Food, Food and More Food!

Wassup everyone! Im so sorry i havent been posting anything this past few days. Its just., ived been soooo busy eating.. going out..work.. I have been so pre occupied that i almost forgot about my blog I had a shoot at one of the most delicious Burritos in town - "Faburrito". It is located at The Columns along Ayala Avenue at Makati. The food their is good and if you dig burritos, you got to try theirs. Its really good. This one has mangoes in it and it surely tastes awesome. Great thing about this is that many people bought the vouchers from Ensogo. I hope my photography helped jack up their sales. Shooting this one is really fun. Enjoy and busog!

This one is the most delicious Chocolate Cake from Hungrypac and Ensogo is having a deal for them. This chocolate cake is so good that teh chocolate is thick and rich and man o man.. i never tasted a chocolate cake this so good! Using a single strobe reflected on top.. I achieved this really good looking photo of the cake! Sarap!

To round up my favorite food snaps these past few days, this is a.. cupcake from Slice. This is called Choco Madness and damnit its real good. Every bite has chocolate bits... so creamy, so chocolatey., its just so good you'l gonna love it. Their store is just beside Jamba Juice and this is perfect for my Chocolate Moo'd drink! I love it. I love chocolate! Soon they will open their store around high street probably around february. For now they have this small kiosk just beside Jamba Juice.

So there ya go. Again really sorry for the long long delay of my posts. Hopin to post some new additions for my car. The transformation is sweet and pretty much made a hole out of my pockets! But its cool though. Seeing what you work hard for is all good.. Makes me sit on front of the car appreciating the beauty... I love it. Soon soon il post some pics!

Happy Holidays everybody!

Boracay Madness!

Ever been to a place where milk powder like sands clobber your feet? A place where people go to unwind and simply have fun? A place where beauty is scattered all around. To the people and its visitors who came from all over the world to party hard all night! To its awesome marine life and natural resources, To the sumptuous food served fresh and hot of the grill. To a place where you rest and have a good night sleep... Everywhere you go, beauty is inevitably found in all sorts and wonders.Where is this place? All of these are in BORACAY!

When they asked me to go to Boracay to take photos, I took it as a joke. Ms Kathy utterly gave me the words once again : "You are going to Boracay to take pictures of our merchant hotels and also for some stock photos". I thought I was dreaming coz they are sending me to one of the best place on earth for FREE! Its Boracay for crying out loud and damn i was so stoked about it!Reality sinked in when they handed me my ticket. This is so unreal...

Ived been to Boracay last 2006 with my family. The island mesmerized me with its undeniable beauty. Even though its insanely crowded, its pristine waters and superfine white sand made this place on top of my favorites destinations. Boracay sands are simply mysterious. When you step on it, its cold! Even on high noon!

The sailboats are new to me. They dont have it the first time ived been here. Or maybe there was., but now all of their sails are in the same color. For 800 pesos, you can have a boat ride sitting on the boat's out triggers or in Filpino, "Katig ng Banka" (oh yeah i googled it up!). It has this weaved net rigged where you can sit on, or even lay on as you cruise your way. It takes you from station one to station three. The best thing about it is that once the boat is sailing., you can just dip your feet on to the water and let the ocean massage your tired and stressed feet...

The great thing about my stay is the weather! Its more than perfect! I'l be staying only for a day and it would be pain-stakingly hassleness if rains pour down on me . With the great sunny weather, i had a chance to take awesome pictures of Boracay's marvelous beach front. Too bad i forgot to put on some sun block and it gave me that Nog-Nog skin tone that i hate. But as they say.. when you got it in Boracay, its alll goooood....

Since its scorching hot at the beach, it would be really nice to have that cold fix to guzzle up. I ordered this super delicious Strawberry shake and enjoyed it at the beach side... Its so good. That feeling of sippin on somethin great while closing your eyes and as you open it you'l see one fine beach in front of you.... it just makes you say..... ahhhhh.. this is life..

