Hat Tip: SLR Lounge
B&H Photo is offering the Sigma DP2 Quattro Camera for $599 until December 2nd. That's $400 off of the normal price.
The camera does have some weaknesses, but $600 makes the camera extremely attractive with what you will get from the camera.
So what do you get?
The functional equivalent to a 39 MP sensor with excellent color and details due to the unique nature of the sensor. With a 30mm/ 2.8 lens. (45mm equivalent.)
Note: The maximum RAW resolution is 5,424 x 3,616 or 19 MP.
The biggest drawback? Probably the software used to edit RAW files. The unique nature of the sensor means it doesn't play well with many image editing programs and the software included with the camera can be cumbersome and slow.
The $400 price drop makes those drawbacks a little easier to live with, especially given the image quality the camera can produce.
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
More Camera Reviews For Holiday Shoppers
'Tis the season for Holiday shopping reviews.
Today it's DP Review's Consumer SLR Camera Roundup (2014).
(It's actually just a repost of an article from August. The information is still relevant but doesn't cover any cameras introduced since September.)
DP Review also has an Enthusiast Compact Camera Roundup (again, dates back to August 25.)
Update: DP Review has added an Enthusiast mirrorless camera roundup (2014) a High-end pocketable compacts roundup (2014) an Enthusiast DSLR camera roundup (2014) and a Mid-range Mirrorless camera roundup (2014).
Today it's DP Review's Consumer SLR Camera Roundup (2014).
(It's actually just a repost of an article from August. The information is still relevant but doesn't cover any cameras introduced since September.)
DP Review also has an Enthusiast Compact Camera Roundup (again, dates back to August 25.)
Update: DP Review has added an Enthusiast mirrorless camera roundup (2014) a High-end pocketable compacts roundup (2014) an Enthusiast DSLR camera roundup (2014) and a Mid-range Mirrorless camera roundup (2014).
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
For Your Black Friday Shopping....
For those of you wanting to do some Black Friday price comparisons in advance, check out this page from Digital Camera World.
It provides links to the Black Friday ads for the major electronic and photography stores. (It also has some product specific links. With these you won't have to go through every ad, but not every product is covered.)
Keep checking back as the site intends to add links as deals are announced.
Some of the ads include Pre-Black Friday deals as well as "Cyber Monday" ads.
It provides links to the Black Friday ads for the major electronic and photography stores. (It also has some product specific links. With these you won't have to go through every ad, but not every product is covered.)
Keep checking back as the site intends to add links as deals are announced.
Some of the ads include Pre-Black Friday deals as well as "Cyber Monday" ads.
Looking for a Camera Under $1,000 for Christmas?
Imaging Resource posted a list of the best camera deals under $1,000 yesterday.
The article includes a review of each camera or kit with current price and links to where the camera can be purchased. The article is split into three pages the first page (the above link) covers DSLR cameras. The second covers mirrorless system cameras while compact cameras are covered on the third page.
Some of the deals are limited duration in nature. Jump on them while they last.
The have also updated their list of Black Friday Deals.
Update: If the Imaging Resource article isn't enough, DP Review has come out with their Enthusiast compact camera roundup (2014) The list includes reviews for each camera featured and the current price on Amazon.
The article includes a review of each camera or kit with current price and links to where the camera can be purchased. The article is split into three pages the first page (the above link) covers DSLR cameras. The second covers mirrorless system cameras while compact cameras are covered on the third page.
Some of the deals are limited duration in nature. Jump on them while they last.
The have also updated their list of Black Friday Deals.
Update: If the Imaging Resource article isn't enough, DP Review has come out with their Enthusiast compact camera roundup (2014) The list includes reviews for each camera featured and the current price on Amazon.
Monday, November 24, 2014
More Pre-Black Friday Deals
Imaging Resource has updated it's list of camera related deals.
Check it out if interested in doing a little Holiday shopping before Thanksgiving.
Check it out if interested in doing a little Holiday shopping before Thanksgiving.
A Reminder on Why You Should Never Use Pirated Software
This is slightly off topic, but there are some general implications that photographers need to be aware of.
The Hacker News has a story today about how hackers use pirated CMS themes and plug-ins to gain access to web sites.
A brief primer about Content Management Systems (CMS) for those unfamiliar with that term.
