SanDisk vs. Washing Machine Gods

In no way am I saying that you should try this, and it will work, but I am probably the worst person when it comes to leaving things in my pockets before they go into the wash. Just recently I discovered that I left on of my SanDisk 4GB IVs in there and found it at the bottom of my wash. My heart sunk. I had already uploaded images but those things aren't cheep. Most things that go through that much water don't come out looking to good. But I let if dry out on its own and plugged it into my card reader and you know what, it worked! All the images were there and it worked with the camera. :) I haven't tried this with other disks but it's good to know that these things can stand up to some serious rinse cycles.

LaCinema? No Thanks.

LaCie has come out with a product much like the AppleTV, it even costs the same and sports a 500GB (up to 1TB) of space to store all those DVD you've ripped. Well, that's where the nice things end. This $250 unit just wont cut it in the bells and whistles department. There is no WiFi *(or even ethernet) updating so you must upload everything the first time through the USB if you plan on keeping this unit in one place. There is no HDMI and I don't understand why. There is optical audio and component, so it is possible to get a good picture (up to 1080i upscale) The unit's look or remote is nothing special, it's basically a black box with some non-essential lights. The remote is bulky as well. The interface is supposed to be 'easy to use' and 'streamlined' but it's quite ugly and sports the LaCie name twice on the home screen in the largest font.

If you are a movie person, and have a collection of DVD's ripped that your local FBI may want to look into, they you may have an interest in this product. One feature that is nice is there is no requirement to have the files in two places, like with AppleTV that syncs (copies) files from your main computer.

Canon's Digital Photo Professional Tutorials

We're back after a crazy weekend with MacWorldWe're back after all the MacWorld announcements. But since not much of that pertains to us, and the fact that you probably got your information the second it came out, we took a break for a few days and basked in all the Apple glory.

Getting back to business though, Canon has released a web page totally dedicated to helping users learn its Digital Photo Professional application (PC/Mac). The program is a free software that comes with most Canon digital cameras and all Canon EOS digital cameras. The video tutorials take you through the latest version of DPP to edit and process files. You are guided through the somewhat easy to understand videos by a Canon professional market rep, Elizabeth Pratt.

I use DPP sometimes to batch process RAW files on our windows system sometimes, but at home, I am a Mac guy and thing Aperture is worlds better. (But it cost money compared to this free alternative, granted you own a Canon EOS DSLR). Their workflow is not simplified and uses complicated terms for the beginner. But most users will get the hang of it to understand the basics of the interface.

Found on Flickr Fridays!

OK, so maybe this isn't a photograph or some photographer we found on flickr this week, and it is only week two. But, we did find this cool app for facebook that allows you to share your photos with everyone that can view your profile. It's called, coincidentally, My Flickr. It wont win best title of the year, but it offers simple features that allow a user to share up to 30 photos direct from their flickr account on their facebook.

Many people, at least myself, have for the past been uploading pictures to both Flickr and facebook, as well as a slew of other photo sites because I want everyone to see them. While My Flickr wont let you tag photos with your friends in them, it's a convenient way to display your photographs if you are looking to show off some of your more artsy stuff. It offers a lot of features and some are honestly pointless, but a knowledgeable user will find this app useful.

Once you go, Kuro, you never go backo

1080p. Some consider the high point of HDTV. Well it might be to some, but resolution is only one element of a great picture. Jim Catcheside of Pioneer explains in an article at tech.co.uk. "One of the blights on the TV industry at the moment is the big hang-up that people seem to have on resolution. It's a big bugbear of mine. All most people are worried about at the moment is that their new TV should have a resolution of 1920 x 1080. 1080, 1080, 1080, 1080. That's all some people want to hear about." Lots of things go into making a better picture like color, contrast, black levels, and other factors. Resolution is only part of the equation. People need to consider what black quality does to the overall color of the picture. Pioneer claims that if you put their 42in 720p model against other markets 42in 1080P models, the Pioneer model will be the clear winner.

Now it's BOTH of them!?!

Sources are now saying that both Universal and Paramount are both going Blu. They just wont stop and it's making everyone question the longevity of HD DVD. Bill Hunt at Digital Bits is reporting that his "second to none" sources are telling him that BOTH Universal and Paramount are working towards a switch to Blu-ray. A new update to previous posts, the contracts that prevent them from switching now, prevent them from confirming the rumor as well. Paramount could make an announcement any day now, but Universal wont come till February at the earliest, when their contract with HD DVD expires.

