Saturday, April 30, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Smiling Through A Broken Heart
I take a certain amount of pride in being - USUALLY - the dude who likes to smile! I'm a big guy with tattoos and a whole lot of history to go with those tattoos. I was given the nickname, "Chill", years ago for my humble skill at calming some of the roughest and meanest - ANGRY - individuals you can come across. Being a professional bouncer for years, this was most definately a skill to have. In the field, we are called "Coolers", and most nightclubs pay big money to have guys like us maintaining the fun and happy environment that is the foundation of most popular nightclubs.
There's a whole lot more to my history than that, but I know without a doubt that very few people intimidate me. Now, ask me about spiders and ghosts and that's an entirely different subject! ;-) What I'm trying to say is that I have earned the right to consider myself one that can hold his own in most situations. And, if you know me, you'll know that this is one of the few times in my life when I call myself a "badass". But, you know what - it's just something I gotta say in a post about smiling through a broken heart! So there! ;-P
Nah! I aint a badass, but I do take pride in being a strong person, and I am saying this because there is nothing wrong with being strong - both mentally - and physically. Now! If you view many of my videos, or read much of my written words, it is pretty obvious that I believe in the power of something called love. I love animals and children, most people, and I do believe in a higher power, or God. And, I will never EVER tell you that "my way" is the "right way", because what works for me may not work for everyone.
But, I am VERY guilty of preaching one thing, and that is the power of love! So, you see my videos, photos or art, and you read this guy saying that true and genuine love overcomes ALL obstacles, pain, and hardships in life - and he's a "badass?" ;-) LOL
YES! I am! And every single man, woman or child who is courageous enough to truly open up their hearts to this often bitter and cruel world are badasses in my book! I am so privelidged to have so many in my life who share this belief, so I guess I'm writing this for all you other guys out there. In my journey through this wild and wacky adventure we call life, it was those men and women who would only fight in order to defend their principals and beliefs, protecting what they love and cherish, that earned my respect. And, you know what - the bravest were the ones who would one minute take a bullet for you, and the next - break down and cry on your shoulders. This is a real "person".
So, here's me being real. Just things I can't seem to admit to in the "real" world. Thank God for the internet. I feel so friggin' brave right now! ;-)
All in all, I am happy. There's so much that I can be thankful for in this life. No! For reals - everyday, I find so much in this world to smile about! ;-)
So, I have this woman and child in my life. If you've seen my photos, you'll probably notice there is a lot of a brunette and a baby. You might even guess that she's my girlfriend. The truth is I do love her and her son with all my heart, but as far as a "couple in love" relationship, it's just not there.
We were together until just after we lost our unborn baby a little more than a year ago. Things just changed and neither of us could ever seem to put back together what had been broken. And, such is life. We've been to that point of vowing to never speak to one another, only for one of us to break down and break the silence. And, here we are - two people who were once in love trying to salvage some sort of friendship. And, it hurts me to realize that I honestly don't think we can do that at this point. It hurts a lot.
Like most broken love relationships in life, we've just grown in two separate directions. And, as I am famous for saying, life is too short NOT to be happy and in love. So, yeah - I am single. Have been for a while. Moreso, and here it is - I am lonely - and really missing having someone to share my life with. And, you know what - it does NOT help to have my ex in my life right now. I realized that this morning.
But I face a certain dilemna, and that is being spiritual and the beliefs I hold onto. I'm not just looking for any love - I'm looking for THE love. And, after experiencing some truly great loves in my life, I know what I'm looking for. I am blessed to have experienced true and genuine love. Honestly, I thought she was it, but no. Now, I could get involved in something that didn't fully fit together, but what if I do this and THE ONE I've been waiting for happens across my path?
LOL "Why Danny, it sounds like you're carrying more baggage than Queen Elizabeth on a weekend trip to the Canary Islands?"
No! That's just it. There is one thing I have learned that I like to say to everyone experiencing a broken heart - The next one is always better than the last! Best friends times ten!!! LOL And, you know what - I'm gonna find THE ONE and it's gonna be like the best E-Ticket ride at Disneyland - worth the wait!!! That, my friends, is faith.
See - there's my reason to smile!!! ;-)
But, right now I gotta say goodbye to someone very special to me and that really hurts!!!! Hell - there was even a salty discharge from my eyes this morning. As long as we're trying to be friends, we're both standing in the way of us moving on to who we are really meant for!!!
I made this video the last time I was at this point. This was our final attempt at salvaging a friendship and that hurts the worst. It hurts a lot!
There's a whole lot more to my history than that, but I know without a doubt that very few people intimidate me. Now, ask me about spiders and ghosts and that's an entirely different subject! ;-) What I'm trying to say is that I have earned the right to consider myself one that can hold his own in most situations. And, if you know me, you'll know that this is one of the few times in my life when I call myself a "badass". But, you know what - it's just something I gotta say in a post about smiling through a broken heart! So there! ;-P
Nah! I aint a badass, but I do take pride in being a strong person, and I am saying this because there is nothing wrong with being strong - both mentally - and physically. Now! If you view many of my videos, or read much of my written words, it is pretty obvious that I believe in the power of something called love. I love animals and children, most people, and I do believe in a higher power, or God. And, I will never EVER tell you that "my way" is the "right way", because what works for me may not work for everyone.
