AUDI • The Luxury Party at Airport

As a Video/ Photographer, I often have privilege to go places like this event.  This was a private party sponsored by Island Air and Audi Cayman.

Audi car (of course), private jet, boat were displayed nicely and guests were dressed up and very elegant. I was behind the camera and just enjoying this view from distance.

We were team of four crew and all enjoyed this event and working together (I hope).

Here is the link for the video we worked on.
https://vimeo.com/60230290

If you want to capture your event and make a cool video. Contact us to info@beneficial.tv

 

  It's Christmas season again.

When I was growing up in Japan, Christmas was a day that we get present from Santa :D and some fancy food I like and cakes (lots of cakes).  

My dad used to own a restaurant and his customers and suppliers offers him a Christmas cake every year. He couldn't say no or couldn't say yes to one of them, so we used to have different type of cakes every year.  Chocolate cake, Butter cream cake, Fruits cake and ice cream cake. Eat cake everyday until New Year.

What a sweet memory.  And thank you Dad.

Now I am in Cayman, and this will be fourth Christmas season in tropical Island.

I might have mention this last year, but this season is the time I miss country most...
I don't like cold weather, but Japanese traditional New Year Ceremony is very special in my mind.

December 31st most business is closed and very quiet during the day. 

Family usually stay at home and watch tv together. TV is showing the event happened this year and we talk about those event and remember about bitter and sweet with family together.

At our house, when 11:59pm comes we sit on tatami together and face each other. 12am we start hearing temple hitting the KANE (big iron bell) and all our family bow and thank for last year and wish all the best for new year. 

Something like this photo but we are small family (father, mother, me, my sister)

I never told my dad but I enjoyed this ceremony every year.  After this private ceremony, we will drive to shrine and do HATSU-MOUDE (first visit). HATSU-MOUDE is your first visit to Shrine in that year and usually place is packed with people. 

(This photo's Shrine is a lot like my home town's Shrine.)

Most Shrine serves AMA-ZAKE (Hot Sweeten Sake with ginger) and people through money in the box and pray for this new year. Most people buy their OMAMORI.   

They’re good luck charms that are said to have a god inside to keep you safe. There are a wide variety of omamori. There are traffic safety omamori, omamori that will allow a pregnant woman to have an easy child-birth, and omamori to help you with your studies, like this one.

Characters on back: 学業お守り – がくぎょうおまもり – gakugyou ommori (omamori for studies)

Sometimes shrines will be known to have especially powerful omamori of a specific type. This dazaifutenmangu which is in Kyusu is famous for its ability to improve luck in studying. It works!

You are supposed to return the omamori to the same shrine where you purchased it after one year. Otherwise, the charm will lose its effect.  -from http://www.japannewbie.com/2008/04/26/omamori-japanese-good-luck-charms/

Omamori works. Really works for me. If you believe it works.
I got one for studying when I was a student, I had traffic safety every year after got my driver's license.  Now like Japan New Bie Blog said there is god inside. Rule #1 You should NEVER open this. NEVER   Rule #2 Keep it clean and keep it close to you all the time.

I am sure that this will be my last blog for this year.
So have a great holiday seasons and Happy New Year AKEMASHITE OMEDETOU GOZAIMASU when it comes.

 

Diving in the Caribbean Sea

Photo from http://www.grandcaymansdiving.com/

When I just move to the Cayman Islands, I was amazed by the color of water.
After 4years, water is still beautiful and warm all through the year.

Thursday night, I had a chance to go to "Underwater Film Festival" with my friend.  It was very nice to see underwater photo and film which was filmed mostly in the Cayman Water.

When I snorkel, I was very surprised how fish is friendly to us.

They just swimming around me as if they don't even see me.

Even at Seven Mile Beach, I see so many fishes swimming around humans.  One day I was in the water (maybe 10 feet from shore) and fish was tickling my feet.  I see turtle, spotted ray etc etc...

Living in the Cayman Islands and not to experience Diving is nothing but wasting time to me.
But years pass by and I still don't have license.  Next year I will get my diving license and take photos of these beautiful fishes.

