The Mind of Nick Leonard

My new Furry Family Member.

2010-10-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

On October 22, I was downtown on East Fremont Street shooting a couple Polaroids from a camera I found in a thrift store that had 5 exposures left in it. I was testing out the cool, expired film on some of my favorite motel signs (Blue Angel, Par-A-Dice).
After shooting a shot of the Par-A-Dice motel, I looked down near the curb of the sidewalk and a construction cone to notice an innocent, tiny kitten just sitting there taking in the sun while a few people walked past every now and then.

Being the cat lover I am, I approached the lonely kitten and she jumped towards me as if she was waiting for someone to come along and pay attention to her. I always have a nice sized backpack with me when I go out shooting, so I took a few things out and quickly picked up the kitten and into my backpack she went. (Of course, I kept the zipper open at the top for air).

I quickly made my way to the bus stop in front of the Blue Angel Motel. Once on the bus, I began thinking of name ideas for this kitten. I picked "Fremont" if it was a boy, since I found the kitten on "Fremont" Street and if it was a girl (which the kitten is) I would name her "Angel" since the kitten was behind the Blue "Angel" Motel.

We finally got home and I got to work setting her up in the bathroom. Some fluffy blankets, cat toys, litter box, and most importantly- wet cat food & milk/water! Angel was very thin, probably had lived on the streets for at least a month. I have been keeping her well fed and gave her a good bath.

I'm really grateful that I came across this kitten while downtown- it makes me happy knowing there is one less stray cat on the streets.
My father recently passed away and I sort of feel like, in some what he guided me to this kitten while I was out and about. (I found her a week after his passing). My dad was a cat lover himself and had grown up around cats during his life just as I have. :-)

Lucky thrift store finds & I saved a Kitten!

2010-10-22T18:33:00.000-07:00

Wild and fun day! Went downtown to my fav. thrift shop and found a Polaroid camera w/ some expired film left in it for $2..very fun, expired film! I then checked out the records as always and found 3 Blondie records for just 75 cents each! Lucky day at the thrift store I'd say.
After that, I walked down to East Fremont to test out the expired Polaroid on some motel signage. After taking a few shots, I looked down toward the curb of the sidewalk and noticed a tiny, innocent, scared kitten! Not even a month old & super thin.
I quickly took out some of the things in my big backpack and carried them in plastic bags on my arm, went up to the kitten and carried her in my backpack. (she had a lot of space and just peeked up at me and layed down.)
Couldn't get picked up to get home quicker, so I paced to the bus stop in front of Blue Angel motel. We sat in the back once the bus arrived. She was so calm throughout the long bus ride, not even meowing- just crawling around in the backpack a few times.
I got home a little while ago and have her all set up in the bathroom with a cat bed, toy, blanket, milk/water, & wet food. She's resting now and has been purring and seems to be happy she finally has food! Very adorable kitten. I just still can't believe where I found her..right behind the Blue Angel Motel/Par-A-Dice motel..dangerously close to cars and construction.

I came up with name ideas in the bus. Since she's a girl, I'll call her Angel because I found her behind the Blue "Angel" motel. If it had been a boy, I would have named him Fremont since I found the kitten on Fremont Street!
I sort of feel like my dad may have somehow sent me to that area today to ultimately rescue that kitten. My dad grew up with cats like I did. I'm just really grateful to have been in the right place at the right time and that this precious kitten is off the street tonight!

~ Nick Leonard

A "tweet update," and I was meeting Gwen Stefani!

2010-09-24T21:45:00.000-07:00

Surfing through Las Vegas blogs on the Internet, I found out that Gwen Stefani would be in Vegas soon for the unveiling of her wax figure at Madame Tussuads Wax Museum. I quickly contacted my pal, Sally Steele of Vegas Rocks! Magazine to see if she could score us some media passes to photograph Gwen once she was in town. A week later, I received a call from Sally informing me that she was doing all she could to achieve a photo pass for this event, and that the chances of getting approved were not looking good. The day before the event, I had decided that the next morning I would still make my way down to the Wax Museum in hopes of possibly catching a glimpse of Gwen.

The morning of September 22, 2010 I caught the bus at 9:00a.m. and headed for the Strip. Before I left home, I logged on to Twitter, went to No Doubt's page and turned 'on' mobile updates so that any tweets Gwen made that morning would be sent to my phone. Since I don't have Internet on my cell phone, I thought it would be a good idea to receive text updates.

"@NoDoubt Vegas no doubters. Wanna meet me? First 5 right now to M Tussuad's VIP check in win passes to meet me! Vegas here we come..."

I was in shock at the tweet I had just read, and began pacing through tourists down the sidewalk towards Madame Tussuads! I couldn't have been more happy that the buses were all running on schedule that morning! About 7 minutes later, I was at Madame Tussuads ticket area and noticed a guy sitting at a table next to the ticket windows. There were no signs, just a clip board so I assumed that was the media check in. I got out my phone and showed him the tweet and asked if I was in the correct area. To my surprise, I was in the right spot and was the first person out of the five who would win passes to show up! He then told me just to stand by for about 10-15 minutes and then they will hand out the passes. During that time, Sally gave me a call and told me she was on her way down to Madame Tussuads to just see if there was any chance they would credential her a photo pass.

Two super No Doubt fans showed up at the media table, one gal actually had a Gwen Stefani portrait tattoo on her leg! I walked over to the table and the man handed over the meet & greet passes!!! I had thought there would only be only one VIP pass in the envelop but instead all five people that 'won' the giveaway had two meet and greet passes. Sally had arrived and I quickly told her about what I had just won. The winners were directed up to the gift shop to wait until the unveiling of Gwen's wax figure would begin. Sally met up with me again about 20 minutes later and she still was not given a credential to photograph, so I offered her the second VIP pass I had so that she could still at least see Stefani. Sally thought it was awesome how this winning happened all thanks to a simple tweet Gwen posted.

After about an hour, we (Twitter giveaway winners & radio winners) were taken into the room where there was a small stage where the unveiling would take place. Inside the dimly lit, No Doubt/Gwen Stefani filled room courtesy of a DJ, were press photographers, about 20 winners from various contests inside for the meet and greet, and a table lined with lots of candy. From sour gummy worms to lollipops, jellybeans and M&Ms- I filled a little bag with a variety of the sugary goods. Soon enough, a spokesperson for Madam Tussauds took the stage and gave her thanks to everyone behind the making of Gwen Stefani's wax figure and of course a thanks to Gwen herself! She then welcomed Gwen to the stage and with sounds of cheer from fans, Gwen emerged from curtains on the side of the room where Sally and I were standing all smiles and waving to everyone. The room was filled with sounds of camera shutters as the photographers began photographing Gwen next to her wax likeness! She posed for just the right amount of time so that every photographer got their shot.

Polaroid of Gwen Stefani's wax figure (© Nick Leonard)

Gwen then left the room and the PR people let all of us know she would be back in about ten minutes for the meet & greet. We were then arranged in a U-shaped line and were allowed to have anything we wanted signed by Gwen once she returned and made her way down the line, but that photos with her would be done on the stage by her and the wax figure. Some fans had posters they wanted signed, while others had their VIP pass or shirt ready to be signed. However, I was prepared with my Polaroid Spectra camera around my neck. I was hoping on snapping a quick portrait of her once she got to me in line, and then signing the Polaroid. Sure enough, the doors opened and in walked Gwen ready to sign away!

Two above photos were shot by Erik Kabik

I kept my fingers crossed that the Polaroid idea would work out. Finally, Gwen got to my place in line and was very friendly. I showed her my Polaroid camera and asked if it would be alright to take her photograph to sign.

About to snap a Polaroid of Gwen! (photo by Erik Kabik)

She was very cool about it and agreed to pose, noting that it was neat how I was using a Polaroid camera and that the film must be hard to come by. I told her thank you, and that it is difficult to find- that I mostly search out deals on the web when they come up. I took her photo and handed her the shot for her to sign. As she was signing, I told her I was at No Doubt's May 2009 show at Mandalay Bay and it was an amazing show. She smiled and said she was glad I made it down to the concert.
I couldn't wait for the Polaroid to finish developing. After a few minutes, I looked at the shot and began to shake a little bit... I was so thrilled with the quality and just the shot itself! Getting that Polaroid definitely meant a lot.

Polaroid portrait of Gwen Stefani (© Nick Leonard)

The line began moving as people started going up either two at a time or one at a time to get a photo shot by the Madame Tussauds photographer with Gwen and her wax figure. The cool thing about getting the photo was that after it was shot, prints were made and we each received a 5x7 copy of our picture!