But, I am VERY guilty of preaching one thing, and that is the power of love! So, you see my videos, photos or art, and you read this guy saying that true and genuine love overcomes ALL obstacles, pain, and hardships in life - and he's a "badass?" ;-) LOL
YES! I am! And every single man, woman or child who is courageous enough to truly open up their hearts to this often bitter and cruel world are badasses in my book! I am so privelidged to have so many in my life who share this belief, so I guess I'm writing this for all you other guys out there. In my journey through this wild and wacky adventure we call life, it was those men and women who would only fight in order to defend their principals and beliefs, protecting what they love and cherish, that earned my respect. And, you know what - the bravest were the ones who would one minute take a bullet for you, and the next - break down and cry on your shoulders. This is a real "person".
So, here's me being real. Just things I can't seem to admit to in the "real" world. Thank God for the internet. I feel so friggin' brave right now! ;-)
All in all, I am happy. There's so much that I can be thankful for in this life. No! For reals - everyday, I find so much in this world to smile about! ;-)
So, I have this woman and child in my life. If you've seen my photos, you'll probably notice there is a lot of a brunette and a baby. You might even guess that she's my girlfriend. The truth is I do love her and her son with all my heart, but as far as a "couple in love" relationship, it's just not there.
We were together until just after we lost our unborn baby a little more than a year ago. Things just changed and neither of us could ever seem to put back together what had been broken. And, such is life. We've been to that point of vowing to never speak to one another, only for one of us to break down and break the silence. And, here we are - two people who were once in love trying to salvage some sort of friendship. And, it hurts me to realize that I honestly don't think we can do that at this point. It hurts a lot.
Like most broken love relationships in life, we've just grown in two separate directions. And, as I am famous for saying, life is too short NOT to be happy and in love. So, yeah - I am single. Have been for a while. Moreso, and here it is - I am lonely - and really missing having someone to share my life with. And, you know what - it does NOT help to have my ex in my life right now. I realized that this morning.
But I face a certain dilemna, and that is being spiritual and the beliefs I hold onto. I'm not just looking for any love - I'm looking for THE love. And, after experiencing some truly great loves in my life, I know what I'm looking for. I am blessed to have experienced true and genuine love. Honestly, I thought she was it, but no. Now, I could get involved in something that didn't fully fit together, but what if I do this and THE ONE I've been waiting for happens across my path?
LOL "Why Danny, it sounds like you're carrying more baggage than Queen Elizabeth on a weekend trip to the Canary Islands?"
No! That's just it. There is one thing I have learned that I like to say to everyone experiencing a broken heart - The next one is always better than the last! Best friends times ten!!! LOL And, you know what - I'm gonna find THE ONE and it's gonna be like the best E-Ticket ride at Disneyland - worth the wait!!! That, my friends, is faith.
See - there's my reason to smile!!! ;-)
But, right now I gotta say goodbye to someone very special to me and that really hurts!!!! Hell - there was even a salty discharge from my eyes this morning. As long as we're trying to be friends, we're both standing in the way of us moving on to who we are really meant for!!!
I made this video the last time I was at this point. This was our final attempt at salvaging a friendship and that hurts the worst. It hurts a lot!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
The Story Behind My Most Popular Video
My tribute video to Brother Iz is BY FAR the most popular video I have produced so far, and I really don't know why because there are other videos that I personally like better. Still - there is a story behind this video and if you have a moment, I'd like to share that with you.
I made the video on Christmas day - and almost immediately it took off like wildfire. Since it's been on the internet, it continues to grow more popular every single day. I get messages weekly from viewers from literally all over the world and it is truly a source of inspiration for me.
Anyhow, it was Christmas day and I had locked my door and basically called off Christmas. There were a couple reasons, but the biggest was being absolutely disappointed that everyone around me had lost the "true" meaning of the holiday! Listen, whether Christian or not, you have to admit that December brings a lot of happiness to the world. Anyhow, I see it far more than an occasion to give and receive gifts, but as a time to celebrate love and miracles. So, when I sat down to make this video - it was my very personal message about the greatest power in the world - love! My protest against the material nature of the holiday season!
So, there I was, locked in my house on Christmas day, refusing to see anyone. And, I made this video!
When I was finished, I watched it for the first time and it truly changed my day. I was happy!
To me, I had captured the true meaning of Christmas!!!
And that, my friends, is the story behind the video...
http://www.nme.com/awards/video/id/V1sj2gQJIKI
These are just a few of the comments I've received:
"I made a youtube account just so I could like this :)"
"I don't know why I listen to this song. I cry every time. Such a beautiful voice and from everything I've read about him, a beautiful soul. Thank you for sharing."
