CONTENTS
ECCENTRIC EDITORIALS
FALL OF THE FUTURE
08
46
18
KEPT FROZEN COVER STORY
94 WINTER WONDERS
EDITOR’S NOTE
This issue will require you to take your time, be conscious, and absorb the content presented in front of you. It only takes a moment for everything to change. Change isn’t always bad, but it’s most definitely inevitable. Allow change to shift your perspective and dive into the journey behind the impact of art. With over 100 pages filled with vibrant and inspiring visuals this seasonal issue will shift mindsets indefinitely.
Mike Fox - Founder & Editor In Chief
NOBODY ACHEIVES A DREAM WITHOUT TRYING.
FALL OF THE FUTURE
FALL BACK TO SPRING FORWARD.
T
he misery that is summer has finally come to an end, fall has arrived, and even though most of the world is gritting its teeth through the tail end of a heat wave, you know that cooler days are rapidly approaching. Fall is the best season of the year, mainly because it makes you a better person. That is a fact. summer is great, for about a minute. Does anyone enjoy being sweaty for three months straight?
It’s certainly better than winter, but much like the snow during the cold months, the heat becomes too extreme for too many days in a row. Autumn, on the other hand, is much more relaxed. And because the season is much shorter, just like spring, it’s magical in the way it shifts everyone’s mood into a euphoric state of happiness. Fall is a new beginning to changing everything. Flip the page for all the reasons you will be your best self this fall and winter.
TRUSTING DIGITAL
The best camera is out there and reading this will help you find it.
CAMERA REVIEWS
Additionally, these digital camera reviews are usually actual first-hand experiences with the product itself and not just some advertising agent asked to come up with flowery words to capture you and your wallet.
The best digital camera reviews available are those found in specialty magazines such as computer-based and technical magazines, special websites catering to technology and unofficial digital camera reviews. These digital camera reviews are more often truthful.
After doing so, then you can write your own digital camera review or reviews, depending on how many things you’ve learned from your digital camera. Be sure to indicate that your review is an onhand experience with the product and not just some wild guess. The most honest digital camera reviews are the best reviews you can look for and trust.
These reviewers and critics are never afraid to list down the good as much as the bad points of digital cameras. Such digital camera reviews usually point out the difference between the products that a certain manufacturer has released and how it is worse or better than the previous one. Reviewers and critics are also knowledgeable in their craft, so its safe to say that they know what they are talking about when it comes to digital camera reviews.
Digital camera reviews are abundant not just online but also in the newspapers, magazines and even TV shows. We often wonder why most digital camera reviews always praise all the digital camera out in the market, that’s why we end up getting confused on which product to buy.
Here’s one thing, always know that each camera has it’s own capabilities that will work best for you. It’s up to YOU to identify what direction you’d like to take with your photography style. Never trust regarding digital camera reviews – never trust press releases or reviews that are directly from the manufacturer or advertising office that is directly connected with the producer of the digital camera.
Remember, you can always call customer center or return your digital camera if they don’t live up to their claims. These digital camera reviews are never too truthful, or they just give out the good points about their products. Press releases or digital camera reviews from the manufacturer are often half-truths. Press releases are press releases, meaning that they are aimed to get people to buy the product or to give the product a better name. The best digital camera reviews available are those found in specialty magazines such as computer-based and technical magazines, special websites catering to technology and unofficial digital camera reviews. These digital camera reviews are more often truthful.
TIPS TO MAKE
These tips address setting ISO, finding the sharpest F-Stop, when to use cH mode, lighting and more!
PHOTOS POP
These are the tips less experienced photographers want so they can spend more time framing the scene. 1.Shoot on RAW so your image is not compressed and you have as much information as possible to work with in post. To counter high dynamic range causing lowered contrast from RAW, be sure to darken blacks and increase saturation or vibrance in post. 2. Always shoot around 100 ISO to greatly increase the quality of your images. You can retain better image quality by shooting with a lower ISO and brightening in post, as opposed to initially shooting with a higher ISO. 3. A tripod will enable you to lower the ISO, even in darker situations. Reduce camera shake by setting your camera on a 3-second timer or by using a remote shutter. Use any light leak covering features on your camera, such as the viewfinder cover or lens shade, and be cautious of your own movements during longer exposures. Even a slight ground shake can affect the image.