Gwen Stefani & myself (shot by MT staff)

Shot by Erik Kabik

After everything wrapped up, I couldn't get over how well my luck was that day. It's just crazy to me- by deciding to set mobile updates to 'on' from No Doubt's Twitter feed, and the buses being on time I was able to meet Gwen Stefani!?!? A lucky day I will not soon forget!

~ Nick Leonard

P.S. My friend, Erik Kabik was one of the photographers at this event, so be sure to check out his photos of Gwen and her wax figure by clicking here!

Your vote?

2010-09-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

My "shoe gazing" photo made it in the top 3 under the "street fashion" category in Venus Zine's first annual photo contest!
I'd love your vote on my photo! Voting is unlimited and ends on September 24 at midnight.

http://www.venuszine.com/polls/14

Thank you in advance for any help.

Best,
Nick

Vegas Rocks! Magazine feature.

2010-06-05T23:54:00.000-07:00

My photos of Gloria & Emilio Estafan at the Crown Theater inside the RIO are featured in the June 2010 issue of Vegas Rocks! Magazine.

About a month ago, the couple were presented with a star on the Las Vegas Walk of Stars on the sidewalk in front of the Flamingo hotel to honor all of their musical achievements.

[click to enlarge]

- Nick Leonard

Courtney Love @ TAO, Las Vegas

2010-05-21T01:20:00.000-07:00

Flipping through the pages of Las Vegas Weekly, checking out what celebs will be making an appearance over the weekend and I see a photo of Courtney Love... Being the huge Courtney fan that I am, I was ecstatic! I knew right away I would show up at that red carpet photo pass or not- it's C. Love! I got in touch with my pal, Sally Steele of Vegas Rocks! Mag and sure enough she was able to snag me a credential for the red carpet.

It was midnight on Saturday, April 24th when the beautiful miss Courtney Love made her way on the red carpet outside of TAO nightclub inside the Venetian. She was there for the release party of Hole's new CD, Nobody's Daughter. Like a flash, she walked the carpet as you can see on this YouTube video. (You can see the back/side of my blond head around the 46sec mark photographing away!) Although she had a swift walk, it was still a surreal experience for me being as close as I was to the goddess of rock. Now if only she would play a show sometime in Vegas...

Nick Leonard

Vegas Rocks! Magazine features.

2010-05-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

It's almost been a year since I first met my pal Sally Steele, editor and creator of Vegas Rocks! Magazine at the 5 year anniversary celebration at the Las Vegas sign in August of 2009. Since then I have managed my way on her good side and have photographed several concerts/events here and there for the magazine. It's been a dream come true for me and I'm enjoying learning the ropes of this industry from Sally and fellow photographer friends.

Back to Vegas Rocks! The May 2010 issue is out now and I am thrilled to have the features I do in this issue! My photographs from Extreme Thing, Pet-a-Palooza, and one of my favorite people, rock goddess Courtney Love!!! are all inside! It's a free publication, so pick up a copy if you're in the Las Vegas or Hollywood area where the magazine is distributed at various locations. Many thanks to you, Sally for giving me a chance.

[click to enlarge]

[all live concert shots/crowds on these two pages are by me]

- Nick Leonard

Rest In Peace, Mr. McQueen.

2010-02-11T23:05:00.000-08:00

1969 - 2010

Lee Alexander McQueen

Today we lost you. One of the most creative and intriguing individuals in the fashion world. You were too young. I sincerely hope that you and your Mum are in a happier place. ♥

xo Nick

Downtown Transit Center

2009-12-10T21:44:00.001-08:00

Downtown Transit Center, originally uploaded by So Cal Metro.

Steele's Motel

2009-12-01T09:03:00.001-08:00

Steele's Motel, Plate 4, originally uploaded by Thomas Hawk.

2009-12-01T09:01:00.001-08:00

, originally uploaded by moominsean.

Save Polaroid!

2009-11-29T01:32:00.001-08:00

Save Polaroid!, originally uploaded by Salva López.

2009-11-29T01:31:00.001-08:00

, originally uploaded by Salva López.

2009-11-29T00:58:00.001-08:00

, originally uploaded by L. Lew.

2009-11-28T12:36:00.001-08:00

if you'd like to make a collect call... | march 22. 2009, originally uploaded by a midwest girl.

Brooklyn Bridge

2009-11-27T02:00:00.001-08:00

Brooklyn Bridge, originally uploaded by patrickjoust.

American

2009-11-27T01:56:00.001-08:00

American, originally uploaded by patrickjoust.

My god, that voice.

2009-11-27T01:39:00.000-08:00

Love. December 18th can't come soon enough!

2009-11-27T01:22:00.001-08:00

, originally uploaded by moominsean.

2009-11-22T21:28:00.001-08:00

Take Away Where You're From, originally uploaded by Thomas Hawk.

2009-11-22T00:10:00.001-08:00

In Case You Missed It, originally uploaded by Thomas Hawk.

Rest In Peace, Daul Kim.

2009-11-19T16:24:00.000-08:00

Daul was such an intriguing model. I enjoyed looking at her new images from editorials and such. I hope you've found peace. We will miss you, angel.
My heart goes out to Daul's family and friends during this tragic time. ♥

Pink Angel Food Cake

2009-11-17T15:02:00.001-08:00

Pink Angel Food Cake, originally uploaded by Nick Leonard.

2009-11-15T15:17:00.001-08:00

, originally uploaded by cameron.alexander.

2009-11-15T14:34:00.001-08:00

sunnyincalifornia, originally uploaded by yyellowbird.

2009-11-14T18:08:00.001-08:00

ba, originally uploaded by Brian Hjärna.

2009-11-13T23:16:00.001-08:00

, originally uploaded by van derbeat.

Cover up.

2009-11-13T18:57:00.001-08:00

, originally uploaded by andrew sea james.

Dandy Andy.

2009-11-13T18:54:00.001-08:00

Takes One to Know One, originally uploaded by Thomas Hawk.

Cadillac on Broadway.

2009-11-13T18:52:00.001-08:00

cadillac on broadway, originally uploaded by sarahrahh..

Such a striking and gorgeous photograph!

The Camera Man.

2009-11-11T21:36:00.000-08:00

It brought a smile to my face when I saw this couple. It's so sweet how the man still has a strong passion for photography, out walking Venice Beach with his Nikon in hand.© Nick Leonard
Venice Beach
Los Angeles
August 2009

Explore.

2009-11-11T00:35:00.000-08:00

Tonight, one of my photos made the front page on Flickr's Explore.

Pretty cool. :-)

A killer Bad Romance.

2009-11-10T22:51:00.000-08:00

Lady Gaga - "Bad Romance"

An expired find.

2009-11-08T23:40:00.001-08:00

I found this Polaroid lying in the basket that is on the Polaroid. I am going to guess someone picked up a Polaroid camera that was for sale there and checked to see if it worked, not knowing it had film in it and ended up snapping a Polaroid of the basket...

+ The Impossible Project

Electric Valentine

2009-10-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

Also on September 14, along with shooting The Crush I also shot one of my favorite bands, Electric Valentine. They played with a few other local and nonlocal bands at The Farm music venue.

View all the shots: set on Flickr

Electric Valentine: MySpace

All photos © Nick Leonard
Email for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

The Crush

2009-10-14T22:44:00.000-07:00

On September 14, I photographed an Arizona band known as The Crush. They played with a few other local and nonlocal bands at The Farm music venue.

The Crush: Website | MySpace

Las Vegas, NV
All photos © Nick Leonard
Email for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Luv It Frozen Custard

2009-10-13T22:19:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I checked out a dessert place that has been getting a lot of buzz recently in Las Vegas. It's called Luv It Frozen Custard. It's a family run business and has been in Vegas for many, many years.

It was a fairly busy place. Many tourists pay a visit to it.

I ordered a chocolate custard with chocolate sprinkes. I know, chocolate overload! It was worth it, though. Very soft and not so frozen-ish like regular ice cream.

So, if you ever plan on coming to Las Vegas and want a cold, yummy treat, head on over to Luv It Frozen Custard!

Ryan January Photoshoot.

2009-10-08T23:11:00.000-07:00

During the beginning of September, I shot photos for my friend Ryan January.

He creates music and this was a shoot for that project of his.

Here are my favorite shots ...

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email for use: nickleonardphoto.com

www.NickLeonardPhoto.com

Mona, Mona, Mona.

