Tuesday, November 30, 2010

A Reception in Old Saybrook THIS friday

Friends:


You are invited to the

Artisans Harbor “Promoting Connecticut Artists”
188 Main Street Old Saybrook, Ct. 06475

Award winning & unique artworks for you & gift giving

Paintings, Jewelry, Photography, Pottery, Woodburn Scrimshaw, Painted scarves, glassware & furniture, Pillows, Stationary, cards & more !

Join us for Wine, Cider & Appetizers
Friday Dec 3rd 4-7 pm

Gallery hours: Tues. 2-5pm, Thurs. 12-8pm, Fri.- Sun. 12-5pm
Anytime by appointment 860-388-9070

Readers vote Artisans Harbor for #1 Best Gallery for CT artists

I am exhibiting pictures here, and the store is lovely to browse at any time if you are shopping for gifts!

My Best,

Barbara

Sigma APO 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 DG HSM Lens

Sigma APO 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 DG HSM Lens


The new Sigma APO 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 with its 10X zoom is one impressive lens. Sigma pitches it as an all-in-one dream lens, especially for nature photographers. It’s also suitable for landscape photography and has enough zoom for photographing wildlife. Read full story.

15 Tips for Better Car Photos

$9.97 – 15 Tips for Better Car Photos


• from Veteran author Joe Farace

◦ Written & published 33 books; his newest, “Joe Farace’s Glamour Photography,” is in bookstores now.

◦ Contributing writer/Photographer to Shutterbug magazine since 1999; Editor Emeritus eDigital Photo magazine.

◦ Has published more than 1950 magazine stories in the USA, Europe, and China.

◦ Awarded Photographic Craftsman’s degree by Professional Photographers of America, Professional member of American Auto Racing Writers & Broadcasters Ass’n.

• 31 pages of detailed, dense information

• Practical advice for beginners, intermediate, and advanced shooters

• Details on photo exposure data, conditions, and other EXIF data

• Joe has taught thousands of people, so he knows how to communicate important concepts

Monday, November 29, 2010

Free instructional photography videos...

Free instructional photography videos...

the PopPhoto Buying Guide

Introducing the PopPhoto Buying Guide -- Our database of every DSLR and lens worth your attention right now.

A Reception in Old Saybrook

oops the reception was last week (we were away and did not get the notice in time), but Barbara is exhibiting photos at the Artisans Harbor so you can stop in and browse and pick up some Holiday gifts! Lisa

Friends:


You are invited to the

Artisans Harbor

“Promoting Connecticut Artists”

188 Main Street Old Saybrook, Ct. 06475

Award winning & unique artworks for you & gift giving

Paintings, Jewelry, Photography, Pottery, Woodburn Scrimshaw, Painted scarves, glassware & furniture, Pillows, Stationary, cards & more !



Join us for Wine, Cider & Appetizers
Saturday, Nov. 20th 4-7 pm
Gift certificate drawings from $ 30 to $ 100 !!
Winners must be present for evening drawing
Entry forms at the gallery or enter online: ArtisansHarbor@yahoo.com  Enter promotional code – gift - in subject field

Gallery hours: Tues. 2-5pm, Thurs. 12-8pm, Fri.- Sun. 12-5pm

Anytime by appointment 860-388-9070

Readers vote Artisans Harbor for #1 Best Gallery for CT artists


I am exhibiting pictures here, and the store is lovely to browse at any time if you are shopping for gifts!



My Best,

Barbara

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Adobe Sale

Adobe Sale


Adobe has a great coupon code that expires on November 30. Use coupon code SAVE2010 for these discounts on Adobe products to buy Lightroom 3 for $199 or Photoshop CS5 for $599. Better yet, buy them both for $710. That's $111 more than Photoshop CS5 usually costs!

* Save $100 on Lightroom - $199 total!

* Save $100 on Photoshop CS5 - $599 total.

* Save 30% on Lightroom 3 when purchased with Photoshop CS5.

* Buy Photoshop Elements 9 for $49.99 after a $20 mail in rebate.

How to Build a Mask Based on Color

How to Build a Mask Based on Color


This photoshop tutorial will show you how to build a mask based on specific colors or shades. This technique can save you a huge amount of time when you are trying to isolate specific items.

Advances masking in Photoshop

Advances masking in Photoshop


This is a great a technique to mask and extract hair from the most complicated images. For this second part we will work with a blond model.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Composition

4 Must Know Rules of Composition

Know your rules first, then know when to break them!


Rebellion: Three Successfully Broken Rules of Composition

Composing the Photo

$9.97 – Composing the Photo – Bonus Version


• A detailed how-to about how to Compose Photos

• Countless examples of the how/when/why of setting up a shot on the scene

• Postprocessing: the how/when/why to crop your image for more meaning and power

• Deep discussions on how viewers react to different compositions

• There is an equal emphasis on composing landscapes and composing people

• Bonus Edition: 50 pages long

• Bonus Edition: Many extra examples of people/object photography, how to choose the best photo from a “Spray and Pray”, and more sample Golden Ratio croppings.

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Top Safety Tips for Protecting Digital Image Files

Top Safety Tips for Protecting Digital Image Files


DriveSavers, the data recovery experts, share some simple precautions you can take with your information that will help you avoid ever needing their services. Read full story.

