Canon Powershot G10

The G10 is Canon's flagship compact digital camera with a whopping 14.7 mega-pixels and a huge 3 inch LCD monitor. I bought one of these for myself today as I wanted a rugged yet compact camera to carry around when my Nikon D300 is going to be too much to carry, like on walks around the neighborhood.

This is a great little camera. Build quality is second to none. All the manual controls you want, right at you fingertips, not buried in menus. If I have any complaint at all it is going to be the noise level in photos at higher ISO levels. This is fairly typical of compact cameras however, I really am spoiled by my DSLR after all. Just keep the ISO setting under 400. Go a low as you can in the situation.

Color rendition is very good. The zoom range starts at the wide end, which I like for walk-around use. It's very easy to use, and has tons of options if you want to dig into the various options.

I wouldn't say Canon has hit a home-run with this camera, and it's a little pricey for the image quality it produces, but if you want a good, solid, camera that'll capture images you'd otherwise miss because you left your bulkier camera at home, then the Canon G10 might be for you. Here's another great review of the G10.

Canon Powershot G10

Canon G10 Features

• 14.7 Megapixel CCD sensor
• 5x wide-angle (28mm) optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer
• RAW image recording plus support for Canon Digital Photo Professional
• DIGIC 4 for clear, sharp images, high-speed AF (including Servo AF) and fast response times
• Targets all the main causes of blur with High ISO Auto, optical
  Image Stabilizer, Motion Detection Technology and Auto ISO shift
• Improved Face Detection AF/AE/FE/WB plus Face Select & Track and FaceSelf-Timer
• 3.0” PureColor LCD II (461k dots resolution) with wide viewing angle and optical viewfinder
• i-Contrast boosts brightness and retains detail in dark areas
• Dedicated Exposure Compensation and ISO dials
• 26 shooting modes with manual control and custom settings
• Accessories include tele-converter, Speedlights flashes and waterproof case
• Smooth, 30fps VGA movies

PhotographyCorner is everything about Photography!

This is what you are going to get when join website PhotographyCorner. Here is one place to connect with other photographers; you can post your photo and other users will share their views, you can learn about photography by reading useful articles and photography tutorials.You can share your thought by contributing writing about photography. You can join photography forum to discuss anything

Canon PowerShot SD880 IS

Aim-and-forget cameras rule—especially this time of year! We’re all for the myriad tweaks available on D-SLRs, but there’s something very comforting about a camera that simply takes very good snapshots—all you have to do is put it in Auto, zoom and press the shutter.The 10-megapixel Canon PowerShot SD880 IS Digital ELPH is just such a camera and long-time DT readers know we’re big fans of Canon’s

Nikon D3X Digital SLR

Nikon made its D3X digital SLR (DSLR) camera, the successor of the D3, official,. The D3X is Nikon’s high-end flagship DSLR camera. It features a 24.5 Megapixel CMOS FX format image sensor, ISO sensitivity from 1000 to 1600 (expandable to 50-6400), and Nikon’s newly enhanced EXPEED Image Processing System. It can do full resolution at up to 5fps.The Nikon D3X comes with the Multi-CAM 3500FX focus

Popular Digital Cameras 2008

Here’s what’s really been hot this year as far as digital cameras and photography books go. We start with DSLRs...

Popular Digital SLRS

1. Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP Digital SLR (pictured right)
2. Nikon D90 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR
3. Canon EOS 5D 12.8 MP Digital SLR
4. Nikon D60 10.2MP Digital SLR
5. Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12.2 MP Digital SLR
6. Olympus Evolt E510 10MP
7. Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR
8. Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR
9. Pentax K200D 10.2MP Digital SLR
10. Nikon D300 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR

Popular DSLR Lenses

1. Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens (pictured)
2. Nikon 50mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Lens
3. Canon EF 50mm f1.4 USM Lens
4. Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM SLR Lens
5. Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S VR DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens
6. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens
7. Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4.0-5.6 IS Telephoto Zoom Lens
8. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Telephoto Lens
9. Sigma 70mm F/2.8 EX DG Macro Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras
10. Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR Zoom Nikkor Lens

