A Photographer's Journal

Please feel free to browse this Journal; however, entries dated after June, 2009 will be posed on Bill Leyden's Photography Blog on Wordpress

I was going through some of my candid shots on location and remembered this great guy.

Master improv actor, Rachel was a joy to photograph.

I often think of the late Monte Zucker at times like this. If it was high noon, like on this day, he would say, "just find cover." So we did and made these images.

One of the most arresting streetscapes in Los Angeles can be found in Santa Monica, CA. Here the Merton Bay Fig Trees line the residential streets. These distinctive trees and their complex root structures do not seem to lift the sidewalks as do the controversial ficus trees that are characteristic of nearby Brentwood. Not usually out taking landscapes, I got out of the car and couldn't resist making a few 'portraits.'




These images are at once exotic, erotic, distant yet familiar. I was amazed when I saw them for the first time out of the camera.



And a final shot:

Seen in films and television shows for decades, this distinctive rock structure can be seen north of Los Angeles to the west of Hwy 14.

Notice the film company scaling the rocks getting ready for a shot.

Strolling around the house, I was able to catch lovely Rachel in a moment before shooting a scene.

I am still not quite sure how he ended up like this using a straw on a Starbucks Mocha Frapachino.

Alway at home in front of a camera.

Don't forget to count the half dozen or so who are outside!

Behind the scenes of an indie production. Director and cinematographer 'block' a shot. Don't forget the self-proclamed, 'future-proof' RED camera!



I turned around and caught this lovely image of the makeup artist admiring her handiwork.

Sedona locals will recognize Wolf's Robe, a gifted Native musician. I met him and his wonderful wife to get these shots and more:

It was fun to take a break and try some food shots. Its not as easy as I thought. I may stick with faces and feelings.

I was happy to have a video camera close at hand when I passed by Malibu this New Year. A chance meeting on the beach with my friend and colleague, Christine made for an interesting sunset vignette.

Fellow photographers will be able to hear the dialogue: "Ok, Christine. Put your weight on your left foot ... lean back ... too far! Good! Now, point over there! Great!"

A reprise visit to capture a California debutante about to go to Hollywood to see a holiday presentation of the Nutcracker.