Frozen Beauty
The ice castle has been something I have wanted to see in person but never actually got around to doing over the years it has been in Edmonton. To be completely honest the cost was a bit of a deterrent. However, when my friend and co-worker Shawna suggested we check it out, I couldn't say no.
We have some pretty talented co-workers one of which is part of a band. Neil had recently bought a gorgeous guitar and the thought of it along the beauty of the ice was exciting. We picked a date that worked for all of us and I anxiously awaited for the morning to come.
When the morning arrived I do what I always do prior to a session and that is obsessively clean my lenses. It is just a habit I have and anyone who has gone out on photography outings with me always chuckles about it.
The morning came and boy was it a sunny one. Usually I curse under my breath if the sky is blue without a cloud in sight however knowing it would help give the ice a nice pop I welcomed it. Neil met us there and as we waited in line for it to open I started feeling my anxiety building. There were A LOT of people around. Would they all be staring at us? Would I freeze and not know how to use my camera? Would I look like a weirdo? Oh man the thoughts that go through your head when you have anxiety are awful but I looked at Shawna who is one of the most supportive people I know and thought, Heck let's just have fun!
boy did Neil ever rock it!
One of the first things I noticed was how absolutely perfect Neil's outfit was. I am one of the least stylish people I know so there is no getting tips from me. I also have to give him so many props for being such a good sport and being up for anything we suggested. Telling someone to "pretend no one is around" and "just play your guitar a little" is sooo much easer said than done. I also kept reminding myself just to have fun and not take it so seriously.
Those colors
There was one particular spot in the middle that was sorta like an ice dome. The sun light hit it on the outside creating the most beautiful glow inside. The blue tones created were breathtaking. Now, with that being said it was not the easiest place to take photos, but I managed to get a couple that I am so freaking happy with!
At the end of the session I had what I call my post session high. An excited giddiness that takes over and I cannot wait to get home and download the images to my computer. I was so happy to have stepped outside of my comfort zone and try something different.
Looking back at these photos as I write this today brings a smile to my face. What a fun outing we had. I am also so happy to be able to give these photos to Neil. You should check out his band Escape Goat. Supporting local music is always something everyone should do. While you are at it, Check Shawna out. She is a talented author, photographer, and so much more!