Popular Point and Shoot Cameras

1. Canon PowerShot A590IS 8MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom (pictured right)
2. Canon PowerShot A470 7MP Digital Camera with 3.4x Optical Zoom
3. Canon PowerShot SD750 7.1MP Digital Elph Camera with 3x Optical Zoom (Silver)
4. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28K 10MP Digital Camera with 18x Wide Angle MEGA Optical Image Stabilized Zoom
5. Sony Cybershot DSCS60 4.1 MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom
6. Canon PowerShot SD790IS 10MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom
7. Fujifilm Finepix J10 8.2MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom
8. Canon PowerShot SD870IS 8MP Digital Camera with 3.8x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom
9. Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5K 9MP Digital Camera with 10x Wide Angle MEGA Optical Image Stabilized Zoom
10. Canon PowerShot SD1100IS 8MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

Popular Digital Photography Books

1. The Digital Photography Companion (pictured)
2. The Digital Photography Book
3. Understanding Exposure: How to Shoot Great Photographs with a Film or Digital Camera
4. Digital Photography Pocket Guide
5. Understanding Shutter Speed: Creative Action and Low-Light Photography Beyond 1/125 Second
6. Perfect Digital Photography
7. The Digital Photography Book, Volume 2
8. Complete Digital Photography
9. The Betterphoto Guide to Digital Photography
10. The Photographer’s Eye: Composition and Design for Better Digital Photos

What’s on your Digital Photography Christmas Wish list or shopping list?

Black Friday Deals

It's that time of year again!

Amazon.com has contacted me directly with an offer I'm passing along here today. Don't miss this!

Black Friday deals start today!

Don't spend Black Friday jostling for bargains and parking spots. Amazon have amazing deals to help you get holiday shopping done for less.
Their Black Friday page (www.amazon.com/blackfriday) is already up and ready for business, including the Gold Box hourly deals featured from midnight to 11pm PST and thousands of products that are on sale for a limited time only.

Save some gas, stay at home, forget the crowds and shop online at Amazon.com

© 2008 Amazon.com. All rights reserved. Amazon.com is a registered trademark of Amazon.com, Inc. Amazon.com, 1200 12th Ave. S., Suite 1200, Seattle, WA 98144-2734, USA.

Nikon Coolpix S600 10 Megapixels Small Digital Camera

The Nikon Coolpix S600 features 10 megapixels in a small, compact point-and-shoot camera body. It excels at many types of photography with little or no tinkering with settings required. In fact, it does an impressive job of macro shooting with simplicity and ease. That makes this an ideal camera choice for the nature photographer who wants a tiny camera for hikes and walks. Action photos are more

Canon EOS 450D (Canon Digital Rebel XSi)

The Canon EOS 450D (also known as the Digital Rebel XSi) is the successor to the popular EOS 400D DSLR camera, and it offers a number of significant improvements that Canon hope will fight off the ever-increasing competition.The inevitable resolution increase, from 10 to 12 megapixels, is present and correct, but perhaps more exciting is the addition of Live View, with not one but two different

How to Shoot Beach Portraits

Have you noticed all beach pictures look the same? There's the standard sunset shot, or the posed family members with shadows blacking out their faces? Avoid some of those beach photography pitfalls.Think outside the LCD boxFirst of all, really gaze slowly around you. Look down, look up. Are there unique details or small items you can capture? You could spend hours simply on macro beach

Nikon D40 Digital Camera

The D40 is a compact and lightweight high-performance camera that makes it possible for anyone to create stunning images with an SLR. Designed specifically for ease of use, the D40 lets you use the kind of digital and optical technologies that professionals use without the need to deal with complex functions.Whatever you shoot there is an automated Digital Vari Program that lets you achieve

Get Your Own Pair to Accompany Your Photo Hunting!

To be able to get your best shoot, you also need a good pair of eyeglasses; of course you won’t need them if you do not have any vision problem. For those with vision problem, the right pair is a must in order to shoot and get your best picture and now great eyeglasses for less cost at ZenniOptical.com.In this online store you can browse variable dimension frames from Zenni, with different shapes

Sony alpha DSLR-A900

Earlier this year Sony announced it had designed a full-frame 24-megapixel imaging device and officially stated a camera featuring this chip would arrive later in 2008. Well, that time is here. Sony officially took the wraps off the alpha DSLR-A900, a 24.6-megapixel digital single lens reflex camera for a cool three grand (body only). It arrives in stores this November.Features and DesignThe

Unique and Stylish Prescription Eye Glasses Starting from $8 Each!

You can have these incredible stylish new frames from Zenni each only for $8. Yes, Zenni Optical $ 8 Rx Eyeglasses are available now only at ZenniOptical.com, there are huge selections of unique and stylish prescription eye glasses where you can purchase online.You can view the ads on Fox as Zenni Optical was on FOX news! Many have ordered and they are very satisfied with the product. This

From Business loans to Credit Cards!

