8806km didn’t deter 2-time 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathoner Aaron MacFarlane from taking part in the 2011 cycle! Though not an ‘official’ participant, he nonetheless shot his photo set in real time from Ibiza, Spain. We held the marathon from 10am – 10pm so your math is correct, Aaron was running around with his 35mm from 7pm – 7am! Here are the results, re-posted with permission from our amazing overseas photographer.

Click here for the original post.

12×12 VANCOUVER PHOTO MARATHON – 2011 (THIRD YEAR)
by Aaron MacFarlane

So, since 2009 there has been this annual fun film-shooting event going on in Vancouver. It’s called the 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathon.

I’ve been partaking in it because I have been shooting film for a long time and the marathon is a full-on workout. 12 non-stop hours of getting a theme, using your creative juices to take a photo of that theme, then working on the next theme. 12 themes in 12 hours.

This year it turned out that the Marathon was taking place not on September 12 but on August 6. Right when we were to be on vacation in Europe.

So…here are the 12 shots. There was a mix-up as the timing was wonky (instead of 10am to 10pm Vancouver time, I was on 7pm to 7am Ibiza time!). This led to issues because we had a flight to catch at 7am from Ibiza to Paris! It wasn’t so much the flight that was the problem…it was the connectivity to the internet and the security at the Ibiza airport that had me put my camera away before being able to officially follow along with the rest of the people in Vancouver.

Let me just say that doing something like this is much much more difficult if you are in a place that you’ve never been to before. Why? Because you have no help regarding placement. Landmarks, expectations of human behaviour in certain places, they all play an important role in the composition of a photo for each theme.

So, I ultimately am not happy with my photos. Especially with the calibre of the photographers that were in Vancouver doing their thang.

Equipment used: 1 camera (Leica M6), 1 lens (35mm Summicron), and a roll of colour film.

Theme 01: My Entry Number (59) + Different Angle

Theme 01: My Entry Number (59) by Aaron MacFarlane

The angle was a tough addition. Instead of shooting straight on, I went up above.

I seriously thought of laying on the ground but I was wearing white and this was a very busy area so hundreds of people were walking about shopping and finding places to eat.

The shot was taken here.

Theme 02: The Usual Suspects

Theme 02: The Usual Suspects by Aaron MacFarlane

Scouting about for almost an hour…I was hoping to find a group of young boys being boys or something out of the ordinary. I couldn’t find anything. So I went to the strip where I knew I would find a group of old ‘usual suspects.’

The shot was taken here.

Theme 03: Human Nature

Theme 03: Human Nature by Aaron MacFarlane

I figured I knew right away where I would find some human nature. Down by the water! There will be people there doing what they do. Nope, there were no people there. Just people selling cheap sunglasses and tanktops. Kinda boring, so I looked up and thought ‘Oh look, there’s human nature for ya…we exploit beautiful things for our own good.’

The shot was taken here.

Theme 04: Reliable

Theme 04: Reliable by Aaron MacFarlane

I knew right away what I could find for this photo, seeing as how the sun had already gone down I thought of indoor shots. What’s more reliable than these?

The shot was taken here.

Theme 05: My Greatest Wish

Theme 05: My Greatest Wish by Aaron MacFarlane

Enjoying Life with someone you Love.

Theme 06: Odour

Theme 06: Odour by Aaron MacFarlane

At this point I had been able to get WIFI before heading off to the airport to catch a very early flight to Paris, France. After arriving at the airport there was no WIFI and, after taking this photo, a security guard gave stern warning which prevented me from taking any more photos in the airport. So the 12×12 day ended for me here.

The shot was taken here.

Theme 07: Echo

Theme 07: Echo by Aaron MacFarlane

Arriving in Paris in the morning made it easy to find the next theme although I was frustrated because I knew the rest of the pack had already finished the Marathon back in Vancouver. So I started up the timer clock again after receiving the rest of the themes via 12×12′s twitter messages.

Theme 08: Trapped

Theme 08: Trapped by Aaron MacFarlane

Well, it was mid-morning and there wasn’t anything jumping out at me so while walking past a little café I saw on the board something that I could eat and photograph for the next theme.

Theme 09: Take it to the Grave

Theme 09: Take it to the Grave by Aaron MacFarlane

Finding the cemetery took a bit of work because I had heard about it being an AMAZING place but was taken aback once inside walking about the huge stones and memorials. I could spend all day here. I could be buried here…with the material object I love the most.

The shot was taken here.

Theme 10: Second Chance

Theme 10: Second Chance by Aaron MacFarlane

I figured there would be some opportunity to walk down Champs-Élysées and find something related to second chance. Usually I don’t photograph people who are suffering or in need, but I figure the young woman would like a second chance at living in a society without having to beg all day to the tourists and locals.

The shot was taken here.

Theme 11: Not For Sale

Theme 11: Not for Sale by Aaron MacFarlane

The Notre Dame is obviously…

The shot was taken here.

