shoots than usual this year. May 4, 2013 is our first engagement booking this season and we'll be working with a great-looking young Indian couple. Got a wedding photographer already, but their package doesn't include engagement shots? Inquire directly at <a href="mailto:info@benjaminluk.com">info@benjaminluk.com</a> for rates. 2013 is already looking like our best year yet and we want you to come along for the ride.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8244/8637472814_91129ef367_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_sarah+matt_derez-3313" height="267" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8120/8636365835_617d4ab3b0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>(Hockey love. </i>© 2013 Benjamin Luk.<i>)</i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.</div>
Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-27757802591330268352013-01-24T01:56:00.000-08:002013-01-24T02:00:42.785-08:00PERSPECTIVE: Lorenz Agave Spirits<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8498/8411032496_64865fb020_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_ericlorenz_blog_derez-2488" height="600" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8046/8411032382_abd00dcfae_z.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>(Agave spirits expert Eric Lorenz nosing a fine reposado. </i>© 2013 Benjamin Luk.<i>)</i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Those who know me even in passing know I can never pass up a good drink. It was through that love of drink that led me to befriending <a href="http://twitter.com/agavespirits" target="_blank">Eric Lorenz</a>, perhaps the most knowledgeable agave spirits expert in British Columbia. After he helped me on a business project last summer, I agreed to make it up to him with new headshots, which was how he came to be in my new home studio with two bottles of mezcal to share. The image above was shot on a <a href="http://www.canon.ca/inetCA/products?m=gp&pid=865" target="_blank">Canon 5D Mark II</a> sporting a <a href="http://www.canon.ca/inetCA/products?m=gp&pid=2466" target="_blank">Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L USM</a> with a single <a href="http://www.profoto.com/acuted4-heads/acuteb-head" target="_blank">Profoto AcuteB Head</a> on softbox at 45°. More on Eric can be found at his website, <a href="http://www.agavespirits.com/" target="_blank">Lorenz Agave Spirits</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.</div>
Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-30753653623634570882012-11-04T02:12:00.000-08:002012-11-04T02:12:29.712-08:00PERSPECTIVE: The Half-Hour Headshot<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8490/8153290151_87cfb4dc76_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_travis_blogrez-1972" height="267" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8487/8153316806_9847151e4d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">(Victim #2 of the Half-Hour Headshot, Travis. </i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">© 2012 Benjamin Luk.</span><i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">)</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As of late, I've been trying to reinvigorate my headshots marketing; namely, a) how can I bring something to the market that doesn't already exist, and b) how can I make it marketable. Thanks partly to <a href="http://www.twitter.com/happyspork" target="_blank">@happyspork</a>, I've hit on a new idea: The Half-Hour Headshot. Though a quick <a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=half+hour+headshot&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a" target="_blank">Google search</a> confirms that we're not the first ones to come up with this, I'm prepared to take this to the next level. Guaranteed, from the moment we start setting up gear to the moment we finish editing, you can get your completed headshot in just half an hour. You can get the same quality seen here for only 30 minutes of your time and an affordable $200 (with makeup and hair, $250). Great for realtors and corporate.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/" target="_blank">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.</div>
Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-29036362369869958142012-09-15T01:24:00.003-07:002012-09-15T11:28:24.194-07:00PERSPECTIVE: 12x12 Vancouver Photo Marathon B&W Edition<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8040/7987757750_94ca6d2534_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8439/7987751889_885f0af1c8_z.jpg" alt="blp_12x12morten_derez-1843" height="600" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(12x12 brainchild Morten Rand-Hendriksen in a test shot before the official mugshots were taken. </span>© 2012 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">For the past four years, it's been one of my greatest privileges to be a <a href="http://vancouverphotomarathon.com/">12x12YVR</a> committee member. In a film competition that challenges pros and amateurs alike to create 12 stunning images over 12 hours from 12 abstract themes, it's a unique opportunity for Vancouver photographers to strut their stuff. With only one exposure per theme to capture their vision, can they do it?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8460/7987757890_59a3b547e3_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8447/7987757954_bc588ce37e.jpg" alt="blp_12x12group_derez-1927" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(A group photo taken before 2012's 12x12YVR competition. </span>© 2012 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">These are some of the 60 competitors for 2012, the long-awaited B&W edition. For more information, visit <a href="http://vancouverphotomarathon.com/">12x12 Vancouver Photo Marathon</a> and <a href="http://vancouverisawesome.com/2012/09/12/12x12-vancouver-photo-marathon-2/">Vancouver Is Awesome</a>, where you can find more information about competing next year. You can see this year's exhibit at the Salt Building on September 22nd at 6 PM. More info can be found <a href="http://vancouverphotomarathon.com/raw-talent/">here</a>. To help donate, click <a href="http://vancouverphotomarathon.com/donate/">here</a> and help fund Vancouver arts. We're some of the best photographers in the city. Care to join us?<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-4866290197491506802012-09-14T23:15:00.002-07:002013-04-28T23:02:28.769-07:00PERSPECTIVE: James & Tory's Wedding<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8316/7987566436_188b7d5422_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_james+tory_slideshow_sm-7736" height="600" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8169/7987565978_ddf55e5edc_z.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(James and Tory got married in Santorini on June 9th, 2012. </span>© 2012 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sometimes I get assignments that seem too good to be true. Most of these involve travel. And though I've technically shot in Hong Kong and San Francisco, this opportunity to travel to Greece and stay there for a week getting to know the couple I'd be photographing on their wedding day was far too good to pass up. So flights were booked, hotels called and bags packed. I set off on May 31st for the adventure of a lifetime.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8318/7987559841_af8c788e55_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_james+tory_slideshow_sm-7767" height="212" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8170/7987566098_d9c86d6df3.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(One of our locations was Atlantis Books, located in the small Greek town of Oia. </span>© 2012 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
