Happy New Year!!!

Power Naps were mandatory before we headed out to party with the Scots.

Andrew had scored tickets to the street party and a new venue at Hogmanay: the Hoog. We donned our paper bracelets and headed out without our constant daily gear of heavy coats, cameras, & backpack; I felt naked without them.

Strolling down the street, we noticed a similar herd to that of the Torchlight Procession, but without the fire. I believe we moved through about 50,000 people to attend our Hoog Party prior to the Fireworks. In the Assembly building, we grooved to brass bands, Ceilidh dancing, and smooching like Scots against pillars like it was the end of the year. Er, wait...

Anyhow, my time watching husband led us out before the gates closed to witness some fantastic fireworks lite from the Castle. We met up with celebrities like Brad, Angelina, a brooding Clooney, and Alyson. Of course, the Regal Nigel, Photographer at large insisted that his mug shot be taken as well.

Cheers!!

Edinburgh Castle or Citadel?

We finally made it to the castle on a relatively clear day. I usually like explorations to unfold before me, revealing surprises along the way without a map that tends to dictate what one must see.

Andrew was excited to show me the castle. What I didn't realize that it's actually a citadel, a fortress that is comprised of several components that make up a city that also ensures loyalty from the town that they're defending.

I just love the angles and slopes that grounds like this provide. I did my best to keep people out of my compositions, but unfortunately, there were hundreds walking about doing the same thing I was doing. Quite a challenge trying to stay out of someone else's photo.

My work around was to move the camera up, just above the heads to get some great shots, although, getting cobblestone and moss helps provide grounding for one's work. I'll have to use the comps that include as reference files for my journal sketching -I may even use the people in period costumes.

Additional Details & Slideshow Forthcoming.

The Arrival: Edinburgh

With only an hour of day light remaining, we stopped to grab a bite from a local pub and walk the Royal Mile up to the Edinburgh Castle. However, by the time we arrived, it was 4:30 and pitch dark!! We resolved to enjoy the castle in all its splendor during the only few hours of daylight Scotland sees during this time of year. I guess this means we'll actually haf ta git 'p aat a decent 'our. Pftshth!!