Five Great Things About Adobe Photoshop CS5

Five Great Things About Adobe Photoshop CS5


Are you still wondering if you should upgrade? We pick out and explain five of the best new features of Photoshop CS5 for photographers and add some resources for you to learn more. Read full story.

Monday, November 22, 2010

List of Best Cameras for Under $400

List of Best Cameras for Under $400

With a budget of about $400, you'll find a great mixture of strong, intermediate digital cameras. The best fixed lens cameras (or "DSLR-like cameras") in the sub-$400 price range contain large...

PocketWizard ControlTL Update

PocketWizard ControlTL Update

Reviewer Ellis Vener shares additional information you’ll need to know if you want to use the PocketWizard ControlTL system’s ability for non-smart speedlight flash at shutter speeds higher than a camera’s x-sync. The length of flash duration sets an upper limit on the shutter speed range above x-Sync. Read full story.

Saturday, November 20, 2010

New England Model Train Expo

New England Model Train Expo


Saturday and Sunday, Dec 4 and 5th 10:00a to 5:00p

at Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel and Trade Center, Marlborough, MA

The non-profit Hub Division of the NMRA is hosting this annual event--New England's largest holiday season train show. Recapture holiday nostalgia with operating train layouts in many scales-–all with life-like miniature scenery. Dozens of vendors will be on hand with bargains on new and used trains, accessories, books, and collectibles.

Price: Adults $7, Seniors 60+ $6, Children under 12 free with paying adult

Friday, November 19, 2010

Five Inexpensive, Go Anywhere Photo Reflectors

Most camera equipment is expensive, but everyone should have this in their arsenal -- under $10
Auto Windshield Sun Shades


Five Inexpensive, Go Anywhere Photo Reflectors

by Scott Bourne
http://wp.me/pu7xa-3yu 

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Free ColorChecker Camera Profiling tools

Free ColorChecker Camera Profiling tools when you purchase any i1Display or ColorMunki Photo solution!


Camera profiling is an important step in managing a color workflow. Ensuring that color is captured correctly simplifies the process of editing images, adds consistency and saves time after the shoot.

Now, when you decide to take control of your color and invest in one of our most popular color management products, X-Rite helps make sure your images are correct out of the camera by giving you the tools you need to profile your digital camera free!

Fine Art Digital Printing John Paul Caponigro

John Paul Caponigro

Workshop -- Fine Art Digital Printing Int -- Nov 29 - Dec 3, 2010

The Fine Art Digital Printing workshop series offers the most advanced digital printing workshops available anywhere. You'll learn more in one week than you learn in a semester in college.

This digital printing workshop details a complete fine art workflow.

Color Management
Raw Conversion
Selections and Masking
Compositing and Retouching
Noise Reduction
Sharpening
Media Selection
Print Finishing and Presentation

If you're comfortable with Photoshop and you want to take your Photoshop and digital printing skills to the next level, this is the course for you.

You'll leave with advanced digital imaging skills and exhibition quality prints.
Register now!

Fine Art Digital Printing Adv -- December 6 - 10, 2010

The Fine Art Digital Printing workshop series offers the most advanced digital printing workshops available anywhere. You'll learn more in one week than you learn in a semester in college.

This digital printing workshop helps you define a signature style all your own.

The week starts with in-depth portfolio reviews designed to clarify individual needs and goals.

Reviews are followed by lightning fast reviews of the material in my Intermediate workshop. We go into greater detail and depth on many subjects and introduce new ones.

Softproofing and Proofing
Advanced Color Adjustment Strategies
Advanced Selections and Masking
Advanced Sharpening
Developing a Signature Style
Developing a Cohesive Body of Work
Image Sequencing
Print Finishing
The Business of Fine Art

This workshop is for you if you have a high degree of proficiency with Photoshop and digital printing and you want to advance your skills even further while refining your own unique style.

You'll leave with a clear map for assembling and presenting your body of work.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Maximum Adobe® Photoshop® Seminar Tour

Maximum Adobe® Photoshop® Seminar Tour


Coming to New York, NY -- Monday, November 22, 2010

The Must See Photoshop CS5 Tour of 2010!

Join Dave Cross as he shows you how to maximize your creative potential, dramatically boost your productivity and skill, and discover how to get the most from Photoshop CS5's most powerful tools and features, including the hottest new Photoshop CS5 technology.

You'll learn extremely powerful yet often-overlooked Photoshop® functions such as Layer Comps, Apply Image, Advanced Blending, Tool Presets and more. Increase your productivity, enhance your workflow and realize new creative possibilities with these essential Adobe® Photoshop CS5 functions. Along the way you'll learn many small but incredibly useful changes that have been made to Photoshop CS5 that will have you wondering how you lived without them. more info »

Seating is limited! Register today at http://www.kelbytraininglive.com/

Your instructor: Dave Cross
Best-selling Author, Photographer, Senior Developer for NAPP and Instructor for Kelby Training LIVE

Nikon lens for sale

Hi Lisa,

I have a Nikon lens I'd like to sell, PC- 3 micro Nikkor 45mm f2.8D ED manual focus like new. Still in original box! Asking $1900. Would you list this on your blog? Thanks

Best Regards,

Frank
pouyat1@mac.com

Easy Change Hair Color In Photoshop

Easy Change Hair Color In Photoshop


Easy Change Hair Color In Photoshop, In this Photoshop tutorial, we're going to look at how simple and easy it is to change hair color in Photoshop by tinting and colorizing someone's hair in a photo.