HD DVD Should your HD DVD equipment make its way to eBay ASAP? I have already started selling all my HD DVD stuff. I'm thinking about it more and more. I'm sticking with HD DVD till the end. I never even thought they has a chance. Blu FTW. view results

"Current plan is to support the HD DVD format." Key word being Currently

It was reported earlier through the Financial Times and engadget.com that movie studio Paramount was preparing to use their get out clause in the HD DVD exclusivity deal, the same clause Warner used just a few days ago. Paramount now has officially released a statement calling this rumor untrue. Unless you hear different, for now Transformers and Shrek are still HD DVD only :(

150" of Plasma Lifewall Glory

Why any human would ever need an 150 inch television is beyond me, but Panasonic has been showing off their manhood with this monster of a TV. Considered to be the largest TV ever produced, this 11 feet by 6.25 feet giant has 8.84 million pixels (4K) resolution which has very little programing available. Though some may want it now, this monster of a machine has no model number, no price tag, and no date for commercialization. If you don't think it's that big, take a look at this thing compared to last years 103 inch plasma.

Sony's a200

Sony announced today that a (alpha) DSLR-A200 will replace its A100. The 10.2 megapixel DSLR sports a Sony Bionz image processor, in-inbody Super SteadyShot image stabilization, quieter shutter, a larger ISO range, and a dust reduction system. Two kits are planed, an 18-70mm ($700) and a 18-70mm + 75-300mm ($900). Both are expected to ship next month. But you can start pre-orders tomorrow no doubt.

In comparison to the a100, it is quite similar. Both sport a 10.2 MP sensor, 3fps, Super SS, and 9 AF points. The a200 is cheaper and includes more for you buck. The monitor is slightly bigger but still has the same number of pixels. The only other noticeable change is the battery which will give you a projected 750 shots over the 600 in the a100.

Quick Links
>Sony a200<
Photo Gallery

WB Blu-ray Update: New Line Cinema to Follow Warner

As expected, New Line confirmed with Variety Magazine that it will follow Warner Bros. to Blu-ray. While New Lines move was expected because of both studios being owned by Time Warner, other studios like Universal are still up in the air.

SAG says Actors won't cross lines at Globes

Actors nominated for this years Golden Globes are expected to skip the awards to support striking Hollywood writers. "There appears to be unanimous agreement that these actors will not cross" the picket lines to present or accept an award, said SAG president Alan Rosenberg. There are a total of 72 actors among this year's nominees. It is unclear how the move will affect the awards being broadcast on NBC on Jan. 13.

Slingbox PRO HD

Those unfamiliar with the Slingbox concept, here is a quick review. A Slingbox takes your living room entertainment set up and connects it to the internet allowing you to view your DVR, Cable Box, Movies, anything connected to the variety of ports, on a computer or cell phone.

The not yet released Slingbox PRO HD (Q3: 2008) offers a full range of HD inputs, but the real kicker is that it will stream out HD video (up to 1080i) which both the Solo and PRO models do not. It also will output 5.1 surround sound throughout your network. Users lucky enough to have an ultra-high-speed internet connection (FiOS) will be able to stream HD content to a remote location.

Engadget Image Gallery

While I have never owned a Slingbox or comparable equipment, the idea seems very cool but may not be for everyone. A lot of video content is already available online though iTunes or video sites. While YouTube may not be the best way to get your dose of Law and Order, throwing down $400 and then having fast enough equipment, may outweigh the benefits. For the long business traveler or someone away from home a lot, a Slingbox may be an option, but unless your a video file, the HD wont reach it's true potential on you Blackberry.

Warner Bros. goes Blu

Movie studio Warner Bros. has confirmed that it will switch to releasing HD movies only in the Blu-ray Disc format, potentially ending HD DVD's run in the marketplace. Warner Bros. move to exclusively releasing titles on Blu-ray is speculated to be a move to clear this entire format war once and for good. "The window of opportunity for high-definition DVD could be missed if format confusion continues to linger," Warner Bros. chief executive Barry Mayer explains. So far, each format has seen about the same amount of titles released, but in the next few months, a shift of 70% of titles will be considered exclusive to Blu-ray over HD DVD. This could make the next few weeks very interesting with Apple expecting to make an announcement solely supporting Blu-ray as well, and the CES (consumer electronics show) is always a big venue for new hardware in terms of players. Apple rival Microsoft has always supported HD DVD with it's Xbox 360 and PC hardware, mostly through Toshiba. Could this be the start of the end for HD DVD?

Quick Links
>Warner Bros. to Blu-ray<
Warner Bros. opts for Blu-ray over HD DVD
Warner goes Blu-ray exclusive
BOOST FOR BLU-RAY!

UPDATE (11:49PM)
The HD DVD group has canceled its CES press conference in light of Warner's announcement. Toshiba has also issued a press release expressing their "disappointment" with Warner, also implying that the move Wanter has made to Blu-ray is actually a breach of contract. Finally Blu-ray is doing a little victory dance by calling their CES presence "Best Booth of All Time."
*All links to the Engadget article.

Article: "The Ultimate Setup-Sports Illustrated and the Final Four"

It gives new meaning to the words 'March Madness' when the extensive SI team makes its way to the Georgia Dome to shoot one of the biggest sports events of the year. This article comes from Microsoft's Professional Photography website that offers articles, profiles, downloads and more dealing with the ever growing connection between the art world and the computer world. Click to read part 1 and part 2.

