Sabtu, 31 Juli 2010

Digital Photography and ISO Ratings - What You Should Know!


Image : http://www.flickr.com


Before Digital Cameras ever came to be, most of you probably owned a standard 35mm camera with an attachable flash, like my old Nikon F1, which I foolishly sold on Ebay. If you did own one of those, and you were very adept in photography, you'll recall thatlittle nob at the bottom of the camera with a series of numbers from B1...to 4000 ASA/ISO.Simply put, when you bought film which was rated 400 ASA, as an example, you would adjust the nob to reflect an ASA reading of 400 in the small window pane aligned with a small, usually, red arrow.

The point of all this is the following; when you bring your knew digital camera to any large event, it is totally pointless to be using the built-in flash, although you see it all the time by the 100s of flickering lights. The built-in flash is much to small to have any effect when you're 100s of feet from your subject.

Since cameras list the effectiveness of a flash measured in distance or range (3' - 9' etc.), you really have to be very close to the subject for the flash to be fullyeffective.

The ISO designation you should know, is a measure used for light sensitivity. For example, a film with a rating of ISO1000 (considered fast film) is much more sensitive to light than a film with a rating of ISO100, and therefore is better able to capture images in dark surrounding areas. Actually, if you were really good in the old days, we used this to our advantage in combination with the aperture opening of the lens for some really awesome effects. But we won't go there and stick with digital.

So to be understood, digital camera technology uses the same ISO system, but since no film is used, the variable light sensitivity is accomplished by amplifying the signal.Sound confusing! In electronics, as you amplify a signal, you amplify noise levels, such as in a radio which has a weak signal. So you turn it up only to hear more static in the background.

So it was, when you selected a digital camera with a high ISO rating,because the quality of the image was less than desirable. In the early days of digital cameras, this constituted a real problem.

Today, however, this so called noise has been so controlled, that you can buy a digital camera with a high ISO rating reducing the need for a flash...in other words the capability of taking pics from far distances without a flash. In addition, when you set your camera to 'auto', the camera will automatically set the ISO, the aperture opening of the lens, and shutter speed to create the best picture possible.

For more information on understanding how ISO works, make sure you read your manual or check with the manufacturer of your camera. If you don't yet own a digital camera, here's a tip; make sure you buy the highest megapixel possible. It cost much more but well worth the investment. You won't regret it!

Jumat, 30 Juli 2010

ZOTAC GTX 460 1GB Review

Nvidia released 1 GB version of GTX 460 after a long time. Unlike Nvidia previous version of cards, this card not only have increased memory it has many more features. In this card they have cut down the memory bus width and the number of raster operation units(ROPs) on the 768MB version.

Pros:

    * Good bundle. Well priced. Full sized HDMI and DP connectors. It can be overclocked. Very good performance when overclocked.

Cons:
  • Fan makes noice when there is a load. Memory chips are not actively cooled.

Specifications:

Model: ZT-40402-10P

Cooler: Active with fan

Core Clock: 675Mhz.

Core Processor: 336 Stream processor

Dimention: 4.376in*8.25in-111.15mm*209.55mm

Direct X: Direct X 11

Dual Link DVI supported: Yes.

DVI: 2(DVI-I)

GPU: Geforce GTX460

HDCP Ready: Yes.

HDMI: 1(HDMI 1.3a w/audio(8-Channel LPCM & amp; bit stream)+Display port)


Package bundle consist of :

    * ZT-40402-10P
    * Driver Disk
    * Zotak boost premium
    * Prince Of Persia: the forgotten sands game
    * User Manual
    * DVI to VGA Adapter
    * 2 Dual Molex to 6 pin PCIe power cables.

Kamis, 29 Juli 2010

MY Life As a Photographer

The time was back in 1980 when I turned 13 years of age and all I could think of was being a photographer. Now that I look back on it there is no doubt in my mind that this was in no small part inspired by those photographs I saw in the Vogue magazines my mother would keep in her shop, her being one of New York's top dress makers. There are those that may even find this odd but I actually found more in the way of sexuality and specially sensuality in those photographs in Vogue then the Playboy magazine's I had seen in my sister's apartment (her husband being a subscriber to this magazine) or the many other magazines of the same nature which were always to be found in abundance in my cousin's room out on Long Island.

Actually I had even grown bored of such magazines; finding that all they did was expose female nudity while adding very little of anything to excite the imagination let alone the desire in me to see more. Yes, they had allowed me to see the womanly body but after awhile I saw no mystery; when one day it happened while in my mother's office. I took to looking at a Vogue magazine and I was really taken aback and agitated. Men and women and though not revealing any part of their anatomies that I would not have seen on any other magazine; they were made to pose in such a way that raised my interest like nothing before. Some photographs even included women with other women, not even doing anything that could be considered overly suggestive but the way they were captured implied so much in its subtlety which might have been in the form of one woman sitting on another woman's lap or kneeling to her while holding her hand perhaps in an almost comic jest. Of course there were those that showed a group of men, sometimes two carrying a woman in away that at an earlier part of my life would have gone undetected by my eye but in this stage were making me take notice to the way it was possible to arouse the senses with just posses of beauty in clothes that perhaps had just as much sex appeal as nudity.

To a lot of the boys my age, such photographs like the ones to be found in magazines like Vogue might have seemed tepid. Them mostly being interested in looking at the more graphic pictures to be found in other magazines of a different nature however to me these photographs because of what they did not show but suggested might happen left me with a wish of seeing more. It was the not so subtle way a couple looked at one another or the way a woman's hand might be placed on a man, not on any part of his intimacy but with intensions of reaching, the sexually suggestive yet elegant way they were dressed that left me unfulfilled; longing to see more. This in a way was a great sensation as opposed to those nudity magazines I had known till then that because of their more explicit nature left my mind the moment they went out of my sight and did nothing to enhance my imagination.

It was also during this time that through commercials on television I became acquainted to the many cameras available. Minolta, Cannon and Olympus seemed like such interesting pieces of photographic equipment that allowed one to focus on the subject one was looking to capture. This was a feature that up till then I had not known cameras to have as the only one's that had ever come in to my hands were the ones on which all one did was point the camera at the subject in question and press the button. This was something I had never even considered, the idea of being able to focus on the subject. Naturally these cameras were very expensive, specially in those days so that year for my birthday my mother gave me a Polaroid camera to take with me on my first trip to Europe in a long time that would include stopovers in Italy, France and my brother's native country of Spain.

My brother-in-law however had an Olympus SLR (single lens reflex) which I very much enjoyed using even if it was only to look through as I rarely got to take photographs with it but it was those moments that I spent looking through the lens and focusing on many an object; weather they be at home or while looking out the window that I discovered what focusing was all about. I previously had been of the idea that focusing was the act of making the picture clear; much like one did with a television when one tuned it (of course, I am referring to those TV sets of the late 70s) instead of what it really was which was setting the distance between oneself and the object one was trying to photograph. It seemed so strange to me how one second an object that was so near was made clear while those that were further were not and then just a split second later those objects that had been so blurry were suddenly clear while those that had been clear were no longer even recognizable to the eye any more.

Perhaps it was just having fun but it made me see photography in a whole new way as before all it had been about was taking photographs of relatives posing usually on special occasions such as Christmas or birthdays or in places where we had been to; just to remember what had been. These photographs rarely were shown to any who were not in them and were usually kept in albums for the sake of having souvenirs but then as I looked at even everyday objects with this camera I started seeing photography as much more then a way of remembering last year's Christmas or things of the sort but as a way of creating art. I started to see how it was possible to photograph objects just so they might make an interesting photograph if nothing else.

It was also in 1980 that I observed for the first time what a zoom lens was and though I did not even know what it was called I knew it could bring me closer to objects in a way that at first glance seemed amazing as I will never forget the first time I had a chance to see it for myself. It happened in Rome while looking at the Coliseum from the large avenue that leads to it that my brother-in-law let me see what a zoom lens was all about. First he let me see the Coliseum with a 35mm lens then when my eye had gotten used to the view he suddenly did something to the lens while I was still looking through it that all of sudden and to my almost total shock made me feel as if some sort of force had pushed me toward the Coliseum. It was as if I had been placed in a very fast moving vehicle that had accelerated me toward it. I can not even claim that it seemed that the coliseum had increased in size or that it was as if it had been brought closer to where I was but the impression was one I will never forget as I have not experienced it since. Thrilling was how I would have described it then and perhaps because I had no idea of what would happen and when it did it even seemed amazing though looking back on that moment that is what it was all about. The fact that I had not expected it and nothing else specially since the view had only shifted from that of a 35mm lens to a 80mm lens.

As for the rest of the trip through Italy, France and Spain, it saw me take many a photograph with my Polaroid camera but none which I would keep for very long as this camera did not really lend itself to giving me the results I had seen with other cameras. As a matter of fact I ended up giving away most of these photographs to friends and relatives who strangely enough appreciated them more then I did though I must say it was a great thrill to take them. Perhaps it was just the thought that I was capturing on film all those landmarks which passed through my sight that summer such as the Coliseum, the tower of Pisa, Venice's Piazza San Marco and its canals and many others that made the taking of those photographs such a memorable experience, much more then the actual photographs. However regardless of what it was the memory of having taken those photographs will stay with me forever even if it did not take me more then a month to give them away after my return to New York.