2009-10-08T22:55:00.000-07:00

During the beginning of August, my good friend Mona came back to Vegas for a visit.

I met her through Flickr a while back and we really click.

She's filled with so many ideas and can make you laugh instantly..

We got to hangout two different days and had fun adventures during both.

One of the days, we headed down to the fabulous Las Vegas sign and stayed there and shot photos for a majority of the evening...

A beautiful dark black and white shot of Mona in front of the sign.

She even posed with my DIY paper Chanel bag. :)

Polaroid Mona shot of me in front of the sign.

I love this photo. Mona sitting at the bus stop.

A silly shot of our reflections in The Deuce windows going down the Strip.

Then the next day we went downtown (Main Street) and had a mini photoshoot by our favorite abandoned motel, the Queen of He♥rts.

Shots of me by the talented Mona.

The day before we had stopped and visited the Fashion Show Mall.

Here are a few random shots from Fremont Street.

Love & miss ya, Mona!

x Nick

Vegas Rocks! Magazine 5-yr Anniversary

2009-08-28T12:29:00.000-07:00

Vegas Rocks! Magazine celebrated its 5 year anniversary in front of the Las Vegas sign on August 11, 2009. Vegas Rocks! is a local, free rock publication magazine in Las Vegas.

The goal was to break the world record of the most guitarists playing along to Elvis Presley's classic "Viva Las Vegas" in front of the Las Vegas sign.

The publishing queen of rock 'n roll (creator of Vegas Rocks!), Sally Steele hosted the event and our own cool Mayor, Oscar Goodman even showed up to play some guitar and sing along with the rockin' Elvis impersonator.

+ Click here to view all the photos I shot at the event.

Vegas Rocks! website
Vegas Rocks! myspace

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

DO NOT USE OR REPOST WITHOUT PERMISSION.

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Fourth of July 2009

2009-08-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I'm blogging about 4th of July extremely late, but it slipped my mind and "better late than never" right?

This year was simple. We didn't really have a plan, and I didn't buy fireworks. My mom and I walked to the Red Rock Casino near where we live and watched the fireworks they shot off at 9:30 PM from across the street. I've never been that close to the big fireworks before... It was so beautiful.

I went prepared with my tripod and Nikon. We were at a great shooting point! These are my favorite shots.

+ Visit my Flickr set to view all my firework photos.

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD
Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Steve Madden meet & greet

2009-08-18T09:27:00.001-07:00

After shooting Steve's fall 2009 runway show, I found out that the next day (Saturday) that Madden himself would be making an apperance in Nordstroms. I got there early and walked in to see the host, Julissa Bermudez who is actually a host on BET, MTV personality and actress on the microphone letting all the walk-ins know what is going on. DJ Sky Nellor was controling the beats. I saw the poles that were set up for the line and it turned out I was the second person in line! I've never been that ahead for a meet and greet or anything of that liking before, so that was very cool.

Everyone in line received a free Steve Madden logo shirt and tote bag which I gave to my mom. The line gradually got longer, and pretty soon I couldn't see where it stopped. I was glad to be second person! Once Steve arrived, everyone started cheering.

At this event, there was even an official photographer who shot a photo of every person in line with Steve. After he signed my shirt, we took the photo. This is a scan of it since the photo was printed right after it was shot! So cool.

Then before I walked away, I shot a Polaroid of him signing one of the tote bags for the person behind me. It's a little off center, but whatever.

What I liked about this event best was that they didn't have pushy workers there making you leave directly after you meet the person. I was able to stand across from the table Steve was sitting at and take any photos that I'd like to!

Steve picking names of people in the drawing for a free pair of shoes.

My shots of the DJ, Sky Nellor.

An actress from the TV series Tyler Perry's House of Payne stopped by to stock up on some Madden's. I couldn't find what her name was...

Her taking a photo of Steve.

Chatting with Sky & Julissa.

Some of the fans waiting in line.

Here is a Polaroid I shot of Julissa Bermudez.

Steve actually ended up staying a half hour later than was intended so he was able to get a photo with everyone and sign their shirts. I thought that was awesome!

Here are some photos I shot at the end when Steve was posing with workers of Nordstroms, ect.

Steve with Julissa & Sky.

The actress.

With the mens department.

Everyone all together.

These two shots were taken once he was done getting photos with everyone and was speaking with a few people before he left. I saw the opportunity to get these shots, so I took it!

This was an amazing event and I'm glad to have attended it! Check out more of Steve's designs on his website.

Also, be sure to check out my "shoe gazing" shots from the event on my style blog!

+ Visit my Flickr set to view all my photos from the event.

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Steve Madden Fall 2009

2009-08-17T14:59:00.000-07:00

I photographed Steve Madden's ready to wear fall 2009 collection at the Fashion Show Mall.

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Betsey Johnson Fall 2009

2009-08-15T21:44:00.000-07:00

I photographed Betsey Johnson's ready to wear fall 2009 collection at the Fashion Show Mall.

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

No Doubt live @ Tiger Jam XII

2009-08-15T14:56:00.000-07:00

When I heard that No Doubt was back together and were planning a huge tour, I was completely thrilled about just that itself. But when I found out that one of their first stops was in Las Vegas, I freaked out! The show was on May 16, 2009 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center for the Tiger Jam XII. Even the opening bands were some of my top favorites-- The Sounds and Paramore. Talk about a perfect tour.

I am still so thankful that I was able to attend this show. My seat was in the middle-top towards the right of the stage. I'm also grateful for my camera and its awesome lens for the amazing photos I have now. Even if I wasn't able to bring my camera, I still would have enjoyed the show completely, but the fact I have these photos to go back and say "Wow, I shot this." is a really nice thing. This is definitely one of the most memorable concerts I've attended!

Here are my favorite photographs:

+ Click here to view all the photos I shot of No Doubt.

No Doubt:
Website
MySpace
Buzznet
Twitter

Find me on:
Flickr
Buzznet
MySpace
Twitter
Blogspot
Street Style Blog

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Crazy brilliant.

2009-08-05T14:34:00.001-07:00

Rest In Peace, Naomi Sims.

2009-08-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

The Sounds live @ Tiger Jam XII

2009-08-01T20:45:00.000-07:00

The Sounds have been a top favorite of mine for quite a while now. I was so pumped to witness them live on May 16, 2009 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center.

The power of Maja's voice is incredible and just lures you in. My favorite song they performed live was "Dorchester Hotel".

I hope to have the opportunity to see them live in the future when they embark on their tour.

+ Click here to view all the photos I shot of The Sounds.

The Sounds:
Website
MySpace
Buzznet

Find me on:
Flickr
Buzznet
MySpace
Blogspot
Street Style Blog

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Hole - "Dying" @ Electric Factory 1999

2009-08-01T20:27:00.001-07:00

My pin collection.

2009-07-26T15:48:00.000-07:00

I enjoy collecting music related and artsy type pins.

I ordered this batch of pins for 1.99 on eBay last week. Hole was Courtney Love's old band. I'm a huge fan of both their albums.

The bird chat line.

2009-07-23T22:32:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago, I was downtown and had stopped to take a break from quite a bit of walking in an alley that provided great shade.

I looked up and noticed how there were many powerlines. I glanced at the ones across the street from me to see a large amount of Pigeons perched between two powerlines. I've always wanted to see that, and capture it on a Polaroid. Luckily I had one last exposure on my Sun 600. This is now one of my favortie Polaroids I've shot.

I took one digital as well just because.

Good laugh.

2009-07-20T17:14:00.000-07:00

Some just notified me that a photo I'm in was posted on this MySpace profile known as Strike Gently. I don't understand what/who they are, but sort of see it as a bashing type site? I'm not sure, either way I think it is funny how my photo ended up on it.

This is the Polaroid of Dani of the Millionaires and I that they posted.

Here are some of the funny comments:

"millionaires=scene trash no one will have any idea who they are in 5 years...bad voices, bad lyrics."

"That's My Husband."

"Who the hell is he? o.o"

"I don't even know who the dude is, but the chick is a member of millionaires."

"who the fuck are they?"

"M!LL!0N@!R3$ ! !
: D
Love emm."

Hangout with Tinamarie.

2009-07-13T23:46:00.000-07:00

Today I was supposed to have a photoshoot with a new friend of mine that I met very quickly at the last First Friday, Tinamarie. It happened, sorta. The plans were that I would meet up with my friend Jourdan and then we'd both head down to Tina's place and then go to the location where we were gonna shoot at. Jourdan couldn't make it last minute, so I still went anyway. I met up with Tina and her friend Matt at the mall. Unfortunately, we couldn't make it to the area we had wanted to shoot at so we did the best we could. I sugguested going behind the buildings near the mall which was the best location at that area, I think.