Theme 12: Expectation

Theme 12: Expectation by Aaron MacFarlane

Sitting at the train station planning out the next venture (Brussels), we were having a late lunch and in a matter of seconds after sitting down we were visited by a group of feathered friends with looks in their eyes while watching us munch on our baguettes. They certainly were full of expectation. Very cute indeed.

The shot was taken here.

Thank you Aaron, for taking time out of your European vacation to share such a unique 12×12 experience with us. We hope to see you in the 2012 cycle!

Aaron MacFarlane was the Best Series winner for the 2009 cycle of 12×12, and for 2010, the audience pick for Best Photo Runner-Up and Best Theme 02 interpretation, both for his capture of “The High Road.”

Aaron’s Links:
www.Flickr.com/aaronmac
www.Twitter.com/airnphoto 

If you’re curious to see what this year’s participants shot for their 12 exposures, don’t miss:
Raw Talent 2011: The 3rd Annual 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathon Exhibit
THIS Sunday September 25th, 2011 – Doors: 6PM (FREE)
PhotoHaus Gallery at the Vancouver Photo Workshops
14 West 7th Avenue, Vancouver

You’d think that a wedding shoot would keep you from taking part in the 12×12. You’d probably also never consider lugging around yet another camera when the three or seven in your bag are already breaking your back. If that’s what you think, then you obviously don’t know Lisa King. Here’s the story (told by Lisa herself) on how 12×12 became her +1.

1, 2, “I Do?”…
by Lisa King

I am a professional photographer and have been freelancing in a variety of venues for the past six years. I would consider myself a photojournalist as many of my clients are media based but I also shoot weddings and corporate events on the weekends. I shoot primarily with my digital camera but continue to keep film alive when shooting portraits and weddings.

Last year I participated in the 12×12 for the first time and thoroughly enjoyed my experience. It was bitterly cold and at times rainy but the excitement of shooting film in a contest kept me warm and excited to shoot. To my surprise I won in the last category of the day, “Unfunny.”

2010 Winner for Theme 12: Unfunny by Lisa King

The positive energy and pure joy of this event had me looking forward to the 2011 12×12 event but was deeply saddened to hear that it was taking place smack dab in the middle of my wedding season. Even though I couldn’t participate as an official member, I was determined to still be there in spirit. With the help of Angela Chih, the 12×12 Producer, I took the challenge to Victoria and shot the categories in real time during the wedding. I was able to tie in the category “series” with ease, which in the previous year found very difficult to do. It definitely brought a unique excitement and a different challenge to shoot during the wedding. Every hour I pulled out my Pentax K1000 (my first and favorite camera) and shot each theme, jumping up and down every time I came up with something fun and silly.

I hold 12×12 close to my heart. It allows me to open up and feel like I can explore new levels of creativity in new and obscure ways. The category prompts can be challenging but that is what is so exciting and I am glad that I was able to take part in spirit. You will definitely see me competing next year so stay tuned.

Equipment used: 1 camera (Pentax K1000), 1 Lens (50 mm f1.4) and a roll of colour film.

GETTING READY

Theme 01: My Entry Number (08) + Different Angle

Theme 01: My Entry Number (#08) by Lisa King

My entry number was 8. At this point in the wedding we had just arrived for an amazing homemade pancake breakfast at the bride’s girlfriend’s house. I had never seen so much amazing food at a breakfast before. There were pancakes made to order, two types of bacon, fruit salad, homemade sauces, mimosas…you name it, they had it. Eight people were eating oddly enough, but there was not enough room (with my fixed 50 mm lens) to fit them all in especially at a different physical angle. I twisted the literal number into “ate” and well, you can see how we felt after breakfast.

Theme 02: The Usual Suspects

Theme 02: The Usual Suspects by Lisa King

Ahhhh, getting ready. A lot of brides follow the tradition of: something old, something new, something borrowed something blue. This tradition is said to have derived in England during the Victorian era, where blue symbolizes love, fidelity and purity.

THE CEREMONY

Theme 03: Human Nature

Theme 03: Human Nature by Lisa King

This one was quite difficult to come up with because of the timing. The wedding was about to get underway so I used the best possible literal translation as I could. Human with Nature.

RECEPTION

Theme 04: Reliable

Theme 04: Reliable by Lisa King

Again, another time pressing moment. As seen, the bride is fixing her shoe and leaning on her husband for support.

Theme 05: My Greatest Wish

Theme 05: My Greatest Wish by Lisa King

I think many people would agree that eradicating cancer would be a dream come true. In lieu of party favors, a donation was given to the Canadian Cancer Society in memory of the groom’s father whom recently died of Lymphoma.

Theme 06: Odour

Theme 06: Odour by Lisa King

Do you have a pooey diaper?

Theme 07: Echo

Theme 07: Echo by Lisa King

Adorable flower girl twins. Sisters, especially twins like to repeat or imitate each other.