Halloween in Cayman

What is Halloween? Really.
Like I mentioned in my last Blog, in Cayman, I see almost naked ladies posting photos on facebook.
And they just drink more than usual and get wasted more than usual. Hey you guys drinking every weekend right? So....what is the point?

Anyway, I am from Japan and we don't cerebrate Halloween so I just not understanding why is it so fun. That's all.

BTW, Rotary Club Gland Cayman create a House of Horror to raise fund.
We went inside to film this House of Horror. They did a really great job.  They had many people who dressed up like zombie, ghost, scary mask man, etc...   and yes I jumped one time.

:)

Movemberrrr

Sometime you will learn about something in a way you never expect.
I've been seeing this word "Movember" since last month everywhere and I was just thinking it's a gentleman's event which they can officially do something crazy and drink a lot because it is Movember. (it's not 100% wrong right?)

Something like Halloween. (Halloween here in Cayman is the day when woman can walk around almost naked because they wear a costume and because Halloween.)

But it was way deeper than that.
Here is Cayman Island Movember official facebook site CLICK HERE
Thank you for CML TV to let us capture this event. (We have four more event to go!)

From now on, I won't give you a look if you have beer in your hand and walking around with wired moustache. I promise! (Only in November)

Here is Philip Bloom enjoying Movember!  ENJOY!

Cayman Life

I had experienced some hard time as expat.

From my boy friend's work permit issue to company resister issue.
And last week, police broke into our apartment. They said they were searching someone and thought our room is the one but it wasn't. We weren't at home that time. Police knock our door but nobody answer the door (of course) so they thought the person who they are looking might be hiding in the house, so they broke the door and went in.

Me and my boy friend didn't know anything. Came home and see door bending and key has been replaced.  So we called land owner and he explained this incident.
We went to police station and got new key.

What a drama...

But, mostly we are having very productive days.
My boyfriend has work permit under new company, and we have some new team members.

Sometime I wonder where money is going to come but excitement takes over concern.
Is that good?   Well, I believe so.

 I found this little kitty taking nap and said to my self, don't worry thing will work out in the end.

And this law always works for me. 

Cayman Islands Department of Tourism video is LIVE!

Hi friends,
Finally video we filmed for DOT(Department of Tourism) is up!

Well it has been up for a while now, so forgive me for the late update.
These are just beginning, so stay tuned at BeneficialTV or CaymanTourism YouTube Page.

Here is the caption from CaymanTourism site about this video.
"gal•li•vant: To go around from one place to another in the pursuit of pleasure or entertainment.
Introducing Gallivantin' in the Cayman Islands, the official YouTube series of the Cayman Islands. Join hosts Luigi Moxam and Kamala Murugesu on the road as they take you on a trek exploring all that is Cayman. From island hotspots, attractions, dining, nightlife, attractions, and events, they'll give you a taste of local flava like you've never seen.
Whether you crave off-the-beaten path or popular activities, we have it all here for you.
Part one of the series "Cayman Time" takes an in depth look at both the wild and relaxing elements of the Cayman Islands. Featuring QE II Botanic Park, the Blue Iguana Recovery Programme, and RumPoint. Hope you have as much fun watching as we had making! "
And HERE ater the videos!

ENJOY!

Cayman Islands Pirates Week 2011

Last week was the busiest week for me since I start working for Beneficial Entertainment.
Cayman's Pirates week coverage for Department of tourism, filming and editing for Cml-tv and souple other editing for the job we did since last month.

Pressure and Deadline, responding many e-mail can takes couple hours (which I am not good at..).

But I must say, I had great time with Ms. Cassandra from DOT, Luigi Moxam and our team Harrison, Jamie, Devonte and Michael. Thanks a lot for getting through with us.

And I am a bit nervous that we will be editing this footage and many sleepless night is waiting in front of me.

Pirates Week in Cayman kicked off from Little Cayman. And of course we were there to film.
This wasn't a first time for me to visit Little Cayman but it was first time I could go around and see how beautiful this Little Island is.  I've been telling so many people that they need to go to Little Cayman.
And it was THAT AMAZING! 