As much as I had enjoyed taking those photographs, photography was not a hobby I followed up on my return to New York, this being much to my lament as other matters seemed to get in the way. It actually was not till many years later in 1986 when upon my return to New York after having spent most of the summer in Los Angeles and San Francisco; I bought a camera. An automatic focus Olympus 35mm camera with a 35mm lens which simplified taking photographs as all I had to do was aim and fire, this undoubtedly made taking photographs extremely easy and for awhile that is all I did. In a way it was strange when I think about it now so many years later how having a camera, even a simple one made me want to visit all those landmarks like the Empire State Building or the World Trade Center that I had never taken the time to see despite or perhaps because of having been born in New York.

Having this camera even gave me a sensation of being a tourist in my own city as I took photographs of all those places that so much attracted visitors from all over the world and perhaps for the first time saw what was so special about them. Ever since my 1980 trip to Europe I had been fascinated by photography but it was then more then ever that I really started to enjoy it and not just photographing those well known sights but even people in their daily lives or those things that most people take for granted like a subway station during rush-hour or the street I lived on which at the time was Lexington Av. between 82nd and 81st street.

With time I became more and more interested in experimenting with photography but eventually came to the realization that there was only so much I could do with a camera that could not be changed to manual focus so with this in my mind I waited till Christmas when with the money I got plus what I managed to save up bought myself my first SLR. It was my first camera which I could focus for myself as well change the lenses from its standard 50mm to a zoom lens that covered everything from 70mm to 200mm. To many it might seem odd but I actually made the purchase of this camera which like my first one was an Olympus on Christmas day of 1986 and immediately started shooting everything insight specially all the trappings of the holiday season such as Christmas trees and so many other things that composed this time of year.

With the coming of the new year my hobby turned in to a passion that saw me photograph not only many of New York's most famous places like the New York Metropolitan Opera but people, some of whom I knew and others whom I managed to capture on the street. By now the year was 1987 and the more photographs I took the less satisfied I became with the results as I never managed to get just what I was after as there always seemed to be something missing from my photographs. It seemed to me that my photographs did not have that certain something that made photographs special and lifted them in to that category of being art and try as I might and take as many photographs as I did I could not manage to get what I wanted. Of course one should take in to account that in those days photography was a much more expensive hobby then it is today as analog photography did not allow one the benefit of looking at one's photographs before one had them developed to see which ones were worth keeping.

However in all this it was not lack of the results I sought after that discouraged me but quite the opposite and by the summer of the same year I decided that I was going to become a professional photographer and why not? I was only twenty years of age and photography was something I enjoyed and felt I could do and earn a living from and in my attempt to become one I found a course in the mail which I signed up for. It was actually thanks to the material I got from this school that learnt the basics of photography that included some techniques which one was required to take what I would I refer to as a well taken photograph. Here I will list some of the ideas which I picked up from this course that helped me become the photographer I wished to be.

1) When taking a photograph, always remember that each photograph should tell some kind of story or have a message connected to it. For instance if one is taking a photograph of a person, then the message is that person or the person's expression or perhaps the beauty of that person may the person be male or female. The subject does not however need to be a person as it could be a landmark or a busy street; in that case the theme of the photograph might be to show how people go about their daily life in a big city. However in choosing a subject we should keep it simple and limit it to one subject per photograph, two or more makes for confusion.

2) After one has decided what message to tell one should include in the photograph all those elements that will help get this message across and leave out all those that will distract from it. For instance if one is taking a photograph of the Eiffel Tower, then that would be the main theme and it should be the only thing that appears in the photograph, making it not necessary to include one's friends or relatives in the photograph as in that case the viewer will not be able to appreciate either one as the person in question will appear very small in comparensence to the Eiffel Tower. It is my advise we should only photograph one subject at a time for he who tries to photograph to many things in one shot ends up photographing nothing. So in other words if we wish to photograph our friends let them be the only thing in the photograph and if we wish to photograph a monument or landscape let that be the only thing in the photograph as well. There is after all some truth in the statement "less is more".

Naturally there are other tips I could give in this article but it was these two that really helped to turn me in to the photographer I wanted to be; who after having completed not only this course but several others at New York's "Fashion Institute of Technology" and at Rome's "Instituto Superiore de la Fotografia" went on to get his work published in several magazines.

My first work published though not my last came in 1990 and three years after I had switched over to Minolta for a Polish magazine which is no longer printed called "Women and Life". It was during my long stay in Warsaw that I noticed a lot of homeless people and drug addicts appearing on the streets as the HIV virus had finally made its way to Poland. I felt this was something which needed to be shown to those not yet aware of this which to most people in Poland at the time was new. After having decided to take these photographs I got in touch with the editor-in-chief of the above mentioned magazine and asked her if she would be interested in publishing such photographs. At first she did not really know what to say but told me she would first need to see my photographs before taking such decisions.

I naturally the week that followed went about taking photographs of all those people I saw on the street with signs asking for money because they had been diagnosed with the HIV virus but still I had no photograph that truly got the message through of that despair that I was attempting to show. That despair that drives people to beg for money or steal or do what ever they can to buy a little bite of that drug their body so much cries out for. This was what I wanted but where could I get such a photograph or find a person or a group of people willing to let me take their photograph so it could appear in a magazine? This was the question I could not answer and despite having enough photographs to present; still that one shot was missing.

I am still unaware of why it happened specially when I so much needed it to but it did. One day when I was entering my building I saw a young man whose appearance was very dirty with clothes that made it clear that he had been sleeping on floors as he was probably homeless. He even seemed frightened as if I might tell him to leave the building or call for the police but just as I saw him the idea came to me and I asked with a great deal of enthusiasm if I could photograph him. It was then that this young man took me by surprise by pulling a syringe out of his pocket and pretending to inject himself. I instantly got the shot, not wasting anytime as I really was not going to ask him to repeat the gesture. I managed to catch him right at the moment when it appeared that the needle was about to enter his arm though the reality was that it was him only imitating an act he undoubtedly had done in the past and would do again in the future. As for the expression on his face; this was the real greatness of this shot if any were to be found in it. The way he in his raggedy clothes, who probably had been reduced by this drug to having so little left took so much relief from the escape that this drug, which to this day I am not even sure of what it was offered. It was a moment in time which I felt I captured so well, as it let one know for that split second how it might feel for someone in such conditions. I managed to take only one shot but this was all I needed after which I gave him the sum of 5,000 Zloty (1 USD which back then went a lot further then it does now a days) for his efforts.

The following week I handed my photographs to the editor-in-chief of "Women and Life" whose name I recall being Sofia Kaminska (though my memory may not serve me well on this one) who told me she might have problems with some of them. Her reasons being that they exposed people but she said this could be remedied by simply putting black spaces on their eyes to hide their identities which is exactly what they did. I all the same left the photographs realizing full well that I had done my part and that the rest was not up to me as it was now in their hands to publish these photographs or not. Fortunately for me it came about the following week that I was told that my photographs would get published which is precisely what happened.

There was something special about getting those photographs published that in a way made me feel for the first time that I was a true photographer. This being the case even though the money I got paid for them was barely enough to cover the cost of the film and developing I still felt a great sense of accomplishment when I saw my photos in that magazine which I knew to be one of Poland's most popular with my name listed as the photographer. There were so many factors but one of the strongest was the sensation that people all over Poland were looking at my photograph and seeing what I had wanted them to. I would go on to have more of my work published in magazines and newspapers, some in the states like the photographs I took of a shanty town in Lima, Peru and many others but there was something about those first photographs that will never abandon my memory.

With time I eventually lost my passion for photography and developed one for writing which is what I am currently doing but I do find it nice from time to time to reminisce of those years which I spent working as a photographer in which there was no place where I would go without my camera. Photography meant everything to me that feeling of finding something a person, a place or whatever and being able to capture it for others to see. It was that split second that I prided myself in preserving for the rest of eternity, that second that was so unique which would never return but thanks to my eye and camera would not be lost.

As for subjects which I enjoyed photographing, it is in earnest that I can claim that I had no particular subject which I preferred photographing as all subjects had something of interest to me weather they be people I saw on the street or in public places or inanimate objects or buildings or nude models. I saw beauty in everything and everyone from the innocence of the child to the dignity of the older person to the sexuality of the women who attracted me to the strength of men who I encountered which I felt I could bring out in a photograph by finding the right angle and light for it and how I would do my utmost to do so. Of course there was also the issue of setting the right shutter speed and aperture on my camera as well as selecting the right lens along with the right film that made taking what I considered to be great photographs a challenge.

