Today was one of those days when you know why you chose the career path you did...

Went for a look around Istanbul with Kas and Emily in the morning and saw the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque) and wandered back towards our hotel. Once back it was grab all the gear and go time!

Managed to get our taxi to drive through huge crowds of kids and drop us close to the right door. Walked into the venue and set-up in an interview room and then waited for Metallica to arrive.

When they finally did it was shoot time. It was rushed as my time was cut in half but they know what to do so got loads of shots. Was impressed with Lars who just said so you're Canadian. Everyone usually asks where in America I'm from. They were great for taking the piss out of Ian too which was quite hilarious! But as Ian said later at least they remember me... Oh and big thanks to Mr.Winwood for taking the accompanying pic.

After they did interviews they had their meet and greet which was was unlike any I had seen before. They all took loads of individual time with each fan which no band of this size would do. Once they were changed it was off to Tuning and Attitude (a closed off flatbed truck) where they play a few songs before going on stage. They jammed for a bit and Lars looked at me and said what's your favorite Metallica song? Before I could get all of And Justice For All out of my mouth they went right into it!! Had never heard it live and always wanted to so it was one of those amazing experiences! They played Creeping Death after and then headed for the stage.

Shot the first few songs of the show which was hard work with the high stage and Turkish photographers having fights in the pit!! Finished up on stage and watched the rest of the show from there. Was amazing to see a band warm-up and put on a proper show for once. Finished the evening off with Ian and Kas at the hotel bar over looking all of Istanbul. Now if only everyday could be more like this!!