"I kept pressing the replay button over and over. this guy was awesome"
"I can't thank you enough for sending this. I've been an Izzy fan ever since I saw "Finding Forrester", this is the most beautiful montage I've ever seen, and it fits perfectly with the beautiful music !!!"
"Thank you for sending this ! Anyone who can watch and listen to this with dry eyes, needs to see a Cardiologist 'cause they ain't got a heart ! Thank you Sooo much !"
I made the video on Christmas day - and almost immediately it took off like wildfire. Since it's been on the internet, it continues to grow more popular every single day. I get messages weekly from viewers from literally all over the world and it is truly a source of inspiration for me.
Anyhow, it was Christmas day and I had locked my door and basically called off Christmas. There were a couple reasons, but the biggest was being absolutely disappointed that everyone around me had lost the "true" meaning of the holiday! Listen, whether Christian or not, you have to admit that December brings a lot of happiness to the world. Anyhow, I see it far more than an occasion to give and receive gifts, but as a time to celebrate love and miracles. So, when I sat down to make this video - it was my very personal message about the greatest power in the world - love! My protest against the material nature of the holiday season!
So, there I was, locked in my house on Christmas day, refusing to see anyone. And, I made this video!
When I was finished, I watched it for the first time and it truly changed my day. I was happy!
To me, I had captured the true meaning of Christmas!!!
And that, my friends, is the story behind the video...
http://www.nme.com/awards/video/id/V1sj2gQJIKI
These are just a few of the comments I've received:
"I made a youtube account just so I could like this :)"
"I don't know why I listen to this song. I cry every time. Such a beautiful voice and from everything I've read about him, a beautiful soul. Thank you for sharing."
"I kept pressing the replay button over and over. this guy was awesome"
"I can't thank you enough for sending this. I've been an Izzy fan ever since I saw "Finding Forrester", this is the most beautiful montage I've ever seen, and it fits perfectly with the beautiful music !!!"
"Thank you for sending this ! Anyone who can watch and listen to this with dry eyes, needs to see a Cardiologist 'cause they ain't got a heart ! Thank you Sooo much !"
Monday, April 25, 2011
How Many Megapixels Equal Digital Photography Success?
If you are looking for a digital camera, you no doubt have been met with the term megapixel, or MP. This probably sounds like a foreign language, but there is no reason to fear the terms. Instead, with some patience and careful research it is possible to really understand what a megapixel is, and what it means for your pictures. The first thing you should understand is all digital cameras have a MP or megapixel rating.
In digital photography megapixel tell you how many pixels your picture has, which directly relates to how large you can make your picture. If you have a camera that only has a 2MP size, you are going to be lucky to make that picture the size of a stamp. However, a camera that has a 6MP rating will be able to give you a gigantic poster sized picture that you can treasure forever, and see from more than 2 inches away. However, you should also realize that megapixel size will also affect your picture quality.
For example, a picture taken from the exact same distance with a 4MP and a 6MP camera are going to look very different. The 6MP camera will have much less blur and will be a crisp and sharp picture. Many digital cameras now come with sizes as large as 10MP without breaking the bank. You can purchase cameras with 10MP for as little as a few hundred dollars.
If you are looking for digital photography success with making large poster sized portraits then you really need to splurge the money on a camera with a high megapixel rating. You should never select a camera smaller than 7MP if you are planning on poster-sized prints. However, if you are only planning on doing pictures to a maximum size of 8×10 then you can stay to a camera in the 6MP and smaller range.
As you can see, the megapixel size you select has a huge impact on how much digital photography success you will really have. If you do not have very many needs for an advanced digital camera then you can save the money and just purchase a cheaper digital camera with a smaller megapixel size. However, if you want your camera to last as long as possible, and grow with all of your potential needs then splurging for the advanced camera can be a very good long term investment.
In digital photography megapixel tell you how many pixels your picture has, which directly relates to how large you can make your picture. If you have a camera that only has a 2MP size, you are going to be lucky to make that picture the size of a stamp. However, a camera that has a 6MP rating will be able to give you a gigantic poster sized picture that you can treasure forever, and see from more than 2 inches away. However, you should also realize that megapixel size will also affect your picture quality.
For example, a picture taken from the exact same distance with a 4MP and a 6MP camera are going to look very different. The 6MP camera will have much less blur and will be a crisp and sharp picture. Many digital cameras now come with sizes as large as 10MP without breaking the bank. You can purchase cameras with 10MP for as little as a few hundred dollars.
If you are looking for digital photography success with making large poster sized portraits then you really need to splurge the money on a camera with a high megapixel rating. You should never select a camera smaller than 7MP if you are planning on poster-sized prints. However, if you are only planning on doing pictures to a maximum size of 8×10 then you can stay to a camera in the 6MP and smaller range.
As you can see, the megapixel size you select has a huge impact on how much digital photography success you will really have. If you do not have very many needs for an advanced digital camera then you can save the money and just purchase a cheaper digital camera with a smaller megapixel size. However, if you want your camera to last as long as possible, and grow with all of your potential needs then splurging for the advanced camera can be a very good long term investment.