I have horrible anxiety and nerves like no other when it comes to meeting someone, and I am usually good at keeping it down but today was not that good day. My nerves were racing like a flood and it sure as hell showed. I was pissed off at myself...I never really snapped out of it for the remainder of the day. I'm just glad they got the impression of me as just 'shy' and that's it. I assumed the impression coming off was total dickhead, but I guess you'd normally think the worst of 'yourself' anyway, right? At least that's how I am.

So the photoshoot went alright. Tina's outfit was an A+ as well as the makeup she does. Thankfully her friend Matt was good with helping her perfect the pose ideas I had for her to try. I didn't get nearly as many photos as I'd like to have taken, but there's always next time and I am normally always more together with myself on second hangouts over the first ones.

Here are my favorite shots I got of Tina.

And a lovely Polaroid, of course. ♥

I liked her and her friends quite a bit, even though it didn't show. I hope they weren't too intimidated by me, haha. I'm excited for the next time we hangout.

It was a hot ass Monday.

2009-06-30T23:25:00.000-07:00

The Jeffree Star show never happened. He had cancelled as I thought he did. He had removed his Las Vegas date a few days before the show on his calendar. My friends and I went downtown anyway and stopped at the Box Office at the time he and the opening bands were supposed to be there. Turned out no one was. The place was closed. So we hung around for a bit and went to some antique stores. At night, we went to Fremont Street and had a blast. That made up for Jeffree being a no show.

Yesterday I was supposed to go with two friends to the Warped Tour Pit Stop: Rock The Block on east Fremont behind the El Cortez hotel. Of course my friends couldn't go last minute, so me being prepared I went down there anyway. It was an extremely hot day. 108 to be exact. Was very glad I lathered up in sunscreen! I got a little lost and had to walk extra...needed to stop inside the Fremont Hotel to cool off and refill my water bottles that had burning water after soaking up the heat. Finally made it down to the El Cortez and saw the gated off corner street with the stage, tent booths, and a bunch of teens everywhere. I heard some metal band playing first and did not know who they were. I walked close to the booths and just thought for a minute if I really feel like going in there. I had a gut feeling this event would be a replay of the Extreme Thing back in March that I went to by myself and left after an hour or so. I didn't want to waste this $18 to just walk around for 40 minutes and then leave. Yes, I was looking forward to shooting the bands but I just know how I am and being alone with my Nikon D40 trying to shoot a band in between a huge crowd without at least one friend by my side just wouldn't work out at all. I always feel more comfortable at huge events when I have a friend with me..probably because you are surrounded by many groups of all sizes of teens and yeah. Don't get me wrong though, I'm very independant. I can and do for example, go down to the Strip and photograph my heart out or walk all over downtown Vegas snapping away at motels on east Fremont...it's just less nervewracking when a friend is with me at outdoor music events.

So I decided not to do the Rock The Block. I turned around and headed to one of the casinos on Fremont Street to get a bite of fast food since I was starving from all the walking. As I was getting to the casino, a lady asked me "Hey, how come ya aren't at the party?" and pointed to the concert. I just said that I didn't have enough money with me as I thought I did. She replied with "Well, how much are you short?" I told her "Like, 10 dollars." She then said "Oh, well do you want what I have?" I said "Ohh no, that's totally fine. Thank you so much, though m'am."

I was surprised she offered me whatever money she had to get in the music event. She was extremely sweet and just goes to show you that kind people such as her do exist out there when you think they don't!

As I'm walking back down the long road to get to my bus stop. I decided to use the last two Polaroids on this specific Polaroid camera I had with me on one of my all time favorite motels that I pass. The closed down Queen of Hearts motel. That is one building that is beaten down and that I would love to explore and photograph the inside of if I had the chance. I got the best Polaroid of the sign on the side of it! I really did...I was so proud at how well I framed it without slipping and screwing it up. After I snapped that Polaroid and a few digital shots of the motel, police car after police car zoomed on the street next to me and turned right and stopped on the next block. I had to walk that way to get to where the bus was anyway, so I was interested to see what happened. Once I got there, I saw a car that appeared to have just began pulling out of a driveway caught in the middle of three cop cars. A man was hand cuffed and leaning against one of the cars and a woman was being questioned and handcuffed speaking with one of the officers. I couldn't hear their convos, so I just kept on walking. I looked up and noticed all the powerlines dangling about in the hot breeze. A high one to the left of me had at least 20 Pigeons perched on it soaking up the sun! I was so shocked to see that. I have always wanted to photograph a row of birds on a powerline. I was extremely excited that I still had one Polaroid left and used it on them! It came out amazing!! It's seriously one of my favorite Polaroids I've shot. The clouds are so wonderful in it.

Yep, so that was my Monday that I just felt was bloggable. :-)

R.I.P Michael & Farrah

2009-06-25T23:17:00.000-07:00

<3

2009-06-24T18:39:00.000-07:00

Absolutely brilliant. Cannot wait to see her live someday.

Downtown Hangout

2009-06-23T12:26:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, I went downtown with Brooke to the Box Office to see Jeffree Star perform. Turned out I was right about him cancelling his show. I at least thought the other 3 or 4 opening bands would be there, but nope- the place never opened! Haha. It was a good thing Fremont Street was just some blocks away.

We met up with friends Derrick & Brad and hungout at an amazing abandoned building near the Box Office. It had two vintage chairs on the side of it this time. Loved them!

Me, Brooke and Brad.

Brad, Brooke and Derrick.

Derrick pullin' Brooke's pony!

Brad giving Brooke bunny ears. Damn shadows.

Brooke and Derrick.

Derrick.

Aw. Brooke and Derrick.

Um, yeah.

Brad, Brooke and Derrick.

An adorable brown feathered Pigeon. To me, it looked like he was smiling. :)

Dumpster.

Microwave.

Office chairs.

The amazing pair of chairs. I hope they will still be there for a while. Would love to incorporate them on a shoot.

Bracelets & Rings. Brooke and Derricks' hand's.

Man passing through.

Some homeless people that were across the street from us. They were nice, said hello, asked us how we were and whatnot.

A shiny desk.

Woman passing through.

What someone calls home.

A friendly hug.

Mercedes Benz in an alley.

Brooke and Brad on our walk to Fremont Street.

A retired limousine.

Building.

Front door of a home gaurded by an angel & ivy.

Some adorable pups in the front yard of a home.

Group of succulents.

One of the many drive thru wedding chapels downtown.

Woman in a wheelchair.

Approaching Fremont Street.

The Cowboy.

Las Vegas. One of the gift shops on Fremont Street.

Binion's classic ride.

Once we got down to Fremont Street, we watched this woman perform some oldies. I liked how much she stood out. Very vibrant and energetic.

All photos © Nick Leonard
Email for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

This woman was recording the ladies' performance.

And this woman was dancing the night away.

We then stopped to get a bite to eat at a pizza place. I got a soft pretzel.

Derrick and I.

Brooke and Brad.

Derrick and Brooke in front of the Summer of 69 bus.

Brad and Brooke.

Derrick.

Brooke and Derrick.

We then went to go see a musican further down on Fremont Street. He has been performing on Fremont for nine years.

There was a man across from him on the left that was imitating his performance, but with a drink and straw instead. It was so priceless. Just had to photograph him.

The crowd.

Even though our plans didn't go as we wanted, the night was still very fun and memorable!

2009-06-17T01:13:00.000-07:00

On June 6th, Jourdan and I went downtown in hopes of having a little photoshoot inside an awesome laundromat downtown but arrived too late. It was closed, so I came across a cute alley for us to have a shoot in.

Here are the photos I shot of him:

All above shots of Jourdan are © Nick Leonard

Here are the shots Jourdan shot of me:

Someone needs to brush up on their jumping skills.

All above photos of me are © Jourdan Ibe

2009-06-16T23:53:00.000-07:00

Just gonna post a run through now of shots of my friends and I at First Friday. (June 5, 2009)

Brookelle, Sean and Jourdan.

Silly ass candid of me and Sean.

Sean, Brookelle and I. All hands on Brooke!

Brookelle getting a Henna.

Showing off her completed Henna. (click on the photo to enlarge)

Brookelle getting a face painting done of a crazy Giraffe. It was the ladies' first time having a request to paint a Giraffe.

