Saturday, December 19, 2009

Who's Wedding Is It Anyway?


I shot a wonderful wedding a few months back that will be airing tonight on the Style Network show "Who's Wedding Is It Anyway?" Make sure to tune in at 9 PM, Saturday, December 19th. If you miss it, no worries. Here are the re-air dates and times:


It was quite an awesome experience working with all of the wedding planners and the show's crew, but the most important part was that the couple and all of their guests had a wonderful time. "Who's Wedding Is It Anyway?" is the #1 most watched wedding show where they follow the entire planning and events leading up to the big day.

The show provides the bride and groom a wedding planner to work with to help make their vision a reality. In this episode, the groom worked with renowned wedding planner Ana Cruz from Florida and the bride was partnered up with the infamous 'Wedding Diva' from right here in Baltimore, Ms. Linnyette Richardson-Hall.

You'll see me working in the background, so watch closely! There are definitely going to be some funny moments though. Check out a short teaser clip and remember to tune in tonight at 9PM for the rest:


TWITTER CONTEST
For all you photographers who love watching these wedding shows, I'm even giving away a cool universal leather hand strap grip. This can fit most Canon & Nikon bodies. All you have to do is Twitter the following and I'll pick one winner tomorrow and another on Monday:

Follow @asimsoofi & watch "Who's Wedding Is It Anyway?" tonite @9PM on Style. Win Leather Hand StrapGrip 4 ur camera. http://bit.ly/6IifqV



Monday, November 30, 2009

Happy Holidays

It's that time of year. The few days right after Thanksgiving weekend and everyone is already out looking for Christmas trees and out shopping for gifts galore. The mad rush has begun.

So with Charlie Brown's Christmas album (everyone should own it) playing in the background throughout the month of December, I wish you all Happy Holidays!



Saturday, November 28, 2009

The Company You Keep & The Friendships You Don't

Why do you keep the company you keep?

Humans are a strange bunch. We are motivated by so many good and bad things. There are people we already know and those that we want to know. Our goals are sometimes long term and sometimes short term. For each purpose, we end up utilizing people one way or another because we are smart enough to realize that who you choose to associate with can make the difference between failure and success in reaching a certain goal. At least that is what we would like to believe.

What people fail to realize is successful people had friendships before they reached the proverbial stage of success. There is a tight circle of bond and relationships that existed before wealth or notoriety discovered them, let alone other people. These can be childhood friends, cousins, sisters, brothers, or just about anyone. It is the real friendship unmotivated by greed or desire that helps them blaze their own trails. It is this friendship that lasts when the wealth and notoriety leaves them as well.

Either you are using people or people are using you. True friends don't do either, and there is dignity in knowing this in every relationship you choose to keep. If you couldn't be real friends with a person outside of your motive, the value of the relationship exponentially deteriorates over time, leaving you with truly much of nothing. It's like fighting a natural law; it just won't have the sustenance needed to maintain the connection nor leave you with much fulfillment. After a while, you'll lose interest and energy for trying to essentially 'force' a relationship, or worse, they will just tire of you.

So keep the following question in a back pocket and bring it out once in a while: Would you still be friends with someone if you weren't related by blood or driven by a motive?

Thursday, November 26, 2009

My Thanks for 2009

As I take a break from helping mommy dearest in the kitchen, I want to take a moment to share with you, my friends, all that I am grateful for.

For 2009, I am thankful for:
-my family that loves me so much, they aren't shy about yelling at me for being away too long.
-my friends that look with their hearts and let me pick food off their plates.
-Nikon & Canon for taking all of my money but leaving me w/warm fuzzies.
-my ex-bosses for demotivating me and helping me realize cubicles are not natural.
-my nephew & nieces for reminding that I am addicted to my laptop and cameras.
-the new 2011 BMW 5-series facelift, which I'll still not buy because I'm abnormally too logical.
-all the couples who invited me to shoot their wedding, and consider me family oddly enough.

Most importantly, I am thankful for:
-all of the wonderful and inspirational friends I have made in 2009.
-every kind word and message of support I received for my work and passion.
-every couple that invited me to shoot their wedding and become a small part of their history.
-all of my friends on Facebook & Twitter that I hope to meet one day.
-my family, my nephew, my nieces, and my friends for making me smile.

I am truly humbled to have every single individual I know in my life. Every single one of you gives value to my life and I am forever grateful.

Sincerely, thank you.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Connecting With Your Clients in the Service Industry

How long do you spend with each client? When someone contacts you for your services, do you simply provide a quote and answer their questions, or do you leave a resounding impression of not only what you provide, but the client leaves knowing WHO is actually providing it?

Many in the service industry are sometimes bogged down the amount of inquiries they receive and at times forget how important it is to give each person the attention they deserve. Even the repetitive cycle itself sometimes gets old. At times, it is much easier to just answer the basic inquiry and wait for them to take the next step, but it doesn't create real value or even provide enough incentive for them to get back to you. Even if you're offering the hottest widget in town, you will have to back it up with great customer service.

In the service industry, such as wedding photography, the connection we establish with each client should encompass a personal one. You have to learn more about your clients in order to be able to know exactly what they need. Majority of the time, couples getting married are looking for a wedding photographer for the first time. With this situation, you have to educate and show real concern for each bride & groom. By showing you truly care, the basic 'trust seed' required to establish a working relationship can be planted.