Im on my way to visit the famous Boracay Shrine. I saw this boat and it struck me to take a postcard like photo. I laid down my gear and took some shots. Love the colors... The blue sky blends with the white sand then the contrast of the yellow "banca" gave it a beautiful distinction. Love it! So happy i have a better camera than i used to. I can easily tweak the right settings that i want that would be really difficult if you use an ordinary 2 megapixel point and shoot. Its just the beauty of technology. But in fairness, that humble camera started my career and i wouldnt be here if im not addictingly taking pictures before... Everybody should start on something and usually we start small...

At last! The beautiful shrine of Boracay! You might find it weird shooting at this angle. I also want to emphasize the beautiful curved lines of the sand rather than the shrine itself. Besides there are so many people taking pictures on the rock and its impossible to shoo them away. So i just thought of shooting it this way with less distractions and simply focus on the subjects. I have a closer shot actually but all you can see there is sexy koreans with their hands on a peace sign, taking their group and family photos :)

That was a super long walk by the beach and my throat is all dried up. Then something like a gift from heaven dropped down in front of me as i saw one f Boracay's finest fruitshake places - Jonah's fruitshake! A lot of people say that you shouldnt leave boracay without tasting their awesome fruitshakes. I ordered my favorite Mango-Banana shake and gawd it was soooooo good. Its creamy and really delicious. Its like a piece of heaven in a straw!!! Definitely a must try in Boracay.

We went on a photoshoot at Crown Regency Hotel. The one thing that I really liked the most is this room filled with Amazing vintage collection. The owner loves to collect old phones, old gas pumps, bottles, signs even an old car hanging on the ceiling! Its insane! Theres this large bottle wrapped in ropes that i only see in movies like Waterworld and Pirates of the Caribbean. He also has this old jukebox. Never seen one before. Its cool.. its really nice! =)

On to our next hotel. This is probably one of the most prestigious hotel in the island - The Grand Vista Boracay. It has the highest infinity pool in all of Boracay! Swimming would be a a delectable experience since you have a bird's eyeview of the Boracay shores (while skinny dipping if you may) ! Definitely one of the best place here in Bora. But luxury aint cheap. I heard the room here costs around $300++ per night!

The pool is really gorgeous. Too bad i was working and didnt had a chance to swim. But its ok. The experience being there is already enough! I have a card of their General Manager and hopefully i can get a discount the next time i visit! Thanks sir Art for the warm hospitality! Its been an honor taking these photos.

This is the view from one of the finest rooms at the hotel . An overlooking view of Boracay shores is one way to welcome your morning! This is awesome!

Grabbed my telephoto and took a closer view of the shores. Those blue sailboats looks really beautiful from here. This is a one of a kind experience for me. Never seen boracay at this point of view.

One of the rooms has its own jacuzzi!!! I asked one of the staff who are the celebrities or famous people acquired this place and she said that "Jenny", the famous girl from that korean-novella Full House stayed here. =) I asked Innie, one of my officemates from Travel to model for me. This is a perfect place to relax and unwind as you take a nap on top of Boracay with a jacuzzi on your side! I deliberately included the lines of the balcony.. the jacuzzi., the glass door and that rounded table emanating tons of details within the picture. Match it with some creative lighting..Voila! Now thats my money shot for the day :)

Sun is almost down and I wanted to try out this idea out. I noticed my wide angle lens creates starbursts when it hits the sun. I rigged up my gear and placed the tripod with my camera on timer on front. (boy carrying out a heavy tripod is all worth it). With the right settings.. i came up with this photo.. (walalang... )

Sun is almost down and the people are starting to come out! This is the best time to swim where the sun is not that harsh anymore. Night life is also starting to come alive as the loud music is starting to kick in. For me, Boracay is huge party place. Where you can dance all night long as the sands caress your feet.

Sun is almost set. I always wanted to have a silhouette shot of one of the sail boats. I just waited for it to pass the dying sun and took a snap. Love the orange hues.. :)

Sun is all gone. I learned in photography class that the sky is way too beautiful specially when the sun is already down. It creates this really nice hues of blues and orange and yellows... its awesome. Match it with the silhouettes of the people.. you have your perfect shot. This is three photos digitally stitched creating a beautiful panoramic view...