Web servers (the computers that run web sites) usually have either a LAMP or a WAMP setup. The first letter is the operating system used on the computer, either Linux or Windows.
The A is for Apache. This is the software that allows the computer to communicate with other computers.
M is MySQL. This is database software and is used to store information that is later used when someone visits the site with a web browser.
P s for PhP. This is a scripting language. A PhP file is a plain text file saved with a .php extension. The extension tells the server to run the script contained in the file whenever a browser requests a certain web page.
This setup allows a web site to store information in a database and then retrieve that information in the form of a web page when a web browser requests a specified resource (usually a specific web page). A single php file can be used to generate information on multiple pages and all those pages can be edited simply be changing a single file.
Content Management Systems
A CMS is basically just a set of php files that are used together to operate a web site.
There is one set of scripts that controls what visitors see when they visit the web site. There is a second set of scripts used by the administrator(s) of the site.
The advantage of a CMS is that the set of scripts used to administer the site creates a Graphic User Interface that can be used to administer the site without having any coding knowledge whatsoever. The administrator just uses a web browser to visit a specific web address, logs into the site with their credentials and uses the GUI to administer the site.
Plug-ins and Themes
These are additional PhP scripts that can be used to control the appearance of a site (themes) or add additional features. Shopping carts that allow visitors to purchase goods are a fairly common plug-in
CryptoPhP
This is a PhP script that creates a backdoor opening in a web site, allowing hackers to gain access to that site.
Hackers get it installed by inserting the code into copies of legitimate themes and plug-ins that have to be paid for before they can be downloaded, and then offering the pirated copy free of charge. The malicious code gets run every time the server accesses the pirated theme or plug-in.
When placed in a theme that is every time the site is visited. This includes visits made to administer the site.
Implications for Photographers
So why mention PhP based web hacking on a site dedicated primarily to photography?
First, that web site you're visiting might be one of those hit by the hack. What's worse is that there is no way of knowing whether the site you are visiting is one using a CMS, let alone one affected by CryptoPhP. Web pages generated using a CMS have a .php extension. It is common practice to hide this extension as it can be seen as a "hack me" sign to hackers. (Sometimes it pays not to advertise.)
This is one of the reasons you need to be careful when it comes to the information provided to any web site. The only way to ensure your information is to treat every web site you visit as a potential target for hackers.
Second, hackers use the same tactic with other software. Sure, getting a free version of software that costs $100 sounds great, but there is no way to guarantee there has been no malicious code inserted into the program.
The only way to avoid this type of hack is to purchase the software from a reputable source. Go to a store like Best Buy, Office Depot, etc. or download it directly from the company that produces it.
This is especially important for professional photographers.
Not only does a professional photographer need to protect themselves, they need to protect those with whom they do business.
That malicious code inserted into the pirated software you downloaded could wind up infecting a client's computer as well. That isn't going to help your professional reputation.
The Hacker News has a story today about how hackers use pirated CMS themes and plug-ins to gain access to web sites.
A brief primer about Content Management Systems (CMS) for those unfamiliar with that term.
Web servers (the computers that run web sites) usually have either a LAMP or a WAMP setup. The first letter is the operating system used on the computer, either Linux or Windows.
The A is for Apache. This is the software that allows the computer to communicate with other computers.
M is MySQL. This is database software and is used to store information that is later used when someone visits the site with a web browser.
P s for PhP. This is a scripting language. A PhP file is a plain text file saved with a .php extension. The extension tells the server to run the script contained in the file whenever a browser requests a certain web page.
This setup allows a web site to store information in a database and then retrieve that information in the form of a web page when a web browser requests a specified resource (usually a specific web page). A single php file can be used to generate information on multiple pages and all those pages can be edited simply be changing a single file.
Content Management Systems
A CMS is basically just a set of php files that are used together to operate a web site.
There is one set of scripts that controls what visitors see when they visit the web site. There is a second set of scripts used by the administrator(s) of the site.
The advantage of a CMS is that the set of scripts used to administer the site creates a Graphic User Interface that can be used to administer the site without having any coding knowledge whatsoever. The administrator just uses a web browser to visit a specific web address, logs into the site with their credentials and uses the GUI to administer the site.