4. Shooting a panoramic then stitching or photo-merging can create very clear eye-popping images. Play with the photo merge feature in Photoshop or Lightroom to create one very high-quality image from a few smaller photos. 5. Aim to evenly and smoothly light your subject, and use a kicker or rim light to really help define a portrait. Avoid flat light, which can dull images and make them appear unclear and uninteresting. Follow the light! 6. Find the sharpest F-stop for your camera/lens Find the sharpest F-stop by searching your exact lens by Googling, “sharpest aperture for sigma 18-55mm 1.8.� Check out hyperfocal calculators to really maximize the effectiveness of your F-stop. Some good tools include HyperFocal Pro for Android, Hyperfocal Calc for IOS and PhotoPills online.
8. Check out the background, create foreground. Colors and shapes in the background can distract from the main subject, even if they are out of focus, so place them mindfully. Create depth by keeping a subject in the foreground. This can add some beautiful dimension to an image.
7. Use “cH” or Continuous High shooting mode when going handheld. If shooting handheld with a shutter lower than 1/50th of a second, using “cH” (or Continuous High) will give your more options to find the clearest image. Delete blurry images right away to avoid tedious Lightroom skimming later on. CH is especially helpful when shooting portraits, giving you slight variations of expression. This is especially helpful when working with subjects who may be camera shy.
9. Keep your sensor and lens filters clean. Clean equipment results in clean photos. Sometimes when your sensor gets dirty, it may alter your photos with smudges or dust marks.
10. Brush up on your editing skills Use the highlights, shadows, whites, and darks sliders instead of contrast for better control. Learn to denoise and sharpen your images. Use the brush tool to darken and saturate blown out skies to help balance landscapes. Don’t get carried away.
No Permission Photographer: Christina Mia Model: Yueyao Li Hair: Suzy Balderas Styling + Makeup: Aryanna Martin
LIVING
Isn’t it easier to just stay home? If that’s how you’ve been talking yourself out of moving overseas, then you’re not alone. Every wanderlust has at some point, been haunted by this very thought.
OVERSEAS
Of course, it’s no mean feat to insert yourself into a whole new life overseas. You have plans to make, procedures to follow, and unchartered waters to brave. By giving up and staying home, you’d be denying yourself the chance to: •Live a richer lifestyle (often for less than the budget you live on at home)… •Choose your ideal climate (leave behind snow forever, enjoy warm temperatures year-round, or experience four distinct seasons)… •Finally have the time to focus on the things you love to do (even if you’re not ready to retire, you could fund your new life by working just a few hours a day… leaving plenty of time to enjoy the good life)… Moving overseas is also a chance for a new adventure. Suddenly before you is the opportunity to learn a new language and make new friends… to try unfamiliar cuisine and get used to a new pace of life and new customs… Often, breaking free from the old familiar is a chance to follow a healthier lifestyle, too. Free from the 9-5 grind of U.S. life, you’ll find you have more opportunity to explore the outdoors, connect with nature, and experience the beauty of your new country. You may find you can walk everywhere you need to be and ditch the car for good. If all this isn’t enough to convince you to move forward with your search today, then consider this: Right now, due to a strong U.S. dollar, the cost of living (and of acquiring property)—both in Latin American and European markets is considerably lower than it was a decade ago. In other words, your budget will buy you a lifestyle overseas that is far better than what you could afford in the United States. Now, while a holiday anywhere in the world is doable, with a positive mindset and the right help at hand, some countries are easier than others…
Mainland Belize has a lush vegetation of rainforests, jungles as well as mountains and grassy plains. The cost of living here is very low, especially by Caribbean standards. Belize is the quintessential Caribbean and home to warm, welcoming locals.
Panama offers something for everyone. The U.S. presence here dates back to the building of the Panama Canal, the legacy of which is the main reason for Panama’s continued economic success. If the heat and humidity of the city are too much for you, areas such as Chiriquí provide an attractive, cooler option. On a mission to become the Singapore of Latin America, Panama is currently experiencing a rapid expansion and many of the world’s biggest multinational companies are now based here.
The calm and clear waters of the Dominican Republic offer an easy escape…With a tropical climate and average temperatures of 25 degrees Celsius, the Dominican Republic makes an attractive destination and an excellent place to catch some winter sun.
In Mexico, colonial architecture and beach bungalows make everyone feel at home… “Closer-than-ever” Mexico is the #1 expat destination for Americans, and it’s easy to see why… The climate is superb with hot summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunshine. Parts of Mexico can be fiercely hot, while others like Lake Chapala and Cuernavaca offer a more temperate climate.
In the mountainous areas of the Dominican Republic, you can experience minus temperatures something most people don’t equate with the Caribbean. What this does give you is a variety. If you’re someone who doesn’t like the hot temperatures for too long, you can retreat to a higher altitude and cooler climates.
CHOOSING A
When choosing what to do and where to go for your holiday you have to remember the importance of having a great experience.