Firedancers!!!! This is actually my first time to see one live. I bet its hot but its so cool... I grabbed my camera and took some shots. Low shutterspeeds made these light streaks possible. I should have placed a remote flash right on front just to illuminate the dancer.. to add some sharpness to the face.

Work is done and its time to head back to my place. As i was walking.. i saw a number of these lined up!!!! To be honest. I never tasted Lobsters before (poor me). Seriously i havent!!!! I actually wanted to have one but damn its too expensive. I just took a photo for souvenir .

Time to go home and sleep. its been a super long day for me and im really tired. I stayed at Canyon de Boracay. The place is really nice. The service is really good. The food is fantastic! Love the hot pool as well. Perfect for that long stressful day.

This boracay experience is really awesome. I just wish Abby was here with me. Im definitely going back here someday, not to work, but to relax... Id like to thank the Travel team of Ensogo-Livingsocial namely Innie, Kathy, Melody and Vangie for giving me this opportunity to capture great sights and experiences. Many thanks to our partner hotels for their very warm hospitality. Also to my managers and sir Ale, Thank you!

They say boracay is over rated... i think it has the right to be. Beach, Food, Party, Awesome. Good times...

The Day Before Tomorrow

It was a long exhausting day. My car broke down early in the morning and did some repairs. Spent 3K on repairs and still not satisfied. The temp gauge still shoots up everytime i step on the pedal. Silvia is getting old and cranky. Went through the day with fear of overheating but id didnt stop me. I moved forward.

Went to the office at the heart of noon. It was hot. It was sizzling. Its like a partial feeling of hell. Arrived at the office and just gathered my gear. Went on a photoshoot at this Thai Restaurant over at Pearl Drive. The Shoot went well except for my very annoying flu thats been killing me as always. Ended my work really exhausting. Not because of taking photos, its because of sneezing one after another. Gawd... if only id never catch a cold in my life.. that would be my wish.

Ended the day with this spectacular view of Bonifacio High Street. Just love the colors of sunset. Waiting for tomorrow. A day that is goin to be an adventure. Im travelling to Boracay for a photoshoot. And im doing it alone.

There was a time that I wished that I want to become a professional tourist. Now here I am... So be carefull what you wish for coz you might actually get it. :) Love my job! =)

One Rainy Evening

Another rainy evening at Boni High Street. Beautiful reflections of the wet road. Thankful to have a view such as this every single night. Specially when you're gone emo.

The Potter's Ridge Hotel

Tired of the hustles and bustles of the city? Why not try to have a trip to Tagaytay and savor the fresh breeze of the mountains at one of the best hotel Tagaytay has to offer - The Potter's Ridge Hotel. Its just 67 Kilometers away from Makati. Experience the luscious greens, the breathe of fresh air, a pause from reality as you enjoy this very quiet and tranquil place that you will surely relieve the stress out of your tired and busy body.

Their rooms are generously large enough for your maximum relaxation. Enjoy their FIlipino inspired furnitures that will surely make you feel home. This room is one of the best ived ever seen when you're talking about a room with a view.. Look at that! Taal Volcano is just a glimpse away! Its simply awesome.

Upon waking up., you will see Taal Volcano peeking into you as you enjoy the hum of the birds which is quite beautiful to hear unlike the sound of your snarly alarm clock. As you stand up and stretch your arms.., you'l simply say.. ahhhhh.. tahhgaytay love.... Awesome view.. breath-taking!

In this place., every room has a view! The rooms are all facing the ridge giving you a nice clean view of Taal volcano. The place is also well maintained and everything is clean, spic and span! The furnitures are really beautiful. The tables and chairs are awesome pieces im sure it will also attract your attention.

Other rooms are also big. Perfect for families who wish to relax and have a wonderful stay in Tagaytay. Wake up with the sound of birds and even goats roaming around the fresh greens surrounding the hotel... Its an instant satisfaction for all your tired and weary eyes...

