Wai Xi Street Signs at night for Sign2

 

That sign reads dumpling

"Shaved Ice shop"

Apart from attending to unresolved family matters, I did not visit many scenic locations. Instead, I spent my time strolling and dining according to recommendations from various culinary magazines. The thunderstorms arrived and departed frequently, characteristic of the unpredictable weather typical of an island.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

This is linking Sign2

Fengjia night market Signs for Sign2

 

Clams bake and grill Sign

This sort of game is popular in Asia

Calamari roast 

Strolling through a night vendor market is not particularly conducive to weight loss. However, I take great pleasure in wandering through such places, camera in hand, with my wide-angle lens capturing the lively atmosphere. To avoid the incessant nuisance of scam calls, I make use of a different SIM card while abroad.

Despite my travels overseas, Joel remains in regular contact with me via Signal. He appears rather enthusiastic about the prospect of starting his own podcast, though I sincerely hope he does not. His intensely private nature is well-founded, and only a true friend could engage with his perspectives without passing judgment.

Street photography serves as a sport for me, and as such, my frames often include various signs encountered along the way. 

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Sign2

I am currently enjoying the third season of The White Lotus and have reached the fourth episode. Additionally, I am planning an overnight trip to Shifen, a region renowned for its picturesque waterfall and vibrant night market. However, as my mobile plan is limited to only one gigabyte of data per month, I must rely on public Wi-Fi to access the blog.

Fitzroy Signs in Melbourne for Sign2

 

Fitzroy is such a cultured suburb. I avoid visiting the area at night. Joel and I often played snooker there. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

This is linking Sign2

Abandoned Bradmill Factory, Yarraville, Melbourne for Treasure Tuesday

 

The Bradmill factory, located in Yarraville, Melbourne, has a storied history that spans over seven decades. Established in 1927 as Bradford Cotton Mills in Sydney, the company expanded its operations to Victoria in 19402. By the late 1950s, a new factory was built on Francis Street in Yarraville, and the company rebranded as Bradmill.

At its peak, Bradmill was the largest producer of textiles in Australia, known for its innovative denim production. The factory produced an astounding 36 million square meters of cotton denim annually, enough to wrap the globe. Bradmill's products were renowned for their durability and strength, finding their way into various products, from fire hoses and deck chairs to tents and tarpaulins.

The factory was a hub of ceaseless activity, employing thousands of workers and integrating cutting-edge technologies. Despite facing challenges such as increased competition and inflation in the 1980s, Bradmill thrived on innovation. The company ventured into new export markets and developed pioneering products, attracting global attention.

Bradmill's success was not just due to its technological advancements but also its inclusive and vibrant community. The factory employed a diverse workforce of over 30 nationalities, fostering a culture of unity and warmth. Employees shared lunches, participated in music, sports, and outings, creating cherished memories and lifelong friendships.

However, the rise of global competition and changing market dynamics eventually led to the factory's closure in 2001. Despite its closure, the legacy of Bradmill lives on through urban explorers, artists, and reunions that keep its spirit alive. The site has now been transformed into a new community, Bradmill Yarraville, built on the foundations of this iconic Australian institution.

The Bradmill factory's history is a testament to the power of innovation, community, and resilience. It remains a cherished part of Melbourne's industrial heritage, inspiring future generations with its story of excellence and togetherness.

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Linking Treasure Tuesday

The rest of the photographs are in this album Abandoned Bradmill

After enduring several hectic days at the clinic, Joel, too, faced a particularly challenging Monday. Consequently, we engaged in an extended conversation before retiring for the night, which proved to be an excellent opportunity to alleviate our frustrations.

Melbourne Night at Birrarung Marr

 

Just too many people in the city. After that long gig 2 nights ago, I am binge watching Lord of the Rings on Netflix instead. Such a tragic story to watch. 

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Sierra Nevada Rock for Sunday Best

 

Situated in the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, the Sierra Nevada Rocks in Portsea offer a stunning coastal experience. Located at the end of London Bridge Road, this natural wonder is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

As you make your way down the steep path to the beach, you'll be greeted by the iconic London Bridge rock formation, known for its arched shape. The Sierra Nevada Rocks, with their rugged beauty, create a dramatic seascape that's perfect for photography and exploration.