Plug-ins and Themes
These are additional PhP scripts that can be used to control the appearance of a site (themes) or add additional features. Shopping carts that allow visitors to purchase goods are a fairly common plug-in
CryptoPhP
This is a PhP script that creates a backdoor opening in a web site, allowing hackers to gain access to that site.
Hackers get it installed by inserting the code into copies of legitimate themes and plug-ins that have to be paid for before they can be downloaded, and then offering the pirated copy free of charge. The malicious code gets run every time the server accesses the pirated theme or plug-in.
When placed in a theme that is every time the site is visited. This includes visits made to administer the site.
Implications for Photographers
So why mention PhP based web hacking on a site dedicated primarily to photography?
First, that web site you're visiting might be one of those hit by the hack. What's worse is that there is no way of knowing whether the site you are visiting is one using a CMS, let alone one affected by CryptoPhP. Web pages generated using a CMS have a .php extension. It is common practice to hide this extension as it can be seen as a "hack me" sign to hackers. (Sometimes it pays not to advertise.)
This is one of the reasons you need to be careful when it comes to the information provided to any web site. The only way to ensure your information is to treat every web site you visit as a potential target for hackers.
Second, hackers use the same tactic with other software. Sure, getting a free version of software that costs $100 sounds great, but there is no way to guarantee there has been no malicious code inserted into the program.
The only way to avoid this type of hack is to purchase the software from a reputable source. Go to a store like Best Buy, Office Depot, etc. or download it directly from the company that produces it.
This is especially important for professional photographers.
Not only does a professional photographer need to protect themselves, they need to protect those with whom they do business.
That malicious code inserted into the pirated software you downloaded could wind up infecting a client's computer as well. That isn't going to help your professional reputation.
Friday, November 21, 2014
3D Printers can now Produce LEDs
Hat Tip: c|net
C/net isn't one of my usual sources when blogging on this site, but the story is interesting enough to deserve mention.
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a 3D Printer capable of printing LEDs in layers. The bottom layer is a ring made of silver nanoparticles (used to conduct electricity.) This is followed by a couple of polymer layers and then a layer of cadmium selenide nanoparticles in a zinc sulphide case. The top layer is an eutectic gallium indium cathode.
The cadmium selenide layer is known as a quantum dot, and is what actually produces light. The color of light produced by a quantum dot LED depends on the size of the dot. Quantum dot LEDs are capable of producing any wavelength of light in the visible spectrum. The manufacturer just needs to produce a dot of the correct size.
The ability to produce any color of light means that quantum dot LEDs can be used in devices like computer displays. (They are actually small enough that they could conceivably be used to put a display on a contact lens.
They also appear to produce better color, brighter light with lower power consumption than current LEDs.
For photographers that could lead to LED displays on cameras that produce images that are easier to see in sunlight with lower power consumption than current displays. It could also lead to brighter artificial light sources with better color. There would also be lower power consumption.
Computer monitors might also benefit from the technology. Better color, brighter display and lower power costs? (And possibly no color management.)
What photographer would turn that down?
C/net isn't one of my usual sources when blogging on this site, but the story is interesting enough to deserve mention.
Researchers at Princeton University have developed a 3D Printer capable of printing LEDs in layers. The bottom layer is a ring made of silver nanoparticles (used to conduct electricity.) This is followed by a couple of polymer layers and then a layer of cadmium selenide nanoparticles in a zinc sulphide case. The top layer is an eutectic gallium indium cathode.
The cadmium selenide layer is known as a quantum dot, and is what actually produces light. The color of light produced by a quantum dot LED depends on the size of the dot. Quantum dot LEDs are capable of producing any wavelength of light in the visible spectrum. The manufacturer just needs to produce a dot of the correct size.
The ability to produce any color of light means that quantum dot LEDs can be used in devices like computer displays. (They are actually small enough that they could conceivably be used to put a display on a contact lens.
They also appear to produce better color, brighter light with lower power consumption than current LEDs.
For photographers that could lead to LED displays on cameras that produce images that are easier to see in sunlight with lower power consumption than current displays. It could also lead to brighter artificial light sources with better color. There would also be lower power consumption.
Computer monitors might also benefit from the technology. Better color, brighter display and lower power costs? (And possibly no color management.)
What photographer would turn that down?