PORTRAITS

Theme 08: Trapped

Theme 08: Trapped by Lisa King

“A happy life, is a happy wife.” The rings have now “trapped” the man into a long marriage of “yes dear.”

Theme 09: Take it to the Grave

Theme 09: Take it to the Grave by Lisa King

“I Do.” Definition: “The social institution under which a man and woman establish their decision to live as husband and wife by legal commitments, religious ceremonies, etc.” This is supposed to be a forever thing but according to the Institute of Marriage and Family Canada “In 2002, the average age at divorce was 43.1 for men and 40.5 for women.”

RECEPTION

Theme 10: Second Chance

Theme 10: Second Chance by Lisa King

Bocce (or sometimes spelled Boci or boccie) derived in ancient form from the Roman Empire but modernized by the Italians, allows a player to hit the ball again after going through a wicket. This game becomes increasingly difficult once inebriated, especially if you’ve had a photographer set up your course. Up hills and around corners, there will always be an opportunity for a “second chance.”

Theme 11: Not for Sale

Theme 11: Not for Sale by Lisa King

Duh! Well maybe…how much are you offering?

Theme 12: Expectation

Theme 12: Expectation by Lisa King

OPEN BAR! Enough said.

Thank you Lisa, for taking us along for the ride. We hope to see you in the 2012 cycle!

Lisa’s Links:
www.LisaKing.ca
www.LisaKingPhotography.Blogspot.com
www.Twitter.com/LisaKing_photo

If you’re curious to see what this year’s participants shot for their 12 exposures, don’t miss:
Raw Talent 2011: The 3rd Annual 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathon Exhibit
THIS Sunday September 25th, 2011 – Doors: 6PM (FREE)
PhotoHaus Gallery at the Vancouver Photo Workshops
14 West 7th Avenue, Vancouver

I wasn’t always so curious. It was only later in life that I realized how intriguing each and every person I came across could be. No matter how much you’ve done or how much you’ve yet to do, you carry with you a world of mystery. That fascinates me.

Photos are much the same. Take Matthew Sinclair’s 2010 winning image for Best Photo Runner-Up. The theme was “Secret World.”

Theme 09: Secret World by Matthew Sinclair

What was your first impression? Do you think that’s what Matthew intended to convey? Was your reflex to imagine something warm and positive or did your mind wander into more eerie thoughts? Now you wanna know what was really on his mind, right? That’s the wonderful magic of photography. Like any other art form, it’s just there for each individual’s own unique interpretation. But the curiosity persists. If only you could tap into the artist’s psyche for just a wee peek…

Well, now you can! One of our 2010 marathoners took it upon himself (with our blessing of course) to document the 2011 cycle by tagging along with two of this year’s participants, both new to 12×12: Ryan Mah (#56) and Ruwan Fernando (#32). Thanks to Martin Chung’s shooting savvy, we now have for the first time a very rare behind-the-scenes look at the taking of those perfect frames. We hope you enjoy this series as much as we do!

If you want to see Ryan and Ruwan’s photographic results, check out Raw Talent 2011: The 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathon Exhibit happening on Sunday September 25th, 2011 at PhotoHaus Gallery.

Click here to see the original blog post by Martin Chung.

Ryan and Ruwan’s Story, Part 1

Ryan and Ruwan’s Story, Part 2

Ryan and Ruwan’s Story, Part 3

Ryan and Ruwan’s Story, Part 4

Ryan and Ruwan’s Story, Part 5

A professional Vancouver photographer, Martin Chung took part in the 2010 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathon as participant #52 and won an award for his interpretation of Theme 09: Vague.
Twitter: @martin_chung
Website: www.StudioImpossible.com

Simply click on the corresponding image or marathoner name to jump to the full blog post.

For more stories (past and present), check out the “A Marathoner’s Perspective” page. If you publish any posts yourself, make sure to let us know so we can add you to the list. We’re also linking any Flickr sets that you may have so send those links as well.

Enjoy!

“Oh, hello camera— have we met before? I apparently have no idea how you operate. I silently vow to teach myself better photography skills, and hope that my roll of film mysteriously goes missing during the developing process.”

Chrissy Davey #07

“Maybe it was the fatigue setting in, but the last few themes felt more and more challenging (I say ‘challenging’ but the words floating in my head were ‘ridiculous’ and ‘are you serious?!?’).”

Zachary Wong #52

“My highlights…3) Deciding to drink a pint (although…I am doubtful they were actual pints…) of beer every hour after noon to fuel the creativity. I like to think it helped. We’ll see how well it helped the camera shake later on in the night.”

Cara Grimshaw #16

“Last year we won the Audience’s Choice Best Series. So this year the pressure is on! Ayoe and I actually practiced our ‘secret technique’ on couple rolls of film just to make sure we can pull the technique off.”