During low tide, the area reveals a vast expanse of glittery turquoise rockpools, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding trails, including the Wilsons Folly walking track, offer scenic views and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region

Last night, I spent four hours waiting for it to get dark enough to photograph the amusement rides at Birrarung Marr.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Gonna catch up with Joel tonight for another trip down the coast. 

Bolte Bridge Night for Sky Watch Friday

 

A classic location for boring Friday Night

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f2.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

Christchurch Signs for Signs 2

 

The night stroll at Christchurch NZ was relaxing 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

Mungo National Park Desert sky for Skywatch Friday

 

The shot was taken using a Voigtlander 12mm f2.8. It was a tiring trip to access the location. I regret taking this lens only to a night shoot. The colour is not the same as Sony FE 14mm f1.8 

Sony A7RV

Voigtlander 12mm f2.8 

Linking Skywatch Friday

Skipping Girl Old Sign Richmond for Sign2

 

I grew up looking at this sign. Not standing out on its own. But there is a growing cult regarding the sign in photographer community.

This was what we did after sake drink with Joel last Thursday.

The other old sign is Nylex which is no longer lit at night. Otherwise I would love to do a long exposure on it.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

Firelight Food truck Signs for Sign2

 

The evening was great for night urban vibe. I was using 50mm f1.2 for the sake of it. How fun!

Sony A7RV

FE 50mm f1.2 GM

Linking Sign 2

Long Teng Broken Bridge Taiwan for Sunday Best

 

The remnant of the bridge from Japanese occupation period is now wrapped around by nature.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Last night, Joel and I went to Pearses Bay again. A last-minute decision as it was a high tide. Weather was crap. So we ended up in a Greek Fish n Chips shop getting souvlaki in the end. This is the kind of life I like. No need to impress anyone just by being myself. 

Mazu Shrine Birthday celebration for Sign2

 

Mazu is the patron deity of fishermen, and her birthday on the 23rd day of the third lunar month (it falls in April or May) is celebrated each year with frenetic explosions of colorful activity.

The sign says 1065th Birthday celebration. 

It is situated at an entrance of a night market

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

Butterfly for Saturday Critter

 

Back here in Taipei just last night. The magistrate misspelled her name and land title so waiting for the court to rectify the errors would take another 6 months minimum. Travelling around the middle part of Taiwan is a tropical experience. So humid and hot. 

The above shot was taken when I was experimenting a new macro lens a while back. 

Canon 5D 

Sigma 150mm f2.8 macro

Linking Saturday Critter

The cool shopfront from Taipei Central District for Sign2

 

This shop only opens at night. It is designed for people who takes acids I guess. Effects are more pronounced for drug users.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Sign2

Dockland Melbourne for Sunday Best

 

Despite a failed project in dockland development Melbourne, the location is good for night time urban photography 

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Linking Sunday Best

ACDC Mural for Mural Monday

 

This mural is sitting in AC/DC lane for a long time. It is also fading. 

Panasonic G9

Leica 15mm f1.8 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Joel and I visited Pinnacles last night. After the usual routine getting the sunset shots and long exposure in some dangerous locations, we noticed so many wallabies staring at us on the grass fields. They were like scouts evenly spaced out into the horizon. It was so eerie. We also spotted a fox popping its head out of the wattle tree bush then roamed through the grass fields like a giant earthworm. Joel enjoyed it but I was rather freaked out. 

H.M. Sign in Melbourne Bourke St for Sign2

 

This is the spot to do people photography. The building is a good location at night for floor reflection. But this is where most of murders and killings take place over the years in Melbourne CBD.

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Sign2

Cat Bay Sunset for Water H2O Thursday

 

It was a trip to west end of Phillip Island. Joel refused to photograph the famous broken jetty in the area. Instead, we camped at this rocky foreshore. Later in the night, we abandoned to do Milkyway because of my misreading of the moon rise time which was hanging brightly in the middle of sky. 

School holidays drive traffic even crazier than normal. I can't wait for the kids return to school. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Collins Street Arcade Mural for Mural Monday

 

This was drawn on the wall of a Chinese restaurant joint. The painting was quite oriental. 

Olympus E520

Linking Mural Monday

Totally buggered after a whole night out with Joel for hunting Milkyway bow in Phillip Island. We got the shot before the dark cloud cover came in. Lucky for us.