After a short engagement session at the Acropolis and numerous days of drunken misadventures (where we learned exactly what the best man's alcohol tolerance was and why you shouldn't be standing on a national treasure during a hangover), we took a ferry over to the majestic island of Santorini. It was picture perfect. Beautiful blue skies, crystal clear water and cold craft beer awaited us. Moussaka and gyros greeted us at every turn. And my camera practically never left my side.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8449/7987566516_8f31a0bf9e_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_james+tory_slideshow_sm-7756" height="600" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8462/7987559199_491cc8d420_z.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(One of the many beautiful doorways and alcoves in Santorini. </span>© 2012 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Then the wedding day came. Since our budget couldn't accommodate an assistant, it was up to me to wrangle the 22 pounds of gear I bring to every shoot. Rushing from the hostel we were all staying at in Kamari up to the peak of Oia, I had my first encounter with every destination photographer's worst nightmare: heat stroke. With the ceremony only minutes away and fighting back waves of nausea, I hydrated as quickly as I could and carried on. This first kiss photo is proof I survived and stayed at the top of my game.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8302/7987559401_b085085de4_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_james+tory_slideshow_sm-8246" height="267" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8313/7987559297_9557610736.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(The best 'first kiss' photo I've ever shot. </span>© 2012 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
I stayed for dinner and the post-wedding party at Dom (where I snapped many an inappropriate first dance photo), but took off the next day for a flight back into Athens where I stayed for two more nights. Not ready to end my adventuring yet, I found my way to Paris before heading back home to edit. These five photos you see here are only the tiniest percentage of gorgeous shots I got while in Greece. For the real deal, you'll want to book a private appointment with me to see more and talk to me about your upcoming wedding.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8457/7987559491_d29a657fd5_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img alt="blp_james+tory_slideshow_sm-8481" height="267" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8036/7987559331_95e400c126.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Sunset on Santorini. </span>© 2012 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-58661154087357372922012-07-17T23:48:00.004-07:002012-07-18T00:30:50.794-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Bathtub for Better Solutions Refinishing<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7273/7595555842_2ea19316f5_h.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7252/7595556020_e01cc8f8eb.jpg" alt="blp_bathtub-blog-derez" height="296" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=" font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" >(The before/after shots of this tub were taken three months apart. </span><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;">© 2012 Benjamin Luk.</span><span style=" font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" >)</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.bettersolutionsrefinishing.com/">Better Solutions</a> is a local refinishing business specializing in what I like to call "real life Photoshop". The bathtub you see above has not been edited to hide any flaws. Refinisher Fraser Davies actually took the tub you see on the left and transformed it into the practically-new tub you see on the right. The process took three months of casual labour, which in itself is a feat considering the tub has been around for almost 100 years and was used as a planter since the mid-90s. The final image will become a vehicle wrap on a Better Solutions truck.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-86928767075914901312012-03-12T01:57:00.004-07:002012-03-12T02:23:47.793-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Vasia Weddings' Workshop<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7039/6975501513_9bac3fbe35_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7190/6829377180_5193c7eb48_z.jpg" alt="blp_vasia_blog-5674" height="527" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(A bouquet by Flower Factory. </span>© 2012 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.vasia-weddings.com/">Vasia</a> was one of my former classmates back in my <a href="http://www.focalpoint.bc.ca/">Focal Point</a> days in 2008. Since then, she's taken off to become one of the most respected wedding photographers in Vancouver, and for good reason. She's beautiful, charming, and has great talent and business sense like few other. It was a privilege to sit in on her first workshop where she demystified the wedding photography industry for us, gave us tips on how to become better at what we do, and organized a workshop for us in the form of a stylized shoot.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7185/6829377278_2e2499d978_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7181/6829377312_cbf5951602.jpg" alt="blp_vasia_blog-5689" height="434" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(My shot from our posing exercise. </span>© 2012 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Through a shooting exercise where we were given no more than a few minutes to capture detail shots and arrange our models in a posing challenge, we all picked up valuable shooting experience and business knowledge from the three-hour workshop. A complete list of vendors and participants who contributed in the event can be seen <a href="http://www.workshop.vasia-weddings.com/">here</a>. Huge thanks to <a href="http://www.vasia-weddings.com/">Vasia Weddings</a> and everyone else involved. I'll be putting what I learned to good use.