The act of photography meant everything to me as I poured all I had in to them, my imagination and feelings were not spared from going in to those photographs which I took though strangely enough perhaps to some I never became sentimental about the photographs I took once I had taken them. I of course would look at them to see that all had come out as I had wanted it to but other then that I would not look at them much after. This being the case as to me the whole art lay in the work I did to obtain the photograph; to the point where the photograph itself held no meaning. I even went on to give away or sell many of the photographs; naturally keeping the negatives and the reason for this being that I wanted to be able to reproduce them to show to others.

Rabu, 28 Juli 2010

Canon 35mm Cameras Explained

Canon 35mm cameras come in different types of models. If you are planning to buy a camera then here is a brief history of the Canon 35mm cameras and their fundamental functions.

Canon EF 35mm Single Lens reflex (SLR): This manually focused 35mm single lens reflex camera was manufactured by the Canon Company in the 1970s. This camera was well-suited with the Canon FD mount lenses. This camera was designed and built in the fashion of an electronic version of the brand's top line F-1 camera. This is the reason why EF shares the same rugged outward appearance and hard metal exterior like the F-1.

The Canon camera 35mm was known to contain a silicon photocell light meter which was used to measure light in a central emphasis. With this camera, you could easily operate the Variable Aperture (AP) mode or full manual mode. This allows the photographer to control both the speed of the shutter as well as the aperture. When it is used in the automatic mode, the photographer can lock the present aperture value, and then recompose the image if required.

The Canon 35mm camera EF type could also be used with the older R-mount and FL-mount camera lenses. The EF model used a very unique shutter that makes it stand apart from the Canon camera 35mm SLRs. It utilized a copal square vertical travel blade with a focal plane shutter. This helped to control the long exposure electronically. The shorter exposures were controlled in a mechanical way. This helped in conserving the battery power and allowed people to shoot pictures even with the dead batteries.

The features of EF canon camera 35mm also include a self-timer and stop-down metering mode. In order to get better results, it is recommended that you use the stop-down metering mode with the older Canon FL lenses. The mirror can also be locked up for long exposures in order to avoid the camera shake.

You can easily purchase Canon camera 35mm online from the several photography stores that offer the product on sale. You can also compare the prices in different websites before making your purchase. Alternatively, you can visit any of the land-run photography stores where you can feel and see the product before paying for it.

World's First 3D Camcorder

The Panasonic HDC-SDT750 camcorder

Panasonic has announced that it has created the first 3D camcorder for consumers. This is a great breakthrough in technology and the camcorder is bound to be a huge success.

Osaka, Japan - Panasonic Corporation, an industry leader in Full HD 3D and HD TV technology, unveiled today the world's first 3D camcorder for consumers1. The HDC-SDT750 camcorder allows anyone to create powerful, true-to-life 3D images by simply attaching a 3D conversion lens that comes with the camcorder. Even without the 3D conversion lens, this innovative camcorder offers many ways to take home video recording to a new level with a wide range of sophisticated features. The camcorder will go on sale in Japan2 on August 20, to be followed in other countries in autumn of this year.

At the vanguard of 3D technology, this year Panasonic launched its Full HD 3D VIERA plasma TVs and 3D Blu-ray DiscTM players for homes as well as the world's first professional 3D camcorder. The development of a consumer camcorder capable of 3D recording is a natural next step for the company.

Incorporating Panasonic's broadcast technology, the advanced 3MOS System SDT750 camcorder lets users easily create their own 3D movies, something that previously only professional image producers had been able to do. Combined with a VIERA 3DTV3 and Blu-ray DiscTM player/recorder4, the SDT750 camcorder makes it possible to save precious memories of friends and family in vivid, lifelike 3D images, thereby further expanding the world of 3D enjoyment at home.

Even without the 3D conversion lens attached, there are many ways to enjoy the SDT750 camcorder. The 3MOS system with improved noise reduction (NR) technologies records dimly lit images in greater beauty than ever before. Other sophisticated functions include 1080/60p for NTSC or 1080/50p for PAL recording (Full-HD 1,920 x 1,080, 60 or 50 progressive recording)5 for ultra-smooth images, iA (Intelligent Auto) mode5 in the new HYBRID O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization/Optical Image Stabilizer)5, and a wealth of manual functions controlled by a manual ring6 for easy, creative shooting.

The high-sensitivity 3MOS System provides an effective motion image pixel count of 7,590,000 pixels (2,530,000 pixels x 3). And even with this high pixel count, newly developed technology increases sensitivity, and further-evolved NR technology achieves bright images with minimal noise when shooting under low light conditions. This maximizes the 3MOS features of excellent color reproduction, high resolution and rich gradation, and lets the user capture vividly colored images in both bright and darkly lit places.

Recording in 1,080/60p for NTSC or 1,080/50p for PAL5, the SDT750 camcorder produces richly expressive images, with none of the detail loss and flickering of the conventional 1,080i (interlace) recording. In addition, the iA function, which was highly popular on previous models, makes it easy for anyone to take beautiful videos. The SDT750 camcorder also newly incorporates the HYBRID O.I.S. system5 to bring clear, beautiful HD image quality to telephoto shots as well.

Notes:

1 As a consumer camcorder with 3D conversion lens for the AVCHD standard (as of July 1, 2010).

2 The 3D conversion lens VW-CLT1 is sold separately in the Japanese HDC-TM750/ HDC-TM650 models and will have different specifications as the overseas model.

3 Compatible VIERA models will be announced at a later date.

4 Compatible Blu-ray DiscTM Player and Blu-ray DiscTM Recorder models will be announced at a later date.

5 This function is not available when the 3D conversion lens is attached.

6 Manual ring control covers the focus, zoom exposure, shutter speed and white balance settings. Besides the white balance settings, the manual ring control s not available when the 3D conversion lens is attached.

 
About Panasonic
Panasonic Corporation is a worldwide leader in the development and manufacture of electronic products for a wide range of consumer, business, and industrial needs. Based in Osaka, Japan, the company recorded consolidated net sales of 7.42 trillion yen (US$79.4 billion) for the year ended March 31, 2010. The company's shares are listed on the Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and New York (NYSE: PC) stock exchanges. For more information on the company and the Panasonic brand, visit the company's website at http://panasonic.net

Media Contacts:
Overseas Public Relations Office
Panasonic Corporation
Tel: 03-6403-3040Fax: 03-3436-6766
Panasonic News Bureau
Tel: 03-3542-6205Fax: 03-3542-9018

Selasa, 27 Juli 2010

Olympus SLR Camera Buying Tips


Image : http://www.flickr.com


When it comes to digital photography, my brother was the one that taught me everything he knew. He started enjoying it when he got a Canon F series 35mm from our father. His digital camera right now is a 20D SL with a 420EX flash, which costs thousands of dollars when you take into consideration the L series lenses. Some time ago I bought the E500 dual lens kit paying only a small percentage of what he paid, and it seems that it really offers the best bang for the money you're paying.

In the vast majority of cases, when photos go wrong, the camera isn't to blame, but the person using it. That's the case in 49 cases out of 50. A friends of mine that uses a model from 2001, a Canon S230, takes much better photos than me, even though I have an excellent digital SLR.

I tested the 20D model that my brother has and the E500 that I own, and my camera focuses slower, but apparently that can be solved by doing a firmware upgrade. When we tried taking the cameras in our hands, the E500 felt lighter than the 20D model.

One thing that I loved about the camera were the LCD controls, which controlled everything from flash speed, to exposure, ISO and any other setting that you want changed. One observation that my brother had was that he was missing the small LCD screen that his Canon had on top of the camera. The quality of the photos was good, so the post processing was minimal. When the vivid settings were activated, the quality of the photos was better than the 20D model. Overall, this model was definitely worth the money paid for it.

A few months since I bought it and I'm just as happy today with the quality of the photos it takes. I still use the camera on a regular basis, and I recommended this Olympus SLR camera to others as well. So far, three people bought it based on my recommendation and they're very satisfied with it.

Comparing the money invested, my brother spend $4000 on his camera, while my own camera has only $700 invested in it. His latest investment in the camera was a flash (580EX) and a lens that is wide angel L. I love how he can take photos in burst (3-4 photos) while using flash for all of them.

PP= Post Processing (Photoshop and other image apps)

PQ= Picture Quality

Senin, 26 Juli 2010

Camera Tips to Earn $50,000 a Year With a Point and Shoot

Natural pictures of people going about everyday things are in high demand on microstock sites. One photographer I know makes over a million dollars a year selling stock people pictures. He does most of his work in a studio but the trend today is to more natural photographs of people doing everyday activities. Don't think it's only pretty girls that sell because there is a big demand for pictures of very old people.

When photographing people the Point and Shoot Camera is better for lots of reasons. Point and Shoot Cameras are quick and easy to use and don't attract the interest of a huge SLR. Many times you can take a great natural picture before anyone notices you aiming a camera at them. Another reason is that it's far more likely a small camera will be with you when you need it.

The key to getting better photographs is to take the photo before they know what happened. The small camera lets you do this with practice and learning to pre-focus. It's a good idea to keep the camera hidden most of the time. Try hiding a big SLR and camera bag full of lenses. Some of the new small cameras have a much improved auto-focus system so you can go without a tripod.