Far too many established photographers tend to have the attitude 'here are my prices, call me if you want to setup an appointment,' but this is not evolving your methods, and for some client impressions, is a step backwards for your brand and the services you provide. Just because you've been doing it for a while, doesn't mean your client has.

You could pay a lot of money to an outside consulting firm to come in, analyze your business practices, and give you a written report concluding your clients just wanted to get to know who you are and feel more connected to you. Or you could be proactive by sticking to the basics of personal attention and good old fashioned etiquette. Give each clients the treatment you would for a guest invited into your home. After all, you want to get 'invited' into their home eventually. Take care of your clients, or someone else will.

Of course, as a client this is a great litmus test. If you don't get a warm fuzzy from the person who you may be working with, walk the other way no matter what. Go beyond just asking the boiler plate questions of how much, etc. Make the effort to connect and see how much they want to connect with you. If they don't care about you now, how much do you think they'll care about the service they provide you later?

Keep it simple my friends.

Friday, November 13, 2009

The Chain Photo Studio Experiment

If you followed my updates on Twitter/Facebook on 11/13, you heard the play by play. Here are the end results just for you!

OBJECTIVE:
To experience the value and quality of service consumers receive when using chain type portrait studios or value-priced portrait centers.

BACKSTORY:
It began with a visit to a Starbucks for coffee. Located next door was a portrait studio with hordes of families going in and out wearing matching outfits. As a photographer, you're always curious when you see a place with words like 'portrait' or 'photography' and you always investigate. I was intrigued by a huge sale sign in the window for $9.95 portraits with like 35 something prints. I thought, wow, what a bargain! So for the sake of education and to get the inside scoop on what you actually get, I went in and decided to get a session.

Turns out the special was applicable only to a family with kids and not a poor single guy like me. I did think about borrowing one of the loud screaming children to get the deal, but squashed that idea quickly. Instead, they told me I could have as many poses as I wanted for $15. I thought, that sounds pretty good. Let's do it.

I needed a holiday looking outfit so I had an hour before my appointment to run to a department store. I was fortunate enough to find the beautiful red sweater you see in the photos.

GUIDELINE STANDARDS:
-Pretend to be ignorant of photography and any methods.
-Follow all instructions of 'employee/shooter' (i can't in good faith refer to them as photographers due to lack of evidence at this time)
-Do all poses the 'shooter' requests without objection or reservation
-Comment to shooter "Wow, that's a big camera!"
-Tell shooter at another point during the shoot "That camera must take great photos!"
-Agree enthusiastically to every 'pro' opinion when reviewing horrible shots, i.e. Shooter: "Oh, you look great!" Undercover Agent: "Aww..Thanks!!"
-Last but not least, smile like a cheese-ball the entire time

RESULTS:
You can see all the photo results at the following link http://bit.ly/4BBcn4. You may have to add me on Facebook in order to view the album. I don't want these photos floating around just anywhere!

CONCLUSION:
So what do you get for not going with a professional photographer and instead with one of these chain type portrait studios? Heard the saying, "You get what you pay for?" Of course, you are more than welcome to draw your own conclusions.

TIPS:
-Resist the charm of bait-priced, uncreative photography services.
-Share the above images with family & friends for education & fun.
-If you are looking for a photographer, do an online search for photographers in your local area on Google or better yet, ask your friends & family. Referrals are sometimes the best way to find someone that is already trusted and known. Either way, check out the work and see if it really speaks to you. If the style of images will be enjoyed 50+ years from now by your family, you know you've found the right photographer.

DONATE & HELP A CHARITY!
If you're really cool and want to help, you can win an autographed print from this AWESOME portrait session. Donate $10 bucks and you'll get signed photo with a special holiday message in either a wallet, a 4x6, a 5x7, or a 8x10 mailed to you. If you learned something from this ultra valuable experience or you just found this very entertaining, you can still show your luv $1.00 and $5.00 donations.

Proceeds will be donated to one of the 4 charities I support (visit my website and click on the CHARITY link to see the full list)

Friday, October 2, 2009

U2 & Muse: Saw Them...Again!

Yesterday I went to see U2 and Muse...for the second time!

After I went to the show on 9/29 at Fedex Field in DC and had a great time listening to U2 and their opening band, Muse, I knew going again would be worth it. If they are coming to your city, definitely get tickets...Even if you have to sit behind the stage. The Fedex Field tickets I bought were in the Red Zone, which is on each side of the stage. Great place to watch the show, but a bit more money. I didn't mind paying though because all of the profits from this section goes straight to charities.

So for the 10/1 show at the University of Virginia, I was fine with sitting behind the stage because for one, tickets were only $30, and due to to the large screens they are using on the behemoth stage (biggest ever built), I could see everything.

See...sitting behind the stage has its advantages...


Here are a few more photos I took using a point & shoot, since they claim you can't bring an SLR. Steady hands are key!




If you'd like to see more photos, visit my Facebook page to see the entire set.