How To Make Money With Photography By Selling Photos On The Internet
If you enjoy taking pictures what could be more thrilling than doing it for a living? Just think of how wonderful it could be to be a paid invite to hundreds of weddings and parties a year, to capture joyful family memories that will last a lifetime everyday, to watch children grow up, or even to just to experience others smile everyday of your career. With photography you can do just that. This is a way to use camera for fun and also make money with digital camera. You might be wondering what kinds of photos these companies need to be sent to them, they need various kinds of photos from you, there’s no exception to the kind of photo they need. People that have been into this business have been around over the years and most of them are making comfortable income online.
Many people are exploring to make money with photography to earn extra profits as they go about their daily job. This is also a good option for people who want to earn a living while staying at home so they can maintain a career and take care of the family at the same time. This way, you can work for your family without having to sacrifice the quality time you could spend together. One good option for the home-based business is to do photography jobs. The wonders of modern technology now allow people to take pictures easily with the digital camera. All it takes would be some more skills and abilities then you can properly setup and start a home based photography business.
Make a Photography Business Plan
Next item to consider to make money with photography is to come up with a business plan. There are software programs that you can access online that will help you in this aspect. The business plan shall aid you in setting goals, testing decisions, assessing the requirements and regulations, and estimating the needed funds. There are photographers who focus on portraits, some on weddings, while others are into sceneries. Pick one that you desire, then focus and improve on it. Of course, you need to have the right equipment that will enable you to proceed and start a home-based photography business. You can go with the basics if your funds are limited. A good camera, computer, printer, internet connection and marketing materials should be secured.
Marketing the Field
The most important element to start a home-based photography business is the market. Your target market will play a big role in making your business successful. This will make sure that you have people buying your images. You must let people know of what you can offer. It is important to advertise when you start a home-based photography business. Make sure that your presence is felt. This way, people can avail of your services. You may want to consider making friends with the vendors who supply your needed tools and equipment. You can ask them to refer you to their clients. You can even meet some new contacts through them.
They are people whom have studied how to make money with photography, they’ve researched the good ways to make money with digital camera, they’ve analyzed ways these method of making money online to make it easy accessible, telling you the kinds of photos the companies need from you, how much you get paid hourly by submitting these photos.
Many people are exploring to make money with photography to earn extra profits as they go about their daily job. This is also a good option for people who want to earn a living while staying at home so they can maintain a career and take care of the family at the same time. This way, you can work for your family without having to sacrifice the quality time you could spend together. One good option for the home-based business is to do photography jobs. The wonders of modern technology now allow people to take pictures easily with the digital camera. All it takes would be some more skills and abilities then you can properly setup and start a home based photography business.
Make a Photography Business Plan
Next item to consider to make money with photography is to come up with a business plan. There are software programs that you can access online that will help you in this aspect. The business plan shall aid you in setting goals, testing decisions, assessing the requirements and regulations, and estimating the needed funds. There are photographers who focus on portraits, some on weddings, while others are into sceneries. Pick one that you desire, then focus and improve on it. Of course, you need to have the right equipment that will enable you to proceed and start a home-based photography business. You can go with the basics if your funds are limited. A good camera, computer, printer, internet connection and marketing materials should be secured.
Marketing the Field
The most important element to start a home-based photography business is the market. Your target market will play a big role in making your business successful. This will make sure that you have people buying your images. You must let people know of what you can offer. It is important to advertise when you start a home-based photography business. Make sure that your presence is felt. This way, people can avail of your services. You may want to consider making friends with the vendors who supply your needed tools and equipment. You can ask them to refer you to their clients. You can even meet some new contacts through them.
They are people whom have studied how to make money with photography, they’ve researched the good ways to make money with digital camera, they’ve analyzed ways these method of making money online to make it easy accessible, telling you the kinds of photos the companies need from you, how much you get paid hourly by submitting these photos.
Get Into Photoshop Contests
Photoshopping is a process of manipulation of digital photographs. It has become more popular after a fall in price of digital imaging software and hardware. Photoshopping is now a widely popular pastime on the internet. Many of the editors considers this image fakery to be a form of new creative art, when photoshopping is applied as a means of funny spoof. It is although a good pastime of part-time pixel pushers; even working persons are getting involved into this act to shape up their talent and to take a break from the seriousness as well as from the monotony of the scheduled work.
Photoshop contests, or commonly called as Photochop contests, is a game played online, in which the person using an internet forum or website sends an initial image generally a photograph and then asks other candidates to manipulate the images. Such editing of images can be done by using some commonly used image editing software, like Corel Photopaint, Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro, The GIMP etc. The players of such online Photoshop contests find it very interesting not only as their favorite pastime but also as a means of earning quick money.