Bob Lai #01

“…1 year later = 1 year wiser; You learn from your mistakes, you prepare. A few things I seemed to anticipate (like the ubiquitous first theme), and with the help of other fellow participants, some shots I couldn’t achieve (without)…”

Christian Bucad #02

 

 

 

 

“As a runner, the use of the word “marathon” in the event name seems fitting, and that was my mindset throughout the day. The mental aspect of finding an appropriate photo is compounded with the physical in terms of all the walking I did…”

Eric Bucad #11

“…how my marathoning unfolded.”

Michael Burns #57

After a grueling day on the streets of downtown Vancouver, I had what I thought were 12 beautifully captured interpretations of the first 12 themes that were sent to me that morning. Beaming with pride, I pranced over to the London Drugs PhotoLab at Granville & Georgia with an excited anticipation I had not experienced in quite some time. But I fell off my cloud with a painful thud when I started winding back the film and felt no tension whatsoever. I could feel the blood drain from my face when I came to the realization that something had gone horribly wrong. I still clutched at a nugget of hope as I handed my roll of film to Shirley behind the counter but lost my grip when we soon found out that the roll had never even advanced to its first frame. I blinked. In that second I saw my entire day fast-backward as if it had never happened. It didn’t matter that my brain had turned to mush from brainstorming or that my feet had grown two sizes from pounding the pavement all day because I had nothing to show for it. Someone had brutally punched ‘Delete’ and everything was gone. I blinked again.

Now nearly a year later I can still feel the invisible scar left by that deterring first experience. No one will ever accuse me of not knowing what it’s like because those memories are seared into my brain. The thrilling highs and the horrible lows. Oh yes, I was seasoned and if you lent me your ear you’d probably never get it back.

The Canon A-1 in use circa 1981

I wasn’t sure I’d ever be able to commit myself to another full-day challenge. But then a couple of weeks ago I got an email from Christine Rondeau who had a gorgeous Canon A-1 kit to donate to 12×12 and I felt the pilot light ignite again. Look at this camera! Who could say no to this?! Its original owner (and Christine’s father) was kind enough to share a photo of himself at Belgium’s La Citadelle de Dinant circa 1981 with this historical gem, which has travelled all over Europe, South America, Australia, and on many, many camping trips. I was smitten.

On Canada Day, I loaded up all the gear and with great determination made my way back downtown for Round 2. Was I setting myself up for another KO? I put another call-out on Twitter, booted all my apprehensions to the curb and waited for another set of 12 themes. I hope you find some enjoyment in the results below!

Disclaimer: I am not by any means a photographer. Even in the old film days I just pointed and shot. You could aperture me and shutter speed me to death and my eyes would still be glazed over. I welcome any feedback or tips that you may have so feel free to start a discussion in the comments section!

If you want to experience the 2011 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathon yourself, make sure you are in front of a computer by 8pm THIS Wednesday July 6th. ONLY 60 tickets will be released and you’ll need fast fingers if you want to secure your spot in this year’s marathon.

I look forward to meeting everyone on Saturday August 6th, 2011!

Theme 01: Snarky assigned by @jrphotographybc via Twitter

Theme 02: Monkeys assigned by @penguinstorm via Twitter

Theme 03: Racy assigned by @jonah_lewis via Twitter

Theme 04: Patriotic assigned by @jrphotographybc via Twitter

Theme 05: Ouch assigned by @jrphotographybc via Twitter

Theme 06: Red, White & Purple assigned by @jrphotographybc via Twitter

Theme 07: Something Old assigned by @jrphotographybc via Twitter

Theme 08: White Taxi Driver assigned by @jrphotographybc via Twitter

Theme 09: Oh Hai assigned by @jrphotographybc via Twitter

Theme 10: Urban Jungle assigned by @jrphotographybc via Twitter

Theme 11: Soft assigned by @365photos2011 via Twitter

Theme 12: Irreversible assigned by @AnnyChih via Twitter

Captured with the bonus frame on my 12EXP roll of film: Self Portrait

Guest post by Robert Fougere, 2010 Marathoner #02. Visit Raw Talent 2010: The 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathon Exhibit THIS Saturday October 16th from 6 – 10pm  and check out his work!

I had been shooting my own photos and making my own black and white prints for a year or two when I started to look through the bins of found photos at flea markets as sources of inspiration. Let me tell you, I have spent many happy useful hours! But, a whole new world opened up to me when a friend that runs a second-hand shop on Main St gifted me a box of old negatives! Since then, I’ve been scouring junk shops, garage sales and even e-bay for interesting and wonderful vintage photo negatives. Not only that, but I’ve been putting them to good use making prints, sometimes real big ones from the best of ‘em.

My collection has grown to include such fantastic negatives including: a snapshot of a young Queen Elizabeth, a portrait of Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling, some amazing photos from the archives of the Chicago Tribune newspaper, and even a photo of the premier supermodel, “Twiggy.” Not only that, but my collection also includes photos of unknown models/housewives as shot by famous photographers Serge Jaques and Elmer Batters.

I never considered myself a history buff, but to hold in ones hand such magnificent and beautiful and interesting pieces of history, shot as it happens, has on more than one occasion sent me packing to the library to see what other information I can discover regarding a certain piece of photographic history.