Try to get some extra fund to start your own business? Or your current business needs extra funding? Headache facing your debts which are piling up and more calls from your debt collectors?You can access to all this issue on ezunsecured.com, this is one provider that will match you with lenders to obtain your business loan, or to assist you on debt consolidation services, or even if you need

Candid Photography Tips

Candid photography is photography that focuses on spontaneity rather than technique. Your subject's focus is not on the camera, but on their current task. So we're not talking about the photo albums full of people looking at the camera and smiling here! Your subjects are un-posed and the shots are unplanned.Candid photos are usually simple photos without a lot of technical equipment or any time

a Super-advanced 10-mega-pixel camera!

Bell+Howell 10.0 Mega Pixel Camera, a Super-advanced 10-mega-pixel camera! This camera has 3X the detail-resolution of many digital cameras. It takes astoundingly beautiful photographs from a macro detail-shot of a flower to an 8X digital zoom portrait to a distant panorama on select settings. Color is richer and more brilliant. Clarity is knife-edge sharp, and tones are incredibly true to

Select the Right Digital Camera

It can be intimidating trying to figure out which digital camera is right for you. There are just so many factors. Make sense out of all the confusion with this tutorial on choosing the right digital camera for you.1. Determine how much money you want to spend. Setting a budget, or at least a budget range, will help you avoid cameras that you could never afford. You can more easily target which

Nikon D90

Another Nikon D90 review is out, this time from DPReview. As you'll read, the D90 is not just a small incremental upgrade from the D80. This model is grounding breaking in some regards. Here's a taster of what DPReview said of the Nikon D90-

"The early talk about the D90 was about its video capability and indeed it does record HD videos - good ones by digital stills camera standards. But don't let that distract you, this is a camera which lets nothing get in the way of taking photos. Its degree of configurability results in long menus but they're generally well arranged and color-coded to minimize the likelihood you getting lost in them. There's also the option to create a menu of your most used settings (or list the most recently used ones, if you don't want to spend time setting it up), and a status screen that gives fairly fast access to those key parameters that don't have their own buttons.

...

The D80 was a very well respected camera, offering a feature set that seemed perfectly tailored to the enthusiast market - the D90 builds on this by including many of the options from the D300. The automatic Chromatic Aberration correction is just one example - without ever having to think about it, it instantly improves the results of every JPEG, regardless of the lens used. Picking the images apart to find differences between cameras reveals it's not quite a half-price D300 but that was a camera we described at the time as being best semi-professional digital SLR on the market, setting the bar pretty high. After using and testing the D90 extensively, it's hard to think of a better enthusiast-level camera."

Nikon D90 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR

click to view

D90 Features:

• 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS imaging sensor

• 5.8x AF-S DX Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens included

• D-Movie Mode; Cinematic 24fps HD with sound

• 3-inch super-density 920,000-dot color LCD monitor

• Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

---

Accessories:

Davis & Sanford TRAILBLAZRV Trailblazer Monopod

Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 EX DG IF Aspherical Lens for Nikon SLR Cameras

CTA MR-ENEL3 Mini Battery Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL3 Battery

Apple Aperture 2.1.1

Pantone huey MEU101

Nikon D90 Review

While it may look a lot like its predecessor, the new Nikon D90 is essentially an all-new camera on the inside. The most talked-about feature on the D90 has to be its movie mode. The camera can record up to 5 minutes of continuous high definition (720p) video with sound, and longer if you use a lower resolution. Recording movies on an SLR isn't as easy as you may think, as you have to manually focus if your subject is moving around. Still, it's a fun feature, and one that I figure most SLRs will be getting in the next couple of years. PhotographyBLOG has just posted their review of the D90 here.

"The bottom line is that if you are looking for a high-performance yet affordable DSLR for taking high-resolution still photographs of varied subjects, I can highly recommend the Nikon D90 to you. If you intend to use Live View frequently, I would suggest that you look at other options as well. If your main objective is recording video as painlessly as possible, get a camcorder instead. But if you have some experience in filmmaking and want to experiment with a large-sensor camera that takes interchangeable lenses and records high-definition video, and are willing to put up with its idiosyncrasies, I'd say go for it – you're going to enjoy it!"