Macro

Macro Magic: Amazing Mosquito Birthing Images

Macro Photography Tips for Compact Camera Users

Photoshop Elements Tips

Photoshop Elements Tip – Copy Layer Masks

New Photoshop Elements Actions For Retouching – Fix Skin, Sky Color, Exposure And More

Monday, November 15, 2010

GREATER LYNN INTERNATIONAL COLOR DUAL PROJECTION EXHIBITION.

Greater Lynn Photographic Association


YOU ARE INVITED

The Greater Lynn Photographic Association

invites all photographers everywhere

to submit color slides or digital images to the

GREATER LYNN INTERNATIONAL COLOR DUAL PROJECTION EXHIBITION.

All phases of the exhibition will be conducted in accordance with the recommended practices of
• PSA The Photographic Society of America
• FIAP Federation Internationale de l'Art Photographique 2011/029
• CAPA Canadian Association for Photographic Art
• IIWF Interessengemeinschaft Internationaler Wettbewerbs-Fotografen 2011/20

There is no restriction on subject matter.

For instructions and entry form, please click to visit our website

Closing Date is February 17, 2011

Susan Mosser, Chairman s.jmosser@comcast.net

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Tony Sweet Photography -- 2011 Workshop Schedule

Tony Sweet Photography -- 2011 Workshop Schedule
with instructors Tony Sweet & Susan Milestone

Please e-mail Susan mailto:susan@tonysweet.com%20to sign up for the workshop. Please include your address and a phone # where you can be reached.


She will answer all e-mail in the order they are received. (Please note we are getting ready for the MId Atlantic Nature Photography Expo http://www.midatlanticnaturephotographyexpo.org/About.htm in Manassas, VA and Susan may not be able to respond to your e-mails right away) Once you have signed up for a workshop she will e-mail you the registration forms after the Expo. At which time you will need to send in the completed and signed registration forms with your deposit to confirm your registration. The schedule will go on the website tomorrow.

Visual Artistry Photography Workshops with instructors Tony Sweet and Susan Milestone

2011 Workshop Schedule
contact Susan with any registration/workshop questions

March 27-March 31- Charleston, SC with Tony & Susan  $1100, limit 10

This is a wonderful historic city with numerous photo venues. We'll be spending our time photographing Magnolia Plantation, where explosions of colorful flowers, huge oak trees draped with moss, and bald cyprus swamps signal the beginning of spring time. Historic Charleston architecture and the famous White Point Park full of azalea, along the waterfront. And various other locations. As with all of our workshops, there is ample field instruction and daily critiques. We'll touch on the various software that we use on images supplied for the critique sessions and there will be compositional and software presentations.

April 3-7 - Digital Edge Software/HDR
Charleston, SC with Tony
$1700, limit 5
Join Tony in Charleston, SC for this exclusive shooting & software workshop. We will be out photographing every day, but will reserve ample class time to work on images using Nik Software plug-ins, Alien Skin, Topaz, NIK HDR Efex Pro and Photomatix HDR software. There will be ample individual help with raw processing and workflow. Discussions will be conducted at each location on how to "shoot for the software" and pre-visualizing the final results, which may not be readily apparent when viewing a scene.
April 17-21 - Great Smoky Mountains, TN with Tony & Susan  $1100, limit 10

This time frame should place us in the Smokies when dogwood are in bloom and the streams are beginning to run fully. Early spring skies can be quite dramatic, and fog rolls in and out of the landscape. Spring wildflowers are beginning to bloom, and we wouldn't be surprised if there is spring snow or hoar frost covering the mountain tops! There are layered mountain ridges and photogenic old historic settlements. As with all of our workshops, there is ample field instruction and daily critiques. We'll touch on the various software that we use on images supplied for the critique sessions and there will be compositional and software presentations.

May 1-6 - Cape May at M.A.R.S. with Tony
Mid-Atlantic Regional School of Professional Photography
Creative Nature and Outdoor Photography

This Workshop is available through the M.A.R.S. Please contact registrar@marsschool.com
or call 1-888-267-MARS for information and registration

May 22-26 - Digital Edge Software/HDR
with Tony
Great Smoky Mountains, TN

$1700, limit 6
Join Tony in Charleston, SC for this exclusive shooting & software workshop. We will be out photographing every day, but will reserve ample class time to work on images using Nik Software plug-ins, Alien Skin, Topaz, NIK HDR Efex Pro and Photomatix HDR software. There will be ample individual help with raw processing and workflow. Discussions will be conducted at each location on how to "shoot for the software" and pre-visualizing the final results, which may not be readily apparent when viewing a scene.
June 17-19 Eastern State Penitentiary HDR-Philadelphia, PA with Tony
$500, limit 10
June 24-26 Eastern State Penitentiary HDR-Philadelphia, PA with Tony
$500, limit 10
Eastern State Penitentiary is a national monument, a wonderful and graphic venue, and the location used in our new HDR DVD. This location provides texture and detail perfect for HDR: the colorful, cracked paint, rusty prison cell doors, towering guard towers, even Al Capone's "lavish" cell. The photo ops are tremendous and subject to interesting compositional and software driven interpretations. There will be an opening evening presentation on HDR to get you ready to hit the ground running the next day. We'll shoot from 10 am until mid-afternoon on Saturday, and Tony will be working with everyone individually on location. After dinner, we'll have class time to work on processing and technique. Sunday morning we'll critique the images and have final Q & A.

