Carnival Dream Picture Review, December 10th-17th, 2011

[italianfemmy]

fabulous photos

 

Thanks! Your signature photo is ADORABLE!!

[OnTheBrink]

Guys, please keep this as short as you can... I don't want it to detract from the thread.. I know it's relevant information from someone elses experience that could help other parents.. Perhaps she has a review she's written that she can link you to for this information though? If not, that's cool.. just please don't let it get out of hand like other threads on CC :-)

 

Sorry, yes, of course! Is it possible to do private messages on CC? If so, that would work well. Or if there's a thread elsewhere, direct me! Thanks!

[MrsZee]

I bet Steve and Kim are thrilled that you took those pictures of them. Probably much better than the ship's photographer!

[jenseib]

Thanks! Your signature photo is ADORABLE!!

 

Thanks

[smplyblessed619]

*takes deep breath and looks away from the computer screen*

 

Alright, now that I've read all of the pages for this thread...where do I start?! I am new to cruising and just as new to this site but your review was my 1st subscription. I have been walking around my office (since yesterday) and on FB talking about it...lol.

 

A) I pray you're feeling better!

B) You have such an amazing talent - and yes your site is aaaawwwwessssome!

C) I even looked up to see about getting on the Breeze instead of my 1st cruise (11/26/12-Carnival Destiny to Nassau, Half Moon Cay & Grand Turk) however for my 1st, I think I'll stick to the budget-friendly option ;).

D) My fav: definitely the tiger and then the monkeys.

E) I'm hoping to purchase a pretty nifty camera soon...I'm known around my area as the "Media Ministry" and snap shots, videos, etc and blast everyone's events so it's time to invest in that, especially before my cruise. But it most certainly won't be anything close to what you and other photogs have mentioned here in earlier posts.

F) Did I mention I loved your review?! hahaha

G) ((I feel like I'm singing the alphabet, sorry for being so long winded)) And I looked into the Chef's Table, but I'm still deciding (I have a while)...I have a few food allergies, including shellfish so I didn't want to be rude and turn something away not knowing it's ingredients.

H) Shore Excursions - I know you said you're a seasoned cruiser, and it seemed like your days were planned pretty well (I'm an avid planner, so I'm sure I'll have an itinerary as well) however I haven't really found any excursions that tickle my fancy. Should I look outside of the Carnival site? The whole thought of laying on beach, watching men and drinking liquor was the most appealing thing to me...but maybe some horses?! lol Horseback riding that is....Any suggestions?

 

Thanks for reading my alphabet...

 

Also --- Thanks for taking the time to post...and then to reply to everyone as you've gone along is just awesome as well. Again, praying for a speedy recovery and repeating Steve's sentiments (and preaching to myself) slooooowwwww down! :)

 

Smplyblessed619

[smplyblessed619]

Oh and I have just LOVED looking at everyone's countdowns...and my goofy self got excited when I saw ones that were coming up like tomorrow or next month even...

 

I'm excited for my 1st cruise like it's really close...

 

[italianfemmy]

*takes deep breath and looks away from the computer screen*

 

Alright, now that I've read all of the pages for this thread...where do I start?! I am new to cruising and just as new to this site but your review was my 1st subscription. I have been walking around my office (since yesterday) and on FB talking about it...lol.

 

A) I pray you're feeling better!

B) You have such an amazing talent - and yes your site is aaaawwwwessssome!

C) I even looked up to see about getting on the Breeze instead of my 1st cruise (11/26/12-Carnival Destiny to Nassau, Half Moon Cay & Grand Turk) however for my 1st, I think I'll stick to the budget-friendly option ;).

D) My fav: definitely the tiger and then the monkeys.

E) I'm hoping to purchase a pretty nifty camera soon...I'm known around my area as the "Media Ministry" and snap shots, videos, etc and blast everyone's events so it's time to invest in that, especially before my cruise. But it most certainly won't be anything close to what you and other photogs have mentioned here in earlier posts.

F) Did I mention I loved your review?! hahaha

G) ((I feel like I'm singing the alphabet, sorry for being so long winded)) And I looked into the Chef's Table, but I'm still deciding (I have a while)...I have a few food allergies, including shellfish so I didn't want to be rude and turn something away not knowing it's ingredients.