In such Photoshop Contests, the users are generally asked to edit the image in a funny way, or if specifically mentioned then according to the given theme. Then, the users move away and manipulate the image as asked and send the resulting image back to the website. When versions of the image are submitted by all users at the website, they have to vote for the best image. The candidate whose resulting image gets the maximum number of votes wins that Photoshop contest.
In many such Photoshop contests, a major element of the humour involves the practice of cliches. Such incredible repetition of a joke from an image often results in the replacement of the initial joke by the cliches itself. Such pictures can also sometimes become major internet phenomena. Most commonly used cliches are as follows:
• Domo-kun
• A foreign tourist on the WTC with an airplane about to hit the building.
• Admiral Ackbar and his phrase “It’s a trap”.
• A picture of untidy James Brown.
• “All your base are belong to us”.
• An (often obscure) reference to goatse.cx.
• The famous O rly owl.
• A picture with the captions ‘X is watching you poop.”
• The usage of a photo which looks like a lolcat.
• The famous Preved Bear- from the customized John Lurie’s work of art, Bear Surprise, is to be found in videos, photographs and pictures
Nowadays, such Photoshop contests are able to find increasing candidates in a large no. of blogs. The Photoshop contests are gaining immense popularity, mainly due to the underlying humor or taunts which are generally associated with the edited images. They act as a stress buster for many and a source of income for some.
Photoshop contests, or commonly called as Photochop contests, is a game played online, in which the person using an internet forum or website sends an initial image generally a photograph and then asks other candidates to manipulate the images. Such editing of images can be done by using some commonly used image editing software, like Corel Photopaint, Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro, The GIMP etc. The players of such online Photoshop contests find it very interesting not only as their favorite pastime but also as a means of earning quick money.
In such Photoshop Contests, the users are generally asked to edit the image in a funny way, or if specifically mentioned then according to the given theme. Then, the users move away and manipulate the image as asked and send the resulting image back to the website. When versions of the image are submitted by all users at the website, they have to vote for the best image. The candidate whose resulting image gets the maximum number of votes wins that Photoshop contest.
In many such Photoshop contests, a major element of the humour involves the practice of cliches. Such incredible repetition of a joke from an image often results in the replacement of the initial joke by the cliches itself. Such pictures can also sometimes become major internet phenomena. Most commonly used cliches are as follows:
• Domo-kun
• A foreign tourist on the WTC with an airplane about to hit the building.
• Admiral Ackbar and his phrase “It’s a trap”.
• A picture of untidy James Brown.
• “All your base are belong to us”.
• An (often obscure) reference to goatse.cx.
• The famous O rly owl.
• A picture with the captions ‘X is watching you poop.”
• The usage of a photo which looks like a lolcat.
• The famous Preved Bear- from the customized John Lurie’s work of art, Bear Surprise, is to be found in videos, photographs and pictures
Nowadays, such Photoshop contests are able to find increasing candidates in a large no. of blogs. The Photoshop contests are gaining immense popularity, mainly due to the underlying humor or taunts which are generally associated with the edited images. They act as a stress buster for many and a source of income for some.
Learn the ropes of Digital Photography
Most photographs aren’t just well-defined black and white boundaries – in fact, none of them are. So when faced with angles, gradients, or irregular shapes, the computer has to use its stored rules to guess what color the new pixels should be. In theory, the better routines allow the computer to do a pretty good job at smoothing out the image when the resolution is increased and all those new pixels are put in place. In practice, unlike in the movies or on TV, you can’t get information out of a picture that isn’t there. That tiny black dot on the horizon isn’t going to turn into an umbrella when you double the resolution, it will just be a bigger black dot. So if you need a “bigger picture” than you have, why not use interpolation? The trick is that the interpolation done in your camera is not the same as the interpolation done in your computer’s editing software.
Exchangeable Image File (EXIF) data, saved by modern digital cameras in each picture file, is a powerful tool for both keeping track of your work and learning more about how to use your camera and how to take advantage of its capabilities. Created by the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association, this standard is now used by almost all digital cameras. EXIF data stores, as part of the picture file, information such as the date, time, camera model, and settings such as focus mode, flash mode, ISO sensitivity setting, white balance, and many more facts about the state of the camera when the picture was taken. The EXIF data actually envelops the picture data, be it compressed (usually JPEG format) or uncompressed (RAW or TIFF format) data. The data does add anywhere from 100 bytes to 64 kilobytes to the size of the file, but it is invaluable for anything from keeping track of work, indexing large numbers of photographs, or learning more about how your camera’s settings affect the quality of the final product.
If you have ever wondered why TIFF files are historically larger than JPEGs we provide an explanation that will hopefully dispel the mystery. Even though TIFF files retain only 8 bits per channel of data, that data will take up twice the storage space because it has three 8 bit color channels versus the one 12 bit RAW channel. JPEG uses compression of the data at the cost of image quality to manage the data. Thus, RAW data offers the best of both worlds where it preserves the original color bit depth and image quality while saving space using only one 12 bit RAW channel. Some cameras offer compressed RAW that minimally compromises data. If you are taking photographs for fun, JPEG offers an option to increase the number of photos stored on a memory disk. So, why would you want to archive your photographs also as a RAW data file?