This coming week DOT will be releasing YouTube Video that we filmed and edit. So stay tuned!

Team having fun time after hard working.

This photo was taken at Little Cayman Beach Resort (Club)'s pool. Just before we fly back to Grand Cayman.  Oh my, what can I say about this resort. Their staff is super friendly. Smile all the time.
And their food is just incredible.  I love their tea selection and cake selection. For breakfast, you can enjoy all kind of tropical fruits and omelet. For lunch and Dinner, you will find some interesting creative menu but I never disappoint.  Dinner time they will have cakes lined up for sweet mouth like me!

You will have to see it by yourself!
So again! Stay tuned to DOT's YouTube. And I will update as well.  

Q&A about Cayman Islands

One day, I was doing photo shoot for clients from over seas.
We were talking about how Cayman's beaches are gorgeous.
Water is so clear as you can see in this photo.
Fishes are so friendly. Weather is nice. Turtle firm, Rum Point, Beach activity...etc
Here are some common questions and answers about Cayman Islands.

Q:  Is there a winter season?
A:  If you are talking about cold weather, NO.
      Local people called end of the year to beginning of the year (Nov.-Feb) winter season but it is still hot.

Q: Can I swim any time? All through the year?
A: 200% YES!  ANYTIME!  Christmas, New Years, you can come down with T-shirts and short pants.
    Of course don't forget to bring swim suits! :)

Q: What is Cayman's local food?
A: I believe, Turtle meat and Conch is the Cayman's local food.
     Other recommend: Fish Fry (escovitch style), Lobster, Cassava Cake, Fresh Tropical Fruits etc..

Q: What is Stingray City like?
A: You can find lots of photos and videos about Stingray City online.
     Stingray City is one of my favorite spot in Cayman. Many tourist come back here just to go back Stingray City.

Q: What about Hurricane season?
A: Hurricane season? I've been here for 3.5 years and I experienced one hurricane. It wasn't bad at all.
     If you are coming down you can check tropical weather on line. If you don't see any Tropical Storm in the Caribbean area, you are safe. Hurricane doesn't appear in one day.

Q: Is it safe?
A: Yes. Compare to other Caribbean country, Cayman is very safe.
     When I just moved here, I used to get scared because stranger will just come to me and talk to me.
     They are very friendly and helpful.  So many people offered me a ride when I had no car, and I still keep in touch with some of them.

That's it for now.

It's getting too long to read....

So are you coming down? 
All right!  See you at beach!

CAYMAN VACATION • RUM POINT

Last week Friday, Cayman's "Tourist Ambasador" MATT BROWN and BEN HUD released their first corroboration single "RUM POINT".

I was involved as assistant Director for their music video.
We shot this video March 2011 (I think) and Director Eli did his magical touch in post production (as usual GOOD JOB!).  

Shaggy say "Sugar Cane" from Jamaica, we say "Rum Point" from Cayman.
I really believe we did great job as much as Shaggy!  I really think so!
SO, Shaggy! we can do some Caribbean Song together if you want! LOL


Yeah, of course I am not joking!

Here is the Official Rum Point Song - Matt Brown & Ben Hud
and Sugar Cane - Shaggy

CAYMAN BEACH WEDDINGS • Smith Cove

 Another beautiful day on this small island, Grand Cayman.

Many people are on vacation this time. And many people escape from Cayman to U.S, Canada and another Caribbean islands.  Since this year start, my company and I are so busy (very good :)) so, I am really not sure when and how I can get away.

But I see many people come from out side and enjoying this quiet beautiful Cayman, and I often say to my self "I am so lucky to be here".

 Anyhow,  I don't think I need to explain why I feel that way.
Just look at these photos. You will see why.

This is today's my favorite shot.

 What is good about Cayman Islands?  All Caribbean Islands has "WHITE SAND and BLUE WATER" well, I only know Jamaica and Cayman. So I can only compare to Jamaica.