Nikon D90

D90 Features

• 12.9 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor (effective pixels: 12.3 million)
• 3.0-inch 920,000 pixel (VGA x 3 colors) TFT-LCD (same as D3 and D300)
• Live View with contrast-detect AF, face detection
• Image sensor cleaning (sensor shake)
• Illuminated focus points
• Movie capture at up to 1280 x 720 (720p) 24 fps with mono sound
• IS0 200-3200 range (100-6400 expanded)
• 4.5 frames per second continuous shooting (buffer: 7 RAW, 25 JPEG fine, 100 JPEG Normal)
• Expeed image processing engine
• 3D tracking AF (11 point)
• Short startup time, viewfinder blackout and shutter lag
• Slightly improved viewfinder (96% frame coverage)
• Extensive in-camera retouching including raw development and straightening
• Improved user interface
• New optional compact GPS unit (fits on hot shoe)
• Same battery and vertical grip as D80
• Vignetting control in-camera
• 72 thumbnail and calendar view in playback

Davis & Sanford TRAILBLAZRV Trailblazer Monopod

Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 EX DG IF Aspherical Lens for Nikon SLR Cameras

CTA MR-ENEL3 Mini Battery Charger Kit for Nikon EN-EL3 Battery

Apple Aperture 2.1.1

Pantone huey MEU101

Nikon D700 Review

Nikon has now officially revealed the compact, professional, twelve megapixel, full-frame (FX format) Nikon D700. From the outside the D700 is virtually identical to the D300, albeit for its larger 'full frame' viewfinder, internally it's almost identical to the D3, except for a slightly slower shutter (five frames per second up to eight frames per second with the MB-D10 battery grip). DPreview have just posted their review of the new D700 DSLR here.

"In conclusion the Nikon D700 is an excellent camera that is extremely versatile and performs well both in the studio and on location. No doubt it sets a benchmark in the 'compact' pro bracket of the market. For how long remains to be seen. We will know more after we've reviewed the Canon 5D Mark II and the Sony DSLR-A900."

The Nikon D700 DSLR

Dimensions - Width 5.8 x Height 4.8 x Depth 3.0 Weight - 35 ounces (995 grams)

D700 Features

12.1 megapixel full-frame sensor (8.45µm pixel pitch)

Image Sensor Cleaning (vibration) *

ISO 200 - 6400 (with boost up to ISO 25600 and down to ISO 100)

Also supports DX lenses, viewfinder automatically masks (5.1 megapixels with DX lens)

14-bit A/D conversion, 12 channel readout

Same ultra-fast startup and shutter lag as D3

Nikon EXPEED image processor (Capture NX processing and NR algorithms, lower power)

New Kevlar / carbon fibre composite shutter with 150,000 exposure durability *

Multi-CAM3500FX Auto Focus sensor (51-point, 15 cross-type, more vertical coverage)

Auto-focus tracking by color (using information from 1005-pixel AE sensor)

95% coverage, 0.72x magnification viewfinder *

Auto-focus calibration (fine-tuning), fixed body or up to 20 separate lens settings

Scene Recognition System (uses AE sensor, AF sensor)

Picture Control image parameter presets

5 frames per second continuous with auto-focus tracking*

Optional MB-D10 Battery Pack (same as D300), increases burst rate to 8 fps *

UDMA compatible single CF card slot *

3.0" 922,000 pixel LCD monitor

Live View with either phase detect (mirror up/down) or contrast detect Auto Focus

Virtual horizon indicates if camera is level (like an aircraft cockpit display)

HDMI HD video output

'Active D-Lighting' (adjusts metering as well as applying D-Lighting curve)

Detailed 'Control Panel' type display on LCD monitor, changes color in darkness

Magnesium alloy body with connections and buttons sealed against moisture

Improved Info display on main screen

Canon EOS 50D Review

Canon recently launched the much anticipated EOS 50D, an upgrade to the 40D. On the surface it looks very similar to its predecessor, however there are quite a few significant improvements. Fifteen megapixel CMOS sensor, faster DIGIC 4 processor, 3.0" VGA LCD monitor with Live View mode offering 3 AF modes, ISO sensitivity expandable to 12800 and an HDMI connection for high Quality Image viewing are a few of the expanded features.