Love these songs by Muse...Can't believe I didn't even know about them until I went to see U2. Enjoy... (Hint: You have to turn up LOUD to really enjoy Muse ;)



Sunday, September 27, 2009

U2 & David OReilly Great Animated Video

David O'Reilly directed/animated this video for the U2 single "I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight." Love the style of animation, all the detail to every movement and subtle panning. Visually awesome. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Monday, September 21, 2009

Day After Eid

Wow, yesterday was a bit crazy. And I'm not even talking about the 300+ people that showed up at the Eid party. Lots of food, lots of family, lots of friends, and lots of kids. My ears were ringing as I went to bed from the amount of noise in the house. Of course, what was crazier than the party was the number of Twitter entries for yesterday's Take-My-Eid-Money contest. I'll have to do some accounting and feed it into the secret Winner-Picker very soon. Right now...I'm so exhausted, I woke up early. If that makes any sense. Thanks for everyone that entered! Remember, the September giveaway is still going strong, so remember to check it out a couple posts below.

I leave you today with this one picture from yesterday's party. Yes, the kids had a moon bounce for the day. How cool is that? :)

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Eid Mubarak! Win My Eid Money

Eid Mubarak to all celebrating today around the world!

When I was wee lad, we used to get Eid-E money as Eid Gifts...Yes, cash! A kid could stand to make $50 to $100 in one day! It was great...except when you got overlooked by some cheap uncle or aunt. Friends of your parents would stop by and you would anxiously wait for them to call you over so you could collect. I would make my way all the way to the door with my little brother (for cute purposes) as they were leaving, pretending to be a good host to walk them out, in hopes they would remember they had a certain obligation. When they left me empty handed, I would close the front door, run to my mom with my brother in tow to report how cheap her friends were and demand they be banished from all future visits.


In celebration of Eid, I'm going to give an Eid-E gift to 5 lucky people today only! If you win, your Eid-E cash will be sent to you via Paypal or Mail, whichever you prefer. You may enter today as many times as you want, up to midnight tonight, in order to increase your chances of winning!

Simple Explanation: There are $100 in the pot. Five entries will be drawn. It could be someone with multiple entries or five different people. So anywhere between 1 to 5 people will win.

How to Enter:
1. Follow me on Twitter, if you aren't already - http://twitter.com/asimsoofi
2. Paste the following message into your status:

RT Eid Mubarak! Win @asimsoofi's Eid Money ★ Up to $100 - 5 Winners ★ Just follow @asimsoofi and RT this msg! Details http://bit.ly/jccS9

You may enter as many times as you wish by updating your Twitter status multiple times, but only up to midnight tonight (09/20/09). One RT counts as one entry. Winners wil be notified via Direct Message (DM). Contest ends 09/20/09 at midnight. U.S. residents only.

Good luck & Eid Mubarak!

Friday, September 11, 2009

September Twitter Giveaway: Flip UltraHD Mini Camcorder

This month's awesome giveaway is a brand spankin' new Flip UltraHD Mini Video Camcorder. It's so easy to use and I love mine. Just hit the big red button and start recording video of anything & everything; family, kids, dogs, cats, lamas, blackmailing your friends...All in beautiful and clear HD quality!

Check out a sample clip I shot with mine:

How to Enter:
1. Follow me on Twitter - http://twitter.com/asimsoofi
2. Paste the following message into your status:

RT Sept Giveaway from @asimsoofi Flip UltraHD Mini Camcorder Just follow @asimsoofi and RT this message! Details http://bit.ly/Wk9E4

You may enter once per day. One RT per day counts as one entry. Contest ends 09/30/09 at midnight. U.S. residents only (sorry!). Flip UltraHD Camcorder has 120 minute capacity and will be shipped to winner with an ultra cool white finish.

Good luck!

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Just for the Grooms: The Proposal

The proposal is such a huge deal and guys go out of their way to plan it perfectly. Some keep it simple, and some get the entire family & friends involved in a complex plan leading up to the big question.

So I wanted to reach out to any guys that are thinking of proposing to some lucky girl. You guys get forgotten during the whole wedding planning, so I want to help you out a bit. I will be giving away at least 3 completely FREE shoots to capture the proposal.

So if you are planning a surprise proposal, I want to hear about it. It doesn't have to be big, it doesn't have to be small....As long as it's a surprise and REAL! I will giveaway 3 shoots where I will capture her first reactions as you get down on you knees to ask her the big question.

I'll shoot anywhere, anytime...schedule permitting of course. If I have to travel outside the local Washington/Baltimore area, those expenses would have to be covered. That's the only catch. Otherwise, just drop me an email at info AT asimsoofi.com telling me what you have planned and I'll pick the first 3 that catch my eye. Contest ends when 3 winners are picked.

Remember to include:
-Full Name
-Phone Number
-Proposal Time Frame
-The Proposal

Good luck!

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Summer Wedding Madness Special Savings - Win iPhone 3GS

WIN ALL NEW APPLE iPHONE 3GS or $200 APPLE GIFT CARD
It's summer wedding season at Asim Soofi Photography. To celebrate the crazy fun madness, two brand new Apple iPhone 3GS models will be given out in the form of Apple Gift Cards to two lucky winners. Apple's iPhone 3GS is the newest version of the already hot and popular cell phone, and you know you want one. Especially if it's for FREE. If you'd rather use the $200 towards something else from Apple, by all means do it! All you have to do is to enter by July 31st! Continue reading below for all the details on how to enter, plus extra savings on wedding photography packages!
HOW TO ENTER THE CONTEST - TWO WAYS: TWITTER or FACEBOOK
Contest Open to ALL U.S. Residents!