Price includes location instruction, software training, critique session, admission fees, hotel prkg fee, and special access area fee.
July 10-16 - Iceland - through Focus on Nature in Iceland
Exploring the land of the Midnight Sun

This workshop is available through Focus On Nature Please contact Focus On Nature for information and registration

August 7-11 - Victoria, BC - with Tony & Susan
through Pacific Northwest Art School, WA
On Location: Victoria, BC

This Workshop is available through the Pacific Northwest Art School in Coupeville, WA. Please contact info@pacificnorthwestartschool.org or call 866-678-3396 for information and registration

August 14-16 - Whidbey Island, WA with Tony & Susan
through Pacific Northwest Art School, WA
On Location: Whidbey Island WA

This Workshop is available through the Pacific Northwest Art School in Coupeville, WA. Please contact info@pacificnorthwestartschool.org or call 866-678-3396 for information and registration

October 2-6 - Fall Photo Tour - White Mountains, NH with Tony & Susan $1100, limit 10
The White Mountains in NH is one of the best fall venues in the country, featuring brilliant reds and golds, colorful flowing streams, overlooks, birch forests, and numerous macro opportunities. This is a tour where class instruction will be plentiful, but field instruction will be minimal. We will be visiting our favorite locations, some very specific and generally not well known. The color window is very short and we'll be shooting along with the class, but will always be available for field help when needed. We'll touch on the various software that we use on images supplied for the critique sessions and there will be compositional and software presentations.

October 12-16 - Acadia, ME with Tony & Susan -- $1100, limit 10
Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine has the most rugged coastlines on the east coast, but very accessible: pink granite, cliffs, ponds, lakes, fall color, and overlooks. As with all of our workshops, there is ample field instruction and daily critiques. We'll touch on the various software that we use on images supplied for the critique sessions and there will be compositional and software presentations.
Details

Prerequisites:

Participants are expected to have a working knowledge of exposure (f/stop and shutterspeed) and should know how to operate their equipment. Bring a laptop computer with RAW processing and image editing software in order to prepare images for critique. Any film shooters are encouraged to borrow a digital SLR to make images for critique sessions in order to maximize the workshop learning experience.
The Program:

This is a general itinerary; Each day's schedule varies due to which location we visit that day, how long we shoot, and can change depending on the weather. We could photograph all day if conditions are right, then have more class time the following day.
Sunday* night 5 pm - (except DWG which starts at 6:00) - Opening night presentation, Q&A's, orientation (Please note that it would be a good idea to have dinner on your own before the opening meeting)

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday - Photograph sunrise and/or early morning, and late afternoon and/or sunset, and whenever the light is right. There will be presentations and critiques during the day.

Thursday - Photograph in the morning or class time, discussion and final thoughts over breakfast. We should be finished by checkout time.
* except Acadia, which begins on a Wednesday and ends on Sunday - and Eastern State Penitentiary which is a weekend workshop
Questions and problems will be addressed in the field whenever possible, which is the most effective way to learn nature photography.
Personal Critique Service: All participants have the option to add 3 months of personal critiquing for an additional charge of $450. This service includes a professional verbal critique (delivered on CD) of up to 20 images a month for 3 months for a total of 60 images and liberal email support for questions and advice.

Frequent Attendee Discount: For more than one workshop taken in the same workshop year -
2nd workshop - 10% discount
3 or more workshops - 15% discount
Payment/Refund Policies

Payment Policy: The workshop fee is for instruction only. All other expenses including transportation, accommodations, and meals are the responsibility of the participant.

A $250 deposit is required to confirm your registration after receiving your registration forms.
The full balance is due 60 days prior to the start of the workshop.
Cancellation Policy: Deposit and balance paid will be fully refunded if cancellation is made prior to 60 days before the workshop start date. No refunds will be given if cancellation is made less than 60 days before the workshop start date.

Rain refund policy: Presentations and critiques will continue as usual if it should rain. NO discount for one rain day. Two rain days = 10% discount on next workshop. Three rain days = 15% discount on next workshop. Only applies if rained in for the full workshop day, not including the opening night presentation or the final half day of the workshop.
NOTE: Only ONE discount per workshop
Thanks,
Susan & Tony
susan@tonysweet.com
Tony T Sweet Photography, Inc.
http://tonysweet.com/

National Geographic Photographers

National Geographic Photographers

National Geographic Photographers who offer shooting tips in the field and seminars on board.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

CALL for ARTISTS

our mission: To grow a non-competitive community willing to share all levels of image creation with individuals and organizations that have a passion for photography while inspiring each other and developing friendships.

CALL for ARTISTS

Call for Submissions!

Stamford Art Association Presents

FACADES

Art at the Ferguson

This is an Invitational Exhibit celebrating the new Ferguson Library Gallery

Stamford, CT

January 13-April 7, 2011

This show is open to all SAA members and non-members and is a non-juried show. All two dimensional mediums are welcome. We are inviting artists to the second exhibition at the newly renovated Ferguson Library Gallery located on the 3rd floor in downtown Stamford. Space is limited so we are being asked to select a cross-section of artwork. We have assembled a review committee to help with the selection process and hanging the show.

