Peter Erskine on his DW kit with Zildjian cymbals

Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of photographing drumming legend Peter Erskine at his studio during a recording session for the “Beato Band Project”. Started by top drum bag manufacturer Fred Beato, the project has had the endorsement track by track of many professionals that have left their mark by playing on the new record. Peter put his mark on a 1940s jazz standard called “Old Black Magic” by adding his drum sound in more modern rock style. Peter Erskine has played with a variety of artists from Stan Kenton, Steely Dan, Weather Report, and Diana Krall, to Christina Aguilera.

Peter Erskine Jazz Drumming Legend

Peter Erskine Jazz Drumming Legend

The session was engineered by Christian Robles using Digital Professional on Peter’s recording set up. After some microphone set up and adjusting, the session started and went very quickly. With just 3 takes everyone felt like they had what they needed. Over all the session was just under two hours, that is how you roll with pros! Fred Beato and Percussionist Raphael Padilla helped produce as the tracks progressed.

Peter Erskine's Recording Studio

Peter Esrkine uses Drum Workshop Drums, Zildjian Cymbals, Vic Firth Drum Sticks, and Beato Bags exclusively.

Looking for a cozy place to stay next time you are in Woodland Hills? One of my new clients, Holiday Inn Express can provide that with their new Ventura Boulevard location. Featuring 85 rooms, plus several large suites, pool, and breakfast service daily. The comfortable lobby has a large screen TV and a is a perfect spot for a casual client meeting. This area of Woodland Hills is centrally located and has great access to freeway off ramps and on ramps. The Hotel also features a huge motor court and plenty of protective parking. Most of the architectural photography was done during the day as the sun exposure was perfect to light the interiors using some additional lighting. The exteriors and parking structures were saved for the exotic Night Time Photography which is my trademark.

Holiday Inn Express Ventura Boulevard Woodland Hills California

If you decide you have the taste for some exquisite French food, one of LA’s finest french resturants Brandywine, is a few short blocks walking distance from the hotel. As Photo Editor and Senior Staff Photographer for “Spaces” magazine, it was my job to photograph outstanding chefs and restaurants for magazine publication. Food Photography is always fun as there are wonderful added benefits! I was lucky to have been to able to enjoy the Brandywine experience first hand. The small but efficient kitchen turns gourmet meals daily for lunch and dinner. This dining adventure will cost you a bit, but you will enjoy the fresh daily menu of the finest fresh meats and vegetables.

Holiday Inn Hotel Lobby

Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon

Chef Jean Luc in the Brandywine kitchen

Lunch anyone?

Plank grilled Salmon with rice

After an evening out of fine dining or a romantic lunch, you will need to return to your Holiday Inn private suite for a little rest and relaxation. The short walk back to the Hotel will help you walk off your dinner!!!!!!!

Business Suite Holiday Inn

The award winning architect firm Shubin & Donaldson have recently completed a new contemporary home in the prime flats area of Beverly Hills. The 3 story house of 9,000 square feet features 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms and has the feel of a fine art gallery.

Contemporary Architecture In Beverly Hills

Contemporary Dining Room Beverly Hills

The Modern Paintings of William Laga currently adorn the walls and add to the Museum like quality and feel of the home. Large sliding doors open to a stylish private lap pool and spa. The stunning lines of architecture were begging to be photographed at night, and over two separate night of photography these new images were created.

Night Time Architecture, Shubin & Donaldson Architects

New Contemporary Architecture, Shubin & Donaldson Architects

Castillo Del Lago, Los Angeles

Property One -Los Angeles has many interesting properties that are historical gems as well as outstanding works of Architecture. The famed “Castillo Del Lago” sits in hills of Los Angeles with a view of the city out to Catalina Island. The famed property/compound was built in 1926 and was once owned by the Chicago/Las Vegas Gangster Ben “Bugsy” Siegal, and more recently by Madonna. Bullet holes in the banister staircase remain from a rumored shoot out at the property.

The Mediterranean style property is very eclectic with its lush garden landscape and unique 6 sided Moroccan Style Master bath. The home is several levels and uses a modern elevator to access the various rooms. The stunning clock tower turret is visible from all sides of the property.

View of Los Angeles Over Lake Hollywood from Castillo Del Lago

Moroccan Style Bath, Castillo Del Lago, Los Angeles

Property Two- A Lloyd Wright gem also known as the “Taggart” house and Cultural Landmark Landmark #521, is an outstanding example of modern architecture, only this was built in 1922. The home sits in Los Feliz with great views of the Griffith Park Observatory. Located on a small knoll of its own, the house has been completely restored and is a joy to behold with its modern styling and surrounding cactus garden.

Taggart House, Built 1922 by Architect Lloyd Wright

Taggart House, Built 1922 by Architect Lloyd Wright, Cultural Landmark #521

Property Three- Ok, so I am almost done! A unique 1927 Hollywood Lloyd Wright Studio Residence has a classic modern feel with a bit of Mayan style stone work added. The open feel is of this property is created by large pocket doors that open and dissapear to expose the private garden. The house has a very unique live work feel to it and creates a world all its own. Normally I shoot my Architectural subjects at night, however to show the office/garden off in the best way, the decision was made for a day time photo shoot. Did I mention I love my job?

1927 Lloyd Wright Studio Residence, Hollywood, California

1927 Lloyd Wright Studio Residence, Hollywood, California