After a long day taking pictures, i was tired and really hungry. I went to the cafeteria and grabbed some lunch. Again, the room is screaming with an awesome view. Fresh breeze enters the room makin it a little chilly.. perfect for some hot soups... or bulalo!

The chef served me some stripped chicken with vegetables. Looks like an ordinary chicken dish to me but tell you., this is so delicious! Love the presentation. Its really good!

My stay at Potter's Ridge is like a very nice dream. Everything seems to be perfect! Spectacular view of Taal, very nice and hospitable people, good food, and a place with a Filipino ambiance that will surely give you the proper relaxation your body is asking for. Visit potter's ridge and im sure you wont regret your stay...

For more info., visit The Potter's Ridge website. Thank you to Ms. Fe and her staff for the warm hospitality they gave me. Definitely, im goin to visit this place real soon....

Nemoto Japanese Restaurant

I always loved Japanese food. Specially sushi. Adik lang sobra. Saw-saw mo sa kikoman na may wasabi..tapos dapat naka chopsticks para mas authentic yung pagka-japanese! hehe. Together with our Post Sales goddess - Cara Roman (haha), ininvade namin ang Jap restaurant named Nemoto. Its located at Gil Puyat.

Its like a dream... ang sarap sarap talaga kumain.. Nemoto is one of those places na di naman gaano kalaki and you would think its another one of those ordinary Jap restaurants. The good thing about this place is that they are tied-up with a travel agency. So usually, tourists who come here can book travel packages as well! Nung andun kami, there were two Japanese tourists who are booked to go to Taal Lake. =)

This halaan soup is so good! Yung flavor ng halaan just overpowers the soup! Halaan or clams is one of my favorite seafood dishes and this good is goodness in a bowl. love it1

Such a nice place. I would like to thank Sir Alvin for his hospitality. Sarap ng food nila. Hands down! I highly recommend this place if you love japanese food. Nemoto will soon have a deal at Ensogo coming very soon and please do support their deal.and its an amazing deal. The first photo will be their deal at ensogo and i do believe they will give it 50% less! Please check http://ensogo.com.ph for more details.

Nemoto., u just made our day! thanks also to cara for assisting me with the shoot. :)

Ice Cream Overload at The Creamery

They say, everytime your sad and feel a little down, the best remedy would be Ice Cream! Lots and lots of Ice cream... Seriously, it would make you feel better. We invaded this really very colorful ice cream place at Mall of Asia named The Creamery and it was quite an experience ! Photo above is their famous Choo Choo train where 3 scoops of ice cream , vanilla, mango and chocolate, topped with nuts and chocolate syrup, garnished with bananas and smothered by whip cream. All formed like a choo choo train. Pretty neat huh?

They have an open kitchen enclosed in an ice cream van whici is a really nice concept by the way. As you look at how they prepare your ice cream makes you mouthwater profusely!

forgot the name of this ice crem and this one is one of their bestsellers. strawberry ice cream with bananas and peaches! Spell yummy?? argh.. im craving right now..

All sorts of goodies simply captures my playful eye. Love the colors! I want these sprinkles on top of my ice cream!

Not only they serve ice cream, they also have great food as well. I love this grilled pork belly. I was hungry that time and i really need something to eat and this one just made me drool. Sarap din nito.. They also serve good pasta according to the reviews. The creamery also handles ice cream parties within their store. I saw one of the staff preparing the loot bags.

although the price is a little tough on the budget, its still one of those places youd love to drop by specially if you love ice cream. Go visit The Creamery at Mall of asia and experience the cold truth about these mouthwatering delights!

A Day at Little Archers

Theres this place at Mall of Asia where kids will definitely scream in delight once they step in this world full of toys, slides, colored balls and more toys!!! This place is called Kids Universe and this is a huge place for kids. Ensogo has a deal with Little Archers and its like a small school for pre-school and infants.

Kids will sure have a great time playing, listening to stories and do a lot of learning activities both kids and their parents will enjoy!