HOLIDAY
Zipolite, Mexico Mexico has so much going for it, but you may never ever have heard of this stunning, low-key beach resort on the coast of Mexico. Zipolite is one of the most unusual holiday destination and the perfect place to escape the chaos of Cancun.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Alberobello, Italy
Okay, so this one might be a little more well-known than the others, but you’re coming here to see Angkor Wat. This is a different holiday experience from what you may be used to, but no less fulfilling.
This small, 14th Century town in the city of Bari is the most gorgeous Italian commune you’ve never heard of! With just over 10,000 inhabitants, the town is best-known for its iconic trullo buildings. These unforgettable buildings have been a UNESCO World Heritage site since the mid-1990s, and really add a quaint, unique personality to the town.
Angkor Wat is officially the largest religious monument in the world and the enduring beacon of the Khmer Empire. This is one of those must-see travel destinations you won’t be forgetting in a hurry!
Mont St. Michel, France France is a stunning nation because it has the perfect balance of rural and urban locations. Mont St. Michel is a stunning tidal island commune located just off the coast of Normandy. Kissing the mouth of the River Couesnon, Mont St. Michel is home to a charming Gothic abbey, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
There are so many fantastic reasons why you need to take a holiday, but it is important that you choose something fulfilling and unforgettable. Unlocking the magic of the Bahamas is amazing, but you’ll have a lot of tourists to contend with. What you want are the more unique and unusual places; destinations where you can really experience something new and enthralling, and you can have an experience you’ll never forget. Each of destination has something fresh and exciting to experience, and they will all leave a lasting mark on you as an individual.
Sichuan, China Sihuan is a lesser-known province in the southwest of the country and situated in the Tibetan Plateau. This is a place of stunning visual beauty and the perfect combination of city and countryside life. You should head to province capital, Chengdu, for a spot of sightseeing and city life. But, one of the biggest draws of Sichuan is Leshan, city of the famed Giant Buddha. Qacha’s Nek, Lesotho Lesotho is a fascinating country in the south of Africa, and a place so many people rarely take the time to visit. Known as the Kingdom of the Sky, Lesotho has the highest low point of any country on Earth - 4,953 feet above sea level! There are plenty of great attractions here, such as the gorgeous Maletsunyane Falls waterfall. But, the real treat is in the Qacha’s Nek District of the country, where you get to enjoy the beauty and grandeur of Sehlabathebe National Park.
Blue Boo
Photographers: Bob Gao | Ernest Tham | Kin Vong Models: Oceann Hai | Katherine Pegova Makeup Artist: Aura Production Company: Bokeh Media Creative Studio Producer: Oceann Hai
DIY MUSICIANS
Why a music-based life can be pitch-perfect.
HOLD POWER
Sometimes it can feel like your path as a DIY musician is paved with obstacles. It’s a lot of pressure, budget, and responsibility for just one set of people to handle, and having a label to help you out (especially with the budget side) can feel incredibly refreshing. While it’s true that having a team to help you out when it comes to things like press or booking tours is something you’ll want to eventually budget for, there’s also a lot of power to be had by being a DIY musician. Now, this isn’t to say that being on a label might not be a logical next step rather, it doesn’t have to be a make-itor-break-it kind of thing when it comes to your career.
When you’re on a label, you have someone to answer to. While sometimes that can be a good thing, it can also be really restrictive, especially if you’re a musician that’s used to trying things a little outside the box, experimenting a lot, or doing things on a whim. One of the greatest powers that you hold as a DIY musician is to be the sole decision maker and have the final say when it comes to everything from what kind of music you make, what tour dates you go on, the design of your T-shirts, and your branding. If it seems like having someone to guide you on those things would be helpful, then consider hiring experts in the areas you struggle with. There’s a big difference between working with a team of promoters, publicists, and managers vs a label that owns part of everything you do. So, enjoy your freedom as a DIY artist! You wouldn’t believe how many signed artists list all the rules and lack of freedom as one of the main things they miss after signing.
Another major pro is that you keep the rights to your music, and you also keep the cash. This means no bad deals, no compromising your vision, and no major loss of cash. Pretty good, right?
When you’re a DIY artist, you’re more accessible, which means you can hang out after a show and meet fans, or spend an hour or two a day on social media talking to them. As a DIY artist, your fans are your family and that’s one of the most powerful and inspiring gifts that comes with being DIY.