It's not good to stick a giant camera and huge lens in a strangers face. A (High quality) Point and shoot is much better. Most people don't like a Professional Photographer taking their picture without knowing who they are first. You could be from all sorts of intuitions depending on what the people are involved in at the time. What if the person is on the run from the law? A huge SLR makes you look like a Pro and attracts unwanted attention to you. You want your photos to look natural and relaxed and not posed.

I have some nice pictures of fists and one of a big chrome pistol, and two of the sky that are interesting but not very saleable. The best picture is the one of me retrieving my camera out of the ocean with a big shark chasing me. I only wish that one was an inexpensive Point and Shoot Camera. So learn to be quick and blend in with the crowd and don't press if the person is trying to avoid you.

I learned quickly that a small Digital Point and Shoot Camera is much less threatening to most people and if anything is wrong the person will most likely turn his head and walk away. Later you can establish a rapport with people by being genuinely interested in them. You want to photograph them in a way that reflects who they are and what their life is like. Your photos need to show your subjects relaxed in their own environment. Be invited to their space without invading it and your pictures will show it.

The Great Photographer Henri-Cartier Bresson used a small 35mm Leica and could take pictures so quickly that people didn't notice. Not a Point and Shoot but still a small Camera. He used only that camera and one small lens and must have practiced like a gunfighter. To do this the camera needs to become an extension of you and your mind. Don't take this lightly because these kinds of pictures are valuable and worth the effort. Pretend you are a marshal in the old west. How much would you practice before facing the public?

Point and Shoot Cameras are for the most part low quality and have problems that aren't well suited to shooting stock pictures to sell. Their shadow detail and problems with highlights produce pictures that won't do good things for your reputation.

However today there is much good news in the development of new Sensors and Digital Camera manufacturer's willingness to use them in small cameras. These high quality small digital cameras are more expensive than the average Point and Shoot Camera but less than a Pro Grade SLR.

It's much easier to get a release if you have something to give away. A small instant print from the new Instant Digital Camera makes prints on the spot and would be a great advantage because everyone loves pictures. Each print costs around 50 cents so only use for really good subjects and shoot lots of pictures.

Carry little gifts with you to help pay for pictures but take the picture first and pay later. The idea is to first take the picture while your subjects are natural looking. And then ask, pay, take a few snaps to make them happy and move on.

If things are going well and they trust and like you then bring out the big SLR and take around 500 shots or more. Be sure to take lots of pictures because it doesn't cost you anything but time. Remember that each good photo could pay you for many years to come.

If none of these things work then don't spend a lot of time with one subject. There are lots of people pictures and to get lots of great photos you must keep moving and keep shooting. Don't mess around with a hard case or problem person. Shoot ask and keep moving but make notes of who signs and who does not and don't use those pictures for anything except news stories.

If you want those great natural pictures that are in high demand there are some small cameras that work much better and produce some special qualities you must have if you want to sell your work.

The Sony H55

Released in February 2010, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H55 is a compact super zoom, or, if you prefer, travel zoom, with a 10x optical range, 14 Megapixel CCD sensor and 3 inch LCD display. It shares the same body shape, lens and some features of the higher-end Cyber-shot DSC-HX5, with the major difference being that in place of the HX5's 10 Megapixel Exmor-R backlit CMOS sensor, the H55 has a 14 Megapixel CCD sensor.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H55
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H55
"The Cyber-shot DSC-H55 packs a 10x optical zoom into a very compact frame. It may not be the slimmest, or lightest travel zoom on the market, but it is beautifully designed and handles like a dream. Though it lacks many of the headline features of its more advanced, more expensive sibling, the HX5, it's nonetheless a feature-rich compact with a 14 Megapixel sensor, Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation, 720p HD video and the ability to zoom during video recording. It has a wealth of consumer friendly features including several auto exposure modes, scene recognition, face detection and smile shutter as well as full manual exposure control and other features like selectable AF and metering modes to appeal to the more advanced photographer."
Continue reading…

Minggu, 25 Juli 2010

SLR 35mm Camera Guide


Image : http://www.flickr.com


If you're trying to become a professional photographer you might want to ditch the old camera and buy yourself a brand new SLR. Don't worry about choosing the wrong camera because below you'll find a great set of instructions that you'll find very useful while shopping.

SLR stands for single-lens reflex and if you're ready to make the big step toward it a 35mm will help you along the way. This is the best camera format for high-quality images and it's way better than wide-angle lenses, macro lenses or even zoom lenses.

On the other hand, a SLR camera is pretty expensive (almost $5,000) not to mention the rest of its accessories. Why is that? Because it simply offers the best control over the image. The technology behind SLRs uses regular 35mm films: black and white films, infrared films, transparency films and color negative films but you can also find a few models that still use 24mm Advanced Photo System films.

Autofocus vs. Manual Focus

Before buying a SLR you should decide if you want manual or auto focus (AF or MF). If you want AF you should know a few important details about these cameras:

- the electronics can let you down when you need them the most;

- the battery consumption is very high;

- the AF lenses can be pretty difficult to focus by hand especially when you want to switch to manual focus;

- the image provided by AF cameras is not exactly what you'd hoped for and that's mainly because of the limited range of their infrared beams;

- the autofocus is not very silent compared to the manual focus;

- the AF lenses are very often surrounded by plastic components that are not as durable as you may think.

If you use a manual focus you'll see that you'll be the one setting the focus, the shutter and the aperture and for most photographers that's simply great.

A few great manufacturers like Nikon, Pentax and Olympus use few electronics when making a manual focus SLR and this will help you better understand how all this works. Last but not least, a manual camera is considerably cheaper than an autofocus one.

To sum up all the above it's very important for you to know exactly what type of focus you want to use because otherwise you'll be spending a lot of money on a camera that won't be able to make the pictures you want.

Sabtu, 24 Juli 2010

Great Digital Photo Prints Require Great Digital Camera Files


Image : http://www.flickr.com


A great image has interesting composition utilizing leading lines and proper subject placement within the scene. The eye of the viewer is drawn to the darkest areas in high key images and to the brightest areas in low key images. The eye is also drawn to the meeting of extreme light and dark tones. A square is more noticeable than a triangle and the triangle is more noticeable than a circle. If you have to reduce the importance of any object in a composition you can crop into the object slightly, place something partially in front of the object or alter the lighting on the object. Tip: The Rule of Thirds is a good place to start your composition training.

A great image has wonderful lighting, the stuff that makes a two dimensional surface resemble three dimensions. Making your images have depth is a key to what you are trying to do. Tip: Study old Black and White movies for lighting and composition techniques. Speaking of Black and White photography, without good lighting it really is horrible. Much of today's Black and White digital photography is just poorly lit de-saturated color shots.

A great image has detail, clearly focused. It can have soft focus but do not confuse that with out of focus, two different things. The former is artistic and can convey a mood. The later is an accident, poor technique or faulty equipment but in any circumstance unacceptable and does nothing to enhance the image, throw these images away.

A great image is not blurry from vibrations or camera movements during exposure. Good quality tripods are very useful.

A great image has correct exposure.

A great image has full tonal range, shadows and highlights, both with detail. Tip: For photographic printing, black areas below 15 or highlights above 245 will not reproduce with detail.

Quality image compositions combined with excellent technical skills create winning photographs.

Jumat, 23 Juli 2010

MSI N460GTX Cyclone 768D5 Review

 MSI N460GTX Cyclone 768D5

This is a new graphic card released by MSI. This card come with MSI custom cyclone cooler for better overclocking. This version of coller is also called as Afterburner.

The specification of   MSI N460GTX Cyclone 768D5:
It has clock speed of 725MHz on the core, 900MHz on the memory and 1450MHz for shaders or CUDA cores. 

Pros: It has very effective cooler, Good OC software, design and build. It maintains low temperature. 
Cons: Slightly over priced. There is no mini HDMI to HDMI adapter bundled.

The pack consist of :

  • Installation Guide.
  • Driver CD
  • DVI to HDMI adapter.
  • DVI to VGA adapter.
  • 2 6 pins to Molex power adapter.

Windows Update Error

Windows Update Error  0*80070420:

If you are facing problem of Windows XP update error 0*80070420 then follow the steps mentioned below.
  • Check whether you have installed Windows Installer 3.1 Installed. 
  • You can search whether it is installed by visiting control panal-->Add/Remove programs. If it is installed uninstall it and reboot the system. If not go to next step.
  • Install Windows Installer 3.1. You can install this by clicking windows update facility of Windows or visit http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=889482fc-5f56-4a38-b838-de776fd4138c&displaylang=eng. Reboot the system
  • Now you will be able to do the Windows Update.