The next exhibit at the Ferguson Library Gallery will be “Facades”. The receiving dates for the show are Thursday, January 6 5-7 and Saturday, January 8 10-12. The opening will be Thursday, January 13 6-8. The theme of the show is architectural facades and the artwork is not restricted to any location or type of building. This exhibit will be shown in conjunction with an exhibit at the Stamford Art Association Townhouse Gallery, 39 Franklin St, entitled “Faces and Figures”.

Further information on exhibit requirements will be posted on the Stamford Art Association’s website: stamfordartassn@optonline.net Work must be framed and wired for hanging, preferably plexiglas not glass and not be larger than 48"x60"framed. If you are interested in being considered for the show, please submit up to 3 JPG digital images to: Barbara.campbell@greeenwichhospital.org by Sunday, November 28. Please include title, size, medium and your contact information: name, email, phone, address.

You will be notified by email in December if your work will be included in the show. There will be a $35.00 charge per artist that will be collected at receiving. Further information will be supplied with acceptance notification as to Library drop off location and dates, and opening reception.

All artwork must be for sale. A commission of 25% on all work sold will go to support SAA.

This is a great chance to expose your work to the many visitors who will come to the Library and this wonderful new gallery.

Stamford Art Association, 39 Franklin Street, Stamford, Ct. 06901
(203) 325 1139
http://www.stamfordartassociation.com/

Friday, November 12, 2010

Thanks Bill for passing this along -- I am sure that everyone will want to sign up and be informed! 


I am writing to share some exciting news with you, NECCC has started a blog entitled NECCC News as a new avenue for communicating with the greater photograpic community in New England. All member clubs have been asked to spread the word about the new service.

Their new address: http://www.necccnews.blogspot.com/

They will be sending out information on a periodic basis including:

* Notification of changes to the NECCC web site at http://www.neccc.org/  as they occur. You will no longer have to visit the site to see what is new, the blog will tell you when new information has been posted.

* Information about the annual Summer Conference highlighting speakers and programs of special interest.

* Publicity from NECCC members clubs about activities that are directed to the greater New England photographic community.

Each of you is asked to visit http://www.necccnews.blogspot.com/ and look at the blog. You will see a number of typical posts that were generated over being the last few months as the blog was being developed. Once you see what the blog has to offer, I hope you will subscribe so that you will receive future messages as they are posted. (instructions for subscribing are on the blog)

It would also be appreciated it if you would also publicize the blog to your friends and fellow camera club members. The NECCC Board hopes that every member of the greater NECCC commnuity will subscribe so that we can quickly and easily publicize information of interest to you.

Best regards,
Bill



William B. Barnett, AFIAP, MNEC, EPSA

66 Jasmine Circle

Milford, CT 06461-1788

USA



CT Association of Photographers Web Master

Phone: (203) 877-1639

E-mail: CAPinCT@optonline.net

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Color Evaluation

Thanks Bill!

Hi Lisa, You might want to distribute the blog posting

http://www.psri.us/index.php/2010/11/on-color/

This post is from the Photographic Society of RI and contains three images to evaluate your own computer as well as information on what you should expect to see.

Best regards,
Bill

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

DSLR Camera Lens Buying Guide

DSLR Camera Lens Buying Guide


Scott says "I get lots of "what camera should I buy" questions here at Photofocus. I personally don't enjoy that question since it's sort of like asking me "What sort of car should I buy?" I do have more sympathy for the next logical question: "What lens should I buy?" I am not talking about the "Is the Nikon 50 f/1.4 really better than the 50 f/1.8 lens?" questions, but the "What lens should I buy generally?" questions. Neither question is easy to answer. This is an updated version of my first attempt (back in June, 2009) to cover this question. I have seven basic questions here that should help make the process of selecting a lens easier. For those who just want me to pick a lens for them, skip to the bottom where I have some generic suggestions. If you're trying to decide which lens to buy, here are some questions that you should answer (on your own) before you decide to go to the camera store."

Read the article here

Wildlife iPad & iPhone Photo Wallpapers Available

Wildlife iPad & iPhone Photo Wallpapers Available
Scott Bourne
http://wp.me/pu7xa-3qA

If you're looking for an affordable, fun, easy way to own some of my wildlife photos, please consider purchasing any or all of the following titles.

Avian Wallpapers
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/avian-wallpaper/id366518593?mt=8

Wolf Wallpapers
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wolf-wallpapers/id371439028?mt=8

Wildlife Wallpapers
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wildlife-wallpapers/id384437109?mt=8

Each application runs on both the iPhone and the iPad and costs only 99 cents.

Basic HDR Primer

Basic HDR Primer


A good overview! Scott also states..."This is a very brief and NOT thorough introduction to HDR. It's meant to get your feet wet. If you really want to learn HDR in-depth, I have some recommended resources for you."

He also recently reviewed the latest version of Photomatix, the leading HDR software

Photomatix Pro 4.0 - HDR/Tonemapping Program - Mini Review

Seven Ways to Get Pro Results From Your Compact Camera

Seven Ways to Get Pro Results From Your Compact Camera

If you want to get pro results from your compact camera - treat it like a pro camera.