One of the most valuable things that DIY artists can take away from the process is all the knowledge they’ll acquire simply by doing. It may not seem like it now, but by booking those tours yourself, learning how to write a strong pitch email, or figuring out how to put together the perfect show lineup, you’re setting yourself up for immense success when and if you ever do decide to sign to a label. Usually, when you’re signed to a label, your team is already picked out for you. When you’re in charge of your career, it means you also get to choose who you do and don’t work with. You can take calls with multiple publicists until you find one that you feel really gets you, and then move forward. You can choose to book a show with a lineup that doesn’t totally make sense on paper, but that you know will put on a dope show in the end.
QUALITIES NEEDED
Want to know how to become a successful musician in the music business? First,take in the conventional wisdom told by those who have at least been somewhat successful in the music industry.
IN MUSIC BUSINESS
No matter if you are working as an independent musician or together with a music company, you will greatly benefit by knowing how to negotiate, book shows, build a following of fans, put together a tour, communicate effectively, think of profitable business ideas and much more.
Of course, it is obvious that you will need to work hard to build a successful music career. However, most musicians do not understand what ‘kind’ of working mentality is required to truly ‘make it. The type of dedication needed requires more than just working a lot on your career. To develop the right work ethic mindset, work to clearly understand your long-term music career goals and find a mentor who will help you determine the steps you must take to reach them.
The majority of musicians are always looking out for themselves without thinking about the effect their actions have on others. Of course, you will need to get your own needs met, but you do not need to do so while bringing others down at the same time.
Music companies, musicians, promoters, managers and other music industry types will all act as your business partners at one point or another in your music career. These people will all invest their time, energy and resources into you and because of this, they will expect your loyalty (as you will likewise expect it from them). Musicians who are not loyal are frequently banned from future business ventures and music career opportunities.
Musicians who become the most successful and gain access to the greatest opportunities in this business are always getting what they want while ALSO finding a way to help the people they work with do the same. In nearly all scenarios, you can find a way to create a great outcome for everyone involved. To do this, you will need to think from a totally different perspective than most musicians (and people in general).
It’s a fact that most musicians who try to succeed in the music business will actually fail... but YOU do not need to be one of them! On the other hand, musicians who build and sustain successful music careers utilize an entirely different set of skills, thought processes and values that help them achieve music business success. These things are not music business secrets that are only available to rock stars and music industry executives anyone can learn and utilize them (this includes you). Throughout the rest of this article, I will discuss these various qualities and help you understand how you can use them to benefit your personal music career. Learning to play your instrument at a professional’ level isn’t included in the list below. Why? Because it is a ‘given’ that you must be working towards that goal already every day. In addition, your musical abilities (on their own) will not be enough to guarantee your success in the music business. Fact is, there are countless musicians who can play extremely well, but nevertheless do not build a successful music career... so it is clear that musical talent alone can only take you so far. Most of the qualities have to do with the way you ‘think’ rather than the specific actions you take. It is rare to find someone who has the right mindset that contains all of these qualities. However, you can get ‘trained’ to develop a success-oriented mindset and thus massively increase your chances of making it in the music industry. If you do not have a perfect vision of where you want to go in the music business, it will be very difficult not to become torn in different directions that take you far away from your original goals. The musicians who become successful in the music business are always focusing to align their actions up with the end goals they desire most. This gives them the ability to judge what is best for their music career and make the right choice whenever a potential opportunity comes their way. By doing this, they are able to achieve their goals quickly and effectively.
Passion Meets Creativity Photographer: Ricky Knowles Models: Manou Savannah Hish Jordyn Chessmore Grace Honnah Brandon Jawato
With over 65 attendees at Unita Club in El Segundo, PortraitMeet exceeded expectations with a vibe that presented more than just shooting portraits but, an artistic opportunity with a talented creative community.
Curious as to what an urban street photography style looks like? We have you covered. 01 Aways thinking of new and creative ideas to photograph, DeAndre Holland is never sitting still. Majoring in graphic design in college, but late 2012 is when he found a passion for photography. While still doing graphic design, photography always enables a new environment every time he steps out the front door.
02 This cover story touches on the sharp focus photographer DeAndre Holland, but most widely known as Kept Frozen, based out of Nashville, Tennessee. DeAndre specializes in night photography, long exposure, light trails, cityscapes, portraits, footwear, and much more.
NEVER NOT WORKING.
KEPT FROZEN Dive more into the art of urban photography with DeAndre Holland. How would you describe your photography style? Dark + moody and urban; pretty much sums up my personality.
What time of day do your prefer to shoot, night or day? Still till this day, this time of day has always been my go to... Night time! I love to be challenged by my surroundings. Plus night time allows me to keep my photography style without having to substitute anything.