Boot-loader reset

Removing Ubuntu/Linux or Higher verion of Windows and continue working with Windows XP
or
Boot-loader Reinstallation for Windows XP :
or
Reset Bootloader:

If you have Ubuntu/Linux  and Windows XP in dual boot and get rid of Ubuntu/Linux, its boot loader is an obstacle. To get rid of this problem follow below mentiones steps.
  • First set your first boot device as your CD/DVD drive and insert Windows XP CD.
  • Press any key when it tells you to do during the boot up.
  • Press [R]  to enter into Recovery Console.
  • Confirm the copy of Windows installed by entering the number.
  • Enter the Administrator password at the prompt.
  • On the prompt, type fixmbr and then type fixboot.
  • Reboot the system.
Now you are able to boot into Windows XP. This is very useful when you work with dual boot with XP and Windows Vista or Windows XP with Windows 7 or Windows XP with Ubuntu or any Linux. This method will reset the master boot record and you will get the Windows XP boot-loader back

Note: Ensure you have back up of all your critical information. If you make a small mistake which can lead to data loss.


Samsung Wave Specification

Below are the specification of Samsung Wave:

Processor: 1Ghz Application Processor
Display/Size: 3.3" WVGA 16M SUPER AMOLED
Dimention:  118*56*10.9mm
Design: Main Color Ebony Gray
Type: Full Touch bar
Network:
2G Network: EDGE/ GPRS 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G Network:HSDPA 900 / 2100
Camera: 5 MP, 2592 x 1944 pixels, autofocus, LED flash

Video: Yes, 720p@30fps, video light

Features: Geo-tagging, face, smile and blink detection, image stablilization, touch focus.
For Detailed Review please Click here.

10 Senior Portraits Dos and Don'ts

DO reserve a session with your photographer early in the season since their schedules can be booked months in advance.

DON'T wait too long...many high school yearbook deadlines are as early as October, so consider scheduling a session during late summer, before the school year begins.

DO pick a myriad of scenic backgrounds for your senior portraits - think wooded areas, old buildings with intricate architecture, railroad tracks, lush greenery, etc.

DON'T choose locations that have busy and really detailed backdrops that can detract from you as the focus.

DO opt to wear a variety of different outfits, both casual and dressy, especially if you will be shooting photos outdoor. If you are involved in school sports or activities, consider wearing your uniform (i.e. letter jacket or cheerleading uniform). You'll get a wide variety of photos to choose from.

DON'T clash with your surroundings. Avoid wearing loud, busy patterns and wording on your clothing - it distracts from you. Stick with solid, flattering hues such as neutrals, blues, and reds.

DO stick with your own, natural look to achieve the best photographs.

DON'T try out a new look! You'll end up with photos that look nothing like you! Boys should avoid getting a new haircut right before the shoot and girls should not try new hairstyles or makeup for the pictures.

DO relax! If you are comfortable, relaxed, and enjoying yourself, your personality and happiness will show beautifully in the portraits.

DON'T stress over blemishes, tan lines, and other minor imperfections - most Salt Lake senior portraits studios can easily erase flaws during the touch-up process.

Kamis, 22 Juli 2010

How to make portraits of great


Image : http://www.flickr.com


So let's start with the window light. Position your subject near the window to receive the scattered light, you must have a curtain at the window. Or you can use a transparent shower curtain. See the light is very soft and diffused on the subject. This is one of my favorite ways to light quickly and easily my subject and take the picture. You will be comfortable on the results, with the aid of light, characteristic of a window.

When shooting outdoorsin full sun or light of day, without ever addressing the theme of the sun, you have to shoot into the sun or a fill-flash or a reflector to throw light back on topic. You can also use a diffuser between the sun and the subject. This is very soft, diffused light creates useful when shooting under the midday sun. This also eliminated the harsh shadows under the eyes and the question must not blink in the sun.

If the flash is the best way to get thecreative results is the flash from the camera to escape. So rather than placement of lightning on the slide, set on a tripod and use an umbrella. Now, most new Nikon cameras, as is the case have the ability to flash at a distance. This gives us, we try to directional lighting. You will be amazed at the results you get. The flash can be activated by the built-in flash pop-up or a specific trigger that Nikon makes.

Rabu, 21 Juli 2010

Nikon Speedlights SB800 & SB600 Product Review

As a professional photographer I have been using Nikon Speedlights for about 10 years now. Previously, that is before I switched to all digital, I used a Bronica Medium format film camera and Sunpak, "potato-masher" type flash for editorial and wedding assignments.

Since I switched to all digital in 2000, I have used Nikon DSLRs and the Nikon Speedilights, SB800 and SB600. These are both rugged little flash units with plenty of power.

The SB800 is slightly more powerful than the SB600 with a guide number of 125 at ISO 100 versus 118 for the SB600. However the guide numbers do vary with the degree of zoom used. I get F8 out of my SB800 at 10 feet and ISO 100 with the zoom set to 50mm at full power. When I add the SB600 at half power, I get F9.

The SB800 and SB600 are very nearly the same size and weight at 2.8x5.1x3.7 inches and 350grams for the SB800, and 2.7x4.9x3.5 inches and 300 grams for the SB600. And they both have nearly all the same features and controls.

Since I specialize in portrait photography, I use the Speedlights when working on location. I really appreciate the light weight and small size of the units, as every ounce counts when carrying a full gear bag along a stretch of beach for a half mile, or hiking up a mountain trail to get to the locations!

What I really like about these flash units is the way they have a built in diffusion/ zoom system. As all pro photographers know, the smaller the light source, the harsher the light and harder the shadows. However with these little buggers, using the SB800 as my key light, and the SB600 for fill, I am able to replicate the same look as I get in my studio using a 30x40 inch softbox on my key light and a 4'x6.5' scrim in front of my fill light!

Generally I'll zoom the SB800 to 50mm, and set the SB600 to 24 or 35mm. The result is a beautiful soft light with gentle transitions from highlights to shadows. Well, actually they do create specular highlights on noses and cheeks, but with just a little air brush in Photoshop, the effect is beautiful, soft lighting.

I'm an "old school" photographer, and like to control my equipment myself rather than let the programs in the equipment control exposure, so I operate everything in manual mode. However, the Nikon Speedlights have a built in remote trigger system that also sees the light output and makes adjustments. This feature is called the Creative Lighting System, or CLS.

Reading the manuals and attempting to use the CLS was not as successful for me as I would have liked. I have been unable to figure out how to use the CLS with the flash units in manual so I can control the output, even though I pair the lights with Nikon cameras. However, there are others who tell me they have been able to do just that.

My biggest complaint about the CLS is that it is an inferred based system, and therefore the 'slave' flash(es) must see the inferred beam coming from the 'Master' unit, and the sensor is located on one side of the flash. As a result, the units must be in line of sight of each other. And, because the master flash sends out a signal pre-flash, then computes the data before firing the 'actual' flash, it delays the exposure. And in portrait photography a lag between pressing the shutter release and making the exposure is not a good thing!

Both the SB800 and SB600 have swivel and tilt heads that allow you to bounce the light off of surfaces, and easily direct the light where you want it. In manual mode you can fire them at full, (1/1), power, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, and 1/16 power. They also have TTL modes that can be used with Nikon cameras that have CLS capability, and for those that do not.

These flash units are hotshoe mount flashes, and the SB800 also has a PC plug input. They both come with little stands, or rather "feet" that are a flat platform with 3 hotshoe-like docking slots for mounting the flash. In this way you can attach them to a light stand as on the bottom of the foot there is a standard threaded nut for this purpose. You can also place the flash on a counter, shelf or the floor by use of the foot platform.

They operate on four AA batteries, and recycle in about 5.5 seconds at full power. I get about 120 full power flashes on one set of batteries. I use the rechargeable batteries, so I get about 120 full power flashes before having to recharge the batteries. There is an indicator light on the back of the flash to let you know when it's fully recycled, and the recycle time does slow considerably as the batteries get low.

Both flash units have a digital LCD readout of the settings on the back, and the controls are quite intuitive...especially for use in manual mode.

I have found the light output to be very uniform and consistent, which is a definite asset to portrait lighting. And as I said earlier, I love the built in diffusion and zoom capabilities. Add to that the light weight and compact size, and durability of these units, and you have an outstanding location portrait lighting kit!

Selasa, 20 Juli 2010

Samsung Wave Review

Samsung Wave has smart look and excellent feature set.  It is a great buy with price range it is available.

Pros: It has excellent design, build and finish. Its stunning display and smooth interface are eye catching. It also includes very good quality camera which is capable of handling 720P video recording. This phone also feature HD playback, outstanding audio quality and multi tasking support. It is worth buy for the price it is offered.

Cons: It has clumsy web browser interface. The camera is do not have lens cover. There is no ambient light adjustment. Applications available on samsung store are limited.

The Pack contains following item.
1. Samsung Wave phone
2.Battery(1500mAh Li-Ion)
3.Charger
4.Sterio Headset.
5.USB cable.
6.2GB micro SD card with SD adaptor.
7.User guide
8.Pouch
9.Software CD.