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-70014187993686484702011-12-23T02:21:00.000-08:002012-02-10T22:35:09.457-08:00PERSPECTIVE: Elias Danner, Our First Intern<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6558532289_bd56824d68_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7017/6558532321_11d10f8d78.jpg" alt="Picture 1 derez" height="200" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Elias Danner's studio work. </span>© Elias Danner Productions.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Back in 2009, I took on an intern from Germany named <a href="http://www.eliasdanner.com/">Elias Danner</a>. He assisted me on a variety of shoots ranging from my model test with <a href="http://www.essentialmodels.ca/">Essential Models Inc.</a> to my <a href="http://benjaminlukphotography.blogspot.com/2009/05/retrospective-kristina-emmotts-first.html">CD album shoot for Kristina Emmott</a>. Since then, he's made quite a name for himself in Germany. You can see his work at <a href="http://www.eliasdanner.com/">EliasDanner.com</a> and see more about his internship <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GFDaugdTKQ">here</a>.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-91351211390571694832011-12-23T01:15:00.000-08:002011-12-23T01:35:17.479-08:00PERSPECTIVE: Redco Group Christmas Party<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6558351811_f90a715bf5_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7030/6558351603_d640b16b5d.jpg" alt="blp_redco-5055" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Employees of The Redco Group enjoying their photo booth session. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I struck up a friendship with <a href="http://epicpolymer.com">Epic Polymer</a> CEO Greg Fraser earlier this year shortly after shooting his wedding in October. After delivering some of my favourite wedding shots of all time and doing a quick shoot for his personal Christmas cards, he invited me to photograph his company Christmas party with <a href="http://theredcogroup.com">The Redco Group</a>. Intern <a href="http://laurenmulcahyphotography.com/">Lauren Mulcahy</a> and I set up a photo booth and a 4" x 6" on-site printing service for the event, bringing everything from studio lighting to a white backdrop to a <a href="http://www.canon.ca/inetCA/products?m=gp&pid=4706">SELPHY CP800</a> capable of producing quick and easy high-quality prints. We're able to do the same for your event at only $10 per 4" x 6" print.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-9504487839483101692011-12-07T01:24:00.000-08:002011-12-07T02:04:55.461-08:00PERSPECTIVE: Ashley & Andrew's Wedding<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6470680277_f21b3ba271_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6470680609_eecb874b6f.jpg" alt="blp_a+a_derez-0123" height="457" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Ashley and Andrew standing at the altar. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I remember the exact moment I knew I'd be able to make things work with Ashley and Andrew's wedding. We were holed up in a casual sushi restaurant not far from my apartment and I'd just given them a great deal on account of their wedding being in the off-season. Their gratitude was immediate. They even bought me lunch right then and there, so I knew they wanted amazing photos and were going to do what it took to get them. Like always, I went into this with 100% and followed it through for the weeks to come.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7001/6470679777_d38a4553e4_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6470680313_9a1e07559f.jpg" alt="blp_a+a_derez-" height="247" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(The only way holy matrimony is supposed to be. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">What came first was the client meeting. I laid out plans for what was to come and planned every facet of the shoot down to the last detail, keeping in mind that unpredictability will always be a factor. Ashley and I went on a location scout around her venue and found the unlikeliest of places to represent her wedding portraits: a parkade. It was under cover, it had great lighting and most of all, it was a place that symbolically represented where she was tying the knot. This wasn't a million-dollar glamour wedding featured in Vogue. This was urban, down-to-earth and humble.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6470679909_0e43c8f047_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6470680369_6b077fbddf.jpg" alt="blp_a+a_derez-0051" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Ashley and the girls getting their giggle on. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">By keeping the location local and accessible, we were able to spend more time focusing on our clients' personalities. One extremely portable <a href="http://www.profoto.com/node/74#.Tt84yc0yq0Y">Profoto AcuteB 600</a> and a reflector piloted by assistant <a href="http://twitter.com/obicynkenobi">Cynthia</a> was all we needed for lighting. We also scheduled plenty of time for creative exploration of each scene. It's easy to get amazing portraits when you're right in front of your subject, but how about environmental portraiture that employs different angles, unconventional perspective and architecture as design?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6470679991_9df0a6b28f_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7169/6470680415_75ec227916.jpg" alt="blp_a+a_derez-0061" height="182" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Ashley and Andrew, lost in each other and urban New Westminster. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">With each wedding, we're only getting better. Between me and my main wedding assistant <a href="http://www.jevansphotography.com/">Jonathan Evans</a>, we bring over a decade of photography experience to your wedding. If you want wedding photography that evokes the true spirit of your location, come to us. Destination wedding photography is upcoming as well. For the first time, I'll be shooting in Greece for Summer 2012. Booking for 2012 and 2013 now.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6470680143_99cce0a32e_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6470680473_9d1d0cefeb.jpg" alt="blp_a+a_derez-0090" height="254" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Ashley and Andrew's first dance as husband and wife. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-50758617477845890152011-10-13T02:18:00.000-07:002011-10-13T02:59:17.021-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Fighting Chance Productions' "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum"<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6212/6240331388_092044b6fa_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6234/6240331286_9992729538.jpg" alt="blp_fcp_blog-2214" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Peter Stainton as Senex, surrounded by courtesans. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Early in October, I was tasked with shooting the dress rehearsal of Sondheim's "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" by <a href="http://fightingchanceproductions.ca/">Fighting Chance Productions</a>. My job was to provide them with images they could send out in reviews of their show. I took that to mean I got a free show all to myself with the ability to photograph as I pleased. I still can't believe I'm getting paid for this.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6232/6240331506_3ffb4c799b_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6177/6240331414_a3b1d7f1e9.jpg" alt="blp_fcp_blog-2240" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Cameron Dunster as Hero and Elyse Malloway as Philia. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Reviews from <a href="http://www.reviewfromthehouse.com/theatre-seen/as-i-see-it/funny-thing-happened-way-forum">[Re]View From The House</a> and <a href="http://www.straight.com/article-483251/vancouver/funny-thing-happened-way-forum-brims-playfulness">The Georgia Straight</a> can be seen from the links provided. Fighting Chance Productions will remain a repeat client of mine for the next few months, as they hire me again to shoot their production of "The Temperamentals" and possibly promo work for their 2012/13 season. As a closet theatre nerd, I couldn't be more excited.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6115/6239812395_20aa89b036_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6109/6239812287_f2c8f72104.jpg" alt="blp_fcp_blog-2188" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Michael Wild as Hysterium and Ryan Mooney as Pseudolus. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div></div></div></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-21224452624089033202011-10-07T03:28:00.000-07:002011-10-12T00:23:58.387-07:00PERSPECTIVE: The Best Revenge CD Release<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/30176158?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" width="400"></iframe><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/30176158">Young Nihilists' Gun Club</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user8817116">thebestrevenge</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</p><div style="text-align: left;">I was a founding member of <a href="http://thebestrevengeband.com/">The Best Revenge</a> before I departed in 2010 to pursue other projects. Many of the drum parts were ones I wrote. They're releasing their first album <span style="font-style: italic;">Young Nihilists' Gun Club</span> at <a href="http://www.therailwayclub.com/">The Railway Club</a> on October 14th, 2011. This is their promo video.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-67836061752159391272011-09-09T17:41:00.000-07:002011-09-19T01:25:51.758-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Janell & Aniket's Wedding<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6075/6131733218_f0034fbff2_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6182/6131733720_7d58ace882_z.jpg" alt="blp_j+a_blog-172" height="600" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Janell and Aniket, photographed at Eagles Estate in Burnaby, BC. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">One of the many reasons I love what I do is that I get to meet interesting and lovable people all the time. Janell and Aniket are prime examples of that. As animators based in France, I knew their artistic eye would be tough to please, but I was ready to rise to the challenge. I first met the couple over breakfast with Janell's family and it was immediately obvious that there were real connections between them. Their family was so tight-knit and so caring that sitting elbow-to-elbow with them and asking them to pass the potatoes felt natural. I struggle to recall another time when I felt so welcomed.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6181/6131731580_91be8e9cb4_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6195/6131183969_9c03a6cfd3.jpg" alt="blp_j+a_blog-145" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Janell cozying up to Aniket at Burnaby Art Gallery. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Because Janell and Aniket were in France leading up to the wedding, most of the planning I did was with Janell's mom, Amandah. In an extensive preproduction phase, we worked out schedules, shot lists, locations, etc. Armed with all the information I needed, this turned into one of the few weddings I've shot that actually ran on time. It's for exactly this reason we now request an information package from our wedding clients to keep as on schedule as possible.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6190/6131180541_4d5cd6f6de_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6205/6131183927_386ddc0609.jpg" alt="blp_j+a_blog-134" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(The wedding party channelling their inner rocker. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Janell and Aniket were one of my favourite couples to shoot in 2011. Affectionate, playful and goofy, we were able to capture something really special of both their personalities. And unlike most relationships where one person clearly wears the pants, Janell and Aniket came across as real equals, friends before lovers. There is no doubt in my mind they'll be happy together for a very long time. I wish them the best for a bright and hopeful future. Besides, I may need a couch to crash on if I ever wind up in France again.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6131183895_e6345c3eae_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6078/6131184051_c1a8b69b01.jpg" alt="blp_j+a_blog-295" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Janell and Aniket taking their first steps together as husband and wife. </span>© 2011 Jonathan Evans, Benjamin Luk Photography.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-85809377100828319412011-08-05T01:12:00.000-07:002011-08-09T19:51:49.370-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Amber & Lindsay's Wedding<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6014/6011197446_7fbe6f70b3_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6027/6011197348_2b96508ac7.jpg" alt="Benjamin Luk Photography" height="267" width="400" /></a>
<br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Amber and Lindsay chose to signify their vows by quite literally tying the knot. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span>
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: left;">Amber and Lindsay are an unconventional couple, not because they were entering into a same-sex union, but because their love of all things weird and geeky led them to throw a wedding with references to Final Fantasy, Charlie the Unicorn, and Lord of the Rings. In one of my first meetings with them, they told me upfront that if I wanted reference images to see what they were going for, I should look up The Tudors. I think it was that moment I knew that I loved these guys, and also that I'd add to the event by coaxing assistant <a href="http://www.jevansphotography.com/">Jonathan Evans</a> and intern <a href="http://laurenmulcahyphotography.com/">Lauren Mulcahy</a> into showing up in full medieval costume.