Outback Photo just posted their diary style review of the 50D here.  Their first thoughts:

First conclusions

• Very good high ISO noise behavior
• Live View has now an extra button
• Viewfinder is quite good (like 40D).
• Canon EOS 50D has full support for AEB (Auto Exposure Bracketing)
• LDC much improved
• RAW files can be 17-25 MB in size (14 bit RAWs). This means you need enough disk space and memory

 

The Canon EOS 50D DSLR

50D Features

• 15.1 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• 6.3fps continuous shooting, max. burst 90 JPEGs with UDMA card
• DIGIC 4 processor
• ISO 100-3200, expandable to 12800
• 9-point wide area AF
• 3.0” Clear View VGA LCD with Live View mode & Face Detection Live AF
• Magnesium alloy body, with environmental protection
• EOS Integrated Cleaning System
• HDMI connection for high quality viewing and playback on a High Definition TV
• Full compatibility with Canon EF and EF-S lenses and EX-series Speedlites 

GIMP 2.6.0 Released

The GIMP developers are proud to release GIMP 2.6.0

GIMP is the GNU Image Manipulation Program. It is a freely distributed piece of software for such tasks as photo retouching, image composition and image authoring. It works on many operating systems, in many languages. The most important change is a switch to GEGL engine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GEGL). By default the legacy 8bit code paths are still used, but a curious user can turn on the use of GEGL for the color operations with Colors / Use GEGL. I'm excited. I wonder how soon the the various plugins will be ported.

Release notes: http://gimp.org/release-notes/gimp-2.6.html

It features changes to the user interface addressing some often received complaints, and a tentative integration of GEGL, the graph based image processing library that will eventually bring high bit-depth and non-destructive editing to GIMP.

I just installed GIMP 2.6 and tried to open a 16 bit image and it converted it to an 8-bit image. The release notes says that GIMP has taken the initial steps towards integration with GEGL. I expect to see 16 bit implementation next year.

Binary packages for the various supported platforms should become available soon; please check the Downloads section

Canon EOS 50D Review

The Canon EOS 50D has just been reviewed by PhotographyBLOG. For those of you unaware, the 50D is the new replacement for the Canon 40D DSLR, and this Canon EOS certainly doesn't disappoint. Released just one year after the 40D, the new EOS 50D DSLR is Canon's answer to its main rival, the Nikon D300.

Canon EOS 50D DSLR

50D Features

• 15.1-mega pixel CMOS sensor with improved noise reduction
• EF-S 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 IS standard zoom lens included
• Enhanced Live View shooting includes Face Detection Live mode
• New Lens Peripheral Illumination Correction setting; HDMI output
• Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)

---

"Considered on its own terms, the EOS 50D is a more than worthy addition to Canon's semi-pro DSLR line-up. It boasts a significant number of refinements to a proven design that current EOS users will welcome, whilst adding enough features to catch-up with and in some ways surpass the Nikon D300. Canon have mainly placed their bets on the combination of the new 15 megapixel sensor and Digic 4 processor, hoping that the headline-grabbing pixel count will steal the limelight - thankfully this hasn't come at the expense of image quality. Both prosumer and professional photographers should give the Canon EOS 50D serious consideration."

ACD Systems unveils ACDSee Photo Manager 2009

ACD has unveiled ACDSee Photo Manager 2009, the latest version of their digital organization and photo sharing software. Among the new features of this version you will find a new Import tool to rename, back up, categorize and add keywords, and functions to frame and share photos. ACDSee Photo Manager 2009 is available for a free 30-day trial and for purchase for $49.99... ACDSee Photo Manager 2009

PRESS SUMMARY

ACDSee Photo Manager 2009 features new tools to help you keep your collection organized and ready for sharing

ACD Systems International Inc. today today unveiled ACDSee™ Photo Manager 2009, the latest version of its powerful digital organization and photo sharing software designed especially for avid amateur photographers, scrapbookers and crafters.

Improved features combine to make ACDSee Photo Manager 2009 the quickest, most flexible and affordably priced organization software available for at-home use. Users enjoy real-time viewing, management and editing of multiple image files, whether they be treasured family photos or digital design elements for creative projects.

“The ACDSee team is actively seeking input from users about what they want and need to manage their growing digital image collections,” said Melanie Wood, community manager for ACD Systems. “The new functions we have built into ACDSee Photo Manager directly address feedback from our users and the larger community of avid photographers who want and need more options for quick and easy organization and sharing.”

Now, ACDSee Photo Manager adds these new features designed to help users manage their growing digital images, stay organized and share memories with family and friends:

Staying organized with new tools from ACDSee
The new Import tool puts this power into the hands of users, who can now rename, back up, categorize and add keywords to images as they are acquired from a camera, card reader, CD/DVD or other storage device. Used in conjunction with ACDSee Photo Manager's Auto Categories, which automatically organizes images according to camera metadata, organization is completed as collections grow.