Higher temperatures and long exposures may increase the occurrence of hot pixels. Fixed pattern noise is unique where it often shows similar distributions of hot pixels even if taken under the same ISO speed, temperature and length of exposure. Fixed pattern while the most objectionable visually, is the easiest of the three to remove because it is a repeated pattern. Once the internal electronics of a camera knows the pattern, it can subtract the noise away to reveal the true image. Banding noise is associated with the camera model and related characteristics. It is most visible at high ISO speeds and in shadows. When brightening an image, banding noise may become noticeable when using white balances. It is not always the number of pixels that reduces noise, but actually the greater the area of a pixel in a camera which allows a greater amount of light into the pixel causing the sensor to produce a stronger signal. Cameras with physically larger pixels generally appear less noisy since the signal is larger relative to the noise.
If you are looking to turn your pictures into pieces of art, there are many options available to you, as well. You can turn your print into a black and white picture and hand color some details. You can create beautiful special effects that will really make your digital photo stand out in a crowd, too. As you can image, the tools to create the perfect picture can cost a lot of money, if you have to purchase them. If you are on a budget, or just like to save money, anything you can find for free is a bonus! Well, there are free photo editors out there, you just have to look for them. Since the introduction of the Internet, there are literally thousands upon thousands of pages of information that are geared specifically toward helping you achieve the pictures of your dreams. You don’t have to spend one penny to edit your photographs. All you need is access to a computer and scanner and you are well on your way. Just log onto any one of the number of free photo editor applications available and a whole new world of editing possibilities will be right at your fingertips. Don’t let your money, or lack of, keep you from making the best pictures, just download some freeware and start editing your own pictures!
For best results using fill flash, try to have your subject in shade with lit areas behind it. The fill flash takes care of the shade, and helps balance the light level so the subject and the background are clear and proportionately bright. If your camera has a “slow synchronized flash” feature, this can be used to combine foreground and background elements in a way not otherwise possible (because of the short reach of small, built-in flashes). With the use of a tripod and relatively still subjects, good quality shots can be taken in otherwise difficult conditions, such as night shots or even shots on a moving platform. Longer shutter delays can produce blur effects similar to the “moving traffic” effects often seen in advertising, and with a little patient experimentation you can produce shots with a mid-range digital camera that rival expensive commercial art.
Secure Digital (SD) cards were designed to replace the older MMC standard – but it’s beginning to look like the reverse may happen. The good news is that SD cards are available in larger sized – up to 4 Gigabytes, and higher speeds than MMC cards currently are. In theory, SD cards are the fastest on the market. In practice, it’s almost a dead heat with Compact Flash cards. The bad news is that SD cards are losing market share rapidly, though they are still used in many cameras. The better news is that if the MMC standard takes over, full-size MMC cards can be used in SD slots. Compact Flash (CF) is one of the oldest and most popular standards available today. They have the widest range of sizes (up to 8 Gigabytes with larger microdrive-based cards rumored) and are quite quick. Currently they compete only with SD cards for the high-end camera market, and their position looks more secure than SD. New developments in wireless transfer support for cameras and links to external drive packs may cement CF cards’ place.
Exchangeable Image File (EXIF) data, saved by modern digital cameras in each picture file, is a powerful tool for both keeping track of your work and learning more about how to use your camera and how to take advantage of its capabilities. Created by the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association, this standard is now used by almost all digital cameras. EXIF data stores, as part of the picture file, information such as the date, time, camera model, and settings such as focus mode, flash mode, ISO sensitivity setting, white balance, and many more facts about the state of the camera when the picture was taken. The EXIF data actually envelops the picture data, be it compressed (usually JPEG format) or uncompressed (RAW or TIFF format) data. The data does add anywhere from 100 bytes to 64 kilobytes to the size of the file, but it is invaluable for anything from keeping track of work, indexing large numbers of photographs, or learning more about how your camera’s settings affect the quality of the final product.
If you have ever wondered why TIFF files are historically larger than JPEGs we provide an explanation that will hopefully dispel the mystery. Even though TIFF files retain only 8 bits per channel of data, that data will take up twice the storage space because it has three 8 bit color channels versus the one 12 bit RAW channel. JPEG uses compression of the data at the cost of image quality to manage the data. Thus, RAW data offers the best of both worlds where it preserves the original color bit depth and image quality while saving space using only one 12 bit RAW channel. Some cameras offer compressed RAW that minimally compromises data. If you are taking photographs for fun, JPEG offers an option to increase the number of photos stored on a memory disk. So, why would you want to archive your photographs also as a RAW data file?
