John John & Darolyn's Wedding

I've had the privilege of capturing moments in weddings, each one unique and special in its own way. But John John and Darolyn's wedding stands out as a particularly memorable occasion.

John John, the eldest son of my wife's cousin, Perry and Esing, is also my son Keiron's godfather. He's a wonderful guy, always kind and easy going. Darolyn, his bride, is a true gem. She's humble, down-to-earth, and radiates a quiet confidence. Together, they make an absolutely adorable couple.

Their wedding day was filled with joy, laughter, and love. The couple's happiness was infectious, and it was a pleasure to capture their special moments. I particularly loved the shot of them with their little son, Jahrold. The pure love and tenderness in their eyes was heart warming.

The post-wedding shoot was a breeze. At first, the couple was a bit camera-shy, but they quickly relaxed and started to have fun. The resulting images are natural, romantic, and full of emotion.

One thing that struck me about this wedding was the radiant glow that surrounded the couple and their guests. It was as if they were lit from within, a testament to the love and joy that filled the day.

A Dragon's Tale

Barcelona, a city of vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and endless charm, offers something for everyone. From the bustling La Rambla to the serene harbour areas, there's always something to see and do.

One of the city's most unique and quirky landmarks is the Casa Bruno Quadros, affectionately known as the House of Umbrellas. This eccentric building, located on La Rambla, is adorned with a striking sculpture of a Chinese dragon perched atop a giant umbrella.

The story behind this unusual combination is as fascinating as the building itself. The original owner of the building, a millionaire umbrella shop owner, commissioned the dragon sculpture. It's said that the dragon was temporarily removed during a renovation but was quickly reinstated due to public outcry. The dragon and the umbrella have become inseparable symbols of the building's identity.

I captured this image using a Canon 5D Mark II with a 24-70mm lens, a versatile combination that's perfect for street photography. The vibrant colours and intricate details of the building, combined with the play of light and shadow, make it a truly captivating sight.

So, the next time you're strolling down La Rambla, be sure to keep an eye out for this iconic landmark. It's a reminder that even in the heart of a bustling city, there's always room for a little bit of whimsy and wonder.

A Touch of Gaudí

Barcelona, a vibrant city with a wealth of attractions, is a fantastic destination for families. One of the city’s most popular parks, Ciutadella Park, offers a serene escape from the urban hustle and bustle.

This sprawling green oasis is home to a picturesque lake, a stunning fountain, museums, and even a zoo. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll, a boat ride on the lake, or a picnic with the family, Ciutadella Park has something for everyone.

One of the park’s most iconic features is the Cascada, a magnificent waterfall and fountain built for the 1888 Universal Exhibition. Designed by Josep Fontsère and featuring contributions from a young, up-and-coming architect named Antoni Gaudí, the Cascada is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture and design. Gaudí’s signature style is evident in the winged dragons that guard the water basin.

So, the next time you’re planning a family vacation to Barcelona, be sure to add Ciutadella Park to your itinerary. It’s the perfect place to relax, play, and create lasting memories.

The Facebook Birthday Experiment

Last July 13th, I turned 36. I decided to conduct a little experiment to see who would remember my birthday without the usual Facebook reminders. I turned off my birthday notifications and asked my wife not to post anything on my account.

In today's social media age, it's common to receive hundreds of birthday greetings on Facebook. While it's nice to feel loved, I often reminisce about the simpler times when birthday wishes were conveyed through phone calls and text messages. I rarely celebrate my birthday, so a heartfelt greeting from loved ones is all I truly need to make my day special.

I often struggle with remembering dates, including birthdays. This has led to some embarrassing situations, like forgetting the birthdays of my family members, including my wife! To combat this, I've resorted to using my phone as a digital reminder. Additionally, I rely on social media to keep track of important dates.

The results of my birthday experiment were eye-opening. Despite having a large number of Facebook friends, I only received a few birthday greetings - from my wife, my sister from Canada and an old friend. This experience highlighted the impact of social media on our connections. While it can be a helpful tool, it's important to remember the value of genuine, personal interactions. Overall I received 3 birthday greetings!