For Specifications Click here

Senin, 19 Juli 2010

How Digital Technology Has Changed Photography


Image : http://www.flickr.com


Photography has always been a part of our lives. It has helped people capture precious memories - both the good and the bad. Through the years, photography equipment and techniques have evolved to become its own art form. Technology continues to evolve, constantly changing the landscape in which a professional photographer works his trade. Here is a short background on the topic:

What is Digital Technology?

It is usually defined as any system using parts that make use of binary or digital logic which is 1 or 0. If your tool or equipment has a micro controller or a processor inside of it, or if it uses storage and a software program that can perform even simple decision making, that means the equipment you are using benefits from digital technology.

What is Digital Photography?

In simple terms, it means using photography to capture images using digital technology. In the past, photographic film was the main ingredient for photography. But through progress and development, photography has taken the next level in its evolution by utilizing digital technology. With digital technology, you can print, store, display and do so much more with your pictures than you ever thought possible! You can use your equipment to store the images or, if you have a computer, you have the ability to transfer and store your photos onto your computer's hard drive.

With digital technology stepping in, it certainly has changed traditional photography in so many ways.

• With this technology, you won't need to purchase film anymore. It has the ability for you to review the shot taken and if you don't like how it was taken, you can always capture the image over again. This helps save money because there is no waste of a negative.

• The storage capacity for digital technology is enormous - you can easily store your pictures and keep your lovely memories for as long as you wish. Traditional photography, on the other hand, can not do this and you will have to pay more to have them printed.

• Digital photography allows you to print them as well, if you want. If you don't want to print your digital images, simply delete them or store them in your computer for future use.

• Digital technology allows you to review and edit your images almost instantly after the image is captured. Traditional photography requires many more stages before the image can be reviewed and edited, and each stage costs additional time and money.

• With digital technology, you can perform enhancements and add information on the picture such as added text or even the date. This process can usually be performed within the camera itself.

• ISO speed settings are easier to change. In fact, all film settings are much easier to adjust and set on a digital camera compared with a traditional film camera.

• It saves time and enables a faster turn-around on investment when shooting for a client, since the traditional ways of photography took more time to show the customers the image results.

• The cameras used lately are a bit smaller much easier to carry around. They are handy and not bulky.

• There are digital photo printers and computers that are available almost everywhere. These eliminate the cost of expensive processing equipment - dark rooms are now a thing of the past.

Those are just some of the changes digital technology has made in the photography industry. If you want to learn more, visit your local digital camera shop and ask some questions. Make sure you visit a store that was designed with professional photographers in mind - the salespeople there will be much more knowledgeable than your local clerk at a typical chain store.

God and Me

When I was young, I begged God for a bike, but Dog does not work that way....

So I stole a bike and begged for forgiveness!!!.

Samsung PN63C7000 Review

Samsung PN63C7000 is a sleek stylish Plasma Tv with inch deep panel. It has superb streaming and widget content via well-integrated Apps platform and a solid 3D picture quality. The good about this TV is its excellent black level performance and accurate color overall. It is equipped with numerous picture controls and tweeks. It is a better 2D performer in the price range it is available.  Samsung PNC 7000 series plasma tv also comes with 3D.

Even though it has many features it has some draw backs. It fails to handle 1080p/24 sources.  When it compared with LCD in some features it is less eeficient than LCD. One more disadvanges of this model is it has duplicate application and widget which may  confuse the user. This model is not shipping with 3D glass.

CNET rating of this product is 4 out of 5.

Minggu, 18 Juli 2010

How to Take Better Photographs

We now have the ability to take excellent photographs with mid-range priced cameras. With digital auto focus cameras it is possible to take pictures similar to those seen in magazines and art shows. Also, the ease of use digital cameras give the user makes the picture making process idiot proof.

What else do you need to know to improve the quality of your pictures? One thing I learned in photo school was that you have to be responsible for everything in the frame. Start seeing like a camera does, not like a human. Humans ignore certain details, but a camera takes it all in. Pay attention to the background and to the sides of your subject. Are there things in the picture frame that you don't want there? Try adjusting your angle of view side to side or up and down and see if that remedies the situation.

Pay attention to the light. If you are taking pictures of people don't shoot with the sun behind them so their face is too dark, but also don't shoot with the sun behind you so your subject is squinting. A lightly shades spot with good all around light is best, or with the sun shining from the side of your subject will work.

Since you are probably shooting with an automatic setting you need to notice what color your subject is wearing and what color the background is. If the background and their clothes are a dark color and the subject is light skinned their facial features can wash out.

Sabtu, 17 Juli 2010

Windows 7 Keyboard Shortcuts

Windows 7 Shortcuts
Below are some keyboard shortcuts of Windows for Quick access of functionality.

Win+h:  Move current window to full screen
Win+i:  Restore current full screen window to normal size or minimize current window if not full screen
Win+Shift+arrow:  Move current window to alternate screen
Win+D:  Minimize all windows and show the desktop
Win+E:  Launch Explorer with Computer as the focus
Win+F:  Launch a search window
Win+G:  Cycle through gadgets
Win+L:  Lock the desktop
Win+M:  Minimize the current window
Win+R: Open the Run window
Win+T:  Cycle through task bar opening Aero Peek for each running item
Win+U:  Open the Ease of Use center
Win+Space:  Aero Peek the desktop
Ctrl+Win+Tab: Open persistent task selection window, roll mouse over each icon to preview item and minimize others

Windows 7 Tips

Windows 7 Tips  and Tricks
Windows 7 is most anticipated product from Microsoft after flop show of Windows Vista. Windows 7 is much much better version of Windows which has many user friendly functions. Below are some tips which may be useful for you. This is published by TechNet Magazine.

1. Pick Your Edition: Most business users do not need the more expensive Ultimate Edition; stick with Professional unless you specifically need BitLocker.
2. Upgrading?: If you are planning upgrade from older version of Windows to Windowsw 7 then  go for 64-bit. As the second major Windows release to fully support 64-bit, the x64 architecture has definitely arrived on the desktop. Don't buy new 32-bit hardware unless it's a netbook.
3. Use Windows XP Mode: Yes, it's only an embedded Virtual PC with a full copy of WinXP—but it's an embedded Virtual PC with a full copy of Windows XP! This is the first profoundly intelligent use of desktop virtualization we've seen—and a great way to move to Windows 7 without giving up full Windows XP compatibility.
4. Use Windows PowerShell v2: More than just a shell, this is the administration tool you've always wanted: Parallel, distributed processing for administrative tasks! Manage 100 machines literally as easily as you manage one with the new Remoting feature. Windows PowerShell v2 ships for the first time in Windows 7, and within six months will be available for older versions of Windows.
5. Use AppLocker: We've been fans of Software Restriction Policies since Windows XP, and AppLocker finally makes application whitelisting possible. Use it to enhance or even replace your anti-virus software, ensuring that only the software you want to run will run.
6. Shift to and from Explorer and CommandPrompt: The classic Windows power toy Open Command Prompt Here is now an integral part of Windows 7 Explorer. Hold down the shift key then right-click a folder to add this option to the property menu. While you're in a command prompt, if you want to open an Explorer window with the focus of the window on the current directory, enter start.
7. Record Problems: The Problem Steps Recorder (PSR) is a great new feature that helps in troubleshooting a system. At times, Remote Assistance may not be possible. However, if a person types psr in their Instant Search, it will launch the recorder. Now they can perform the actions needed to recreate the problem and each click will record the screen and the step. They can even add comments. Once complete, the PSR compiles the whole thing into an MHTML file and zips it up so that it can be e-mailed for analysis to the network admin (or family problem solver, depending on how it's being used)
8. Make Training Videos: Use a tool like Camtasia to record short, two to three minute video tutorials to help your users find relocated features, operate the new Taskbar and so forth. Get them excited about Windows 7—and prepared for it.
9. Start Thinking About Windows Server 2008 R2: Some of Windows 7's more compelling features, like BranchCache, work in conjunction with the new server OS. The R2 upgrade path is pretty straightforward, so there's little reason not to take advantage of the synergies if you can afford upgrade licenses.
10. Prepare Those XP Machines: There's no in-place upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7, so start planning to migrate user data now, in advance of a Windows 7 upgrade deployment.

Samsung Vibrant Review

Samsung Vibrant is new phone which attained the attention of many mobile phone lovers. Below are some synapsys of this phone which is given by CNET reviews. I felt it is better repost the summary of the review on this phone.

CNET editor Rating:4 out of 5.
Pros: This phone that is  Samsung Vibrant boasts a brilliant Super AMOLED touch screen and comes preloaded with a number of entertainment goodies, including a full-length copy of "Avatar." The Android-based smartphone also offers 16GB of internal memory, full wireless options, and great call quality.

Cons: The phone feels plasticity and slick. Battery life isn't the greatest. There's no camera flash.

Overall: Sleek and fast, the Samsung Vibrant is one of T-Mobile's top smart phones for entertainment, but its feature set takes a toll on the battery life.