Protect and share custom organization
ACDSee users love that they can supplement camera metadata (IPTC and EXIF) with their own custom metadata, including categories and ratings, in ACDSee Photo Manager. Customers can now protect and share this custom information with other ACDSee users by embedding it into their images. Users who manage many image types can now include important information even with file formats that don't support camera metadata, such as PNGs, PDFs and GIFs.

“We have heard from many digital designers and ACDSee users that custom metadata is an important feature,” Wood said. “For designers, it's important to protect their copyright, and for users, they want to be able to easily search for and locate digital elements from their favorite kits.”

Frame and share photos
Photographers can quickly and creatively add a finishing touch with a custom border, drop shadow or edge effect, then share favorite images with friends and family with quick uploaders to online tools like flickr™. Users can show off photos in auto slide shows and screensavers that now include creative presentation options such as pan & zoom, black & white and sepia effects and music.

Save originals
ACDSee Photo Manager automatically saves and preserves the original image file when it is first opened for editing within the software. Users can restore to the original at any time after making image edits like adjusting colors, cropping or adding creative elements, such as borders, frames and effects.

Save searches
Users can build complex searches based on folder name, file name, location, custom categories, ratings and other metadata, then save time by storing custom search criteria for future use.

Pricing and availability
ACDSee Photo Manager 2009 is available for a free 30-day trial and for purchase for $49.99 (USD) at www.acdsee.com. Users can bundle this program with ACDSee Photo Editor 2008 for the combined price of $79.99 (USD). Photo Editor is the companion software that helps users of any skill level enhance photos and create their own digital layouts to print and share.

Picasa 3 beta

Picasa is a software application for organizing and editing digital photos, originally created by Idealab and now owned by Google. "Picasa" is a blend of the name of Spanish painter Pablo Picasso, the phrase mi casa for "my house," and "pic" for pictures (personalized art) source Wikipedia.

Picasa 3 is the latest incarnation but is still in Beta which means they want feedback from users. I didn't know Picasa 3 was out until some one told me. Installing the new one is painless if you have an older version. You download the new one and get rid of the old short cut on your desk top, that's it.

There are some great improvements, I love the blemish tool; even an idiot such as myself can use it. Over all, a better product, the price is right, but the sharpening tool still sucks.

Picasa isn't my major editing tool but I often use it for family snapshots. I've recommended it to many, many people who don't want to get into heavy editing.

The improvements to Picasa 3, which I downloaded a couple of days ago, are nice indeed. But, again, the sharpening tool needs improvement!

The only tools I can see that have been added are a better crop tool and the "blemish" tool. I like the blemish tool, it works well.

Read about all of Picasa 3's new features here...

Ansel Adams Effect in Photoshop

The Grand River

Here is a photo I took a couple of months back but just got around to converting to black and white. I really like the way the clouds provide drama over the serene river. If you look closely, you'll see the canoeists paddling downstream.  What a gorgeous day it was. 

To help achieve this drama I used one of the many simple techniques used in Scott Kelby's book, the photoshop book for digital photographers. Great book. I used the Channel Mixer in Photoshop to boost reds by 160%, greens by 140%, and reduce blue by 200%.  Then made the output monochrome.  It was that easy.

Nikon D90 Review

The Nikon D90 is the upgrade to and next logical step up from the D80. And, much like the D80's similarities to the D200, the D90 pulls some of the D300's best bits; a newly designed 12.3megapixel sensor that, while not a direct transfer, is mightily similar - making for some of the highest quality, low-noise images throughout the entire ISO100-6400 range. Anyone familiar with the Nikon line-up of late will know that this can only mean good things. Thinkcamera.com have just posted their review of the D90 along with the kit lens.

Average Customer Rating:

Features

12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS imaging sensor
5.8x AF-S DX Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens included
D-Movie Mode; Cinematic 24fps HD with sound
3-inch super-density 920,000-dot color LCD monitor
Capture images to SD/SDHC

Sony Alpha A900 Reviews

We have a few reviews of the new Sony Alpha DSLR-A900 below. The Sony A900 has to rank among the most anticipated digital SLRs in recent memory. It does indeed have a full-frame 24.6 Megapixel sensor, image stabilization, and superb build quality. It also features an enormous optical viewfinder that shows 100% of the frame, an ultra-sharp 3-inch LCD display, 5 frame/second continuous shooting, great battery life, and much, much more. About the only things the A900 doesn't have are a built-in flash and live view.