1. Simply Relaxed
2. Friendly Animals and Fishes
3. Safe
4. Convenient (Because it's such a small island)

 You can enjoy in your own way without worry.
You can go out anytime and anywhere you want.
Only one thing is shopping places close 6pm except super markets. But there are lots of beach bar and restaurants open until late and beach is open 24/7! :) You can enjoy night walk at Seven Mile Beach.

Hope you can come down someday and experience SUPER RELAX CAYMAN.

SUNSET WEDDING at SMITH COVE • CAYMAN ISLANDS

 It was a bright HOT day.
Wedding started after 6pm in Cayman time but sun was still nice and hot.

This international couple married at Smith Cove in Cayman Islands.
And hopefully I made their day even more special with this beautiful photos.

I just love this sunset natural lighting. It is very dramatic and romantic to me.

Cayman is one of the best Wedding Destination in Caribbean.
If you are planning to getting marry in Caribbean area I will definitely recommend Cayman Islands. 
For more information about wedding, you can visit Simply Weddings' blog/website.
Ms. Joy is very professional and they can customized your wedding with very reasonable price.
If you want me to photograph your special day, you can simply ask them for all inclusive package. If you are getting married with another marriage officer or wedding company you can e-mail me at mari@beneficial.tv

 

 

 

INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE!

I had worked on my website so my clients and clients to be can see what type of work I do in one page.
CLICK HERE !
It has icon for you to find my other site. (facebook, flickr etc...)
I will keep adding my new project I have worked on.


This month has been very interested and unforgettable month for me.
I had chance to join as one of the media member for Penny Palfrey's Cayman Bridge Swim.
She swam from Cayman Brac to Little Cayman on June 6th (Mon.) and from Little Cayman to Grand Cayman 108km on June 11th to 12th. She swam all through the night without sleep and after 40 hours 41min plus she made it to East End Grand Cayman. 

It was an amazing experience for me to spend time with her and her team and local support team.
Everybody was so supportive and thoughtful and professional.  I made new friends locally and internationally. 
And that is always one of the best part of these events.


This is one of the photo I took on her Little Cayman to Grand Cayman journey. For more photos, you can visit
Beneficial Entertainment Facebook .


(Penny is in between kayak and RIB)

Natural Beautiful Beach Wedding • Cayman Cove

 This is our friend Jamie and Jessie's Beach Wedding Video.

Location was at Cayman Cove, beside Smith Cove.
Very simple heart warming wedding just like couple.

They all enjoyed relaxed ceremony and picnic style dinner at beautiful garden while they enjoyed georges Cayman Sunset.

Congrats Jamie and Jessie!

m :)

Filmed by Ben Hud and Mari Abe for Beneficial Entertainment.

Wedding Photo Shoot at Smith Cove

This week I had a Wedding Photo Shoot for Simply Weddings at "Smith Cove", one of Cayman's famous spots.

Smith Cove is photo friendly. There is sand, beach, coconut trees, rocks, iguana statues and many other tropical trees.

When I took these photos, it was  really cloudy but when the whether is like this I think it adds to the romantic mood even more.  Isn't it romantic?

This couple sought after my photography services through Simply Weddings.  Most couples who request me choose this spot.

The next spot I recommend for romantic photography is Blue Water Beach (West Bay Public Beach). There is a pier, trees and of course sandy beaches!  The sunset views from this area is absolutely stunning. 




If you need more information about getting married in the Cayman Islands, please visit Simply Weddings.


Or you can send me an e-mail for any questions regarding your Cayman trip.


m :)

MY CAYMAN EATOUT PART2 • YOSHI SUSHI

Malibu Pineapple with lime

Today's restaurant is Cayman's very famous YOSHI SUSHI.   It's a Japanese SUSHI restaurant.

I am Japanese. My father is a Japanese sushi chef. I know when I'm tasting good food representing my country. I think they are doing a pretty good job considering that they adjust for a Caribbean taste. 

I always enjoy my side dish when I dine at YOSHI SUSHI Restaurant.

