If you have been reading my entries, you probably have figured out I like getting stuff for free. So today was a banner day for me. It was Spin to Win day at the CNE. Everyone was invited to spin a wheel in the Food Building and everyone won a prize. There were several prizes to win, including steam vacuums, rice cookers and electric kettles. One of the Thai restaurants passed out delicious spring rolls to those of us waiting in line. Finally, it was my time at the wheel. I won a lovely hair care gift product. As we left the wheel area we were each given a fresh Ontario peach by the Peach Princess. A free gift and free food. You have got to love that.
I got in line early to make sure I got a seat at the President’s Choice SuperDogs show. Was it ever worth the wait. It is amazing to see how fast the dogs can run through the courses. I think my favourite was a pudgy little bulldog called Pot Roast. He stole the show with his unorthodox way of getting through the course. I am afraid I don’t have photos of the dogs in action. The dogs were all so fast, they showed up as streaks in my shots.
Speaking of photography, I wanted to share some tips for shooting at the Ex.
There are a couple of spots to get good overall shots. One is the lookout tower in the Military area. The other is the top row of the FLOWRIDER seats, looking either east to the Princes’ Gate or west to the Midway, depending on which side you are on.
Night shots are my favourite, but without a tripod that can come out blurry. A bean bag place on top of a railing or planter can do in a pinch. No bean bag with you? Try a bag of peanuts.
Be careful while concentrating on your shot. Make sure you know where your camera bag or purse is while you are distracted. Make sure you are not blocking a busy walk way and at risk of being bumped or knocked over.
Always check your shot after you take it, just to make sure you got it. If you are still at the same spot you can always retake it, if it didn’t turn out.
Before shooting booths, ask the vendors if you can take a photo of their wares. Most vendors are happy to let you. Understandably, some would rather not have their original designs photographed, due to copyright issues.
Have your camera at the ready. You never know when that magic moment will come along.