What/who inspires you the most? Have they changed overtime? Who inspires me the most really is Trashhand; I’ve always been a fan of his work but most importantly his hustle. I saw him in Chicago back in 2015 shooting work for Jordan Brand out at 6am, and I was amazed to see him in person and in action doing what he says he does. Also, my best homie Zach Boisjoly told me he needed a scout for Nashville, and Trash picked me. So I had shot with him for three days and I can definitely say that guy is a hustler! I owe a lot to my my boy Zach too, he made it happen.
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you? Something that people would be surprised to learn from me is that I prefer Chicago pizza over NY pizza (laughs). Being a New York lover, the thin slice doesn’t get me, but Chicago deep dish just hits! Also, I’m lactose intolerant (laughs), so I go through torture to eat that stuff.
What are you trying to translate in your work to those who see your photographs? I’m trying to show people that photographs aren’t always gilts and glamour; no one is always happy. Hell, given how the society is suicide is sky rocketing in our country, and with my art, I want to show the grunginess. I wanna’ show people that when the sun goes down, you enter into a whole different world.
In 2018, how much does social media impact the quality of work for a photographer? Social media is a big impact for photographers who are looking for work. It’s where brands look to find talent to boost their business, but given how Instagram is always changing and seeing people activity on the app drop. Instagram deleting photographers’ posts, and the constant ads, I feel that the Instagram “Social Media Influencer” age is dying. Nowadays with Youtube, that seems to be the market to get into now.
What subject or person have you yet to photograph that you have always wanted to photograph? Oh man, man I want to photograph Nature so bad! I would want to travel overseas somewhere in Europe or China to get a feel for it. Since I’m moving to NYC, I might not be able to (laughs).
“IF YOU ONLY DO SHOOTS FOR MONEY THEN YOU’LL NEVER GROW.” You’ve worked with many brands and people, are you at the point where you want to be? If not, when do you think you’ll reach that point? Nah I’m not there yet; Yeah I was fortunate enough to do work for big companies, but I want to be over a campaign oppose to just making content for one thing then move on to the next. I would want the peak of my career to be shooting a campaign, working heavily with another artist, creating content for them, or traveling the world and producing content constantly for a brand or company.
If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why? The one lens I would pick would be Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 L II; I always talked crap about zoom lens, but that lens blew my mind. Plus, I like to be versatile when I’m out in the field. I don’t like carrying equipment. Just want my camera and that’s it.
What’s been your favorite moment while doing photography? My favorite moment while doing photography is being out in the field mostly. If I’m out during the day, in the city, I just put my headphones in, and do my thing. That right there is therapeutic to me.
“ I will travel anywhere and everywhere to get the shot I want.�
Skywalker
Photographer: Julius July Designer: Sharufa Walker for Jinaki Model: Boshia Rae-jean Makeup: Rashida Bishop Jewelry: Lingua Nigra Hijab Wraps: Voile Chic
People know Julius for his vision, hats, beard, knowledge, & sense of style. He’s also known for very colorful photographs and spending time both behind & in front of the camera.
DRESS TO IMPRESS
In the past few years, sportswear and casual clothing have become a top news story in the world of high fashion.
LEADS TO SUCCESS
Along with other massive tech brands founded in the same decade, such as Apple and Microsoft, Virgin leads a trend for some of the wealthiest companies in the world who encourage a more casual workplace as opposed to the traditionally formal one.
Over the years, poker players have also made a fashion statement, often influencing the rest of us. From shirts and Stetsons to jeans and hoodies, the poker world has gradually distanced itself from more formal attire in favor of something comfier and more casual. Despite the large sums of money at stake and the tense, highpowered atmosphere that they work in, players prefer to keep their mode of dress laidback and relaxed.
Of course, both industries have undergone enormous upheaval since the advent of the internet. There is much less call for a person to be dressed to impress if they spend most of their working day sat in front of a screen. It’s unsurprising that a more carefree attitude toward appearance has leaked through into real-life scenarios.
When Beyoncé’s Ivy Park range launched through Topshop in 2016, it was close to selling out in a matter of minutes just because it was backed by the singer, and Jamie xx even included an homage to 90s era sportswear labels in his track “All Under One Roof Raving.”
The sportswear craze looks like it’s here to stay, and the fashion world seems ready to embrace it. In February, London Fashion Week saw Fendi paying homage to sports label Fila’s iconic brand logo, Tom Ford debuting sequined American football jerseys emblazoned with his name and Peter Pilotto sending 90s-style puffer jackets down the catwalk. Models and influencers are often snapped wearing tracksuit bottoms, trainers, sweatshirts and bomber jackets as both every day and formal-wear, as we see more celebrities feature in ad campaigns for top sportswear companies like PUMA and Adidas.