I think the reason is because I just can't find the special ingredients used in Japanese cooking on this island. It is the little things, the attention to detail that reminds me of home and makes me happy!

Pictured below is "Spinach with Sesame Dressing".
This one just hit the spot! (I loved it!)

GOMA AE

TEMPURA

Pictured above is "Palm and Vegetable TEMPURA". My favorite vegetable is Pumpkin!

They surprised me with cucumber this day. I think they caught me off guard because in Japan we don't use them for Tempura. But it was good.

SPECIAL ROLL

And... who dosen't like these!? 

The roll above is "BBQ Eel and Palm". The lower is Tuna with Avocado. Although Japanese people do not use Avocado for Sushi this is a brilliant idea. I know many people don't like eating Eel because of it's shape. I would urge them to TRY! I introduced a friend to try BBQ Eel once and they loved it!

Are you hungry for SUSHI now?


m :)

MY CAYMAN EAT OUT Part1

Al La Kebab 1

I've decided to do a blog about restaurants in Cayman, so it can help people to decide where to eat. I don't know what the food is like at many restaurants yet, so this will give me a reason to go to different places to eat. Doesn't that sound exciting?

The first restaurant is Al La Kebab, they are located in two locations, one is in the Marquee Plaza by Seven Mile Beach and the other one is in Georgetown right in front of Scotia Bank.

The first photo is of their famous "Pita Wrap".
They also have a vegetarian menu.

The vegan menu is my "good friend" when I want to loose some weight, and I believe most ladies agree with that.  But I have something to say for those who want to control weight. (This is my personal theory so I might be wrong, but it works for me).   Meat itself won't make you gain weight. What causes us to gain weight is seasonings and dressings. Do you like ketchup, mayo, salty food and gravy?  Then I suggest that you to use half the amount you are use to the next time.  When I eat vegetables and cheese sandwich, I put black pepper and vinegar. No mayo. No other dressing. You can not trust labels that say "LOW CALORIE".  

Al La Kebab 2

This second photo is of their "Beef and Shrimp Skewers" with "Fruits Salad".  This was really good!

I don't know when I will do a Part 2, but I hope you enjoy my "Food" series in the future.

m :)

facebook, youtube .... what's next?

Today I finised design my facebook fan page.
   Click here to go to my  facebook page!
I used to use Dreamweaver to design web site but these days things are much easier!

I also did upload two video to my youtube channel.
These videos were shot at Grand Cayman's world famous seven mile beach!

It was HOT but videos came out beautiful.
I love this blue sky and crystal clear blue water!!
Click this to got to my  youtube channel

OK. What's next?
Oh yes, I can't forget to create my web site as well.

Hope more people can find me through internet and see my work!

 

JAPAN ROCK ON!

As everybody knows Japan experienced worst earthquake in our history.
As Japanese who lives far from home, I felt pain.
My family is OK though. They lives far from location.

My good friends and wonderful Caymanian musician group "ThE iZ" made a song for Japan.
They have friends in Tokyo and even though we are far from them, we felt pain.

They made a song and we team Beneficial made a music video with Japanese subtitles.

It is still in production but I believe it will on youtube by weekend.


Just hoping that Japan won't have any more major after shock.


Wish this video will bring you smile in your face.


Love

Blast Weekend!

This weekend was very event full and blast for me!
Saturday's wedding was fun, yummy, happy and great.
One thing I learn from this wedding is; "No matter how much money you spend for this event, in the end of the day People make event!"
Great people gather together, then nothing can't go wrong.
It was very honor to share special day for this couple (friends of mine) and their family.
Thank you Neil and Galen!!

And Sunday's music video was a great experience for me.
My friend brought his director friend from Canada and I was his Assistant Director.
This little director has great passion and he is very easy to work with.
Our team has great working relationship so "easy to work with" is very important for us.
I believe including musicians and dancers, we all had a great time at Rum Point!
Weather was wonderful for music video too.
It was a bit windy but it helped for certain shot.
So Thank you and Big up for Eli (Director).

You will see this video on youtube in one or two month.
So keep your eyes on my blog page!!

:) m