Red 5 Studios

On Monday, I got to say farewell to my Auntie Candi who passed away in her sleep at the beginning of December. She has gone home to the Lord and will be reunited with my Uncle Paul, her husband.

I arrived at the memorial service with my camera, not thinking about shooting any video but maybe taking a few shots here and there to send to my mom who is currently in the Philippines. She was close to my auntie and I know how much she would have wanted to be here to say her goodbyes.  As I looked around, I realized that no one had a video camera. Well as an event filmmaker, I thought recording the speeches and our final moments with Auntie would better serve those who could not attend. This is one of the advantages of having the Canon 5D MkII camera which shoots beautiful HD footage as well as photos. Switching between the two can be done at a moments notice. I’m glad that I changed my mind because her grandchildren gave some of the most heartfelt tributes that I have heard at a memorial service.

My auntie was much loved, was so central to our family, and will be dearly missed. It was difficult to shoot and to hold back tears and emotion. However, capturing these moments in full motion video with sound, reminded me of how important it is to record these events and why I do what I do. I recently saw a picture of my grandfather holding a super 8 film camera.  He recorded events like I do today.  Not professionally, but it seemed like he always had it with him.  In my closet, there’s a box full of film reels that he shot that I have not seen yet. But because he captured things with his camera, I will be able to see his life through his eyes. I barely knew him since he passed away when I was only 6. But in a way, I think I do know him well. He understood the importance of documenting the most special events in life: children, marriage, and even the passing of our loved ones.  I’m glad that part of him is part of me.  I guess it’s in my blood.

My grandfather, Prax Candari, and his Super 8 camera on top the Empire State Building.

To all reading this, take the time this Christmas, to be with those you love. That is the best gift you can give.  Thank you Auntie for bringing the family together to celebrate your life and the love you shared with all of us.  We will miss you.

It’s been 2 months since our little boy came into the world and it’s been quite a journey so far. Here’s some things we’ve learned as new parents.

T-Shirts are for spitting on.
Boys like to pee when they’re naked.
I now know why I have a strange fondness for vacuum cleaners.
You can never have enough baby clothes, pacifiers and burp cloths.
It is possible to sleep 2 hours at a time (though it messes you up real bad).
Grandmothers are invaluable.
Kids do grow up fast.

A year ago, we didn’t even think we’d be where we are today, holding our very own happy and healthy baby. But looking back, I believe that this was God’s plan for us and I am thankful that He gave us the time as husband and wife for those many years. For those of you reading this blog, and you’re struggling or know someone who is waiting on their blessing, know that miracles do come true.

Ours is named Jude.

Being a Star Wars fan, everyone thought I would name our son Luke. I’m a fan… I’m not crazy. I already named our dog Chewie (he’s a mutt that looks like a walking carpet) and our company name, Red 5, is Luke Skywalker’s pilot call sign in the attack on the first Death Star. We went with Jude Cameron, his first name coming from the Bible and one of my favorite Beatles songs, and his middle name was inspired by two of my favorite directors, Cameron Crowe and James Cameron.

Anyway, for Halloween, I couldn’t resist buying Jude his first Star Wars costumes. Yes, I bought him 2, a cute and cuddly Ewok costume and a Stormtrooper outfit. Guess which one he liked? Well, I guess it’s cooler being a bad guy, huh?

May the Force Be With You.

See what happens when you mess with the Zohan! Happy Birthday, Ollie!

The summer is officially over. Lots of good times. Here’s one of my favorite pics from our annual family reunion of me, my brother and cousins in front of the San Diego beach house we partied at. Check out the Super 8 film we shot.

Happy birthday, Ate Mel. We’ve missed you so much. We had cake at your birthday party… Choca Mocha Crunch. The cake was really good (I had a couple of slices) and we all had a great time.