Stilettos, shoulder pads and suits are no longer the chosen uniform of business high flyers and entrepreneurs. In fact, you’re more likely to see Kylie Jenner at a business meeting wearing Lycra shorts and a bum bag, and her beauty company is on track to earn her $1 billion by 2022. Whichever way you look at it, the most visibly successful people in our society are now wearing clothing more suited to the racetrack, skate park or tennis courts than to the boardroom or a dinner party. This shift has occurred organically over the years and is due to high profile, influential figures relaxing the rules around clothing in their own fields. This, in turn, has created an opportunity for the rest of us as a transformation occurs around the archetypal image of success.
WOMEN’S HAND
It’s more than an accessory. It’s your signature.
BAG TRENDS
Bags can either make or break an outfit. Internalizing this fact necessitates careful selection in picking the bag to suit your style; it’s time to look for something fresh that will complete your look. To make your whole year fashionably perfect, get to know the emerging trends of handbags and purses for this year: Pocket Handbag With life comes accessories: wallet, coin purse, key chain, mobile phone, planners, and makeup. A pocket handbag or small backpack is the perfect way to spread a little style into organization. With lots of pockets in it, all your small things have a space without giving you the hardship of looking for them inside your bag.
Remember that a handbag is a big part of one’s outfit. It should fit your body type. Being in the trend is a plus but check if it’s right for you. Don’t be shy to try on these handbags at the store. Check if it looks good on you and if it feels comfortable wearing it. If not, don’t hesitate to try another one. Do not forget that bags can actually flatter your looks as much as a pair of jeans does - turning heads and stopping cars. So get out there and light up the streets with your style!
Oversized Bags Nothing beats a bag that carries everything you need. It is perfect for those who love to work and those who are always on the go. Put some pieces of your shirt, towel, personal hygiene necessities, cosmetics and even one extra pair of shoes and conquer the day.
Clutch Handbag
Patent Handbag
It’s the hottest shape of the year. Grab one for your own. With this vintage and retro-looking handbag, you will definitely sport a flair for an antique style. A clutch handbag is perfect for women on the go.
It’s a chic handbag for everyday use. Whether you would like to go to a formal meeting or spend a night out with your friends, this patent handbag goes perfectly with any occasion; smooth or funk.
Mini Handbag Now is the time to go mini. Small means simple, neat, and classy. Get the basics, put them inside your mini handbag and you are ready to go!
Shard Photographer: Lewis Grainger Wardrobe Stylist: Atasha Brown Female Model: Deshaun Prince
Artist and designer in Jamaica by the name of Atasha Brown created this piece initially as an art installation. The dress itself is beyond description, each shard of mirror tinkles with every movement. This makes the shoot feel unreal, like tiptoeing into someone’s dreams rather than a cramped studio space in Kingston. The images have been given some special treatment as well, since some raw materials can be difficult to obtain here the normal process of film cross-processing can be difficult as such the effects seen have all been created digitally instead. Jamaica is a cultural and art centre for the Caribbean and the people working, performing and creating here are amazing eyond words. It all feels like a dream.
EXTRAORDINARY
Turns out you don’t need to be a committed carnivore to be tough.
BREAKFAST
As automation and technology starts to come into our lives further, the deskbound lifestyle will become more common. We can’t all head off to become a surfing instructor in Bali, but in saying that, we can learn from the careers where food and exercise are key parts of the routine; where what you eat is as important as what you do. We’ve explored the inspiring, the wacky and the truly extraordinary to bring you food ideas you can start putting into your fridge freezer this evening. Mixed Martial Artists Greens first and foremost In a sport where physicality is front and center, you’d expect fighters to be committed carnivores. But when “making weight” can impact whether you earn a living, many mixed martial artists steer clear of meat altogether. Some fighters that do indulge their carnivorous side – such as Irish superstar Conor McGregor eats good lean chicken, salmon and only steak on rare occasions.
Astronauts Before a mission, astronauts sit down to try the food, rating the dishes on a 1-9 scale. The most popular food of all is shrimp cocktail. An entire industry is racing to make space grub exciting. The problem is that you’ve got to make it last. Propelled hundreds of miles above Earth into the inky blackness of space for weeks, months or even years at a time, isolation and loneliness are very real realities for astronauts. Ironically, in this extreme and inhospitable environment, the biggest problem is often boredom. An entire industry is racing to make space grub exciting. The problem is that you’ve got to make it last. The answer is to cook the food on the big blue planet we call home, freeze it and then dehydrate it in a vacuum chamber. The water is taken out of the produce, and the produce is placed in a space-ready package.