Annual DSLR Camera Buying Guide

Annual DSLR Camera Buying Guide

PUBLISHER'S NOTE: This post is an updated compilation of several shorter posts I wrote in the past trying to answer the question, "What camera should I buy?" This is a companion piece to my post DSLR Camera Lens Buying Guide. It’s still the most popular question I am asked. “What camera should I buy?” Lately there's a new twist to the question..."Is this brand camera better than that brand camera?" I tried to answer THAT question in THIS post: Canon v. Nikon DSLRs - Does It Really Matter? No matter how hard I try to tell people that there’s no perfect answer, they keep asking. So since I can’t convince anyone otherwise, at least know the answers to THESE questions before you ask me YOUR question.

Read the article here

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Mask Flyaway Hair in Moments Using Photoshop CS5

Get up to speed with new masking tools in Photoshop CS5. While easy to use, the results are pro-level in quality. Mask Flyaway Hair in Moments Using Photoshop

Create a Vampire Portrait in Photoshop

Create a Vampire Portrait in Photoshop


These days it seems like vampires are all the rage. In books, on television, and the big screen, vampires are everywhere. Thankfully, for us, vampires are not real and for those of us who are not actors or makeup artists, turning into a vampire isn't possible unless you have some knowledge of Photoshop. In today's tutorial we will demonstrate how to use Photoshop to turn a lovely portrait into a dark, intimidating vampire

Monday, November 8, 2010

WILD SCOTLAND TOUR

WILD SCOTLAND TOUR for under $1300. ACT NOW!


We've just posted an amazing wildlife tour on the web site to the Scottish Highlands in May 2011. Ptarmigan, Dotterel, Capercaillie, Ring Ouzel, Crested Tit, Scottish Crossbill, Pine Marten, Badger and more all possible from a great lodge in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park. Also included is a trip to Handa Island for nesting seabirds. All for under $1300.00 for the week! All you have to do is get to Inverness! Check it out on the web at http://www.sunrisebirding.com/11Scotland/
For more exceptional birding itineraries, go to www.sunrisebirding.com/tours.htm

A complete schedule of Sunrise Birding, LLC events is online at http://www.sunrisebirding.com/calendar.htm
GOOD BIRDING!
Gina Nichol
Sunrise Birding, LLC
203.453.6724
Email: gina@sunrisebirding.com
Web site: http://www.sunrisebirding.com/

How to Batch Rename Photos in Photoshop CS5

The default names for photos coming from a digital camera are almost always incoherent. It can be a very daunting task to rename many photos, but photoshop provides an easier solution as shown in this tutorial.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Lighting for Portraits and Events with Francesco Mastalia

Lighting for Portraits and Events with Francesco Mastalia
in Berkeley Heights, NJ
November 14, 2010 10AM-4PM

The workshop will focus on using a variety of techniques and approaches with portable lighting as well as working with natural light to help you create unique images with personal style for whatever project you want to tackle. When photographing people, we don't always have the time to set up elaborate lighting. We will learn how to work quickly with a minimal amount of equipment and explore what to look for when using natural light. We will also discuss how to make people comfortable in front of the camera, as well posing and not posing people to create natural looking portraits. Other topics covered will be what equipment works the best and easiest and how to market yourself to get more work. Bring your cameras and up to 10 photographs you would like to share.

This fast paced workshop is for any level of photographer who wants to learn more about lighting for portraits, products or events. This is a great opportunity to study with a photographer especially known for his wedding and portrait work. Participants should already know how their cameras work.

Francesco Mastalia is an internationally published documentary photographer whose career in photography spans over 25 years. Traveling around the world, he has captured portraits of diverse cultures of tribal, religious, indigenous and spiritual people. In addition to his role as a lecturer his photography has been exhibited throughout the United States. His list of Fortune 500 clients for advertising and corporate assignments include Revlon, AT&T, Johnson & Johnson, Time-Life, Philip Morris, Prudential, Hewlett Packard, Weight Watchers, McDonalds and Nikon. www.fmphotos.com

* FEE: $175 for tuition

* ARRIVAL TIME: 9:30AM, November 14, 2010 Bring your lunch

* INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION: 908-790-8820 or email Nancy Ori at nancyori@comcast.net directions will be sent upon registration

· PAYMENT TO: New Jersey Media Center, LLC 124 Diamond Hill Road, Berkeley Heights, New Jersey 07922

Macro Nature Forum

Macro Nature Forum


Please stop by and check out my newly launched Macro Nature Forum. Just for macro photographers of all skill levels, and It's free to register and participate. You will be able to post your macro images in different forums, start or engage in a macro discussion, enter contests, and more. The forum is now open. http://www.macronatureforum.com/

Saturday, November 6, 2010

NHCC's Centennial celectration -- Paul's Judging workshop was a resounding success!

Kudos to Paul Peterson for setting up and presenting the judging workshop that was held today in Branford, CT. It was a resounding success! This workshop was part of the New Haven Camera Club's Centennial celebration.

62 photographers (camera club judges, potential judges and interested parties) attended to learn about the strengths and weakness of judging photographs. It was an enlightening experience. We did not solve the world's problems (or should I say the world of camera club's problems) but we all came away with a better understanding of what makes a photograph less like a snapshot and more like Fine Art (technical aspects, the composition, the overall interest and the impact). We also learned about the inherent subjective nature of photography and how to make better comments (start with something positive and then move to a constructive criticism). After the mock judging portion of the program we split into four groups of 15. My group was only consistent with regard to their scores on 2 or 3 images, for many we were scoring 6 or 7 to 9 or 10, with impact (that "wow" factor) being the largest variable (and the hardest to make consistent)
 
We got to meet a lot of camera club members from across CT; some from as far away as Canton, Harwinton and Tolland, CT. Needless to say it was well received and we hope we can do it again next year. Someone suggested that we make this an annual event, with a different Connecticut camera club hosting each year. I think that would be awesome. I also learned that Bridegport meets an hour before their meeting to talk about aspects that make a photograph good and about judging and that Norwalk has a monthly judging forum.
 