• Sony DSLR-A900 preview by CameraLabs
• Sony DSLR-A900 preview by Luminous Landscape
• Sony DSLR-A900 preview by DPReview
• Sony DSLR-A900 preview by DC Resource
• Sony DSLR-A900 preview by  Imaging Resource
• Sony DSLR-A900 preview by  CNET

The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi/450D Companion

The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi/450D Companion--New from O'Reilly

Sebastopol, CA—Have you ever bought a new camera, only to be so overwhelmed by all the buttons, gizmos, and gadgets, that you don't touch it for months? You wind up using your old point-and-shoot camera simply because you don't know enough about your new camera to be comfortable with it. If you've ever been caught in this situation, don't worry--with O'Reilly Media's new Companion series, you'll be wowing people with your new photos in no time.

The newest book in this new series, The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi/450D Companion ($24.99) is not a typical camera guide. Rather than just showing you what all the buttons do, this unique book teaches you how to use various Digital Rebel features to make great photographs. Through easy-to-follow lessons, this book gives you a complete class on digital photography, tailored specifically for people who use this camera.

With the Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi/450D Companion in your camera bag, you have the perfect field reference for taking stunning pictures of any occasion or place, any time. You get valuable creative tips and technical advice for capturing professional-looking images of people, landscapes, action shots, close-ups, night shots, and more.

This book will allow you to:

• Get to know the Digital Rebel XSi/450D and how it works
• Take creative control and go beyond automatic settings
• Learn the basic rules of composition
• Know when to let the camera work for you
• Photograph fast-moving objects, and learn to capture decisive moments
• Discover ways to use a flash indoors and outdoors
• Learn the advantages of different lenses, and the best time to use them
• Understand the options for shooting RAW, and whether it's right for you

There are plenty of photography books, but only this companion guide teaches you how to take high-quality digital photos using the camera model you own. Professional photographer Ben Long includes plenty of full-color examples to show you what's possible once you graduate from snapshots and focus on the pictures you've always wanted to take.

Each book in this Companion series gives you the best advice on how to take the best pictures possible in a variety of situations. And they're portable and attractive enough that you'll want to take them along with you!

# # #

All New Nikon D90

Nikon Depot is reporting the D90 digital SLR has finally been announced by Nikon.

"Nikon has finally announced its much anticipated D90 digital SLR.

The Nikon new D90 features a movie function which offers truly cinematic results, and innovative high-performance features inherited from the Nikon D300. Furthermore, the new D90 comes with a 12.3 megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor and advanced features such as Live View, Scene Recognition, Picture Control, Active D-Lighting, and an ISO sensitivity range of 200-3200."

more details also at DPreview:

• Press Release
• Additional images
• Hands-on preview

Personal Essay Blog for Online Income

Essay writing is one of most benefits skill for blogger in any level academic. This is smart way to converting your ideas into written forms, especially in your personal blog. But are there any other purposes in writing an essay in writing blog? First you will get more traffic to your blog. And then your traffic will open your opportunity to earn money from your writing blog.Blogging with an

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Perfect Cash Advance

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Nikon 18-55mm VR Lens Review

I just picked up one of these Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 VR lens lenses for my Nikon D300 the other day. I am quite pleased with it. It is very sharp and light weight, making it a great carry around lens.

Is VR really necessary in a lens this wide? Perhaps not, but I often shoot in low light and having a few extra stops to play with does help. VR is a huge benefit when shooting hand-held at slow shutter speeds from about 1/4 to 1/30 of a second. I noticed no vignetting at all (darkening in the corners).

It works perfectly. The staff at my local camera store tried to talk me into the 18-70 non-VR lens but I wouldn't have it (the zoom action on that lens is horrible). There isn't much this one can't do well. In some ways its optics outperform the more expensive 16-85mm VR and 18-200mm VR lenses.

Being under $200 makes this lens a no-brainer. Along side my 55-200mm VR I have pretty good coverage in two great and super-inexpensive lenses. The only lens I have that is sharper than this one is this one.

Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR.

List Price: $245.00
Amazon: $144.99
Save: $ 100.01 ( 41% )

Features of this lens-

• 18-55mm lens with f3.5-5.6 maximum aperture for Nikon DSLR cameras
• Focal length equivalent to 27 to 82.5mm in 35mm photography
• Features a Silent Wave Motor and and Vibration Reduction (VR)
• 0.28 meter/0.9 foot closest focusing distance throughout the entire zoom range

Sample taken from this lens-

Nikon 50mm lens review

Today I bought myself the Nikon 50mm lens. I heard that this very affordable lens is not only very sharp, but very fast too. There is a faster version, the Nikon 50mm f/1.4D AF, but it is over twice the price. I figured f 1.8 was plenty fast enough.