Regular Snacking There’s the army. And then there’s the SAS. Only active soldiers are eligible to even give it a shot and to make it in, you have to endure six months of grueling training designed to expose the smallest kink in your physical or mental make-up
Temptation Is Everywhere
A Breakfast Of Champions
A day job where you sit down to a dish of carefully-prepared food, knife, and fork at the ready, serviette tucked into the neck of your shirt?
Sherpas live in Solukhumbu in Nepal and count Mount Everest as their stomping ground. With their intimate knowledge of this harsh terrain, they act as guides/ helpers for the myriad visitors who attempt to climb the world’s most famous mountain.
Being a food critic can hardly be the toughest job in the world, can it? But like all careers, it has its hazards, and temptation is the biggest of all. Eat Clean, Eat Right For a long time, runners have been told to load up on carbs before a race, increasing glycogen stores that can be accessed by the body when energy levels begin to flag.
COOKING LIFTS
It’s no secret that cooking healthy food provides benefits to our bodies, but there’s also evidence that the act of preparing meals can benefit our minds as well.
MENTAL STATE
Relieves Stress Cooking can clear the head and relax the body. Family therapist Lisa Bahar told Psychology Today that a mindfulness on the moment kitchen tasks such as chopping and stirring makes the act of cooking meditative.
Gives Joy
Makes You More Creative
It’s easy to dismiss cooking as just another household chore, but you may derive joy from cooking that you don’t get from mundane tasks.
Part of the fun of cooking is thinking outside the box. “Cooking should be considered an art, and with new ingredients, you can explore new areas of cooking and surprise your family with a meal that they will have never seen coming
Provides Better Brain Health The clearest link between cooking and mental health is good nutrition; numerous studies have found compounds like antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals found naturally in food can help protect your brain.
However you cook, do it with real peace and genuine happiness for yourself in mind. You’re giving to others; now give some of this to yourself. Mental health experts credit cooking with helping to relieve depression, anxiety, eating disorders and other conditions. As various forms of meditation have become in vogue as ways to relax in our busy world, cooking is joining that genre, according to health professionals, working adults and people who cook for a living. Cooking can lift you to a meditative place you often don’t get in the outside world. It starts with the environment you create in your kitchen. It’s easier to control the quality of your diet when you prepare much of the food yourself.
The clearest link between cooking and mental health is good nutrition; numerous studies have found compounds like antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals found naturally in food can help protect your brain. Combining cooking with music provides the optimal environment to experience the many benefits of meditation. When you’re enjoying working in the kitchen and listening to your favorite music, all of a sudden you’re not just cooking, it’s like you’re flying with your feet on the ground. Cooking has all the ingredients of good vibrations
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ILHAM Photographer: Antonio Paradiso Model: Ilham Mbarki
BRAIN EXERCISE
Study suggests how brain exercise gains transfer to daily life.
FOR DAILY LIFE
Researchers have now uncovered a neural mechanism to explain how a computerized exercise drives benefits in a closely-related tasks and activities. The exercise is known in the scientific literature, variously as “speed of processing” training, “divided attention” training, and “UFOV®” training. In prior studies, the speed of processing training has been shown to improve performance at standard measures of cognition, and also has been shown to transfer to better performance at realworld activities, including measures of mood, confidence, balance, gait, driving, health-related quality of life, predicted medical expenses, and maintaining the ability to live independently. The newly-published study randomized 34 older adults into three groups: a group that trained for a total of 10 hours (across five weeks) on the speed of processing exercise; a group that trained on the same schedule on cognitively stimulating activities targeting higher level reasoning, recall, and executive function; and a no-contact control group that simply was measured at the same time as the other two groups.
The researchers, from The Pennsylvania State University and The University of Alabama at Birmingham, used a standard neuropsychological assessment and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) to evaluate the impact of the unique exercise on brain structure and operations. Comparing brain activation before and after training showed that the speed of processing group significantly reduced the amount of brain activation required to perform the selective attention task in six of the eight regions of interest. By focusing on this unique training, which has repeatedly shown transfer to everyday activities, this study contributes to our understanding of why it does so. Taken together with other studies, we now know that this type of plasticity based perceptual training drives structural changes in the brain, that help to explain why this type of training not only improves performance at the task trained but also more generalized performance in daily life.
The cognitively stimulating activities group showed reduced activity in one region, and the no-contact control group in none. In some brain regions thought to be important for higher-order cognitive function, the speed of processing group showed bigger decreases in activation than either of the other groups.
Brain activation of participants was measured as they performed a selective attention task in the fMRI scanner, and brain connectivity was measured using resting state functional neuroimaging.
The fMRI brain activation analysis allowed the researchers to identify which parts of the brain were engaged in the selective attention task. They identified eight regions of interest.