TWITTER CONTEST ENTRY
1. First, start following me on Twitter (http://twitter.com/asimsoofi).
2. Second, copy & paste the following into your Twitter status, minus the quotes: "RT @asimsoofi FREE $200 Apple Gift Card From http://AsimSoofi.com/ Full Details http://bit.ly/I0XP0 "

IMPORTANT UPDATE: If you start to follow me on Twitter, please remember that does NOT enter you into the contest. You also have to update your status with the RT line given. I don't want anyone to miss their chance!

FACEBOOK CONTEST ENTRY
1. Update your Facebook status/wall with the following, minus the quotes: "RT @asimsoofi FREE $200 Apple Gift Card From http://AsimSoofi.com/ Full Details http://bit.ly/I0XP0 "
2. Send me a message through FB so we can confirm your wall post and enter you into the contest. Make sure to add me as a friend so I can see your wall! http://facebook.com/asimsoofi.

SPECIAL SAVINGS FOR BRIDES
Now for a limited time, any destination wedding being held outside of the U.S. and booked by July 31st will receive 25% off your entire wedding package. So if you or someone you know is looking for a photographer and wants to have their wedding in a far off destination (such as India, the Caribbean, Mexico, Paris, Italy, etc!), this is the time to book. For all other non-destination 2010 weddings being held will receive 15% off their entire wedding package. This is the BIGGEST savings I've ever given and will be available for a limited time. The clock is ticking!

WEDDING REFERRALS RECEIVE $50 GIFT CARD
If you refer a friend and they book their wedding date with me, you will automatically receive a $50 Apple Gift Card. All you have to do is email info@asimsoofi.com with your friend's full name, phone, email, and CC: your friend in the same email letting them know they should visit www.asimsoofi.com. Just make sure I receive this email before they contact me. That's it!

FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS & WEDDING PROFESSIONALS
Not to leave out my fellow wedding professionals, all private consultations and mentoring is now 20% off until the end of July as well. This is not just for photographers, but any wedding professionals such as make up artists, planners, and more. Limited availability and spots, so don't wait too long. Time is of the essence in your business and can be very costly. Don't let second guessing drive your business. Take control of it! Click HERE to learn more.

No purchase is required to enter contest. Odds of winning based on number of entries. Winner will receive a $200 Apple Gift Card good towards iPhone purchase, or for any other purchase from an Apple Store. For all wedding clients, intent to book email must be received by 7/31/09 at info@asimsoofi.com email and wedding contract must be signed and a non-refundable retainer submitted by August 31, 2009 in order to qualify for savings. Wedding date does not need to be finalized at this time to qualify. Apple iPhone 3GS contest ends 7/31/09. All consultation appointments must be scheduled by 7/31/09 and completed by 12/31/09. Apple iPhone 3GS taxes, activation, service plans, and any other fees are the sole responsibility of contest winner(s). Contest winner(s) will be notified via email. Please email info@asimsoofi.com with any questions.

Friday, April 17, 2009

How Do You Decide to Marry?


A friend found this and I had to share...

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY? (written by kids)
You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.-- Alan, age 10

No person really decides before they grow up who they're going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with.-- Kristen, age 10

WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?
Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then.-- Camille, age 10

HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?
You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids.-- Derrick, age 8

WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?
Both don't want any more kids.-- Lori, age 8

WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?
Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough.-- Lynn , age 8

On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.-- Martin, age 10

WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?
When they're rich.-- Pam, age 7

The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that.-- Curt, age 7

The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them and have kids with them. It's the right thing to do.-- Howard, age 8

IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?
It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them.-- Anita, age 9

HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN'T GET MARRIED?
There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn't there?-- Kelvin, age 8

HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK?
Tell your wife that she looks pretty, even if she looks like a dump truck.-- Rick, age 10

Friday, April 3, 2009

Some Blog Love: Free Stuff


I've been neglecting my poor blog for a while...okay, don't have to rub it in. I can hear ya! As most of you should already know, you can always find the latest Soofi news over at my micro blog by following me on Twitter, so make sure to add me!

So I'm here and making up for some lost time...In the month of April, I will be randomly giving out some FREEBIES through Twitter updates, so the only way you can win is to play. Hint: Click the whale.

Here's the first freebie that's available to all fabulous wedding clients: All weddings booked in the month of April will receive a free E-Session with any package (sorry, can't combine with any other discounts/promotions). Total sweetness...I know! Don't wait too long though...Limited to only 3 bookings remaining for 2009!

Okay, I'm feeling really generous, so I'll continue the giveaway streak...2nd Freebie: If you're planning a surprise proposal for your girl....Woops....I'm going to stop right there....You're going to have to wait for this one!

So just remember to click on the Twitter Fail Whale above to follow me for more Freebie Giveaways throughout the entire month of April for EVERYONE!