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6021/6011197676_d1235c4a77_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6122/6010648863_f3037d8ee4.jpg" alt="blp_amberlindsay400-451" height="267" width="400" /></a>
<br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Amber and Lindsay with their decked-out wedding party. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span>
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: left;">On the day, as the schedule ran long (as is not uncommon with weddings), we came to face some difficult decisions about the direction of the wedding photography. With the light quickly fading, did we want to capture the conventional wedding portraits, or did we want to embrace an edgier, more Tudors-esque mentality? Did we want more shots of Amber and Lindsay kissing and holding each other, or did we want to bust out the swords? I think we all know what happened here. These aren't your typical wedding shots, but we never intended them to be. With <a href="http://branstonphotography.com/">Tyler Branston</a>'s expert post-production help as I dive headfirst into the 2011 wedding season, I'm proud to say we can stand behind our work, difficulties and conventionality be damned. I hope you like what you see.
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6028/6011197564_be7d565862_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6001/6010648849_ce39d0721b.jpg" alt="blp_amberlindsay400-346" height="277" width="400" /></a>
<br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Amber with her dad and great-grandmother. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span>
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: left;">Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.
<br /></div></div></div></div></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-53258176920795507642011-08-01T02:14:00.000-07:002011-08-01T02:32:56.214-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Lauren Mulcahy, Intern<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6021/5997066793_d179799394_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6138/5997618330_505df08112_z.jpg" alt="blp_lauren-1-derez" height="600" width="400" /></a></span><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(New intern, Lauren Mulcahy. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">In the past few months of our wildest wedding season yet, there have been people working behind the scenes to make sure everything at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">Benjamin Luk Photography</a> runs smoothly. One of those people is our latest intern, <a href="http://laurenmulcahyphotography.com/">Lauren Mulcahy</a>. In addition to putting up with my requests for personal chauffeuring, she's also been involved in promotional work, equipment testing, post-production and photo assisting. In return, I'm helping her along to become a successful professional photographer on her own terms. If you've hired us recently, know that Lauren has been integral in making sure you receive the best product we can provide.<br /><br />Check Lauren out at her website <a href="http://laurenmulcahyphotography.com/">here</a> and follow her on Twitter at <a href="http://twitter.com/pandaatemyface">@PandaAteMyFace</a>.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-62978473192392896962011-03-21T22:18:00.000-07:002011-10-13T02:19:22.150-07:00PERSPECTIVE: Fighting Chance Productions' "The Awesome 80s Prom"<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5021/5548820853_a09f7ae714_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5137/5549404068_dcb88a210f.jpg" alt="blp_80sprom_derez2-4400" height="284" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Girls love cozying up to exchange student Feng Schwey. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://fightingchanceproductions.ca/">Fighting Chance Productions</a> has always been a great supporter of <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">Benjamin Luk Photography</a> and vice versa. You may remember them donating an entire season's worth of tickets to <a href="http://benjaminlukphotography.blogspot.com/2010/12/perspective-blp-christmas-2010.html">BLP Christmas 2010</a>. Their production of <a href="http://fightingchanceproductions.ca/the-awesome-80s-prom/">The Awesome 80s Prom</a> was a chance to finally collaborate and create some art together. In the previous two months this has been going on, myself and assistant <a href="http://twitter.com/colt_38">Colten Warne</a> have been running their photo booth.<br /><br />The Awesome 80s Prom is an interactive theatre event much like Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding. However, instead of an Italian-American wedding reception, guests are treated to Prom Night 1989 at Wanaget High. Prom characters like spaz Kerrie Kowalski or Asian exchange student Feng Schwey wander amongst the audience, interacting with improvisational gusto. If you haven't been yet, it's quite the experience. Dates left include <a href="http://ticketstonight.ticketforce.com/orderticketsarea.asp?p=8882&a=1030&backurl=%2Feventperformances%2Easp%3Fevt%3D1440%26SearchMonth%3D%26monthsubmit%3D%26SearchText%3D%26Go%2Ex%3D%26Go%2Ey%3D%26pg%3D%26spg%3D1%26c%3D">Friday, April 1st</a>, <a href="http://ticketstonight.ticketforce.com/orderticketsarea.asp?p=8883&a=1030&backurl=%2Feventperformances%2Easp%3Fevt%3D1440%26SearchMonth%3D%26monthsubmit%3D%26SearchText%3D%26Go%2Ex%3D%26Go%2Ey%3D%26pg%3D%26spg%3D1%26c%3D">Saturday, April 2nd</a>, <a href="http://ticketstonight.ticketforce.com/orderticketsarea.asp?p=8884&a=1030&backurl=%2Feventperformances%2Easp%3Fevt%3D1440%26SearchMonth%3D%26monthsubmit%3D%26SearchText%3D%26Go%2Ex%3D%26Go%2Ey%3D%26pg%3D%26spg%3D1%26c%3D">Friday, May 13th</a> and <a href="http://ticketstonight.ticketforce.com/orderticketsarea.asp?p=8885&a=1030&backurl=%2Feventperformances%2Easp%3Fevt%3D1440%26SearchMonth%3D%26monthsubmit%3D%26SearchText%3D%26Go%2Ex%3D%26Go%2Ey%3D%26pg%3D%26spg%3D1%26c%3D">Saturday, May 14th</a>.