The researchers found that the speed of processing group showed significant improvements in cognitive function as measured with the UFOV Test, as compared to both the cognitively stimulating activities and the no-contact control groups.
FITNESS
Those looking to get and stay fit look no further than your smartphone, desktop computer, or wrist.
TECHNOLOGY
The many apps, wearables, and online fitness programs that are available today are helping to motivate people to get off the couch and start getting physical. Coach Sarah Walls, personal trainer, and owner of SAPT Strength & Performance Training, Inc., who is also the strength and conditioning coach for the WNBA’s Washington Mystics developed her own fitness app that allows her to provide clients with customized training plans, videos, and more, offers these 9 things to know about fitness apps/tools: •Apps have come a long way, now allowing individuals to get specific and customized training plans within minutes. •Individualized training plans are essential in maximizing progress and limiting injuries. •Programs such as hers allow for an individually tailored training plan at a fraction of the cost of a personal trainer. •Some training plan generators even take into account injury history and training age to give the perfect fit. No more do people have to try and rely upon generic training plans or those that are not a good fit for them.
An effective app, wearable or online program will give the ability to tailor your program to suit your needs, provide you with a variety of ways to meet your goals, and help you accurately track your progress. With all of the technology available today it’s a great time to get serious about fitness and activity goals. The key to success with exercise tools is to make sure that you are using one that can be customized to suit your needs. One size does not fit all when it comes to fitness goals. The right program will be a great tool to help you achieve success and reach your goals.
Wearable tech products like the Fitbit, Apple Watch, Polar, and Garmin are allowing everyday exercisers to have a dashboard to their body at an incredibly affordable price.
If properly interpreted, heart rate monitors and apps that track sleep can show possible signs of an individual who may be getting sick or is at risk of overtraining.
The best training plan is one that the trainee will actually do. Training plans that are a good fit are more likely to be completed.
There are great products that help individuals fine-tune their training to what their bodies need that day - this can prevent overtraining and injuries.
The Experience Photographer: Cesar Sanchez Model: Jordyn Chessmore
WINTER WONDERS Rooted in first-hand expertise and intimate knowledge, Naya Traveler crafts highly personalized itineraries to culturally rich destinations steeped in tradition and ancient culture.
Naya Traveler currently offers curated trips to 11 destinations: Antarctica Argentina Brazil Cambodia Ethiopia India Kashmir Morocco Myanmar Oman Peru All destinations have the option to extend the trip to complementing countries such as Chile, South Africa, Ecuador (Galapagos), Colombia, Spain, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and the Maldives. Coming soon: Iran Mongolia Bhutan Guatemala
Not only have their physical activity efforts decreased, but their calorie consumption has usually risen. Rather than curl up on the couch with a blanket and the television remote, there are many good health benefits to staying active all season long. With winter creeping up on us, it means shorter daylight time and colder temperatures. For many people, it will also be a time of the year when their physical activity efforts dip. People often reduce the amount of time they spend being physically active over the winter, usually due in part to it being so cold outside. Add to that the lack of motivation that people have during the darker, colder months, and it’s a recipe for disaster. The good news is that there are plenty things people can do to help stay motivated to keep moving all winter long. You won’t have to go out in the cold air, rather you can get the motivation and guidance you need in a setting that is comfortable for you, and during a time frame that works best for you. There is nothing to gain from not adhering to a workout plan all winter long, except for weight. Actively look for ways to keep yourself motivated and pushing on, you will be more successful at it, and you will emerge next spring feeling amazing. Most importantly, have a fallback plan. Do you need to call a friend to remind you how much you love working out? Do you have a secondary workout to do in front of the TV at home? Having a plan B is a good idea, because you will automatically revert to it, rather than coming up with an excuse.
STAYING FIT DURING WINTER Find A Workout Partner Who no-shows on their workout partner? Not many people, and if they do, a good partner won’t let them hear the end of it. If you’re worried about missing an appointment with yourself, get a workout partner and set up a schedule.
Try something new The winter is a great time to try out a new class. Gyms are always coming up with something new and different, and this might be just the right time to add in something you’ve never tried. Trying new activities will help you find ones that you love, and help keep things interesting.
Focus On Healthy Eating It’s easy for one holiday to flow right into the next. There are parties with alcohol and calorie-dense foods, and it may seem never-ending. When you are having fun, it can have a dramatic effect on how you are feeling
Define and Track Goals Whether it is learning to do a certain exercise, getting stronger, or improving your endurance, it’s a great idea to write down and track goals. Start with the biggest one and then break it down into weekly and daily tasks that will get you there.