H) Shore Excursions - I know you said you're a seasoned cruiser, and it seemed like your days were planned pretty well (I'm an avid planner, so I'm sure I'll have an itinerary as well) however I haven't really found any excursions that tickle my fancy. Should I look outside of the Carnival site? The whole thought of laying on beach, watching men and drinking liquor was the most appealing thing to me...but maybe some horses?! lol Horseback riding that is....Any suggestions?

 

Thanks for reading my alphabet...

 

Also --- Thanks for taking the time to post...and then to reply to everyone as you've gone along is just awesome as well. Again, praying for a speedy recovery and repeating Steve's sentiments (and preaching to myself) slooooowwwww down! :)

 

Smplyblessed619

 

Thank you so very much for all of the amazing and kind words that you took the time out of your evening to write! I really appreciate it.

 

I am going to have to ask everyone kindly that if you find my website on your own and you want to talk to me about it, please just email me through my website instead of mentioning my website on here. There are a couple of snarky people that are making it their mission to insist that I am trying to advertise on here and get me in trouble.

 

I am not trying to garnish clients on CC. I've been on here for many years. I've been a photographer for 6 years and I've never done a trip review until now. I wouldn't been doing them all along if I just wanted to market myself.

 

I watermark my images including those in my signature because I own the copyright to the images and it is to protect my imagery from theft. If people have issue with that, I'll ask that this entire thread be deleted since my photos all of my logo on them and that my signature images also be deleted and I'll stop contributing to the review process. I get excited to do the review because of the photos I have to share along with the words.. painting a picture of a story.

 

I am sorry that this bothers some people (most of you will have no idea what I am talking about - it's been unraveling in another thread.) But I don't want to let my readers down. You guys have all been amazing (and gals! haha).

[smplyblessed619]

So I've noticed what you're talking about...and I think it's a bunch of bull-arrrr-KEY! :) Loved your review and as I'm getting more familiar with the site, your input on other posts....

[steven93921]

I bet Steve and Kim are thrilled that you took those pictures of them. Probably much better than the ship's photographer!

 

Beyond words! I only wish I had a nice pair of shoes as the full shot was, I think, the best of the three she took. This is the best picture of Kim and I EVER and has been my FB profile pic for over almost a month now and I will certainly be getting it printed (still waiting for the image missy miss :D).

 

 

G) ((I feel like I'm singing the alphabet, sorry for being so long winded)) And I looked into the Chef's Table, but I'm still deciding (I have a while)...I have a few food allergies, including shellfish so I didn't want to be rude and turn something away not knowing it's ingredients.

 

If you reserve, notify the steakhouse of your food allergies when you confirm reservations on board and also let the Chef know at the start. You should be right as rain from there! :)

[gapearl]

Thank you so very much for all of the amazing and kind words that you took the time out of your evening to write! I really appreciate it.

 

I am going to have to ask everyone kindly that if you find my website on your own and you want to talk to me about it, please just email me through my website instead of mentioning my website on here. There are a couple of snarky people that are making it their mission to insist that I am trying to advertise on here and get me in trouble.

 

I am not trying to garnish clients on CC. I've been on here for many years. I've been a photographer for 6 years and I've never done a trip review until now. I wouldn't been doing them all along if I just wanted to market myself.

 

I watermark my images including those in my signature because I own the copyright to the images and it is to protect my imagery from theft. If people have issue with that, I'll ask that this entire thread be deleted since my photos all of my logo on them and that my signature images also be deleted and I'll stop contributing to the review process. I get excited to do the review because of the photos I have to share along with the words.. painting a picture of a story.

 

I am sorry that this bothers some people (most of you will have no idea what I am talking about - it's been unraveling in another thread.) But I don't want to let my readers down. You guys have all been amazing (and gals! haha).

 

I read through that thread earlier. Some nasty things were said that were totally unnecessary. Please don't let a few haters get you down. Your review has gotten almost 50,000 hits. Everyone is enjoying your pictures. I'll even say you've actually inspired me! I just got a new camera, the Canon G12, and I can't wait to put it to use!