<br /><br />All our photo booth shots are photographed on a 21.1 MP <a href="http://www.canon.ca/inetCA/products?m=gp&pid=865">Canon EOS 5D Mark II</a>. A disc of all your images can be purchased for $20 CAD and will be sent to you by mail within one to two weeks. I look forward to seeing you at the prom.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-36238750284570984902011-03-17T00:00:00.000-07:002011-03-17T00:27:31.855-07:00PERSPECTIVE: "Talk to the Pro" at Van Tech<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5257/5534239510_e7c9ea3f0b_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5011/5534239550_af7c04b74b_z.jpg" alt="blp_vantech_derez-3564" height="600" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Guest lecturing for a bunch of high school students at Van Tech. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk Photography.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Kids have mad talent. In fact, both pictures you see here were shot on my camera by students at <a href="http://vantech.edunets.org/">Vancouver Technical Secondary School</a> during my guest lecture two Thursdays ago on March 3rd, 2011. Assistant <a href="http://twitter.com/colt_38">Colten Warne</a> and I showed up with our gear, gave a short presentation, then answered questions from the small but enthusiastic after-school group. Some were keen on me teaching them the basics of composition and settings. Others were interested in internship. It didn't take much to get the students excited about photography as a legitimate career option. All I had to do was mention the possibility of world travel, getting paid thousands at a time to create art, and how fulfilling a life of creativity really is.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5252/5534239696_1810150668_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5251/5533658055_4e2c6b4644.jpg" alt="blp_vantech_derez-3565" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Assistant Colten Warne examining a student's black-and-white negatives. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk Photography.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">From what I saw of them during my brief presentation, it wouldn't surprise me if there were at least one future professional photographer in the group I lectured. If any of them are reading right now, I offer mentorship programs for youth and, in the future, hope to establish a charity foundation to develop photography programs in elementary and secondary schools. I look forward to making that dream a reality.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-47907031217864748372011-02-19T12:40:00.000-08:002011-02-19T14:01:09.900-08:00PERSPECTIVE: Kris & Ellen's Wedding<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5140/5456945253_070e45022e_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5019/5456946697_6d936d0cbe.jpg" alt="blp_ellenkrisderez-2" height="266" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Ellen and Kris, photographed at Swan-e-set Bay Resort and Country Club, Pitt Meadows. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I first met Ellen and Kris in a coffee shop in New Westminster some months ago. Though they were very casual in demeanour, it became immediately apparent they knew exactly what they wanted and would settle for nothing less. I took that as a challenge. I knew my team and I would be ready to rise to the task.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5220/5458977927_42084cd7bd_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5054/5459583578_df215e9f41_z.jpg" alt="blp_ellenkrisdresseditderez-1531" height="600" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Ellen admiring her dress while her sister looks on in the background. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">On a brisk weekend morning in January, my teammates <a href="http://patrickleung.ca/">Patrick Leung</a> and <a href="http://winonalee.com/">Winona Lee</a> piled up our cars with the gear we needed for our shoot. We had five camera bodies, an extensive selection of zooms and primes, a number of Speedlites and a Profoto AcuteB 600 on site. Even though we had three locations to cover, two of them during the same time, our preparation beforehand ensured perfect photojournalistic coverage.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5013/5456943485_4db9d8d493_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5020/5456946621_aaa54ba4e9.jpg" alt="blp_ellenkrisderez-5" height="165" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Our signature Reservoir Dogs homage with Kris and his groomsmen. </span>© 2011 Winona Lee, Benjamin Luk Photography.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">We captured the ceremony from a variety of angles, delivering the standard close-ups and wide shots, but we also got great coverage of the moments a less trained photographer may have missed: reaction shots of the parents, the tears and laughter that only happen once, etc. Over the many weddings we've shot over the past three years, we've managed to hone our craft to become some of the best in the business.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5252/5456944681_901971c966_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5055/5456946395_1c8a253030.jpg" alt="blp_ellenkrisderez-" height="228" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Ellen and Kris' first kiss as husband and wife. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">From 2,300+ captures, post-production assistant <a href="http://branstonphotography.com/">Tyler Branston</a> brought it down to 528 selected images for delivery. However, because we feel we can stand behind our work, we're also sending them all their other shots at no additional charge. We've also included a small video portion in our delivery for the very first time. The disc is currently en route to Ellen and Kris in Denwood, AB.