Samsung Vibrant Specifications:

  • 3G,EDGE, GPRS, GSM, HSDPA(3g), HSUPA
  • GSM 850, 900, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2100MHz
  • Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen,  16.000.000 colors with  480 x 800 pixels
  • 5 Mega Pixel Camera with Video recording
  • 16GB internal memory and expandable upto 32GB
  • MicroSD, MicroSDHC memory slot
  • 432 hours of Standby time and 6.3 hours talk time.
  • Bluetooth v2.1

Buy a Cheap Olympus Camera Lens

The Olympus camera lens is known for the super-telephoto zoom lens. It may be very heavy than the regular camera lens but this is because it has three Extra-low Dispersion lens elements in it. This lens offers a higher contrast and sharper images.

There is also the magnification which is equivalent to 35mm. It also has a lot of footwork out of both the macro photography world and the super-telephoto. It is so lightweight and compact. If it has a 10x magnification then it can zoom in to cover the telephoto effect. The almighty lens can do most of the shooting scene.

The closest distance that it can get down to is similar to a 35mm. Think of all the close-ups you can do with this kind of lens. The Olympus camera lens turn to the two aspherical lenses and two ED lenses which compensate for the aberration of the performance.

In order to deliver the high performance that the customers are expecting from the camera, the lens must be of that top notch quality. Olympus can deliver the goods. People turn to it because it lightweight and has a reasonable price. If they have another brand of camera, they need not worry about the compatibility of the lens to the component because the Olympus camera lens can go with any kind of camera.

Those who have been using it will be delighted to know that Olympus continues to expand. Their latest models are quite compatible with four-thirds of the camera bodies that are available in the market. The new lenses from the new models are astounding because these boast the world's fastest autofocus speeds. These lenses represent the current benchmark that photographers do their best to achieve.

Olympus knows that competition is just right around the corner so they do their best to be always on their guard. They develop lenses that can be afforded by every class. They make sure that the optimum lens and the chromatic aberrations are to the level of their customer's needs. The zoom range varies but this is very appropriate to the models that they are using.

The astonishingly clear images that are derived from these cameras are usually attributed to the Olympus camera lens. It also boasts the lightest weight and the smallest size in all its class. It is very cost-efficient and a good invest for the user.

Jumat, 16 Juli 2010

Photo Tips - Digital SLR

Digital SLR is the abbreviation for Digital single lens reflex camera. Aperture, shutter and image sensor works together for the operation to complete. The operation happens repeatedly over a time and takes only milliseconds for the operation to complete. There is a mirror which reflects the luminosity coming through the fixed lens upwards at ninety degree angle. SLR is frequently selected by qualified still photographers for the reason that allows a precise sample of framing close to the instant of publicity. Gains popularity because it permits the customer to decide from a multiplicity of exchangeable lenses. A large amount of those furthermore encompasses a purpose that allows correct preview of intensity of field. The expression in general refers to cameras that bear a resemblance to 35mm format cameras.

The major disparity between this brand and an ordinary digital point and shoot camera is nothing but a reflex design scheme. This scheme characteristically exposes the feeler continuously to the light anticipated by the lens. This allows the camera's screen to be used for electronic viewfinder. The cross-section usually the side view of the visual mechanism of an SLR shows how the light bypasses through the lens congregation.  Characteristically makes use of a phase detection auto focus system. This technique of focus is very speedy and consequences in a smaller amount of focus "searching". It requires the integration of an extraordinary sensor into the optical pathway and so it is used in single lens reflex designs. Digital cameras that make use of the chief sensor to generate an existing preview on the LCD or electronic viewfinder require to bring into play the slower contrast method of auto focus. The electronic view finders in other cameras may cause eye strains, but in the case of digital SLR it doesn't happen. The correct representation to facilitate the image will be open to the elements for the reason that its light is routed directly from the lens itself. In comparison with some of the low cost cameras that offer a visual viewfinder, the design has the benefit of avoiding parallax error. Another advantage is that its ability to provide a brighter show in little light situation.

The majority of the admission level uses a pent mirror as an alternative to the conventional pent prism. The pent mirror plan is poised regularly of synthetic and is lighter and inexpensive to produce. On the other hand the image in the viewfinder is frequently mysterious to understand and see. Image sensors used in Digital SLR come in a variety of dimensions. The size of the image sensors is extremely large sometimes and the sensors are larger than many other cameras that are available in the market.

Sony Vaio EA24FM/W Review

Sony Vaio EA24FM/W Overview
 
Good: Very good Keyboard and touch pad.  Intel wireless display and Blue ray are bundled with very affordable price. It is powered with solid Intel core i3 processor.
Bad: Average Battery lifeBrightness and sound quality is not as expected from Sony.

Overall: Sony Vaio EA24FM/W has eye catching design.  It is comfortable and feature rich product. Combination of Blue-ray and Intel wireless display is make this a great option for multimedia lovers.


 Specifications:
    * Manufacturer:   Sony
    * Part Number:VPCEA24FM/W
General
    * Width:  13.6 in
    * Depth:  9.4 in
    * Height:  1.1 in
    * Weight:  5.2 lbs
    * Color:  Coconut white
Processor
    * Processor Intel Core i3 350M / 2.26 GHz
Cache Memory
    * Type L3 cache
    * Cache size 3 MB
RAM
    * Installed Size 4 GB / 8 GB (max)
    * Technology DDR3 SDRAM

Storage Controller
    * Storage controller type Serial ATA

Storage
    * Floppy Drive None
    * Hard Drive 500 GB
    * Storage Removable None
    * Hard drive type Standard

Optical Storage
    * Type BD-ROM / DVD+/-RW
 

Display
    * Display Type 14.0 in TFT active matrix
    * Max Resolution 1366 x 768
    * Features LED-backlit

Video
    * Graphics Processor / Vendor Intel HD Graphics

Audio
    * Audio output type Sound card

Input Device(s)
    * Input device type Keyboard , Touchpad

Networking
    * Data link protocol Ethernet , Fast Ethernet , Gigabit Ethernet

Expansion / Connectivity
    * Expansion Slots Total (Free) Memory , Memory card reader , ExpressCard/34
    * Interfaces 4 x USB 2.0 - USB 2.0 , 1 x Ethernet - RJ-45 , 1 x HDMI

Miscellaneous
    * Cables Included Power cable ( 1 pcs.)
    * Features 802.11a/b/g/n Wireless LAN , Bluetooth 2.1 , Camera

Battery
    * Technology Lithium ion
    * Installed Qty 1
    * Mfr estimated battery life 3.3 hour(s)

Operating System / Software
    * OS Provided Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
    * Software Drivers & Utilities , Sony Creativity Suite

Kamis, 15 Juli 2010

Wireless Network IP Security Cameras - Save Money and Headaches


Image : http://www.flickr.com


Anyone who has been paying attention has noticed wireless security cameras have become very popular during the past few years. The many benefits of using wireless security cameras are well documented.

Since there are no wires, they are easy to install. They can send signals through walls and floors, and can be easily moved from one location to another. Wireless security cameras can be a cost effective surveillance solution for many homes and offices.

What most people don't realize is that many homes and offices can leverage equipment already in use for the installation of their wireless surveillance system, which will save money and make it even easier to install.

Every wireless camera transmits its signal from the camera to a receiver. For a typical wireless security camera, the receiver is a separate piece of equipment that is purchased with the camera. The receiver is connected to a DVR or DVR card to record the transmission.

In today's demand for easy access to information via the internet, it is very common for homes and businesses to use wireless routers to give multiple computers access to their high-speed internet connection.

If a home or office is using a wireless router for a network of computers, a Wireless Network IP Camera can be installed using this router and eliminating the need for a separate receiver.

Simply put, IP (Internet Protocol) is just an addressing scheme that allows devices, such as computers, routers, printers, and cameras, to communicate (network) with each other. IP is the predominately used addressing scheme in the World Wide Web. So a Network IP Camera can be easily used with other IP devices.

All the same benefits apply with Wireless Network IP Cameras. Plus since there is no separate receiver, there is one less device that needs to be purchased and maintained. Many Wireless Network IP Cameras come with the camera system management software needed to record, playback and monitor the cameras from a PC. This software usually has to be purchased separately.

The best benefit of Network IP Cameras is they are internet ready. That means you can monitor your camera from any internet connection in the world.

The selection of Wireless IP Network Cameras is increasing all the time. You can find a nice assortment of IP security cameras at http:/www.securitycamerasandmore.com

Canon Digital Rebel T2i

The Digital Rebel T2i Canon's top consumer-class dSLR at the moment, and it's the king of the genre. Photo quality, as expected, is great, and the 1080p video capability is impressive. It's a great step-up model for novices who can afford it and don't want to sit back on a slightly crippled entry-level dSLR. Enthusiasts should probably look one step up at the 60D, since the T2i's interface is

Rabu, 14 Juli 2010

Why Should I Care About My Digital Camera CCD Sensor Size?


Image : http://www.flickr.com


Everybody knows to check how many mega pixels their new camera has. Although more mega pixels does not necessarily mean better photos most people understand why mega pixels are important. One characteristic of digital cameras that many ignore is the sensor size.