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Yoga & Enlightenment Documentary

I'd love to try yoga one day, so this caught my eye. It questions spirituality and the pursuit of it through different means, yoga in this case. I like documentaries and the approach in this one looks interesting. The film is directed by Kate Churchill and follows a skeptical journalist named Nick Rosen. It releases on April 1, 2009, so check out the trailer in the meantime.

Irony is that I was in a yoga studio this past weekend and then came across this...hmmm.

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Catching Up

I have been so bad! No blogging for days...how could I do such a thing! Actually, I find myself busier on Facebook and Twitter more then ever. I love how quick and to the point it is...If you're not following me on Twitter or Facebook...what are you waiting for?? I'd love to hear from you!

Anyway, here's a short recap of what's been going on...About two weeks ago, I was at the WPPI convention in Las Vegas, which was awesome! If you're a portrait or a wedding photographer, you need to come next year and totally come hang out. Everyone had such a great time...So you're officially invited for 2010.

After coming back, I've been swamped with finishing up a few weddings...I think I've gone through over 12,000 photos in the last two weeks alone...burning the midnight oil! Things have been sooo crazy, my head is spinning. Such a blessing to be busy, but I might have to cut back back just a little on traveling for weddings this year...So much fun to go to different places, but it really can take a lot out of you sometimes. Who am I kidding? I love my clients and I have a hard time saying NO anyway! :)

Then for this weekend, I came down to my sister's in Richmond, VA to visit and attend a photographer's get together to meet up with some awesome friends and make some new ones as well. We talked shop, business, marketing, and even shot some high school seniors and a few brides. It was like a free workshop for everybody...Everyone had a great time and had so many great questions and insights. Afterwards, a bunch of us went out for some dinner and hung out while being a complete public nuisance with our crazy photographer antics. We're going to have another one next month in Maryland/DC area, so if you're interested, send me a message and I'll keep you in the loop.

Also, if you want to see all the awesome photos and even a video from the GTG (Get Together), make sure to add me on Facebook! Click HERE.

Okay, my nieces and nephew are waiting for me to play Guitar Hero (my new addiction btw!).

Monday, February 23, 2009

The Value of Photos

I came across this Kodak commercial I saw years ago, but it really does sum up things nicely.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Consumption: Watch the Story of Stuff

I saw this a while back and just got reminded of it today after talking to another friend about our consumption habits. Definitely watch it when you get a chance.


Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Henna (Mehndi) Tattoo Applications Made Easy


Every single Indian & Pakistani wedding that I photograph has the bride having henna (aka mehndi) applied to her hands and feet, a tradition that has been around for probably hundreds if not thousands of years. I've even had a few western brides that have also incorporated this into their own wedding.

No matter what the occasion, people like the idea of having a tattoo just for fun, and since henna isn't permanent, it makes for a great solution. Anyone can try a new design every week if they want, and all without any remorse of a permanent tattoo.

I thought I'd share this very cool method I found with those that may not know how to apply henna the 'easy' way. It's a method similar to how tattoo artists trace a design on a paper and apply it to the skin. With the henna, you use a Speed Stick deodorant. Interesting, right? You can find complete instructions at Henna Caravan, where they also offer quality supplies if you want the good stuff. Enjoy.

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Why Mom's Are Super & Have No Time


Just came across a great read about why moms don't have time for everything, yet can still do everything. This article gives a short and concise insight to those who don't have kids and don't exactly know what's involved. My own mom and my sister Ayesha, and other countless mothers come to mind because I see how much they do and I just love and appreciate them for all their hard work and dedication to their families. So to all you moms out there...super thanks!

Article by Carolyn Hax

"Carolyn:

Best friend has child. Her: exhausted, busy, no time for self, no time for me, etc. Me (no kids): Wow. Sorry. What'd you do today? Her: Park, play group . . .

Okay. I've done Internet searches, I've talked to parents. I don't get it. What do stay-at-home moms do all day? Please no lists of library, grocery store, dry cleaners . . . I do all those things, too, and I don't do them EVERY DAY. I guess what I'm asking is: What is a typical day and why don't moms have time for a call or e-mail? I work and am away from home nine hours a day (plus a few late work events) and I manage to get it all done. I'm feeling like the kid is an excuse to relax and enjoy -- not a bad thing at all -- but if so, why won't my friend tell me the truth? Is this a peeing contest ("My life is so much harder than yours")? What's the deal? I've got friends with and without kids and all us child-free folks get the same story and have the same questions.

Tacoma, Wash.

Relax and enjoy. You're funny.

Or you're lying about having friends with kids.

Or you're taking them at their word that they actually have kids, because you haven't personally been in the same room with them.

Internet searches?

I keep wavering between giving you a straight answer and giving my forehead some keyboard. To claim you want to understand, while in the same breath implying that the only logical conclusions are that your mom-friends are either lying or competing with you, is disingenuous indeed.

So, since it's validation you seem to want, the real answer is what you get. In list form. When you have young kids, your typical day is: constant attention, from getting them out of bed, fed, clean, dressed; to keeping them out of harm's way; to answering their coos, cries, questions; to having two arms and carrying one kid, one set of car keys, and supplies for even the quickest trips, including the latest-to-be-declared-essential piece of molded plastic gear; to keeping them from unshelving books at the library; to enforcing rest times; to staying one step ahead of them lest they get too hungry, tired or bored, any one of which produces the kind of checkout-line screaming that gets the checkout line shaking its head.