Shoot film my friends, even if for no other reason than your photos will last a lot longer than a digital file!

A group exhibit that includes a few of my found photos opens tonight:

“Findings”
An Exhibition of Appropriated, Altered, and Re-Photographed Found Images
Opening night: Friday October 15th, 2010 at 8:00 PM
Lion’s Den
79 East Pender St, Vancouver
$5 at the door

For more information about Robert, visit his site at www.thesuitcasegallery.com or Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/Suitcase-Gallery

Thank you Robert, for sharing your experience with us. For you readers out there, if you’ve got a story to share about your adventures in photography (and film in particular), drop us a line!

And remember to head on over to Steve’s website to check out his other stories.

Guest post by Adrian Eden of www.adrianeden.com

I have always been a fan of photography, though recently I bought a Canon Rebel T2i and have been taking my hobby more seriously. Upgrading from using my iPhone camera and a Sony Cyber-Shot. My ancestors were all Scottish Architects so I guess I have it in my blood to look at the world around me in a unique fashion, spotting symmetry and perspective (and the best deal on products lol).

A friend of mine by the name of Ben Lewis (we met on Twitter) has a photography Blog that I was reading one day and enjoyed. So I reached out to him to see if he would be interested in teaching me some basics. Of course being the good guy that he is he said yes.

We went down to the waterfront on the South East corner of Stanley Park by the rowing club. I started snapping pictures of railings and boats and then looked back to notice that Ben was zooming in on water droplets on a railing. I thought that was weird, but at the time I didn’t understand how powerful the lens was. I bent down to see what he was doing and did the same thing and came up with this cool shot, which instantly made me fall in love with macro photography.

Cable Drips by Adrian Eden

There is inspiration everywhere. I’m slowly learning that from Ben. He told me to not be so concerned with exposure and lighting in the early stages of learning photography but rather focus on the rule of thirds and framing the pictures well. Take responsibility for what you are shooting is what he said. I took that to heart and moved along quickly into asking him about exposure and shutter speed. He taught me some good ways to take day shots when it is cloudy: Keeping your shutter speed a little slower than usual and opening up your aperture slightly; testing each step to make sure you are getting the desired effect. I really find the buttons on the handle of the Canon Rebel T2i to be handy, switching aperture and shutter speed quickly instead of going into the menu every time you want to change what you are looking at.

I took this photo of my girlfriend Lindsey while thinking about exposure and perspective (in the background). It is also one of my first monochrome pictures.

Lindsey by Adrian Eden

I was instantly hooked to this style as well. I must be addicted to photography already in fact, as after this first lesson I went straight up to Future Shop and bought a 55-250mm IS Canon lens and tripod. In the first 2 days of getting my camera and all of the accessories I have spent a few thousand dollars, but every penny worth it. For I now have a hobby that I can take pride in and capture the moments of my life and things that inspire me. I have a Flickr set that I update regularly when traveling around the world, though my early pictures are mostly Tweeted images and shot from my old Sony camera so they lack in quality. But I do have a few new pictures up there that I take pride in.

Tonight we are going to North Vancouver to get some pictures of the Lions Gate Bridge from underneath, hoping to do something similar to this photo.

I also want to learn about stop motion photography and use content from a winter storm over top of downtown Vancouver shooting it from the top of Grouse Mountain. I will put this content on a dramatic electronic music mix and post about it on my personal Blog. A nice balance of photography and Blogging is going to keep me very happy as I get older. These hobbies I can also share with my girlfriend Lindsey and the children that we are planning to have. It is definitely something the whole family can enjoy. When I was a kid I learned about film photography in grade school, I remember spending time in the dark room with a red light bulb and it smelled like vinegar. Hanging our pictures to dry on the line. The anticipation for what was to come always kept me coming back to class early. I would like to try this type of photography more, possibly using Ben’s old Pentax camera. A nice balance of traditional and modern skills will make me a well rounded photographer.

I hope to meet all of you at Raw Talent 2010: The 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathon Exhibit on October 16th and I look forward to getting to know more of the local photography community and continuing on my journey.

Adrian’s Specs:
EFS 18-55mm Canon Lens
Shutter speed at maximum on the Canon Rebel T2i
Aperture 1000
Monochrome Setting on Lindsey picture

Thank you Adrian, for sharing your experience with us. For you readers out there, if you’ve got a story to share about your adventures in photography (and film in particular), drop us a line!

Photo by Cherry Vega

By the way… the piece of equipment I am so glad I dragged with me on Sunday? My reflector. I only used it for one shot… the very first but without it that shot would have been impossible to expose correctly. It’s always been my favourite investment, over any other lighting equipment it has saved my bacon numerous times.

Cherry Vega

Photo by Carol Browne

If there’s one thing I can do well, it’s vague photos with the toy camera.