Immense gratitude to Paul! Thanks to Linda Thomas, Bob and Laura Parisi for their help purchasing and setting up the food. A special thanks for Carmel for her hard work and the great coffee cake!

Raw Processing Local Tone Controls

Raw Processing Local Tone Controls


Enhance Your Images As You Convert Your Raw Files

by Jack Neubart

How many times have you looked at a Raw digital image on your computer screen and thought that there is more to this shot than meets the eye? You may want to restore tonal values, enhance contrast, and maybe boost saturation in selected parts of the picture, or otherwise modify those pixels in a way that best expresses how you visualized the scene—during Raw processing itself. This type of workflow is available with numerous Raw processors. In this article I'll cover the use of Adjustment Brushes available in Adobe Camera Raw (CS4). Get The Full Story.

"A Guide to Pleasing Blurs" by Arthur Morris and Denise Ippolito

A Guide to Pleasing Blurs : BlurGuide

Price/ea: $33.00

"A Guide to Pleasing Blurs" by Arthur Morris and Denise Ippolito is a 20,585 word, 271 page PDF illustrated with 144 different, exciting, and artistic images. The guide covers the basics of creating pleasingly blurred images, the factors that influence the degree of blurring, the use of filters in creating pleasing blurs, and a great variety of both in-the-field and Photoshop techniques that can be used to create pleasingly blurred images.

Artie and Denise teach you many different ways to move your lens during the exposure to create a variety of pleasingly blurred images of flowers and trees and water and landscapes. They will teach you to recognize situations where subject movement can be used to your advantage to create pan blurs, wind blurs, and moving water blurs. They will teach you to create zoom-blurs both in the field and during post-processing. Artie shares the techniques that he has used and developed for making blurred images of flocks of geese in flight at his beloved Bosque del Apache and Denise shares her flower blur magic as well as a variety of creative Photoshop techniques that she has developed.

With the advent of digital capture, creating blurred images has become a great and inexpensive way to go out with your camera and have fun. And while many folks think that making successful blurred images is the result of being a sloppy photographer nothing could be further from the truth. In "A Guide to Pleasing Blurs" Artie and Denise will help you to unleash your creative self.
The book is laid out in landscape format to make for easy viewing and easy reading on any decent computer monitor.

Please note: this book is available only as a digital file in PDF form. You will need either Adobe Acrobat Reader or Fox-it to read the file. Both are free downloads. You will be sent a download link via e-mail, and instructions will be included in the e-mail.

Friday, November 5, 2010

new tutorial video on non-destructive editing in Photoshop

Non-Destructive Editing


Jimmy Beech put together a new tutorial video on non-destructive editing in Photoshop. He demonstrates the use of multiple smart filters on a single image and gives you a slew of tips and tricks along the way.

This technique is great for exploration and experimentation during your digital processing. These types of non-destructive techniques simplify your workflow and speed up your results.

We're always adding new tutorial videos to our YouTube channel. If you use an RSS reader then you can subscribe to the channel with the link http://gdata.youtube.com/feeds/base/users/alienskinsoftware01/uploads

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Friday and Saturday, November 5 and 6: Two-Day Canon Event NYC Calumet

Friday and Saturday, November 5 and 6: Two-Day Canon Event at All Locations NYC


Free tech advice, hands-on demonstrations and the inside scoop on Canon's newest releases. Special promotions will also be available — we can't announce them until right before the event! Offers will be available at our retail locations, through our website and by calling 1.800.CALUMET.

34th annual Hunt’s show is this weekend November 5th, 6th & 7th

Hello to All Our Loyal Customers,


Just a reminder our 34th annual Hunt’s show is this weekend November 5th, 6th & 7th. We still have plenty of spaces for our fantastic new seminars. We have just arranged for all of our seminars to be at no charge. If anyone has already paid they will be refunded automatically. Please pass this information along to your members.

For additional information about our seminars check out our link!

http://wbhunt.com/seminars/

Anyone interested in attending the seminars please call 781.662.8822 and register.

Thanks,
Gary Farber

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

FREE Judging Symposium Saturday, November 6, 2010

Judging Symposium

Saturday, November 6, 2010

The New Haven Camera Club is hosting a “Judging Symposium” on Saturday, November 6, at the United Methodist Church, 811 East Main Street, Branford, CT, from 9A.M. to 12 noon. Note: This is a different location from where the club normally meets. Directions are included at the bottom.

Why are we doing this?
Camera clubs depend on good judges to critique the work of their members. These days, clubs are finding it harder to get good qualified people who are willing to go out and serve as judges. We thought that perhaps bringing a number of interested people together to discuss the issue of camera club judging would be beneficial to all. Even less experienced photographers, not readyto become judges, may benefit from this symposium.
Paul Peterson will begin the morning with his updated program “Judging Photography In The Digital Age.” After the program, we will engage in a free-flowing discussion in which the participants are invited to share their ideas for improving the quality and number of camera club judges in our area.