It's needing 45 minutes to do what takes others 15.

It's constant vigilance, constant touch, constant use of your voice, constant relegation of your needs to the second tier.

It's constant scrutiny and second-guessing from family and friends, well-meaning and otherwise. It's resisting constant temptation to seek short-term relief at everyone's long-term expense.

It's doing all this while concurrently teaching virtually everything -- language, manners, safety, resourcefulness, discipline, curiosity, creativity. Empathy. Everything.

It's also a choice, yes. And a joy. But if you spent all day, every day, with this brand of joy, and then, when you got your first 10 minutes to yourself, wanted to be alone with your thoughts instead of calling a good friend, a good friend wouldn't judge you, complain about you to mutual friends, or marvel how much more productively she uses her time. Either make a sincere effort to understand or keep your snit to yourself."

Thursday, February 5, 2009

1.5 GIG Panoramic

I came across a very cool image of the inauguration that has been circulating worldwide. It's a panoramic shot that allows you to zoom in very close to people and still be able to see all the details. This is due the fact that the picture is made up of 220 images stitched together.

The photographer, David Bergman, used a Gigapan device, which holds the camera and clicks the shutter through a programmed sequence to capture the entire scene you want. Sounds like a fun toy to play with.

Check out the image HERE.

Read David's blog entry regarding this historic photo HERE.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

World of Prejudice

I recently had an interesting conversation with a person working for the Baltimore city parking & fines collection agency. A little background first: I apparently ran a red light ticket back in October and for some reason, I never got any letter with the picture and all. I found out that the date this violation took place was the same day I was in an unfamiliar area trying to find an address. What really sucks is that because I had no clue that I owed money, the DMV sends me a letter stating that they have flagged my registration, which expired in January 2009. Turns out, I've got to pay 'flag' fees to the DMV and Baltimore city for this one red light ticket before I can renew my tags.

Anyway, here I am on the phone after some running around and after hours of being placed on hold (2 hours!), I talk to a woman to give her all of my confirmation numbers for my payments, and other paperwork information...So now, this is what happens next:

Woman: "Can you verify your name for me?"
Asim: "Yes, the last name is spelled S-O-O-F-I...Soofi. First name is Asim...A-S-I-M."
Woman: "Oh, okay I wasn't sure if this was really your account I was looking at. I didn't hear an accent."
Asim: (moment of silence) I'm sorry...what?
Woman: "You know, you don't speak with an accent, so I didn't think this was your name."
Asim: (Awkward silence continues)
Woman: "...it's a foreign name, you know..."
Asim: (pause, thinking) "Interesting. You do know a foreign name doesn't mean you speak with an accent?"
Woman: (Realizes my tone has changed a bit) "I'm just sayin'...I'm just being honest."
Asim: (I'm a bit perturbed and just want to get off the phone) "Is there anything else you need?"
Woman: "No that's it."
Asim: "Okay, by the way, what is your name?"
Woman: (Gives last name)
Asim: "Okay, thank you. Bye."

It was an interesting experience and I'll be honest, it did put me off a bit. I'm extremely patient and understanding with people, but it's just a little sad to hear this kind of stuff. Some people just don't realize what they are saying and you just have to try even harder to be even more patient.

Here's the funny part, I got a little more later on. I was working late last night, and hadn't eaten dinner. I was in the mood for some hot wings, so I decided to head over to my local Applebee's. I walk in, and I am met by the hostess. Just as I'm about to say that I'm heading over to the bar to sit...hostess gets in the first line.

Hostess: "Hi. Are you going to sit over there with those guys?"

She points towards a booth in a corner. I turn my head and see several guys sitting there. To my surprise (yeah right) all of them happen to be of southeast asian descent (middle eastern/pakistani/indian). I turn back to her and just told her, "No, I'm going to sit at the bar."

Just made me go 'hmmm.'

Unfortunetly, not the first time my outside appearance, my ethnicity, or my name got me into these types of situations. In fact, here's a plain old straight to the face statement made by a wedding planner just a short while back, "Asim, I'll be honest with you...The only reason they don't want to hire you is because you're not Jewish."

In this world we live in, there are many degrees of prejudices and I've learned to adapt to them. You just have to try harder to excerise your cool and think with a clear head. People come from many backgrounds and values. Sometimes, it's not their fault if their thinking is different. It's just that they haven't been taught what a diverse world we live in and how not to judge people by their appearance, background, or even their name.

I have always believed that no matter who you are or where you come from, just live by setting a good example as a human being. People will always have good and bad prejudices and that won't ever change unfortunetly. Some is just innocent ignorance and some can be intentionally cruel (yes, have stories of those too).

We can't change the world with the snap of a finger, but a good place to start is with yourself.

Of course, some could really use a little diversity training...

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Funny: Software Wife 1.0

This is something I had to share...it's pretty funny. My sister sent it to me and since I'm technically all about 'weddings' it's quite appropriate ;) Enjoy!