Our shadows. (Brookelle, me, Sean, Jourdan)

Sean, Brookelle and I.

Candid of them laughin' it up. :)

Sean Star...who?

That's a...what!?

Cute, not in focus photo of me giving a girl a hug that was holding up a sign that read "Free Hugs".

Photos of each of us with Kelvin Gordon.

Lastly, I just had to get someone to take a Polaroid of us all. Couldn't end the night without one.

Awesome ass night. I love my friends. <3

Contortionist Artist, Kelvin Gordon.

2009-06-16T23:44:00.000-07:00

The amazing Contortionist and Martial Arts Performance Artist, Kelvin Gordon also known as Malenga Mtakata.

Seen performing here with his 20 inch by 20 inch plexiglass box and a couple of tennis rackets at First Friday.

Check out his website: http://www.lasvegascontortionist.com/

Also, please click here to see all the images I shot of Kelvin performing in proper sequence order on my Street Pulse blog.

Street Style @ First Friday - June 5, 2009

2009-06-16T23:35:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the street peepin' shots I took at First Friday.

To see the rest of my street style shots, visit the Street Pulse blog by clicking here!

2009-06-16T21:45:00.000-07:00

This summer is going to be a kickass one, I have decided. I am so stoked for upcoming things/adventures I have planned.

This weekend I'm going to go watch Jeffree Star perform at the Box Office with Brooke and Derrick. This will be my second time seeing Jeffree Star. The last time I saw him was when he was with Kat Von D during her book signing at Border's in February. This will be my first time seeing him perform live.

Then on the 27th, I am FINALLY going to take my driver's permit test. My friend Jourdan just passed his. I'm pretty sure I'll be able to pass mine. I listened in driver's ed. and have a copy of driver's handbook that I've been looking at from time to time. After I take that, Brooke and I are gonna head over to Sean's for his 16th birthday pool party so that should be fun.

That following Monday, the 29th, will be the Warped Tour Pit Stop music event down on east Fremont Street by the El Cortez Hotel. I'm very excited for this.

It will be a great opportunity to score some street style shots for my street style blog as well as for live music photography since there are going to be several bands performing- I will do my best to get shots of each. It'll be cool to see Saosin live again. I got some fantastic shots of them live when they performed at the Journey's Backyard BBQ tour.

In July, I will be heading out to a little ghost town located in Nelson, Nevada. I came across a site that displays some photographs of some of the villages and old abandoned things that are still there. You can check the link here. I am thrilled to give this town a visit and shoot some things I find interesting with my Polaroid cameras. I have always had a huge love for anything abandoned...buildings, buses, apartments, motels, etc. So this will be a blast.

First Friday will be on the 3rd of July. Hopefully I can arrange a couple photoshoots. I am now reminding myself to pay a visit to this cool retro laundromat that is on Casino Center Dr. before 1:00 p.m. someday in July as well!!!

Not sure what's gonna go on during the beginning of August... Well, First Friday again, that's for sure. That will be on the 7th. Towards to the end of Aug., I'm going to Los Angeles again like I did last summer for four days and I know that will be amazing. I can almost feel the beach. I don't care what beach it is, I cannot wait to be at one!

x
Nick

Priceless.

2009-06-13T16:39:00.000-07:00

No Doubt, The Sounds and Paramore all took to the stage together to perform No Doubt's newest song "Stand and Deliver". Kind of a music orgasm.

Bebe Fashion Show

2009-06-13T13:55:00.001-07:00

Back in April, I shot Bebe on the runway at the Fashion Show Mall.

All photos © Nick Leonard
Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

"I am not interested in money. I just want to be wonderful."

2009-06-12T22:03:00.000-07:00

Oh, Marilyn Monroe. I love you so, but you will never know.

I was just browsing through vintage Marilyn photos online and came across a couple that I adore.

I need to take photos of my room. I have many pictures of her on the walls in there. <3

PARAMORE live shots @ Tiger Jam XII

2009-06-12T21:34:00.000-07:00

May 16, 2009

It was extremely exciting to watch Paramore live. I have never seen them live before. Haley is so tiny, but has one hell of a voice and knows how to use it! The band definitely got the crowd pumped up with their classic songs as well as a couple new ones.

Here are my favorite shots I took:

+ Click here to see all the shots of Paramore on my Flickr set.

Paramore:
Website MySpace Buzznet

Find me on:
Flickr
Buzznet
Street Style Blog
MySpace

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Hangout with Mona!

2009-06-05T01:16:00.001-07:00

I've made some nice & ultra creative friends through a wonderful photo site known as Flickr. One special friend in particular I clicked with is Mona. We chat and comment on each others work through the site. She had been to Vegas before, but that was before we knew each other. One week, she let me know that she had came here on short notice to photograph her cousins wedding and would be here until Saturday. I met up with her near where she was staying at her aunts place. (May 8, 2009)

We met at Smith's (a grocery store) to be exact and I was firstly surprised that I was taller than her, haha! Because most of the time with my friends, I'm always a little bit shorter or about the same height. I also loved her outfit she was wearing! You'll see it in the photos below. She has such a fabulous sense of style. I think we hit it off well and to be honest, I was only a tad bit nervous for maybe the first five minutes upon meeting her.

We chatted about where she lives, Michigan, and how it was funny she got two job offers while being here for barely a week and has job troubles in Michigan. We then talked photography, of course and about what she's done so far while being here, ect. We took the Deuce down to older eastern part of the Strip and walked that for a while and she took photos of some of my favorite motels on that part of the Strip that I've shot before.

Finally we made it to the downtown art district area of Vegas and scouted a location to have a little photoshoot at. Once we got to some streets I've shot at, we noticed another photoshoot in progress! I thought that was pretty cool. I asked the photographer and model if it'd be alright to take a photo of them behind-the-scene style and they said they didn't mind at all. I assumed they were shooting for a local Vegas magazine or something promotional.

Mona took photographs of me first. I love them!

It was then her turn to be in front of the lens. Here are the shots I took of her.

Here's a cute candid taken right after the above photo:

After having a fun little shoot, we headed over to Main Street and started our way down to Fremont Street- her favorite place in Vegas!

On our walk, I just had to take a photo of her by those $3xY college girlz direct 2U magazine stands...since Mona is a college girl and all, I felt it was appropirate. (haha :D)

$69.00 special!!!

We passed by the huge slot machine store on the way.

Got down to Fremont Street.

Here are some photos I took before we went to McDonald's.

We got to McDonald's 'cause she was thirsty and wanted a Coke, and I was craving a soft serve ice cream!

Me in Mona's infamous red lip sunglasses! Taken by her.

A sweet headshot taken by Mona.

An awesome film photograph taken by Mona with my little film camera. I really love how it turned out.

Here are some cute digital & film photos I took of her in there.

After that McDonald's visit, we went back out on Fremont and watched a band perform some classic rock songs. You can look at the photos I took of them in my previous blog post.

Here are some shots I took of peeps that stood out to me in the crowd.

This woman was jammin' out. I just had to take her photo. She had so much spirit and a fannypack!

After watching them perform for a while, Mona and I walked around the gift carts and such. It then came around the time when Mona was to meet up with her aunt that wanted to take her to gamble later that night on Fremont Street. Yes, Mona is 21 even though she doesn't look it. :) She told me she gets asked to show her ID all the time in casinos.
Before she left, I made sure that we got a polaroid together so I asked a woman to take one of us.

We then said goodbye about three times and gave each other hugs before ending the fun day together!
Mona will possibly be coming back for another visit during the summer which will be super awesome if she can! I can't wait to hangout again with her. She is a very sweet person and has a lot to talk about. Oh, and she's such a good model! I was glad we had the little shoot we did 'cause the shots turned out extremely nice. I wished that she lived here so she could model for me more often! :)

Love ya, Mona!