Carol Browne

Photo by Marlis Funk

It started at 7:30am with a roll of film – it’s been a few years now since I last shot a roll! – and ended at 8:30pm with a Guinness. In between I interpreted 12 themes (1 theme was released every hour on the hour) and only 1 shot for each theme. I think I’ve got a few good ones, and a few that got caught in the rush of the day.

Marlis Funk

Photo by John Roberts

My body aches, I am tired as hell, my jacket is still drying, I think I chipped a nail, and I can’t find my Lens Cap for my Contax G1… Did I have fun?!? HECK YES!

John Roberts

Now that we’ve enticed you, check out the rest of the posts from the participants. And if you have an article or photos from the event you have posted that you want us to feature, drop us a line or leave a comment below and we’ll add it to the list.

Once everyone had a chance to recuperate from last Saturday’s 12 hour marathon of the mind and body, we sent out an email to thank all of our wonderful participants for spending a truly amazing day with us. We took this opportunity to also request for some stories from the experience, hoping to entice some to offer a few words to share with everyone who took part. Based on the conversations we had with marathoners throughout the day, we knew there were many memorable and often hilarious moments worth reminiscing (or wincing) about. Imagine our thrill when we received this entry from one of our most enthusiastic marathoners!

This individual personifies everything that this marathon was meant to achieve. We wanted everyone to have fun – she was never without her winning smile. We wanted to challenge people’s creativity – oh, her brain was on overdrive alright. We strove to build a family from many different communities – we can’t imagine anyone not gravitating to her positive energy. And we wanted to make everyone famous! Ok, maybe not Annie Leibovitz famous, but gosh darn it, we’re going to work our fingers to the bone to give everyone a grand showcase to beat all showcases!

Now this is worth taking a break for guys, so grab a cup of something deliciously warm, sit back, and enjoy an inspiring and adventurous tale told by Marathoner #43: Elizabeth (Eli) Peña, and her equally wonderful sister Diana.

I do not consider myself a photographer as much as a life student and enthusiast of it. Well, The Province had a feature on the marathon and without much hesitation I decided to enter. Luckily I did not hesitate too much as the event sold out in no time. Well, I was borrowing a camera from my sister but would not get it until Thursday evening. I had three options and soon selected the Pentax ME and I spent most of the day Friday getting comfortable with the camera and the optional lenses.  I headed off to Kerrisdale Camera and spoke to Oliver, who gave me lots of help and can you believe it, a used manual. I was feeling stoked but life had to burst my cocky confidence. By the evening, there was a mishap during cleaning of the lenses and panic set in. I did have two other options for cameras but also many components that did not work. I barely slept and woke up at 4:30am and was feeling calm but yet defeated. I thought about withdrawing from the event but I soon remembered why I entered, to have fun and enjoy an experience. I even thought of using my Nikon zoom but although it takes film, I thought it was somewhat ‘cheating’ since it had many auto aspects about it. Then again, most cameras have an ‘auto’ feature but I did not want to use it because part of the fun was using a classic camera. My partner in crime, my sister, decided to call our parents at this god forsaken hour as there was another possible camera to borrow. Fortunately I decided to try the Nikon FG without any idea if it would work as I did not purchase any batteries for this ‘back-up’ camera.

We headed off to the designated meeting site: Blenz Coffee in Yaletown. My sister was coming for support and as my caddy.  Once there, we befriended two nice photographers, Andrew and  Peter, who gave us some great help with shops to consider for the batteries.  My sister being the kind hearted person she is, gave both gentlemen some hand heat warmers as a thank-you.  I was feeling okay once I heard some co-marathoners asking others ‘how to put the film in’ but soon the bubble burst when Morten mentioned that this event was to bring ‘photographers together’ and by the armour that some had and the fact that some had websites, I was feeling under qualified. But my sister and I made a conscious decision to have fun!!!!!!!!!!! And fun we had.

Well, we headed off with the first theme and knowing we could not take any pictures, we decided to check out Leo’s on Granville and soon discovered much to our horror that it did not open until 10:00am.  That would mean we would be really in a disadvantage but we were going to have an adventure nevertheless.  We soon realized that there was this silence and calm among the streets of downtown Vancouver, it was almost eerie. With much anticipation and wonder, we decided to take the bus down to the beach. We headed to Kitsilano Beach and we set the ‘stage’ for the first theme: ‘My entry number’. We headed back to the headquarters knowing that we were at least two themes behind now. I brought a notebook to write ideas, areas to take pics of, themes, and important numbers like transit information. Once back at Blenz, we received the following themes, 2: ‘High hope’ and announcement of the third: ‘Nosy’.