What a treat this lens is! Not only is it tack-sharp, but it gives nice punchy contrast too. This shot of a wine glass was one of my very first shots, and I'm quite pleased with it. The build quality is just slightly on the cheap side, but I don't think it affects the performance in any way.  It sure is light though.

Immediately as I started shooting with it I noticed the images on my rear LCD looked more contrasty than with my zoom.  Deep blacks and vivid colours.

This lens is so versatile (and inexpensive) that I can recommend this one to everyone. Being a very fast lens, it enables me to take pictures in low light that I otherwise wouldn't be able to do. I love this lens.

List Price: $139.00
Amazon Price: $108.95
You Save: $ 30.05 ( 22% )
Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Manufacturer: Nikon

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Fujifilm launches social network for Generation Z

Today, Fujifilm launched ZSpotNow.com, a new social network that brings together music fans, artists, gadget gurus and fashionistas across the United States.

In 2007, Fujifilm took on ‘Generation Z’ with a successful PR/marketing campaign around its stylish FinePix Z10fd digital camera, which was targeted at the 15-25 year old demographic, that culminated with a launch event headlined by ‘The Bravery’ at The Fillmore (Irving Plaza) in New York City. This year, as Fujifilm’s colorful Z-Series lineup continues to evolve with the recently-announced Fujifilm FinePix Z20 digital camera, the company is taking a broader, grassroots approach to engaging with this target demographic and has designed a campaign specifically for them. The ZSpotNow.com social network will act as the hub for three contests and events slated to take place in Los Angeles, Miami and New York City in the coming months.

Each of these diversely-themed nationwide contests and events is inspired by the unique attributes of Fujifilm FinePix Z20 digital camera, and are individually themed to match the city’s flavor: Los Angeles – Hollywood movie theme; Miami – urban art/skateboarding counterculture; New York – fashion.

 

For your reference, Fujifilm has put together a multimedia press release where you can access images, get details on featured artists performing at the events and learn more about the contests.

Getting Close

click to view larger version

This shot I took no more than 10 minutes ago reminds me of one of those top tips for photography - "If your photos aren't good enough, you're not close enough." I was just taking a few shots around the pond I just setup in our backyard and noticed time and time again, if I tried to get the whole pond in the photo, well, the photo just sucked. Sure it documents what's there but there was no oomph to them. Then I started zooming in. The results were much better. I like how the reflected portion takes on an almost black & white look even though this is right out of the camera (Nikon D300).

Maruthi 800 Duo

Maruthi has recently introduced a gas fitted car. This car is having designed for both petrol and gas fuels. Now a days fuel prices are going up. So this is the great move from Maruthi.

Specifications:
Dimensions STD LPG
Length(mm) 3335
Width(mm) 1440
Height(mm) 1405
Wheelbase(mm) 2175
Front Track(mm) 1215
Rear Track(mm) 1200
Minimum Turning Radius(m) 4.4
Minimum Ground Clearance(mm) 170

Weight:
Kerb Weight (Kg) 683
Gross Vehicle Weight (Kg) 1000
Capacity
Seating Capacity 4
Fuel Tank Capacity (lt) - Petrol 28
LPG 19.2

Engine:
Swept volume (cc) 796
Engine type 3 cylinder inline, FC engine 2 valves per cylinder, MPFI
Engine Control 32-Bit Electronic Control Module (ECM)
Max. power (bhp @ rpm) - Petrol 37 @ 5000 37 @ 5000
LPG 35 @ 5000 35 @ 5000
Max. torque (Nm @ rpm) - Petrol 59 @ 2500 59 @ 2500

Transmission:
Type 4 Forward, All synchromesh, 1 reverse
Steering Type Rack and Pinion

Suspension system:
Front Mcpherson strut and coil spring
Rear Coil Spring with gas filled shock absorber

Brakes: Front Disc
Rear Drum

Tyres
Tyre Size 145/70R12 (Radial)

Nikon D300 Samples

2008_06_20_17_02_05
Originally uploaded by RickBlythe.

Here are some more samples from my new favourite camera in the world, the Nikon D300. This camera exposes photos as perfectly as I have seen, and it is super fast.

If you own one of these you might want to download a digital copy of the user manual here. This web page also shows you what other guides you can get from Amazon.

Hairy
Originally uploaded by RickBlythe.

ISO 1400 Test
Originally uploaded by RickBlythe.