Here are some of the questions we may try to answer:
  • What should judges look for in judging a photograph?
  • How do clubs go about getting good judges?
  • What makes a person qualified to be a judge?
  • Is it more difficult to judge digital photography?
  • What are the pet peeves that clubs have about judges and judging?
  • Are there concerns that judges have about camera clubs?
  • Can area clubs get an up-to-date list of camera club judges?
These are just some ideas for questions. We will discuss whatever the people in attendance want to discuss. If there is enough interest in this symposium, perhaps it can serve as a springboard for further discussions in the future.
Anyone can attend. You do not have to be a judge.
There is no charge for the symposium.

We hope to see you there to share ideas and learn what others are thinking.

Light refreshments will be served.

An RSVP is not absolutely necessary but would be appreciated so we can determine the number of attendees. Email Paul Peterson at the following address: NHCCwin@yahoo.com or call 203-488-0267.

Directions from New Haven: I-95 north (east) to exit 56 Branford. Turn left. Go past Stop & Shop to Route 1 (Chowder Pot Restaurant will be across the street.) Turn right onto Route 1 (east). Follow one mile to the United Methodist Church, 811 East Main St, on the right (white church). Park anywhere in the lot.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Nik Software HDR Efex Pro

Just a personal note here. I pre-ordered the Nik Software HDR Efex Pro software because I love Nik software, and because I really enjoy all sorts of HDR. I got it on a Wednesday. I could not get it to work. I tried for two days, installed and re-installed, even re-downloaded. I called Nik that Friday morning. They said that there was a ahigh call volume and they took my number and said that they would keep my place in line and that they would have someone call me back (that day). No on called. I sent emails on Saturday and Sunday, got automated replies. I called on Monday but could not get through. OK, a new product, lots of calls I thought. Another week went by -- still no replies to the emails and still no return call. I call again and get told the same thing, someone will call me back. I explain all this and how I love my other Nik products they put me through to some queue to wait and wait and wait. Almost an hour later (remember I choose to wait rather than have them call me back) I get a live person. Wahoo! They ask me what operating system I am using. Windows XP. Silence. Their product only works on newer 64 bit operating systems. The regular vversion will not be out until Spring 2011. He tells me to try loading it as a Lightroom Plugin. OK, I can deal with that until the regular plugin comes out. I start installing the LR version and he gets me off the phone (I should have known better). That did not work either. Now I have to call them for a refund! Argh! I was looking forward using Nik Software HDR Efex Pro! So be careful if you order this, as this big limitation is not on their website! Shame on Nik. Just thought that people should be aware. ~Lisa


Nik Software HDR Efex Pro. Nik Software announced HDR Efex Pro, a completely new HDR imaging toolkit designed to help photographers quickly and easily achieve the full spectrum of HDR enhancements from the realistic to artistic.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Photographers' Salon at CPW!

Join us for this month's Photographers' Salon at CPW!


Tuesday November 2, 2010 from 7 - 10pm

It's time for the November installment of CPW's Photographers salon!

About the Salon:

CPW's monthly Photographers' Salon is the perfect place to gather with your peers for an evening of looking at photography, exchanging ideas, and making new friends who are as passionate about photography as you are (all within an inspiring and air supportive environment ) !

The Salon provides a supportive and engaging environment. Whether you are refining a long term project or have just launched into something new, the Salon is the perfect way to get supportive outside perspectives!
 
email: info@cpw.org

phone: (845) 679-9957
web: http://www.cpw.org/ 

"Exploring High Dynamic Range Photography" with Rick Sammon

"Exploring High Dynamic Range Photography" with Rick Sammon

HDR ( High Dynamic Range ) is a revolutionary technique that transforms traditional photographs into eye popping images, revealing a wide range of exposures and tones that bring a scene to life. Overcoming the challenge of photographing details in extreme highlights and shadows is possible through HDR processes such as tone mapping and bracketing exposures.

Come discover the magic of HDR by joining the legendary Rick Sammon as he shares his favorite HDR images, and his personal techniques for creating them. Rick will provide a basic overview of HDR imaging, followed by a demonstration of programs and plug-ins, including Photomatix, Topaz Adjust and Lucis. If you're new to HDR, or would like to hone your existing skills, then this is the perfect inspirational and instructional seminar for you.

Seminar Details
Date: Sunday - November 14, 2010
Time: 1:00 - 4:00 (Doors open at 12:00)
Seminar Fee: $49.00
Location: Bishop Center, University of Connecticut
Great Door Prizes: Of Course!

REGISTER NOW!

About Rick Sammon


Rick Sammon has published 36 books, including Exploring the Light. Rick's newest big project is his app for the iPhone and iPod Touch: Rick Sammon's 24/7 Photo Buffet. He has photographed in almost 100 countries around the world, gives more than two-dozen photography workshops (including private workshops) and presentations around the world each year. Rick co-founded the Digital Photography Experience (www.dpexperience.com), an on-line digital photography learning center. He also co-hosts the bi-monthly Digital Photography Experience podcast. He also hosts five shows on www.kelbytraining.com

Rick, who has been nominated for the Photoshop Hall of Fame, is considered one of today's top digital -imaging experts, cutting through lots of Photoshop "speak," making it fun, easy and rewarding to work and play in the digital darkroom. When asked about his photo specialty, Rick says, "My specialty is not specializing."
See http://www.ricksammon.com/ for more information.