I understand that forgetting birthdays can be frustrating, but it's important to be honest and apologize. We all get busy, but it's essential to make time for the people we care about, especially on special occasions. Claiming to be too busy is not a valid excuse, especially when we used to take the time to send cards or gifts or to even make a phone call.

I apologize for depriving you of the opportunity to wish me a happy birthday, and for missing out on your kind words. I know you understand, as true friends always do. Thank you for your friendship.

Aries & Lynn Engagement Session

The memory of Aries and Lynn's engagement session still brings a smile to my face. It was a perfect day, blessed with clear skies and warm sunlight. We chose the picturesque town of Sant Andreu de Llavaneres as the backdrop for their love story, and it couldn't have been a more idyllic setting.

From the moment I met Aries and Lynn, I knew they were a special couple. Their natural chemistry and infectious laughter made the session a joy to shoot. They effortlessly posed for the camera, their love for each other shining through in every image.

We wandered through the charming gardens, capturing their affection in candid moments and posed portraits. The soft light and the romantic ambiance of the location created a timeless atmosphere. I remember being particularly captivated by the way they would steal glances at each other, their eyes filled with love and admiration.

I still remember that beautiful day, the memories, like the photographs, remain vivid. I'm grateful to have been a part of their love story and to have captured these precious moments.

A Swallows' Tale

"Es el barco más grande que he visto en mi vida." "It’s the biggest ship I’ve ever seen in my life!" My four-year-old son, Keiron, exclaimed. Hearing such joy and wonder filled me with immense pride. Sharing his first ship-sailing experience was truly special. As a father, there’s no greater reward than witnessing my children’s happiness and creating lasting memories. From their first movie on the big screen to countless future adventures, I cherish every moment of their growth and discovery.

Last Saturday was yet another day to spend with my 2 kids. My wife was still in Malta attending the SFC Conference, so I took the chance to have another father and kids bonding. We went sailing Las Golondrinas!

Las Golondrinas or The Swallows are small ships that do tourist routes around Barcelona port. There are two options to choose. One trip lasts 40 minutes from Moll de la Fusta just at the end of La Rambla, by the Columbus tower, to the outside dock just around the port. The other trip is a route to Port Forum back and forth where you can sail along the city’s coast and beaches. This trip lasts 1 hour and 40 minutes and it’s more expensive. I chose the last option to spend more time sightseeing in the deck and of course to make the experience more memorable and fun for the kids.

Sailing Las Golondrinas was all fun! We ended the day watching the movie Ice Age 4 at Maremagnum Cinema. We really had a good time. I just wish I could have more time to spend with my family and repeat these fantastic moments more often.

The Building That Floats

The sun is shining, the sea breeze is gentle, and Barcelona is calling. We decided to spend the day at Maremagnum, a vibrant shopping and leisure complex nestled on a man-made island in the harbour.

This iconic landmark, developed for the 1992 Olympics, offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages. From shopping at popular brands like Lacoste, Calvin Klein, and H&M to catching a movie at the IMAX cinema, there's something for everyone. And for marine enthusiasts, the Aquarium is a must-visit, offering a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world.

After a day of exploring Maremagnum, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the harbour, taking in the stunning views of the coastline. It's the perfect way to unwind and appreciate Barcelona's beauty.

Spending quality time with my family in such a vibrant and picturesque setting is truly priceless.

The Magic of La Rambla

La Rambla, one of Barcelona's iconic thoroughfares, is a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells. This bustling pedestrian street stretches from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument, offering a unique sensory experience.

As you wander along La Rambla, you'll encounter a kaleidoscope of street performers, from talented musicians and dancers to the mesmerizing human statues. These living sculptures, meticulously painted and posed, are a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the city's artists. I was particularly captivated by one performer, completely covered in black with gold accents, who sat motionless, defying gravity without the aid of a chair.

Beyond the human statues, La Rambla is a feast for the senses. The aroma of fresh flowers fills the air, while the colourful stalls offer a tempting array of souvenirs and local delicacies. The lively atmosphere, coupled with the eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and historic landmarks, makes La Rambla a must-visit destination for any traveller to Barcelona.

I'm excited to share more about my encounters with these talented street performers in future posts. Stay tuned!