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5299/5456946325_4007f4e694_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5259/5456946573_102f29bbd5.jpg" alt="blp_ellenkrisderez-2028" height="267" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(We had a lot of fun the moment we found the bar at Swan-e-set. </span>© 2011 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-40084673788363616542011-01-22T22:40:00.000-08:002011-01-22T23:23:16.186-08:00PERSPECTIVE: Memewar Magazine Issue #12<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5003/5380259760_8e6c6ac448_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5285/5379658841_496fb81fdd.jpg" alt="Picture 1 derez" height="400" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(The cover of Memewar Magazine Issue #12: Children. </span>© 2010 Memewar Magazine.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I've been featured on the back cover of <a href="http://www.memewaronline.com/">Memewar Magazine</a> before, back in <a href="http://www.memewaronline.com/Archives/memewar_008.pdf">Issue #8: Gods & Idols</a> with my shot of Canadian musician, <a href="http://www.matthewgood.org/">Matthew Good</a>. However, I'd never been offered a front cover before for such a reputable literary magazine. It was named "Best Free Literary Magazine" in <a href="http://www.straight.com/">The Georgia Straight</a>'s 2008 Best of Vancouver issue. I immediately took on the project, no questions asked. What followed was a quick photo shoot at an editor's residence with two models; an older gentleman and a toddler, both of them blowing bubbles towards the camera.<br /><br />The final cover photo was achieved with a <a href="http://www.canon.ca/inetCA/products?m=gp&pid=865">Canon EOS 5D Mark II</a>, a <a href="http://www.canon.ca/inetCA/products?m=gp&pid=2418">Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM</a> lens and a <a href="http://www.profoto-usa.com/products/acute/acute_b.asp">Profoto AcuteB 600</a> with softbox attachment.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-43599866735333692182010-12-20T17:17:00.000-08:002010-12-20T18:01:05.807-08:00PERSPECTIVE: BLP Annual Christmas Party 2010<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5276664062_b233cc53cf_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5205/5276664176_8a409cc7f6.jpg" alt="untitled-154-derez" height="266" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Awaiting the raffle ticket to be drawn for the $180 Lush gift basket grand prize. </span>© 2010 Tyler Branston.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">Benjamin Luk Photography</a> has been very lucky this year in bringing various sponsors on board to help raise money for <a href="http://www.bcchf.ca/main/index.php">BC Children's Hospital Foundation</a>. Our list of raffle prize donors include <a href="http://www.lush.com/">Lush</a>, <a href="http://fightingchanceproductions.ca/">Fighting Chance Productions</a>, <a href="http://www.buildabear.ca/">Build-A-Bear Workshop</a> and <a href="http://www.blenz.com/">Blenz Coffee</a>, and together, we helped raise $1,071 in a four-hour event. Many thanks go out to our sponsors and our team of volunteers. Philanthropy coordinator <a href="http://twitter.com/jasonpbell">Jason Bell</a>, event coordinator <a href="http://twitter.com/mingangel">Sarah Thomas</a> and photographer <a href="http://branstonphotography.com/">Tyler Branston</a> all deserve a hand for the effort they put in and the work they've done.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5130/5276047671_50f030446f_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5050/5276658488_0d8170645c.jpg" alt="untitled-69-derez" height="266" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Event coordinator Sarah Thomas adding up the night's grand total. </span>© 2010 Tyler Branston.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">In addition to coffee sales and raffle ticket money, a select few also decided to make direct donations straight from the heart.<br /><ul><li>Tyler Green - $100</li><li>Phileo Luk - $50</li><li>D-Rock - $20</li><li>Zachary Paradis - $5</li><li>Anonymous - $5</li></ul>Without their help, we wouldn't have been able to reach our goal of $1,000.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5123/5276050385_f7e27edf85_b.jpg" title="Click on this image to enlarge."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5005/5276661280_baf0926309.jpg" alt="untitled-122-derez" height="269" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Our lucky prize winner for $40 worth of Blenz Coffee gift cards. </span>© 2010 Tyler Branston.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I hope to continue this Christmas tradition for many years to come, and also encourage any other photographer who would like to take on a similar project to get in contact with me. I'd like to see Vancouver's photographic community rallying behind a night of charity every year, and more entrepreneurs building philanthropy right into their business model. For more details about this event, please see our previous post <a href="http://benjaminlukphotography.blogspot.com/2010/11/prospective-blp-annual-christmas-party.html">here</a>.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div></div></div></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-1581010221655971852010-12-02T21:00:00.000-08:002010-12-02T21:34:32.158-08:00PERSPECTIVE: Sabrina's Headshot Session<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5248/5227725383_078aa14e55_b.jpg" title="Click to view this image larger."><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5121/5227725533_52a9369760_z.jpg" width="400" height="600" alt="blp_sabrinaprada-0570_BPEDIT-blogrez" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;font-size:78%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">(Sabrina Prada, photographed at UBC in November. </span>© 2010 Benjamin Luk.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Months ago, our friend <a href="http://fightingchanceproductions.ca/">Fighting Chance Productions</a> contacted us to see if we'd be interested in donating a headshot package to them to be raffled off during their 2010/11 season announcement. Since our entire team are big fans of local theatre and the performing arts, it was a natural decision.