Knowing we were now three themes behind and bursting with ideas, we headed off to Leo’s with much hope that the camera would work.  I like creativity and hoped that I could translate this into film. We soon discovered that the camera worked!!!!!! Yipee!!!! We dashed off to the bus stop and headed off to our first theme spot on the beach, talking about theme 2 and 3 along the way. Many ideas and brainstorming sessions spurted and grew as we made our way back to Kits. I think I took 20 minutes to finally commit to the taking of picture 1, angling it just so as I said a little prayer.  Before the 20 minutes, my eyes were watery, not from tears of happiness but from focusing.  Diana was able to take some pictures on her cell phone and she noticed a curious, nosy (theme 3) crow nearby. She mentioned my butt would hurt later on since I was squatting to take that first picture. No word of a lie, I think I still have butt cheeks hurting till this day.  As soon as theme 1 was shot, we went to theme 2: High Hope and wouldn’t you know it, I looked up at the tree nearby and noticed a kite nestled in the tree branches. I could not recall seeing it earlier on. Unfortunately, I only had one lens option and could not zoom in much. I tried many angles until I committed to lying down on the bench and took the picture looking up but in an angle. Did I mention the kite was an airplane!!!!

Theme 3 would have originally been the crow but as soon as we tried getting close to it, it took off. After a pit stop at the ladies room, we headed off to the off-leash dog beach. We thought about a picture of dog noses as a picture of human nostrils did not appeal to me. A dog was a more pleasing thought. Scanning the area for ideas since I did not have a dog treat on me, how was I going to make this happen when the subjects are quick and demanding. I thought about heading off to my parents for a picture of our sweet Conan, an original English bulldog, he can steal any heart.  It soon became clear what the picture was going to be. There was a little French Bulldog, so cute, running with a piece of driftwood bigger than its head.  Bean as she is known, was then grabbed up by her Master and put on her back atop of Master’s thighs while he sat and tugged at her driftwood prize tightly clenched in her mouth.  During her growling both Bean and Master touched noses – Nosy then came to be. Both Bean and Master were such great sports and I hope I captured their second nosy moment. Now, on a high, my sister and I headed off to lunch then back to headquarters.

Once back, we were now two themes behind, and in a few minutes, three. 4th theme was Blank, 5th: Loud and 6th: Wild Goose Chase. Again, we brainstormed and wrote a few things down. We left Blenz with some great ideas. After looking at the phonebook for some business numbers, we called one, explained what the idea was and were told that someone had already been to the store. Wow, great minds think alike.  As we waited for the bus to head to Burrard and 5th , we noticed a LOUD commotion on the street ahead and realized it was some sort of protest. The protesters looked naked from where we were standing but we could not take a picture since we still had to shoot the 4th theme. Oh yeah, we stood at the wrong bus stop for at least 20minutes or so – just great! Laughing all the way to the right stop, we just missed our bus but soon discovered that the one that was approaching was the better choice.

Once at the store, we were trying to convey what our idea was for a picture, but as it turned out, I was using the wrong terminology and got a quick education on proper terms for describing what I wanted to achieve with the items that I wanted to use.  We were more than grateful for the opportunity to take the picture. I just hope it worked. We soon headed back downtown for theme five.  To know what this idea was and how it turned out (hoping it does), you’ll just have to check out the pics

Diana headed back to headquarters as theme 7 was soon to be announced. We were still three behind and daylight was running out on us. I headed to the Vancouver Art Gallery to see if I could find the protesters but I knew I had a million to one chance, but nevertheless I attempted the impossible. With no luck, I was having a hard time. Soon, Diana and I met up again and we finally found the inspiration for theme 5: Loud. Now, because it was literally loud, we could not hear one another and I did a dramatic mistake that hopefully will not show on the photograph. Still hung up on the mishap, Diana tried to shake me into focusing my creative idea on theme six.

Interestingly enough the inspiration came to us during brainstorming but the irony of it all, it came from right under our noses. Inspired but crunched for time, we were frantically looking for a specific sign and wouldn’t you know it, we found it but we had to export some items from the ground to the site and then of course clean it.

Theme 7 was tough since our ideas would require a lot of work and unfortunately we had little time, remember we were always three themes behind. Then, it came to us and we used another ‘nature’ to assist. It took some time but sis brought some of my rice cakes to assist with the extras during the shoot.

We then headed to headquarters for theme 8: Tie, this was one of the simplest because as we brainstormed and headed to a destination, we realized we were in a mine field of opportunities just as we passed it.  We approached some guys and a lady and they were more than accommodating. It required some kneeling on our parts, no, not the begging type but to get the scene set up. It took less than a few minutes and all of a sudden we were caught up. Hooray!!!! To Blenz we headed off to once again. Once there, we were able to warm up and relax a little, sweetness to goodness, we had finally caught up. It was also an opportunity to talk to other marathoners. It was a nice socializing time.

Theme 9: Perform, was announced sooner than we realized.  We decided to now continue to stay close to headquarters as there were only three more themes remaining and I could not afford to be behind again. Off to the streets we were for some inspiration. We found it but unfortunately, I could not capture it the way I needed to because the sun had now set. We came across another window idea and before we knew it we had our picture. It was not my ideal picture since it did not have as much creativity for me, but in retrospect, it was perfect.  We had some time to pick-up dinner on the go.