Higher temperatures and long exposures may increase the occurrence of hot pixels. Fixed pattern noise is unique where it often shows similar distributions of hot pixels even if taken under the same ISO speed, temperature and length of exposure. Fixed pattern while the most objectionable visually, is the easiest of the three to remove because it is a repeated pattern. Once the internal electronics of a camera knows the pattern, it can subtract the noise away to reveal the true image. Banding noise is associated with the camera model and related characteristics. It is most visible at high ISO speeds and in shadows. When brightening an image, banding noise may become noticeable when using white balances. It is not always the number of pixels that reduces noise, but actually the greater the area of a pixel in a camera which allows a greater amount of light into the pixel causing the sensor to produce a stronger signal. Cameras with physically larger pixels generally appear less noisy since the signal is larger relative to the noise.
If you are looking to turn your pictures into pieces of art, there are many options available to you, as well. You can turn your print into a black and white picture and hand color some details. You can create beautiful special effects that will really make your digital photo stand out in a crowd, too. As you can image, the tools to create the perfect picture can cost a lot of money, if you have to purchase them. If you are on a budget, or just like to save money, anything you can find for free is a bonus! Well, there are free photo editors out there, you just have to look for them. Since the introduction of the Internet, there are literally thousands upon thousands of pages of information that are geared specifically toward helping you achieve the pictures of your dreams. You don’t have to spend one penny to edit your photographs. All you need is access to a computer and scanner and you are well on your way. Just log onto any one of the number of free photo editor applications available and a whole new world of editing possibilities will be right at your fingertips. Don’t let your money, or lack of, keep you from making the best pictures, just download some freeware and start editing your own pictures!
For best results using fill flash, try to have your subject in shade with lit areas behind it. The fill flash takes care of the shade, and helps balance the light level so the subject and the background are clear and proportionately bright. If your camera has a “slow synchronized flash” feature, this can be used to combine foreground and background elements in a way not otherwise possible (because of the short reach of small, built-in flashes). With the use of a tripod and relatively still subjects, good quality shots can be taken in otherwise difficult conditions, such as night shots or even shots on a moving platform. Longer shutter delays can produce blur effects similar to the “moving traffic” effects often seen in advertising, and with a little patient experimentation you can produce shots with a mid-range digital camera that rival expensive commercial art.
Secure Digital (SD) cards were designed to replace the older MMC standard – but it’s beginning to look like the reverse may happen. The good news is that SD cards are available in larger sized – up to 4 Gigabytes, and higher speeds than MMC cards currently are. In theory, SD cards are the fastest on the market. In practice, it’s almost a dead heat with Compact Flash cards. The bad news is that SD cards are losing market share rapidly, though they are still used in many cameras. The better news is that if the MMC standard takes over, full-size MMC cards can be used in SD slots. Compact Flash (CF) is one of the oldest and most popular standards available today. They have the widest range of sizes (up to 8 Gigabytes with larger microdrive-based cards rumored) and are quite quick. Currently they compete only with SD cards for the high-end camera market, and their position looks more secure than SD. New developments in wireless transfer support for cameras and links to external drive packs may cement CF cards’ place.
Develop Your Skills By Attending Digital Photography Institutes
Photography has become one of the most diverse fields around. From nature photography, to fashion photography, to family portraits, there are so many different aspects to specialize in.
Not only is photography diverse, but it has become extremely competitive as well. With the advent of digital photography, it is now more important than ever that an aspiring photographer is educated in the new software, technology, and techniques. Otherwise, how are they to compete within the field?
How does one gain the knowledge and expertise necessary to make it big? The first step is to find digital photography institutes located near you. While on the job experience is also an important aspect of a career in photography, attending digital photography institutes will allow you to learn the principles of photography, such as composition, theory, and production.
The Top Digital Photography Institutes
It is sometimes difficult to find digital photography institutes in your area because the schools don’t receive very much publicity. If you are having difficulty locating digital photography institutes, then try finding a local art institute. An art institute will usually offer a course or major in digital photography. Three of the top-rated, highly praised digital photography institutes are: Brown College, Harrington College of Design, and The Arts institutes.
Located in Maine, Brown College is a fantastic digital photography institute. With accelerated programs, focused curriculum, and a devoted staff, Brown College is an excellent school to help you attain your goals in the photography field. They offer both a Bachelor and Bachelor of Science degree in the field of Digital Photography, allowing the student to take their education to the next level.
Since they were established seventy years ago, Harrington College of Design has prided themselves on hiring instructors with both teaching and real-world experience in over one hundred design-related fields. This allows them to provide their students with a wide range of curriculum and knowledge. Located in Chicago, Illinois, the school offers both an Associate Degree and an Associate of Fine Science Degree in the Digital photography field.
The Art Institutes are well known for their extensive curriculum, but their main advantage is their many locations throughout the United States. With multiple locations throughout the states of Pennsylvania, Florida, Georgia, California, North Carolina, Colorado, Texas, Indiana, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Virginia, Minnesota, Illinois, and Massachusetts, it is not difficult to find a campus near you.
Jump Start Your Career
Whether you earn your degree or simply take a few classes, experience at any of these fine digital photography institutes will enhance your resume and make you more appealing to potential hirers.