Digital cameras capture digital photos. A digital photo is a collection of pixels. Each pixel has its color and intensity. When all these pixels are put together the result is an illusion of a photo. Pixels are captured by the camera using an electronic sensor known as a CCD. The CCD sensor is a silicon chip that is built of many tiny light sensors. When taking a photo each such tiny sensor measures the amount of light also known as intensity and some other attributes such as the color. Each such sensor results in one pixel and all the tiny sensors put together represent one digital photon.

This is very interesting to know - but why should you care? The reason is that there is a relationship between the size of that CCD sensor and the number of mega pixels that it supports. This relationship is important and has practical consequences. It is intuitive that for the same CCD sensor size, the more mega pixels the smaller each CCD tiny sensor is. The same is true if the number of mega pixels is fixed: the bigger the CCD sensor the bigger each tiny sensor is. For each CCD sensor size and number of mega pixel we can calculate the pixel sensor size.

The pixel sensor size is important and influences the characteristic of the digital camera especially in marginal light scenarios. Your digital camera sensitivity to light is directly influenced by the pixel sensor size. The bigger the sensor size the more light it can accumulate in a certain period of time. The result is that bigger pixel sensor sizes allow for faster shutter speeds at lower light conditions. In addition bigger pixel sensor sizes result in less noise captured by each such sensor.

In practical terms if you take two digital cameras with the same number of mega pixels but different CCD sensor sizes - the camera with the larger CCD sensor size will be provide digital photos that are sharper and have less noise. It will also be able to take digital photos in scenes that are too dark for the other camera. In normal light scenes the higher light sensitivity allows more range for changing the aperture and shutter speed and more freedom with getting different focus depths.

Bigger CCD sensors are more expensive. There are many reasons for that one of them is the lower manufacturing yield. For that reason cheaper pocket cameras use smaller sensors than high end digital SLR cameras. CCD sensor size also influences other optical attributes of the camera - for example the aperture needed in a specific scene changes as the CCD size changes. The depth of field is directly influenced by such aperture changes. To normalize optical figures many cameras manufacturers choose to normalize their optical attributes to the good old 35mm film (film can be seen as a sensor too, 35mm in size).

Selasa, 13 Juli 2010

Planning Your Wedding Photography

Once you pick your wedding day, it is important to book a photographer as soon as possible. After you find a photographer whose style you like and whose price fits in your budget, you need to take the time to meet with him or her and begin planning the photos that you will want for your big day.

Sometimes, wedding photographers offer packages that include bridal or engagement portraits. If you can choose, it can be helpful to pick engagement portraits. This gives the photographer a chance to get to know the groom so that he's not a complete stranger on the wedding day. Typically, a photographer will have his or her own list of preferred locations for engagement portraits so that you can have the best pictures possible.

Setting up a time line is a very important part of making sure that you get all of the shots that you want on your wedding day, even down to the engagement portraits. Many couples like to have slide shows sharing pictures of them at the rehearsal dinner or reception, so if you want your formal engagement pictures as part of this, you should make sure that you take them enough time ahead of the wedding so that the photographer can process the images, and you can add them into the show. Additionally, other couples choose to display large copies of their favorite engagement photos at the reception if the bride does not get bridal portraits.

After you book the photographer and get the ball rolling on your other photography sessions, you should take the time to sit down with him or her to make a list of the shots that you definitely want. This is especially important with someone who has a more photojournalistic style since you want to be sure to get all of the family poses that you want. Many photographers have a list of suggested poses, such as with the bride's family, groom's family, both together, grandparents, etc.

Because these formal shots can take a while, you may want to plan ahead so that you do not keep your guests waiting for a long time at the reception. If the bride and groom do not want to see each other before the ceremony, it is a good idea to be ready at least an hour and a half before the wedding so that both the bridal party and groom's party can take their respective group shots. This way, you only have to take the family and together portraits after the ceremony.

However, if you are having an outdoor ceremony, it is important to plan these shots with even more finesse based on the changes in lighting. You do not want to start your wedding so late that your pictures will be in the dark. Thus, if you want your wedding at dusk, you should definitely plan to take as many pictures before the ceremony as possible.

Once you have all of your pictures, the hardest part can be choosing the one perfect photo that you want to display. However, once you do pick it, you may want to do more than just stick it in a frame and put it on a dusty shelf. Consider turning your photo into canvas work of art-this way, you can display the beautiful photo of your special day in a manner that it deserves.




For more information regarding this process, check out YourCanvasPhotos today.

Joseph Devine

Senin, 12 Juli 2010

Points to Remember in Using A Digital Camera Battery


Image : http://www.flickr.com


A digital camera battery is by far the most important and powerful tool in your camera. Your camera's image quality, zoom performance, memory card and megapixels are zilch if your camera isn't operational. And this is where the digital camera battery comes in. Here are a few key points to ponder when buying and using your batteries.

1. Always carry extra batteries.

How many times have you had to stop a photo shoot because you ran out of batteries? The only solution is to carry loads of extra batteries so that you can avoid this situation. Cameras consume battery power quickly so bringing extra batteries is imperative. You don't want the perfect sunset to get away from you because of empty batteries, do you?

2. Use rechargeable batteries

The cost alone of using regular batteries is astronomical if you use your camera everyday. It is better if you use a rechargeable digital camera battery because it is more cost-effective and can be re-used. Besides, buying a charger and four rechargeable batteries is less expensive in the long run.

3. Switch off your camera when you're not using it.

Since your camera eats the energy of your digital camera battery, it is only sensible for you to turn it off when you're not using it. Don't leave it on when you're just sitting idly to conserve the power of your battery. Of course, this tip would not apply if you have a compulsion to shoot everything within the vicinity.

4. Refrain from constant playback.

Although it's great to see the results of your pictures after taking them, it is better to save the viewing time until after the photo shoot. Constant playback consumes the digital camera battery's power.

5. Don't use different types and brands at the same time.

So that you won't damage your camera, do not insert different types and brands of batteries into your camera. Batteries have dissimilar levels of energy so it is not wise to use different types at the same time. You also have to make sure that the batteries have matching powers because one battery could be exhausted first than the other. Your camera would be useless when this happens.

6. Extract batteries from your camera when you're not using it.

This is important, especially if you won't use your camera for months. It eliminates the possibility of battery leakage, which could damage your camera forever.

7. Do not let your digital camera battery get wet.

Remember that water, even water vapor can impair your batteries. So you have to be very careful when you are near water or you're taking a photo of waterfalls. Make sure that you are a few feet away when taking pictures of running water unless your camera has underwater housing.

Taking care of your batteries is actually just common sense. Take extra care and guard them from nature's elements so they won't destroy your camera too. With proper protection, your batteries would remain useful for a long time, giving you more opportunities to capture picture-perfect moments.

Minggu, 11 Juli 2010

Free Digital Photography Courses Online


Image : http://www.flickr.com


Digital cameras have taken over the world of photography, finding a new 35mm camera is difficult these days. Secondhand 35mm cameras however are very cheap and you can buy the best of this type of cameras for almost nothing at e-bay or secondhand stores online. New digital cameras can be bought everywhere these days, and it seems that everyone has one. You can buy them everywhere from local gas stations to online mega stores. There are even disposable digital cameras nowadays. But having a digital camera is not the same as being a good photographer. For that you need take at least some proper courses.

If you are planning to become a professional photographer I would not advise any of the photography courses you can find online currently,. Still, there are some good articles that you can learn a lot from. However it takes more then reading a few articles to become a professional even if you own a great digital camera. If you are an amateur photographer and you would like to learn some good tips we can absolutely recommend a free digital photography course. You will learn the foundation you need to understand digital photography and such a course can give you some good tips about the possibilities of taking a good picture.

Take a free course before you buy a camera

Because there a so many types of digital cameras on the market today, there are a few free photography courses that will teach you about the different camera types available.

- Point and shoot camera (this will allow you to just take a picture of whatever you can see through the viewfinder)

- Mid-range cameras (zoom in and take movie clips as well as pictures)

- High-end cameras are the digital SLR cameras. (very similar to the 35mm cameras and allow you the ability to manually manipulate the images similar to 35 mm cameras)

There are people who find it nice to have different types of digital cameras. What they use depends on the situation. They buy a point and shoot or mid-range camera for everyday shots and a digital SLR to make even better pictures and manipulate the image with software. To guide you in your choice a free digital photography course is a good help in doing so.

Free Photography Courses For Photography Basics

Most courses for digital photographers will start with the basics of photography. And if you are a beginning photographer you need to learn the basics of photography in general and the basic of digital photography in particular. The basics of photography will range from composition, light, how to use your camera, to the many different types of photography.

After you understand the basics, you need to understand at least the basics of how your digital camera works because without that knowledge you won't be able to take advantage of all the features it offers. A proper free photography course will allow you to follow some lessons before you purchase the full course. Most free courses for digital photography will go over the basics of their program and will offer one or more paid courses on how to use some of the more advanced features of photography and digital camera use. Whatever the camera you have or are planning to buy, taking a free digital photography course will give you at least the basic knowledge.