- Nick

Uncool

2009-05-30T23:49:00.000-07:00

"Pretty faces grab the headlines
You leave me nothing but my name
And all the grief keeps multiplying
And I pretend to feel no pain

Never gonna lose, baby
If I tell the truth
Would I be uncool
If I could write a love song?
I just wanna believe
You tried to hold me
Spend our whole life
Now I feel so lost

I get tired of the pleasure
My company's so cheap
Baby, take me from this tempest
Take me someplace so I can sleep
(Sleep, sleep)

I don't wanna die and I don't wanna live
Baby, I just want a chance to be with you
I tried, oh, I love you
I swear to god I never felt so alive

Never gonna lose
If I tell the truth
Would it be uncool
If I could write a love song?
I just wanna believe
You tried to hold me
And every time you move
And everytime you breathe
Yeah, I gotta write a love song

Baby, you're a freakshow just like me
Baby, we're all born ugly
Gotta write a love song

Gonna make you cry, I'm gonna go so deep
Tear the world up
Somemewhere I can sleep
And I wonder why
And I wonder why
And I cry

Wanna be uncool
Wanna be uncool

Now I'm gonna make you cry
'Cause I'm gonna go so deep
I'm gonna tear this tempest, baby
And go somewhere I can sleep
Gonna make you love me
Gonna make you love me
Yeah

Never gonna lose
If I tell the truth
Would it be uncool
If I could write a love song?
I just wanna believe
You tried to hold me
And every time you move
And everytime you breathe
Yeah, I gotta write a love song

Baby, you're a freakshow just like me
Baby, we're all born ugly
Gotta write a love song

Gonna make you cry, I'm gonna go so deep
Tear the world up
Somewhere I can sleep
I wanna write a love song
Wanna be uncool
Wanna be uncool
I wanna write a love song
Wanna be uncool
Wanna be uncool
I wanna write a love song
Wanna be uncool
Wanna be uncool
I'm gonna be uncool"

Uncool by Courtney Love

(image via Hedi Slimane)

Fremont Street Music

2009-05-30T23:48:00.000-07:00

Usually every night, there is a variety of bands & muscians that play live sets on the Fremont Street Experience.

These were two bands I watched when I hungout with Mona.
May 8, 2009

All photos © Nick Leonard

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Breakdancing @ First Friday

2009-05-29T21:53:00.000-07:00

Back on May 1st, when I went to First Friday Brooke and I came across a group of talented breakdancers. It was quite fun to watch! Here are nine shots I got of them.

And here's a couple friend photos I forgot to add in the previous blog post regarding FF:

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-25T20:11:00.000-07:00

Saturday, I went to the clinic to get perscribed some eyedrops specifically for my allergies that have been going crazy as of lately with all the trees dropping fuzzy things, ect. The drops are very helpful. My eyes aren't burning and getting red like they were!

On Sunday, I completed some projects for school. I can't believe there are only 8 days left...er, wait yeah I fuckin' can! ahaha. I am soososo glad for that.

Today was spent doing a lot of yardwork and gardening in the flowerbed. It's so relaxing & gives that great accomplish feeling. I cut some of the shrubs that needed it, pulled out weeds and planted new summer annual flowers.

The back bordering flower is: Celosia (the dark red kind)

The main flower of the bed is: Marigold (the yellow kind)

photo taken by me. (not my flowerbed)

I can't wait 'til they get a little bigger so that I can snap a polaroid of the bed like I did with my winter annual Pansies last year.

polaroid taken by me. (my flowerbed in winter of '08)

Tiger Woods

2009-05-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

Mr. Tiger Woods saying a few words about his awesome foundation at the Tiger Jam XII.

May 16, 2009

The most memorable night.

2009-05-20T19:31:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, May 16th, I saw NO DOUBT, THE SOUNDS AND PARAMORE ! ! !

I had requested a photo pass, but it didn't go through. No biggie, though! I am really glad that we purchased a ticket when we did just incase the pass didn't go through, then not having a ticket... I would have been extremely bummed out not being able to go.

The concert was held at the Mandalay Bay Events Center. My seat was at an awesome angle to view the whole stage and see the bands clearly without having to look at the big screens. I was able to get my camera in, so thankful that worked out well. Got to my seat, got my camera ready and stuff. Only one person was next to me on my right, a nice lady with a couple friends. The two seats on my left were empty the whole show, so that was pretty cool, didn't feel all squished- although I wouldn't have cared because my mind definitely would not have been focused on that during this concert!

The Sounds played first. Maja's outfit was stunning. Kind of Lady Gaga esque in a way. I like how ripped up her tights were. They definitely rocked the crowd as people were arriving.

"Are ya happy? Well, ya better be, bioytch!" I enjoyed hearing them sing Hurt You and No One Sleeps When I'm Awake. I was a little sad they didn't play Ego! That's one of my favorite songs by them. It's wild and fun.

"We're the Sounds, motherfuckers, c'mon!" screamed Maja after their last song. I loved her swedish accent!

Paramore came on next. They had an awesome stage banner. It's design was oldish, ripped up newspaper style with paramore written across the middle. Hayley was wearing a vintage Mickey Mouse shirt with tight jeans. She looked adorable.

Hayley expressed how awesome this tour is going to be and how glad they are part of it. She also mentioned a little gift No Doubt gave them. It was a present box, most neatly wrapped gift they've ever gotten filled with a bunch of DVDs and movies for them to watch while on the road.

Hayley definitely rocked some of the bands most popular songs, and the audience loved it. You could hear the whole arena singing along.
They played a new song titled Ignorance. Haley goes "We're gonna play a new one. It's called Ignorance. Not sure how it's gonna go, but we're gonna play it anyway so just make up your own words and sing along!"

And with the best saved for last, No Doubt took to a roaring stage kicking the night off with a classic, Spiderwebs!

"Put your fucking hands in the aiiiirrrr!" Gwen yelled as the crowd sang along.

They sang a total of 17 songs! Gwen wore three exquisite outfits throughout the show. I can't say which song was my favorite live because I truly enjoyed them all! They didn't disappoint, that's for sure.

They ended the night with Sunday Morning (which it technically was) so that worked out perfectly. They all had a group hug, waved to everyone and did one funny bow at the end.

I am so thankful to have been able to go to this amaing concert, and to have all the shots I got to remember it visually! I have many more shots of each band that I will be posting soon. I have some shots that are print-worthy...gonna have to make some space in my room. :) Overall, the night was spectacular and this will be a concert that I'll never forget about!

- Nick

Only in Vegas.

2009-05-19T16:01:00.000-07:00

I've seen this sign before down on east Las Vegas Blvd. The top part reads "Strippers" because its obviously a strip club. I took this photo because I never noticed the small letter part, and when Mona and I saw the "try a deepthroat" part- we cracked the f*ck up!! It's just so random. I mean, picture a tourist driving by and the kid goes: "Mom, what's a deepthroat"?

Away We Go

2009-05-18T22:46:00.000-07:00

Live at Journey's Backyard BBQ tour.
April 18, 2009

Click here to see more photos of Away We Go on in my Flickr set.

Away We Go:
- MySpace
- Buzznet

Find me on:
- Flickr
- Buzznet
- MySpace
- Street Style Blog

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Saosin

2009-05-17T22:20:00.000-07:00

Saosin live at Journey's Backyard BBQ tour.
April 18, 2009

+ Click here to view all my shots of Saosin in the set on Flickr.

Saosin:
- Website
- MySpace

Find me on:
- Flickr
- Buzznet
- Street Style Blog
- MySpace

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

This Romantic Tragedy

2009-05-17T21:49:00.000-07:00

This Romantic Tragedy live at the Journey's Backyard BBQ tour.
April 18, 2009

+ Click here to view all of my shots of This Romantic Tragedy on my set in Flickr.

This Romantic Tragedy:
- MySpace

Find me on:
- Flickr
- Buzznet
- Street Style Blog
- MySpace

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Fearless Fearless

2009-05-17T21:35:00.000-07:00

Fearless Fearless live at the Journey's Backyard BBQ tour.
April 18, 2009

+ Click here to view all the shots of Fearless Fearless in my set on Flickr.

Fearless Fearless:
- MySpace

Find me on:
- Flickr
- Buzznet
- Street Style Blog
- MySpace

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

The Record Life

2009-05-17T21:18:00.000-07:00

The Record Life live at the Journey's Backyard BBQ tour.
April 18, 2009

+ Click here to view all the shots of the band in my Flickr set.

The Record Life:
- Website
- MySpace

Find me on:
- Flickr
- Buzznet
- Street Style Blog
- MySpace

ALL PHOTOS © NICK LEONARD

Email me for use: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

I like that old time rock 'n roll!

2009-05-17T21:03:00.000-07:00

This man was rockin' the outdoor club at Harrah's one Saturday night on the Strip. He sang songs such as Old Time Rock 'N Roll, and My Humps! Yes, with the music in the background of course. He was good, but funny. These were some shots I shot from outside the club gate.

Totally!

2009-05-11T18:03:00.000-07:00

I just came across this website that makes you go "Oh my, it does- or they do!" type shit! It's so funny and kinda addicting.