[italianfemmy]

I read through that thread earlier. Some nasty things were said that were totally unnecessary. Please don't let a few haters get you down. Your review has gotten almost 50,000 hits. Everyone is enjoying your pictures. I'll even say you've actually inspired me! I just got a new camera, the Canon G12, and I can't wait to put it to use!

 

have fun with it and email me some pictures! I'd love to see them. Or you can add me on FB and show me your FB albums of your first trials. Photography is such a joy. I love taking photos just for the fun of taking photos! My camera goes with me everywhere, even when I am not working. :-)

[Celandine]

Wow.

 

Thank you for taking the time to do this review. Your thoughts were appreciated and your pictures were adored/fawned over/inspirational.

 

I have been trying to do more with my photos since I teach internationally and am blessed to see some amazing things.

 

I bought myself a new camera for my birthday this past summer - nothing overly special, a Nikon Coolpix L120 (in red lol) but so far I haven't really figured out the best way to use it. Now I must - before I go on my next trips (in order - Pyramids in Egypt, Paris, cruise - if I can scrounge the money Abu Simbel and Luxor in Egypt as well)

 

Again, thank you for taking the time to do this. I really feel your soul in this entire review between your thoughts and pictures and feel like I 'know' you.... (and you seem awesome)

 

I hope you are feeling better and fully recovered and I wish all the best to you :)

 

I hope you will keep writing reviews, and I hope there is no issue with your watermark, I think that is perfectly reasonable and I know there is at least one other member with a watermark on their photos.

 

Thanks again :)

[italianfemmy]

I just received an email from Cruise Critic and have complete clarity on the rules and guidelines.

 

Essentially, she said that linking to a website is not allowed. My signature photos, my watermarks on both my signature photos and my thread photos and even my mentioning that I am a photographer, however, are all permitted.

 

Now that I don't have to worry about getting in trouble for protecting my copyright, I think I just might see if I can edit another 6 photos for my next post on here to keep things rolling on a happy and positive note!! :D

[hschlink]

I love your pictures...what camera did you use?

[italianfemmy]

Wow.

 

Thank you for taking the time to do this review. Your thoughts were appreciated and your pictures were adored/fawned over/inspirational.

 

I have been trying to do more with my photos since I teach internationally and am blessed to see some amazing things.

 

I bought myself a new camera for my birthday this past summer - nothing overly special, a Nikon Coolpix L120 (in red lol) but so far I haven't really figured out the best way to use it. Now I must - before I go on my next trips (in order - Pyramids in Egypt, Paris, cruise - if I can scrounge the money Abu Simbel and Luxor in Egypt as well)

 

Again, thank you for taking the time to do this. I really feel your soul in this entire review between your thoughts and pictures and feel like I 'know' you.... (and you seem awesome)

 

I hope you are feeling better and fully recovered and I wish all the best to you :)

 

I hope you will keep writing reviews, and I hope there is no issue with your watermark, I think that is perfectly reasonable and I know there is at least one other member with a watermark on their photos.

 

Thanks again :)

 

Ummm can I go with you? Egypt, Pyramids = my bucket list vacation!! I'll teach ya everything I know! :D lol. Gosh, I am super jealous right now!

 

Thanks so much for all of the beautiful words. They're very appreciated!

[italianfemmy]

I love your pictures...what camera did you use?

 

Most of the ones in this review were taken with the 5D MK II. I also used the 40D a little bit. I left my 1D MK IV home because I felt it was too expensive of a camera to be worried about while vacationing.

 

I used the 70-200L 2.8 IS lens, the 50 1.4, the 24-105L 4.0 IS lens for all of these shots.

[Celandine]

Ummm can I go with you? Egypt, Pyramids = my bucket list vacation!! I'll teach ya everything I know! :D lol. Gosh, I am super jealous right now!

 

Thanks so much for all of the beautiful words. They're very appreciated!

 

Hey you are welcome to visit! I have a spare room

 

I live in Cairo right now, and will next year too... I pass the pyramids everyday on my way to work!

 

Last year I lived in China and got to see the Great Wall, The Terra Cotta warriors and several other areas of Asia.

[jimbug]

Alicia, thanks for taking the time to post this fabulous review! I, too, love your photos.