Not only is photography diverse, but it has become extremely competitive as well. With the advent of digital photography, it is now more important than ever that an aspiring photographer is educated in the new software, technology, and techniques. Otherwise, how are they to compete within the field?
How does one gain the knowledge and expertise necessary to make it big? The first step is to find digital photography institutes located near you. While on the job experience is also an important aspect of a career in photography, attending digital photography institutes will allow you to learn the principles of photography, such as composition, theory, and production.
The Top Digital Photography Institutes
It is sometimes difficult to find digital photography institutes in your area because the schools don’t receive very much publicity. If you are having difficulty locating digital photography institutes, then try finding a local art institute. An art institute will usually offer a course or major in digital photography. Three of the top-rated, highly praised digital photography institutes are: Brown College, Harrington College of Design, and The Arts institutes.
Located in Maine, Brown College is a fantastic digital photography institute. With accelerated programs, focused curriculum, and a devoted staff, Brown College is an excellent school to help you attain your goals in the photography field. They offer both a Bachelor and Bachelor of Science degree in the field of Digital Photography, allowing the student to take their education to the next level.
Since they were established seventy years ago, Harrington College of Design has prided themselves on hiring instructors with both teaching and real-world experience in over one hundred design-related fields. This allows them to provide their students with a wide range of curriculum and knowledge. Located in Chicago, Illinois, the school offers both an Associate Degree and an Associate of Fine Science Degree in the Digital photography field.
The Art Institutes are well known for their extensive curriculum, but their main advantage is their many locations throughout the United States. With multiple locations throughout the states of Pennsylvania, Florida, Georgia, California, North Carolina, Colorado, Texas, Indiana, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Virginia, Minnesota, Illinois, and Massachusetts, it is not difficult to find a campus near you.
Jump Start Your Career
Whether you earn your degree or simply take a few classes, experience at any of these fine digital photography institutes will enhance your resume and make you more appealing to potential hirers.
How Camera Lenses Determine Digital Photography Success
Have you ever taken a picture and wondered after you took the shot just what were you thinking? Has it looked as if you were nowhere near the subject of your shot? This is something that happens a whole lot, however, there is hope and you can still take beautiful photographs with some help. It is best for these methods if you have a camera that will allow you to change the lenses; however, there are also some cameras, which will allow for aftermarket lenses to be added which gives the same effect you are looking for.
First type of lens to consider is the normal lens. This is something that will generally have a range of 45mm to typically only 60mm. However, while you are trying to figure out exactly what you can see from this range, consider your normal eyesight range. This is the best way to describe a normal camera lens. Many SLR cameras include the normal lens standard, however many people are opting for more advanced lenses lately instead.
Next type of lens is wide-angle lenses. These typically range from the 5mm to the 35mm range. Different lenses fluctuate between the various ranges and it is ok if your lens does not cover the full 5mm to 35mm distance. When you are looking for digital photograph success with wide-angle shots, you must have a wide-angle lens or you simply cannot get the great shot you are looking for. One of the biggest problems is wide angle lenses tend to be very expensive depending upon your camera.
Moving along we have telephoto lenses. If you are looking for digital photography success with shots from great distances then a good telephoto lens is an absolute necessity that you cannot pass up. Typical telephoto lenses cover distances that range from 85mm to as much as 600mm easily. Consider that you can capture the perfect shot from thousands of feet away with the right telephoto lens and you can see why this is awesome.
As you can imagine having the right lens for your needs can make a huge difference in terms of what is effective and what is not for capturing the perfect digital photography shot. If you have any doubts about whether your camera can change lenses, look towards your owners guide to help answer any questions about how to remove the lens and attach a new lens so you too can find digital photography success no matter what the shot you are after.
First type of lens to consider is the normal lens. This is something that will generally have a range of 45mm to typically only 60mm. However, while you are trying to figure out exactly what you can see from this range, consider your normal eyesight range. This is the best way to describe a normal camera lens. Many SLR cameras include the normal lens standard, however many people are opting for more advanced lenses lately instead.
Next type of lens is wide-angle lenses. These typically range from the 5mm to the 35mm range. Different lenses fluctuate between the various ranges and it is ok if your lens does not cover the full 5mm to 35mm distance. When you are looking for digital photograph success with wide-angle shots, you must have a wide-angle lens or you simply cannot get the great shot you are looking for. One of the biggest problems is wide angle lenses tend to be very expensive depending upon your camera.
Moving along we have telephoto lenses. If you are looking for digital photography success with shots from great distances then a good telephoto lens is an absolute necessity that you cannot pass up. Typical telephoto lenses cover distances that range from 85mm to as much as 600mm easily. Consider that you can capture the perfect shot from thousands of feet away with the right telephoto lens and you can see why this is awesome.
As you can imagine having the right lens for your needs can make a huge difference in terms of what is effective and what is not for capturing the perfect digital photography shot. If you have any doubts about whether your camera can change lenses, look towards your owners guide to help answer any questions about how to remove the lens and attach a new lens so you too can find digital photography success no matter what the shot you are after.
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