TotallyLooksLike.com

Some of my favorite look-a-likes from the site:

Fabulous

2009-05-09T14:30:00.000-07:00

Just came across an eBay store that has some of the coolest, most original shirts I've seen in a while. Screams the style that I love.

My favorites:

! ! !

2009-05-07T22:44:00.000-07:00

I've been going to music events and such a lot lately and practicing my style photography as well as concert photography. It's such a fun pairing to shoot...ahjdglsda. I am just so thankful and content as of late. I mean, school is about to be over in 3 weeks.
But I think the even more major thing than school ending (yeah, I consider that big) would be seeing No Doubt next Saturday, the 16th!!! I can't believe it's gonna happen. I am keeping my fingers crossed while knocking on wood that my photo pass I've requested goes through. The Sounds and Paramore are going to open up as well, and I like them both so even more goodness!

^Have that issue!

Sorry, had to post those. I am so damn stoked.

Tomorrow after school, I'm gonna hop on the bus and meet a friend I made through the amazing photo website - Flickr. Her name is Mona, and you can click her name to view her Flickr photostream. We're gonna go to some antique shops and hopefully have a little photoshoot sess. I'm really excited for this, she's so sweet and I just can't wait to meet her.

Then on Tuesday night, I'm hoping to run into someone special down on the Strip. I'm not gonna say who because I don't wanna jinx it.

This weekend I'm basically going to do catch up with projects and school work, since next weekend will be the fun (hello ND)!

Hope you all have a nice one.

xx N

Goodbye, Allison.

2009-05-06T23:11:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Allison Iraheta got voted off of American Idol. I was a big fan of hers from the beginning of the show. She stood out in more ways then one. Obviously the hair was a great factor. Next, that voice! My god, for 16 years old she has such a grand voice that gets you in a trance in a way when hearing her sing. Her personality seemed great from what we saw, always cheery and genuine- not just a girl in the group blending in.

I definitely think the dude with the glasses should have went home tonight. That scream he did on last nights show was freaky. I'm glad he had a laugh about it and saw that it was funny. But I don't understand how she went home. Her version of
Cry Baby was incredible! I truly hope she continues with her dream, 'cause she's definitely ready. And judging by the words she said tonight, something along the lines of "I guess it'll be good to go back home, but ya know I like this." shows that she clearly knows this business is for her.

Adam Lambert better win now!

Gavin Rossdale

2009-05-06T22:42:00.000-07:00

Live acoustic performance by Gavin Rossdale at Mix 94.1's 10th Annual Pet-a-Palooza.

I never really followed up on Gavin, just heard his songs on the radio from time to time. He was definitely a powerful singer live & the crowd loved him. He was fun to shoot live.

You can view all 18 shots of Gavin in his set on my Flickr.

+ Gavin Rossdale:
Website & MySpace

+ Find me at:
- Flickr
- Buzznet
- MySpace
- Street Pulse Style Blog (new! check it out.)

All photos © Nick Leonard

*Email me regarding use of any photos: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Mat Kearney

2009-05-06T22:26:00.000-07:00

Live acoustic performance by Mat Kearney at Mix 94.1's 10th Annual Pet-a-Palooza.

These are my favorite shots. He was so pure live. Definitely check him out.

You can check out all 18 photos in his set on my Flickr.

+ Mat Kearney:
Website & MySpace

+ Find me on:
- Flickr
- Buzznet
- Street Pulse Style Blog (new! check it out.)

All photos © Nick Leonard

*Email me regarding use of any photos: nickleonardphoto@yahoo.com

Hangout

2009-05-05T21:56:00.001-07:00

*NOTE: Click on the photos to enlarge them. Some aren't clickable because the size posted is its largest.

This was close to a month ago. It took me forever to get these photos posted due to technology related problems. Anyway, this was a very fun day that I spent with Jourdan, a new local band (Hollywood 'N Vine), Shea and Farah.

Jourdan took these next 3 photos in the garage:

Here are some more random photos & headshot/eye shots Jourdan took as well:

I took these next 3 specifically:

Back to more photos by Jourdan:

Now photos from the ending part of the day, all shot by me.

Two random photos of me eating popcorn taken by Shea:

More photos by me:

Met this band that was playing live at the fair while they were packing up. They go by The Scoundrels. The lead singer was gorgeous, so both Jourdan and I got a photo with her.

I then asked Bianca if I could take a photo of her. She said sure and asked if I wanted the band in the picture also- so I definitely said yeah to that! Here's the shot I got. I'm proud of it.

More random photos I shot at the fair and just around:

Overall, it was a pretty amazing day spent with awesome people. <3

The Higher

2009-04-20T00:22:00.000-07:00

The Higher were the only band that I photographed at Extreme Thing in March. I got nine decent shots from being on the far right side of the stage.

MySpace Buzznet

Extreme Thing Looks

2009-04-20T00:15:00.000-07:00

Flashy hair,

Ripped jeans,

and faux Betty Boop tattoos!

Check out the post on my new street/event photography blog I finally got around to kicking off! Finished setting it up yesterday. I'll update it as often as I can.

Please follow it! I'd really appreciate that.

Thanks a bunch,

- Nick

THE STREET PULSE
THE STREET PULSE
THE STREET PULSE

Graphic creation.

2009-04-16T21:34:00.001-07:00

The ultra creative Markiaa created this unique graphic art with a photo collage of me on a faux polaroid.

I obviously love the fact she put it in polaroid form and I also like the brick texture! Thank you again!

Las Vegas had the craziest weather yesterday. Tuesday the temps. were in the 80s and come Wednesday morning, it's freezing, super cloudy outside with small visible snowflakes for a while!! Snow in April. In the Vegas desert. Umm...yeah. Today it was back to normal.

Earlier this week I found out that Saosin are playing a show here in Vegas this Saturday. It's not just any show, though...it's FREE!!! Yes, I was shocked. The band is going to play at "Journey's Backyard BBQ" at the Galleria Mall. I'm stoked. Going with my friends Derrick & Brooke. Keeping my fingers crossed that it will be easy to shoot them performing, I'm sure it will be though- this seems like a small thing. :)

So glad tomorrow is Friday. This week flew by. Only six more weeks of school left!!! H.e.l.l. Y.e.a.h. :P

RECAP: Spring Break

2009-04-15T20:21:00.000-07:00

Friday, April 3rd:
It was a gloomy/rainy day. Those are the best! I hopped on the bus heading down to the Strip. On the way, I saw an SUV completely rolled over on its top. I have never seen that in real life. There was no one inside, thankfully and the ambulances had already came and left to the hospital. I hope everyone made it out alright. Got down to the Strip, practiced tons of street photography and am quite satisfied with it! Later that evening, I was hoping to catch a glimpse of Perez Hilton outside of Pure Nightclub. His apperance was scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM, but normally celebs show up later than that (usually an hour). Got there around 9:00 PM and asked the guy sitting outside of it at a table if Perez would be walking outside of it (pointed to the area I meant) and whatnot. He said yeah, but said that he wouldn't be posing for photos, that he would just walk straight in. So I just thought, screw it. I'm not gonna stay another hour and hope to catch a shot or two of him walking in, I've gotten enough photos today and left! :)

Saturday, April 4th:
The 10th Annual Pet-a-Palooza. (http://www.petapaloozalv.com/) It's basically a big outdoor family friendly festival with tons of dogs! You can adopt pets and/or bring your own dog. I don't have a dog, so I took a lot of shots of many dogs of all types. There were definitely some original dogs there! I hope to have the photos up sometime soon...
This event also has live music by three artists, and since it's a family type event there aren't moshes or too large of a crowd near the stage I was able to get extremely good shots of two performers, not gonna lie. I love you, 200mm lens! I didn't shoot the first band, The Script because they were done once I arrived. However, I did photograph the other two performers who were Mat Kearney and Gavin Rossdale (Gwen Stefani's husband). They were wonderful live. Both did awesome acoustic performances. Those photos are done being edited/watermarked, so that's what I am gonna be posting next!