 

I will be awaiting your Breeze review in November--we'll be on the same 8-day Breeze itinerary the following January! :D

[dotheyes]

Please Please don't stop writing reviews. we are 76 and 86 and because of you we upgraded to a spa cabin on our Jan. 7 2012 cruise and had a wonderful time (my arthritis even loved it) thanks for all the interesting pictures and documentation. Dot and Harry

[italianfemmy]

Please Please don't stop writing reviews. we are 76 and 86 and because of you we upgraded to a spa cabin on our Jan. 7 2012 cruise and had a wonderful time (my arthritis even loved it) thanks for all the interesting pictures and documentation. Dot and Harry

 

Haha you went on a cruise and came back from a cruise and I am still not done with my cruise review! That's funny!

 

I am tickled to hear that you loved the spa. Were you on the Dream? What was your favorite part about the spa? It certainly did wonders for me too! I am 30, trapped in an old lady body. haha.

[dotheyes]

Haha you went on a cruise and came back from a cruise and I am still not done with my cruise review! That's funny!

 

I am tickled to hear that you loved the spa. Were you on the Dream? What was your favorite part about the spa? It certainly did wonders for me too! I am 30, trapped in an old lady body. haha.

 

Yes, the Dream and it was Dreamy. We were all the way forward on deck 11 next to the little private elevator. Since we don't get off at ports any more it was like having a private spa

dot

[pimela]

Hi, Alicia.

 

I just have to say how much I'm enjoying both this review and the one you did just on Chef's Table. I have a cruise booked on the Splendor in April and now have upgraded my cabin to a spa cabin and booked on the chef's table, both because of your review. I wasn't sure if I would use the spa much, but after your description and how active I plan my excursions to be, seems like a great place to relax.

 

It looks like you guys had a blast. Thanks so much for sharing!

 

Pam

[txstarla]

Alicia,

Love love love your review and put the jerks on "ignore." You rock. I was not planning on reviewing my cruise, but your awesomeness pushed me to do it. My pics are not nearly as cool as yours, but I hope some of your crazy cool talent rubbed off on me... hehehe

 

Keep posting lovely lady!

Shell

[italianfemmy]

We left off by taking some photos on the staircase and then heading into the Crimson dining room for our meal. We ordered our food and while we were waiting, I decided to take some photos of us and Steve and Kim since I had my camera with me this time.

 

The dining room photographer came around while we were taking our photos and he started joking that he wished he had my camera. This is actually the one major area that I wish ships would improve when it comes to photography. Even though I am not a fan of fake backdrops, at least they set up studio lights that are triggered and give a bit more professionalism to the lighting.

 

But when they wander around the ship and take photos or when they take them outside of the ship, they just use the pop up flash that is built into the camera. A pop up flash can only point one direction - straight into the face of the person they're taking the photo of. This causes unflattering light that appears flat and lacks dimension, washes out skin tones, etc. Sorry to geek out for a minute but it's just a huge pet peeve of mine that they don't invest in good external flashes that have a range of motion.

 

I will say that SOME of them get their flash on brackets and this is better than the pop up flash. But not all of them do.

 

Anyway, I pointed my flash up at the ceiling and slightly behind to take these photos so that the light would bounce around and create more dimension. I really loved the red lights and ambiance in the Crimson and wanted them to show off nicely and not be blacked out in the background. :-)

 

Thanks Steve for being a good button pusher :-)

 

 

 

 

[italianfemmy]

Latanya got up and danced with one of the crew members during dinner. :-)

 

 

 

And then one of our FAVORITE servers... we have EVER had on a cruise.... Suppatra... spotted us out and came over to hug us and say hello. We would have requested her or Pornsawa (another awesome server) every night but unfortunately, since we were doing anytime dining, the wait times would have been crazy. Everyone else was awesome too. We just kind of loved Suppatra and Pornsawa.

 

Latanya and I with Suppatra.... (thanks again Steve!)

 

 

Then our appetizers came...

 

 

 

I had the shrimp and let Latanya eat the raw stuff... haha... which of course she had no problem with. I knew I was going to actually want dessert tonight so I didn't really want much on the appetizer front.

 

Entree and dessert coming up next!

 

 

.

Edited January 21, 2012 by italianfemmy