Photographing kids is challenging yet fun! Raw emotions painted in their faces once they strike a pose...and sometimes its even hard for them to make them pose! Thats why its challenging! If you can see the BTS of this shoot, you will see me laying on the ground.. shooting really low to have that better angle :)

Mandarin Sky Seafood & Shabu Shabu

Here we go again! Another photoshoot for me and yes! Im so damn excited about it! Photoshoots is usually stressful but its fun and i learn a lot from it. Parang every shoot, meron akong natututunan na technique or bagong angle or hitting the right settings for my strobes and camera. Im gaining a lot of experience photographing food and even styling it! And of course, enjoying the food after the shoot! =)

I accidentally left my speedlight at the office and I have no choice to shoot the food using only window light with the help of my reflectors and diffusers. I used a reflector to even out the light . And used a diffuser, to minimize the harsh light coming from the window, giving it a soft and gentle tone. Just perfect to light things up!

The crab, its so damn delicious! Once you had a piece of its meat, di ka na titigil! You would surely go for more! Yung toasted garlic sa may taas nung crab grabe sarap.. Yun yung nagpapasarap. This is a must try at Mandarin Sky.. sobrang panalo ng crabs nila... (This will be Ensogo's deal coming really soon so better do watch out for it).

Now this one is extremely delicious. Those are prawns and walnuts. Di talaga ako magaling sa mga terminologies but the prawns are coated with some kind of breading and has this special sweet chili sauce. It tastes really good! The thing is., you have to eat it along with the walnuts for added satisfaction! Sumasabog sa loob ng bibig mo yung sarap! Yung lasa ng prawns., then yung sweet taste nung walnuts.. grabe ang sarap... i swear.

When you look at it at first you might think its not delicious or even disgusting. Pero kapag tinikman mo tong oysters nila, inay ko.. ang sarap.. as in. Mapapa "mmmmm" ka talaga. Its so good!!! Nung una., parang ayaw ko kainin eh... i tried a piece and umm.. isa pa nga.. then isa pa.. then isa pa! Ayun na.. montek ko na maubos yung isang bandehado... haha. Sarap!

Havent tried the dimsum. I heard masarap daw yung Pork Siomai nila dito. Favorite ko pa naman yun. At the back of my head i was asking myself kung..kukunan ko ba ng picture yung mga dimsum... sana sana. hehe. I could have asked pero nahiya naman ako.. haha Marunong din naman ako mahiya.. :) Madami na naman silang hinanda so I guess ok lang na walang dimsum.. hehe. Loved to shoot them though...

The ladies up front are asking me if I could take their photo.. Why of course! I asked them to hold on to the boxes of the Mooncakes and told them to strike a pose. They gave their best smiles then they said "Pa-tag sa facebook ha..." hehe.

Im not sure what kind of fish this is but i do believe this one is lapu-lapu. Deep fried to crunchiness and topped with... i think those are stripped mangoes! Then placed on a pool of sweet chilli sauce. Grabe, amoy pa lang, maglalaway ka na. Yung pagkacrunchy nung isda grabe ang sarap... tapos saw-saw mo dun sa sauce.. whooo! panalo. Grabe., nagutom ulit ako habang sinusulat ko to..

You have to commend the chef for doing these stunning dishes! The food is so good and im sure you will enjoy dining here at Mandarin Sky. Its located at the corner of Simon Street and Banawe. They have this big signboard im sure you wont miss it. Id like to give my million, thank yous for the owners and staff of Mandarin Sky specially to sir ernesto and chris for being super hospitable.. In behalf of the production team of Ensogo-LivingSocial, thank you so much for the take-out.. Sobrang sarap daw sir. The guys back at the office are really thankful. Parang binagyo yung mga ulam! haha. Also, i would like to thank Judy for assisting me with the shoot. Thanks Judy Choi! Salamat din sa charms mo binigyan kami ng madaming take-out! haha :P kidding.

I really had fun today. I just love my job so much... Good times and happy eats! Till my next food adventures. :)