<br /><br />Our prize winner turned out to be esteemed actress <a href="http://www.sabrinaprada.com/">Sabrina Prada</a>, whose film and TV work has taken her to "Smallville", "Fringe" and the upcoming Zack Snyder project, <span style="font-style: italic;">Sucker Punch</span>. It was a privilege to photograph someone with such a knack for being in front of a camera. The photo above is virtually untouched. With our headshots, we strive to create a natural, accurate representation of who you are. Overdoing post-production can make life difficult for casting directors.<br /><br />Fighting Chance Productions later went on to donate four tickets to their upcoming presentation of The Wiz to <a href="http://benjaminlukphotography.blogspot.com/2010/11/prospective-blp-annual-christmas-party.html">BLP Christmas 2010</a>, also as a raffle prize. Thank them for their generosity by attending one of their shows. It's some of the finest community theatre in Vancouver.<br /><br />Special thanks to team members <a href="http://www.in-stylehairstudio.com/">Sarah Thomas</a> and <a href="http://branstonphotography.com/">Tyler Branston</a>.<br /><br />Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.<br /></div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4847160949536850035.post-33400247332772005462010-11-09T17:23:00.000-08:002010-11-10T17:55:05.241-08:00PROSPECTIVE: BLP Annual Christmas Party 2010<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/5163014582_06800482a7.jpg" title="Click on this image to view in a new screen."><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/5163014582_06800482a7.jpg" alt="blp_christmas-" height="316" width="400" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:georgia;font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(Christmas is a time of giving, family fun and wearing awesome hats. </span>© 2009 Benjamin Luk Photography.<span style="font-style: italic;">)</span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">At 6 PM on Saturday, December 18th, 2010, the <a href="http://www.blenz.com/">Blenz Coffee</a> location at <a href="http://maps.google.ca/maps?hl=en&expIds=17259,26637,27404,27510&xhr=t&cp=14&safe=off&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=599+6th+street&fb=1&gl=ca&hnear=New+Westminster,+BC&cid=0,0,17091000688341991095&ei=VP_ZTJH8NoOWsgP8_cTMBw&sa=X&oi=local_result&ct=image&resnum=1&sqi=2&ved=0CBYQnwIwAA">599 6th Street, New Westminster, BC</a> is going to be packed with friends of <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">Benjamin Luk Photography</a> looking to give something back to their community. In an annual charity event we put on each holiday season, BLP will be needing your help to fundraise for <a href="http://www.bcchf.ca/">BC Children's Hospital Foundation</a>. There will be live entertainment, raffle prizes and numerous opportunities to donate however you wish. If you would like to contribute, simply get in touch with either <a href="http://www.benjaminlukphotography.com/blp_contact.html">myself</a>, event coordinator <a href="http://twitter.com/mingangel">Sarah Thomas</a>, or philanthropy coordinator <a href="http://twitter.com/jasonpbell">Jason Bell</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Donations will be collected in three ways: </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">1) Simply show up and buy coffee! Every dollar you spend on coffee, tea, etc. adds up to a final tab I will then match in a donation to BC Children's Hospital Foundation. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">2) Come out and buy raffle tickets! Tickets are on sale for $2 each, 3 for $5, or 10 for $10. Prizes include gift baskets from <a href="http://www.buildabear.ca/">Build-A-Bear Workshop</a> and <a href="http://www.saveonfoods.com/">Save-On-Foods</a>, gift cards from <a href="http://www.blenz.com/">Blenz Coffee</a>, and the jackpot from a 50/50 draw. All proceeds go to BCCHF.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">3) Donate directly from the <a href="http://www.bcchf.ca/main/index.php">BCCHF website</a>! We'll have a computer and assistants standing by for you to make credit card donations directly to BC Children's Hospital Foundation. Donors will be credited on the <a href="http://benjaminlukphotography.blogspot.com/">BLP blog</a> in three categories: <$50, $50-100 and $100+. Donors will also receive an automatic 10% discount on a future BLP photo session! Some limitations apply.</span><br /><br />There will also be an additional $10 <a href="http://www.blenz.com/">Blenz Coffee</a> gift card prize for Best Tweet about the event! The winner will be announced at the end of the night and all you need to qualify is to hashtag your tweet with <a href="http://twitter.com/search?q=%23blpchristmas">#blpchristmas</a>. Also, please consider following our sponsor <a href="http://twitter.com/blenzcoffee">@BlenzCoffee</a> and yours truly, <a href="http://twitter.com/benjaminluk">@benjaminluk</a>.<br /><br />With your help, we can keep providing a spectacular event and in the process, raise some money for children in need. This is our seventh year holding this event and our third year doing it for charity. Please bring your family and friends, and please give generously. RSVP on Facebook <a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=168049186547109">here</a>.<br /><br />For additional details, please see our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=168049186547109">Facebook page</a> or contact me directly at (604) 649-5635. I look forward to seeing you at our event, and I wish you all a happy holiday season.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Benjamin Luk Photography is available for assignment at <a href="http://www.benjaminluk.com/">BenjaminLuk.com</a>.</div></div>Benjamin Lukhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02051558989577096740noreply@blogger.com0