Letter to Tech Support
Dear Tech Support,

Last year I upgraded from Girlfriend 7.0 to Wife 1.0 . I soon noticed that the new program began unexpected child processing that took up a lot of space and valuable resources. In addition, Wife 1.0 installed itself into all other programs and now monitors all other system activity. Applications such as Poker Night 10.3 , Football 5.0 , Hunting and Fishing 7.5 , and Racing 3.6 no longer run , crashing the system whenever selected.

I can't seem to keep Wife 1.0 in the background while attempting to run my favorite applications. I'm thinking about going back to Girlfriend 7.0 , but the uninstall doesn't work on Wife 1.0 . Please help!

Thanks,
A Troubled User.

Tech Support Reply
Dear Troubled User:

This is a very common problem that men complain about.

Many people upgrade from Girlfriend 7.0 to Wife 1.0 , thinking that it is just a Utilities and Entertainment program. Wife 1.0 is an OPERATING SYSTEM and is designed by its Creator to run EVERYTHING !!! It is also impossible to delete Wife 1.0 and to return to Girlfriend 7.0 . It is impossible to uninstall, or purge the program files from the system once installed.

You cannot go back to Girlfriend 7.0 because Wife 1.0 is designed to not allow this. Look in your Wife 1.0 manual under Warnings-Alimony - Child Support . I recommend that you keep Wife 1.0 and work on improving the situation. I suggest installing the background application ' Yes Dear' to alleviate software augmentation.

The best course of action is to enter the command C:\ APOLOGIZE because ultimately you will have to give the APOLOGIZE command before the system will return to normal anyway.

Wife 1.0 is a great program, but it tends to be very high maintenance . Wife 1.0 comes with several support programs, such as Clean and Sweep 3.0 , Cook It 1.5 and Do Bills 4.2.

However, be very careful how you use these programs. Improper use will cause the system to launch the program Nag Nag 9.5 . Once this happens, the only way to improve the performance of Wife 1.0 is to purchase additional software. I recommend Flowers 2.1 and Diamonds 5.0!

WARNING!!! DO NOT , under any circumstances, install Secretary With Short Skirt 3.3 . This application is not supported by Wife 1.0 and will cause irreversible damage to the operating system.

Best of luck,
Tech Support

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Sore New Year

I'm a little late, but late is better then never, right? Yesterday, after weeks of pushing, my little brother Aamir convinced me to go to the gym with him. I can't tell you how difficult it was, because the last time I worked out 'technically' in a gym was back in college when I rowed for the crew team. Ahhh, those were the days!

I know what you're thinking...Jeez that's a long time. To my defense, I worked out at home but never more then a routine of a month because life just happens and it's not easy to keep up with a crazy schedule. Between traveling, shoots, editing, meetings, and then trying to squeeze in a little sleep, it's been a circus of a calendar. The treadmill in the garage would get some usage, but never any of my other equipment. However, after this past weekend's ski trip, my legs aching and burning especially bothered me. I just made up my mind that I've got to make more time or I'm going to pay the price later.

For 2009, just like millions of other hopefuls, I'm setting a goal to actually have a fixed routine. Have to thank Aamir though...his persistence and nagging helped a lot. Because after I came back, I felt sore but fantastic. The energy you feel after a good workout is enough to keep you going.

So if you're in the same boat, don't give up and just do it. Let's see how far we can get through this year...

Monday, January 19, 2009

50 Questions For Today

I usually delete forwarded emails or they just go to my junk box automatically. Somehow, this one sent directly to me by a friend actually made it through my filters. For that, it deserves to be answered. So I thought I'd just post it here...50 Questions.