Theme 10: Flash. After much discussion during the brainstorming, I asked Diana to stay behind and call me with the next theme while I searched for my inspiration. Diana left me with some ideas but I felt mine was funny and creative.  As I walked the streets, I did feel a sense of panic since it was getting darker and the time was ticking. I could not afford a delay. Disappointed with myself I chose to go with Diana’s idea but wouldn’t you know it I was approached by a man raising funds for a charity and standing in front of me was the person I was looking for. After explaining my situation, the gentleman agreed to the picture and the flash theme took place. But let me assure you that the man in the picture was in ‘character’. Once you see it, you will understand. Feeling delighted with myself, I headed back to meet Diana.  Once I told her what happened she beamed a wondrous smile.

Theme 11: Nickel and dime. We headed back to the streets and by this time, up the hill and down the hill, the amount of walking was starting to show/feel it in our feet and bodies. It wasn’t called a Marathon for nothing. I felt that we were on the ‘Amazing race’ and only two more themes remained.  We were everywhere in such a short time and no luck. At the final hour, we had another idea and the hostel that we approached was more than accommodating. We were still in the race. We rushed back to Blenz for the final theme.

Theme 12: Panhandle. This was tough as I wanted something creative rather than the obvious. It all of a sudden came to me. Take a picture of handles of pans. We went to the hot dog stands as usually they have a pan that gets used for the onions but the two that we checked out were so busy and tightly closed in.  Diana thought of Salvation Army Christmas volunteers and their donation ball (a different and unexpected version of panhandling), but I objected. We rushed to restaurants nearby but at this time, it was their rush hour. We had less than 30 minutes now and I did not want to be disqualified. The one gentleman who drew a picture of us for funds did not want his picture taken so after a donation, we moved on. I took the obvious picture of Emma, a literal panhandler, and I am proud of it.  After the picture was taken, a friend of hers wanted to borrow $3 from her donation cap, but I had already taken the picture and only had less than 14minutes to get back to Blenz.  I only wished that I could have taken a picture of me ‘panhandling’ all day. As we rushed back to headquarters, we realized that we did not have to go as far as there were so many restaurants nearby. For that matter, we could have gone home and taken a picture of my pan handles and returned in no time.  Oh well, it was all part of the experience. As we headed back, we selected the Canada Line so we would not be disqualified.

After rewinding the film, I could not tell if it did since there was not a lot of resistance that I could feel. So I headed to the bathroom for darkness so I could open the camera without risking exposing the film too badly. By this time, our feet felt like they were two larger sizes. We were still smiling and wanted to meet at the Yaletown Brewing Co. Pub afterwards but after this marathon, these two ladies were done. We headed back home and we both massaged each other’s feet and legs, and then crashed on the sofa, all the while “It’s a Wonderful Life” played on tv.

Eli and Diana

What can I say about the experience? I was pleasantly surprised that my sister and I worked so well together and our creative ideas were amazing. I just hope that the photographs captured the ideas. Heck, I’ll be just as happy that they are in focus. The weather could not have been better! I am already designing a frame for the pictures in my head so I can display them with pride. Yes, even if they are bad. We were not expecting the great treatment from all involved.  Blenz was a great headquarters and the staff were amazing. The 12×12 Photo Marathon committee deserve our ‘hats off’. They were no less than outstanding, Angela came around and asked us for our feedback and was approachable. The endless hours of preparations, website designing, email reminders, getting sponsors, etc… is invaluable and I am sure, it was all done on their spare time. We were surprised to receive a gift card from Blenz, a bag from London Drugs, a 25% off coupon for Opus Framing, a free day pass to the Vancouver Lookout, etc… and all the door prizes. I would have been fine to even meet at someone’s driveway, let alone being offered things to entice me. As Angela put it in her email, “The one and only goal from the start was to bring people from different communities together for a social day of artistic fun and we hope we’ve been able to achieve that with the 12×12 Vancouver Photo Marathon. We loved meeting each and every one of you and hope that you’ve created lasting friendships and have shared a spark of creativity with your fellow marathoners”  sums up the experience.  We realize that the initial entry cost does not cover much, the experience is priceless and I am thrilled to hear that this event will be on next year and possibly more than once. We are looking forward to the grand exhibit in January 2010.  And happy to report that next year my sister will also be entering the marathon and I hope to too unless she needs me as her caddy (‘bitch’) for the day!

Entry from Diana:
I think sis summed it up (in five pages ;o ) reasonably well.  Hope to see you all next year and yeah I think sis can take that ‘bitch’ title next year.  Love to all and THANK YOU to the Organizing Committee and Sponsors – You Rock Hard!  Much appreciated.

To view Eli’s photo set, click here.

Thank you Eli & Diana, for taking the time to write to us about your experience and unique perspective in such great detail. We look forward to seeing you and everyone else at the grand showcase on Saturday January 16th, 2010, the details of which will be in a press release going out later this week. Don’t forget to mark your calendars!

To everyone else that took part, if you’d like to share your own stories with us, leave us a comment below!