(Microsoft and Sports Illustrated)

Found on Flickr Fridays!

1.04.2008's Word: 'Resolution'

This Flickr user, erin jaffe, had a very interesting way of portraying her way of moving into 2008. So far, two images have been posted using this split look with a simple white line to separate two images, one being a bad choice (2007) and one being a good choice (2008). The photography is simple but is artistic and has colors that pop and compliment each other. The photographs depth of field also adds a bit of emotion to the photograph that would be lost if everything was in focus. The photography style has a lot of strong vignetting that adds even more emotion to what could have been a very stiff photograph.

For 2008 I have not really made any resolutions and never really have in the past. I probably would just follow the popular resolutions that everyone seems to take. Things like getting in better shape, eating better, making more money, being happy more often. I don't like to think there is ONE goal that I have to reach, because what if you don't reach it? I like to think that new years resolutions are about bettering yourself and making a positive improvement overall.

*About This Section*
Heres hoping, each Friday I will bring you a Flickr posted photo that represents a word. Sometimes the word will have to do with an event that occurred during the week, or sometimes it will be something totally random. The idea is to expose people to photography and photographers that aren't getting exposed, and to expose photographers that should be getting exposed. It's really just for fun and to see some interesting shoots people have taken.

USA TODAY asks, "Can you out-predict the media experts?"

With the start of a new year and all the crazy things that are going on in the media and technology world, USA TODAY asks if you can out-predict the media experts. Follow the link to both the story and the quiz to see how the media world will fare in 2008. With iTunes now not being the only contender for online music and movies, and the writers still on strike, it's going to be an interesting 366 days: I just hope I don't have to take my HD DVD player back. There are no prizes, just glory. Good Luck.

(DreamWorks Madagascar)

Opening Day!

This is my first post on my new blog which will work aside my web site and business. I have been involved with photography for a few years now and also have a background in film. I am know Spielberg or Ansel Adams, but I do hope someday to make a career in either path.

Today, for my first blog, I am going to talk about my photography and what is in my bag. (No Pic, but hope to be soon). One thing I always notice about photo websites and blogs is that photographers never really share what is in the bag. Knowing that is one, interesting, and two, a lot of help when trying to find some new equipment. I don't think photographers are shy, it's just not something they share online, but when you meet a photographer in person, they can't stop talking about their new lens or flash, or some other accessory.

So here is what is in my bag...
1. 1-Canon 1D Mark III (The best camera I have ever used)
2. 1-Canon Rebel XT (For fun and to place in dangerous spots)
3. 2-Canon 430EX Flash (They are not at good as the 580s, but i'm on a budget)
4. 1-Canon EF 70-200mm 2.8 (I use this lens for just about everything in terms of sports)
5. 1-Canon EF 28-135mm IS (This is my walk around lens, great and not that expensive)
6. 1-Canon EF 50mm 1.8 (only $60 and great for getting shallow DOF on the cheep)
7. 1-Sigma 10-20mm (For the artistic side, works great for non-action sports shooting)
8. 6-SanDisk Compact Flash Memory Cards (Sized from 512mb to 4gb and from Ultra IIs to Extreme IVs)
9. 1-Quantaray 77mm Polarizer Filter (gets really deep colors when needed)
10. 1-Canon RC-1 IR Remote Control (Shoots IR beams to fire the XT from remote)
11. 1-Bogen/Manfrotto 680B w/ Quick Release (Time saver and back saver on the sidelines)
12. All rapped up in a Quantaray Backpack (Removable dividers and double layer protection)

This is my basic kit. I don't take this with me on every shoot. One thing that makes a good photographer is packing smart, and always having extra batteries.

When planing for a shoot, always think about what you are shooting. High action sports or flowers. You don't need to take a big 70-200mm to shoot flowers. You might not even need a backpack, just a camera and one good walk-around lens. But when going on assignment, overpack if you can. Think about every possible situation that could go wrong, because it's likely one of them will, you just don't know which one. Take at least two high capacity memory cards in the chance that one gets full or one becomes corrupted. Also, for your external flash, granted you have one, you'll need AA batteries, so always keep a set in your bag. Before your shoot, charge you camera's battery. High end DSLRs have a long battery life (up to 10 hrs) but if you are going to doing some intense shooting, you may need to purchase an extra battery, witch depending on your camera, could get expensive. On the camera, if you only have one, thats the one you take, but if you have two, you need to think about luging that other one along. You would hate to travel to a game and have the thing break down, or be doing a wedding and for some reason, the camera wont turn on (did you charge the battery). But bringing another camera body can also allow you to attach another lens so you don't have to switch between the two during a shoot. This will prevent dust from getting on the sensor as well. Planning is the key here, don't take EVERYTHING if you know you wont need it all, but be careful not to leave something you may need behind.

Quick Link
>The Pros and Their Bags<

Travels To The Edge with Art Wolfe

*None of the above links are meant as advertisements. I receive no incentive for you clicking on them, they are just meant to provide information to you.