  1. Full name: Asim "I'm A Luva, Not A Fighta" Soofi
  2. What colour underwear are you wearing? Not sure. I got dressed in complete darkness this morning.
  3. What are you listening to right now? The keyboard as I type.
  4. Are your legs crossed? Nope. Too sore to move right now.
  5. What was the last thing you ate? A banana.
  6. If you were a crayon, what colour would you be? Dark Green.
  7. How is the weather right now? Cloudy, with a chance of more snow flurries throughout the evening.
  8. Last person you talked to on the phone? A bride in England.
  9. First thing you notice about the opposite sex? Face & walk. I can tell everything about you just by your walk. It's hard to explain...I'm working on the formula.
  10. Do you like the person who sent you this? Aside from mood swings, she's a swell girl. ;)
  11. How are you today? Did I mention sore? Plus, it is a Monday.
  12. Favourite non-alcoholic drink? Chai comes to mind (see past post).
  13. Favourite alcoholic drink? Do you really think I need alcohol to be this much fun??
  14. Favourite sports? Crew. Cause that's how I 'rowed.' Okay, I admit. That was terrible.
  15. Hair colour? Stallion Black
  16. Eye colour? Chocolate Brown
  17. Do you wear contacts? I should be wearing something. Contacts irrrrk me.
  18. Siblings? 1 sister, 2 brothers
  19. Favourite month? December. Festive Season. My Birthday. Holidays. New Years. Can't beat that.
  20. Favourite food? My mouth is watering already. Fresh naan bread with almost any Indian/Pakistani dish.
  21. Last movie you watched? Slumdog Millionaire (Thumbs Up!)
  22. Favourite day of the year? Don't have one...Never thought of it.
  23. Saturday or Sunday? Saturday. The best parties are on Saturday because no one holds back.
  24. Are you too shy to ask someone out? You don't know who you're talking to.
  25. Do you like marmite? Apparently this survey originated in the UK.
  26. Summer or winter? Winter. You get to eat like polar bears.
  27. Hugs or kisses? Both. I especially like the kind with almonds inside.
  28. Chocolate or vanilla? I'm very moody with ice cream. It's like a mood ring and varies.
  29. Do you want your friends to write back? I really don't want to hear their opinions as it is :P
  30. Who is most likely to respond? Blog stalkers.
  31. Who is least likely to respond? Blog stalkers.
  32. Living arrangements? Single family home.
  33. What books are you reading? I'm still on the cover of "Life of Pi."
  34. What did you do last night? Got back from a road trip and watched the Ravens get beaten by the Steelers.
  35. Did you wake up before your alarm went off this morning? I never remember it even going off. My eyes just opened on their own.
  36. What happened to question 36? Depends on your perception.
  37. Or 37 for that matter? It doesn't matter at this point.
  38. What inspires you? Positive & creative thinkers.
  39. What about question 39? So unoriginal.
  40. Favourite crisps? More UK?
  41. Favourite car? Mine because it's super practical, never breaks down, she loves me and never complains.
  42. Favourite flowers? Tulips...Yeah, I know that word.
  43. How many keys on your key ring? Three. Home. Car. Lock.
  44. Can you juggle? Does semi-juggle count?
  45. Favourite day of the week? Friday of course.
  46. Red or white wine? Pass, thank you very much.
  47. What did you do for your last birthday? 1 lunch, 3 dinners, and 1 party
  48. Do you own a donor card? Yup, it's got a little red heart on it too.
  49. What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning? "Shoot..."
  50. What are you doing once this is finished? Calling my 6:00 and sneaking in dinner.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Great Weekend Mini Vacation: Sno Mountain

Just got back from a great weekend of skiing up in the Poconos with a large group of friends. The resort is Sno Mountain and had some nice long runs with plenty of snow. Had a real nice time, was on the mountain on Saturday & Sunday, but I really could use a massage right about now! Hope everyone else had a great weekend :)



Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Ask & Ye Shall Find

I'm sitting here finally going through a bunch of emails I've gotten from friends on Facebook asking a lot of different questions about different things. The story behind this is that the other day I randomly had this urge to update my FB status to ask if anyone had anything they wanted to know from yours truly. So in response, I got many things asking about wedding photography, equipment questions, and even a few interesting personal questions. I promise to get to these as soon as I get a chance and I'm saying this on the blog to hold myself to it.

For today though, I got to thinking and wanted to answer some more questions that I get from new brides (and some grooms). So what better way to do this but update my FAQ section on my site. I've always wanted to keep the site nice and clean, but I know there's a lot information people are always looking for so I'm slowly giving in and adding more. I usually like to meet with my clients and answer all of their questions, but I know in these quick draw days, everyone wants info now. So hopefully, I'll be able to put more FAQ & answers with the help of some of you and also reduce the normal questions everyone has. If you have some questions that would help you, drop me an email or a comment below. I  want to hear from you!

Which also reminds me, for all of my fellow photographers, another way I've been getting some great feedback is by using iPerceptions (http://4q.iperceptions.com) on my site. It's a simple and cool tool to get valuable feedback from my site visitors, so if you are a photographer or have your own site, use this to get some valuable feedback from your own visitors and see what may or may not be working. If you have any questions on how to install the 4Q code, just email me or a comment.

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Perfect Chai

What is my secret to perfect chai you ask? This cup, me, and a little love. :)

I get asked by so many people to make them my version of chai, but some are so far away, its just not fair to make them wait. After much deliberation and soul searching, I have decided share my mini-secret with the world as a New Years gift! It's quite simple...

Single Serving

1. Put 4 oz of whole milk in a cup. Take a look at the free bonus I got ;)
2. Add one tea bag of Tapal Danedar to cup. Available at Indian/Pakistani stores.
3. Microwave until milk boils to the brim, about 1:20, more or less.
4. Take out and immediately cover cup with a saucer. Let sit for 1-2 minutes.
5. Ring out tea bag with a spoon.
6. Add one tspn of sugar, stir, and enjoy.

Multiple Cups
(to gain popularity with friends):
1. 4 oz whole milk for each serving.
2. Add Tapal Danedar tea bags for each serving, plus one for the pot.
3. On medium heat, bring milk & tea to boil.
4. Turn off stove and cover pot for two minutes.
5. Ring out all of the tea bags carefully.
5. Add one tspn sugar for each serving and one tspn for the pot, stir, serve immediately, and enjoy.

Loose Tea
For those oppressed by the tea bag revolution, if you can find it, substitute tea bags with loose tea. Just use one teaspoon of loose tea for each tea bag.

There you have it...now everyone else can make me chai for a change :)

*Lipton and 2% milk are last resort options.
**
I am not responsible if you burn down your house, your friend's house, or any other incidents as a result of following the above instructions. Children should always get an adult to assist in enjoying chai.