Sunday, April 5th:
The ACM Awards were being held here in Las Vegas, Nevada at the MGM that day. If you don't know, ACM stands for the Academy of Country Music. I'm not a big fan of country music, but do like some artists, and hell, a celeb is a celeb and if I can get the photo- I will! The taping of the award show would start at 5:00 PM, meaning all the artists would have to arrive to the orange carpet (not red) before then. I arrived around 2ish-3ish. There were many, many fans already piled up behind the stand things near the entrance to where the limos would pull in. I definitely had no way of getting over there. I mean, yeah I could have gone over there, but just would have been stuck behind the crowd and not seen a thing which was not gonna happen. This was behind the MGM Grand casino (on the backstreets). I crossed it and looked for a better spot somewhere I was allowd to be where the security would kick me out. Luckily, on the opposite side of the driveway where the limos pulled in, there was a little sidewalk space with about 5 people there. I could see a spot that I could fit in perfectly without anyone blocking my view and I ran across the street to take it! As the celebrities arrived and got out of the limo, the people closest would usually start cheering whomevers name which was helpful for me to get ready with my camera and snap photos of them from the distance I was at while they make there way from the limo to the orange carpet. Yet again, I was more than thankful for having my 200mm lens on! I would say I was at least 50-55ft. away from where the celebs were walking! Some, like Carrie Underwood for example instead of walking straight to the carpet, came over to the fans that were across the driveway from where I was and signed autographs/posed for a few photos with fans which was very, very helpful to get good shots because there weren't as many men in black surrounding them! I don't want to spoil any others I was able to get photos of, so I will post them directly after all my Pet-a-Palooza photos! ;-)

During the weekdays of my spring break, I took it easy and hung at home. Revamped my room, did things of that sort.

Saturday, April 11:
I finally hungout with one of my bestfriends I hadn't seen for too long, Jourdan! I went to his house to meetup with him for my first band promo photoshoot I would have later in the day. The band is just local, and according to Jourdan and others- very good! I still have yet to listen to their songs on MySpace...keep getting sidetracked. Their name is Hollywood 'N Vine, and they've played at some good venues here in Vegas. I'm going to shoot thier next show. Anyway, Jourdan and I then went to the leadsingers house (Alex). Our first location was the garage and we taped up newspaper to the wall and layed some out on the floor for them to pose against. Yes, I know that's abit cliché and has been overdone, but the band liked it a lot so we did it. After shooting in there, we ordered pizza and chatted for a while. Two of Jourdan's friends were there, one that wanted to meet me for a while. There names were Shae and Farrah. One's a senior and the other a junior. Oh, yeah the other two band members names are Jason and Michael. All of 'em were nice and easy to work with. Finished the pizza, and they got into their second outfits for the other location. Alex had choosen this gutter area in his neighborhood and we got a lot of shots out of there. We couldn't really go far since Jason had to be back at the house by a certain time for an appt. he had to make. Finally, we finished. Shae, Jourdan, Alex and I all drove over to Farrah's house in her car just to chill for a bit. It was fun, we just did random things, took candids, etc. Later on that evening, we drove down to this small, free carnival. It was also a mini car showcase thing in a way. There was a variety of cars that each owner built themselves during a certain amount of time. Sadly, I only took a photo of two or there! Also shot some bokehs of lights on booths and such. Those turned out cool. There was a live band there, and they were just packing up their set so I didn't get to hear them. They were a punky type band called the Scoundrels. There weren't many people at the carnvial, large crowd around the stage, so I went up to the lead singer (Biancia) and asked if I could take her photo. She said definitely, and asked if I wanted the other band members in the photo as well and I said yeah. It turned out really great, actually. I made a print of it for myself. :) Looks like a promo in a way, only thing is that I cut out her belt buckle kind of..haha. We chatted with them for a bit and then Jourdan and I each took a photo with Biancia before looking at a few more cars and calling it a day.

Tgif.

2009-04-03T10:12:00.000-07:00

Soon I will be hopping on the bus heading down to the Strip for what is to come later tonight. I will hopefully be able to snatch a spot alongside the red carpet outside of Pure Nightclub for Perez Hilton's birthday bash tour. I'm wanting to get a few snaps of him & any celeb friends that tag along.

*keeping my fingers crossed this goes through*

I'll get down to the strip before the red carpet starts, so in that extra time I'm gonna be walking around practicing more street photography and such.

Saturday & Sunday are going to be eventful days too! I'm pumped.

Blondie & The Blackies

2009-03-19T16:16:00.000-07:00

Let's see... Exams were on Tuesday & Wednesday. I know I did okay on them all except for the mathematics. 3 hours in one class, completely silent for most of the period; if that's not the most draining thing I don't know what is.

Hmm, what else is new..Oh yeah! My hair. Well, I finally let the black go and went all blonde! Now, I have been all blonde like I am in the polaroid above once before, and hated it only because when it was like that the first time, my hair was too thick & long (esp. the bangs) so it just washed me out in my opinion and sucked, so I put the black back in the next day. Recently, I wanted to try all blonde again with my short bangs and thinned hair style and I love the out come of it so much! Feels great to have the black gone, now I won't have so much to worry about.

Tomorrow is Friday! : ] Have a sweet weekend, peepz!

xx
N

Buzznet Newsletter - January 2009

2009-03-08T15:48:00.001-07:00

Here is the screenshot I took when I was in the Buzznet Jan. '09 newsletter as a featured member.

Not gonna lie, I felt very special! :)

- My Buzznet profile: NickLeonard.buzznet.com

Eventful.

2009-03-07T13:07:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I went to the movies with Brooke and Derrick as planned! We saw Madea Goes To Jail.

Wow. If you're a huge comedy fan like myself, I definitely recommend you see it. It's full of laughs yet also has a serious part to it. I loved it.

We then movie hopped into Jonas Brothers 3D Concert Experience because my friends are huge J Bros fans.

It was rather short and showed the best live performances which was pretty fun watching on 3D glasses. The only time the movie showed how their personal life was like was when Big Rob (their bodygaurd) had to wake them up early in the morning to eat breakfast and prepare for a show that day running away from tons of fan girls through the city. I wished there could have been more insight.

In a little while, I'm going go head out again- this time going down to the Strip to practice my street photography and hopefully come across peoples' whose style I fancy and ask to to snap a photograph of them. :)

Bokeh!

2009-03-05T22:28:00.000-08:00

So, I finally attempted getting bokeh in a photo. I tried several times. These were the my favorites.

These next two shots are photos I took without even trying for the bokeh effect and just got it!

Definition of Bokeh: The blurry, un-focused background of a photograph DUE TO LENS BLUR *from close focusing* is called by the Japanese as "bokeh".

The Ballerina - Raquel Reed

2009-03-05T22:09:00.000-08:00

The stunning teal haired model known as Raquel Reed had a photoshoot dressed as a ballerina shot by the talented Ama Lea.

Normally, I fall in love with mostly all the shoots Raquel has, but this one really struck me! I feel that her look was just perfect for this whole glam filled classy ballerina theme.

[images via Ama Lea Photography]

Etc.

2009-03-03T15:16:00.000-08:00

So stoked for this weekend. I will finally be going out! I used to go somewhere at least once a weekend, but the past few I have been forced to stay at home due to projects/school work. And then conveinently last weekend, I was pretty sick.

I'm going to the Strip to practice much more with street photography. I've learned better focus techniques with my camera and how to shoot moving things (people walking fast, cars) without super bad blur.

Hmm, I think I am going to the movies Friday with Brooke & Derrick. I don't know what they wanna see, but I want to see 17 Again only because I really enjoy movies where the main character is kind of old and then goes back to being young.

Glad the week is almost half way through. I need to go make a big lunch now, definitely starving! Haha.

PS- Please, FUCK OFF! You know who you are. I'm sure you'll be lurking this, since, you know that's what you enjoy doing unlike productive and "mature" activities for a person your age. I don't want anything to do with you. Leave me alone and get your head out of your ass. You creep.

Typical Monday.

2009-03-02T14:07:00.000-08:00

Today actually wasn't too bad. My geometry test was the down side. Bombed it so bad to where it's not even right to say I did bad, haha. (if that makes sense)

In careers, we were out in the lab again- so, that means more photobooth! Lindsay hopped in a couple photos.

Just being hawt.

Srsly sirius!?

Oh, yeah! Today we would have not had to attend school because of staff development, but since we had a snow day back in December, this was apparently the make-up day for that. Lame.

xx
N

Food on the mind...nothing comes between it!

2009-02-26T14:44:00.000-08:00

Today, being lame I felt obligated to update my Twitter (twitter.com/NicholasLeonard) with a tweet about how awesome the macbook photobooth is that I used. I sent this ditz twit with food on my mind.

I planned to say: "Photobooth on macs are fuckin fun."

Instead, I was thinking of what I normally have for lunch and if I was going to get that meal today.

So with that in mind I sent this instead: "Photobooth on macs are fuckin pizza."

PIZZA!!!! Hahaa, I laughed at myself in class. And decided to not go and delete that update, it's too silly.