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Flickr Extending Wall Art Service to Cover 50 Million Images
Hat Tip: PetaPixel
Flickr recently added a service allowing people to order their images as wall art.
They have now extended their wall art service to allow purchasing wall art uploaded by other users. The catalog covers Creative Commons images as well as selected collections from licensed artists. The catalog currently covers over 50 million images.
The Creative Commons images include offerings from museums and various government entities, including NASA. (Some of the NASA photos are spectacular.)
Flickr is currently offering 40% off on images ordered from their site. Use promo code: GIFTS14 (expires 12/23).
Flickr recently added a service allowing people to order their images as wall art.
They have now extended their wall art service to allow purchasing wall art uploaded by other users. The catalog covers Creative Commons images as well as selected collections from licensed artists. The catalog currently covers over 50 million images.
The Creative Commons images include offerings from museums and various government entities, including NASA. (Some of the NASA photos are spectacular.)
Flickr is currently offering 40% off on images ordered from their site. Use promo code: GIFTS14 (expires 12/23).
Flash-Maker Metz Declares Bankruptcy
Hat Tip: Imaging Resource
For those that aren't familiar with Metz, it's a German company that produces televisions and camera flash units. It officially declared bankruptcy in October.
The Imaging Resource and Reuters articles both describe the situation as Metz filing for insolvency. Technically, a company does not file for insolvency. Insolvency is the situation that occurs when a company is unable to meet it's financial obligations. Metz was insolvent before taking any court actions.
The more accurate description would be that Metz filed for insolvency protection.
In the United States, this requires starting bankruptcy proceedings in a court of law (also known as declaring bankruptcy.)
Yes, I know. I'm splitting hairs.
I have a legal background and enjoy writing about legal matters when they come up.
Metz is apparently pursuing a restructuring instead of ceasing to do business. This is the equivalent of filing for Chapter 11 protection in the US. This means support should still be available to those that currently own a Metz product.
For those that aren't familiar with Metz, it's a German company that produces televisions and camera flash units. It officially declared bankruptcy in October.
The Imaging Resource and Reuters articles both describe the situation as Metz filing for insolvency. Technically, a company does not file for insolvency. Insolvency is the situation that occurs when a company is unable to meet it's financial obligations. Metz was insolvent before taking any court actions.
The more accurate description would be that Metz filed for insolvency protection.
In the United States, this requires starting bankruptcy proceedings in a court of law (also known as declaring bankruptcy.)
Yes, I know. I'm splitting hairs.
I have a legal background and enjoy writing about legal matters when they come up.
Metz is apparently pursuing a restructuring instead of ceasing to do business. This is the equivalent of filing for Chapter 11 protection in the US. This means support should still be available to those that currently own a Metz product.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Use Your Cell Phone for Model Release Form
PetaPixel has an article today on a new Model Release Template available from Shake.
There are accompanying iOS and Android apps. The apps allow the photographer to use the phone for signatures and allow photos of the model that signed the release to be attached to the signed contract.
The contract can also be sent electronically to the other party for their signature.
This is something that any photographer that does a great deal of work requiring model releases should look into, as the template and apps allow the photographer to ensure they always had a contract ready for signature and keep signed contracts organized.
Head over to PetaPixel's post for download links and a video tutorial on the app.
There are accompanying iOS and Android apps. The apps allow the photographer to use the phone for signatures and allow photos of the model that signed the release to be attached to the signed contract.
The contract can also be sent electronically to the other party for their signature.
This is something that any photographer that does a great deal of work requiring model releases should look into, as the template and apps allow the photographer to ensure they always had a contract ready for signature and keep signed contracts organized.
Head over to PetaPixel's post for download links and a video tutorial on the app.
Custom Adidas Sneakers Finally Available in US
Hat Tip: Pop Photo
The concept of customizing Adidas sneakers with a photograph was first introduced this spring.
The customized sneakers are now available in the US. The app has been updated to allow purchases in the US, but the web site has not been updated to reflect that update yet.
You'll need to download a phone app, available for iOS and iPhone 6 and Android phones. You'll need to use your phone to upload an image and order the sneakers. All images must be approved by a legal team before the image is applied. This prevents the use of any copyright protect images as well as anything obscene.
You will be able to see how the image looks on the sneakers before purchasing and the image can be manipulated for best results.
The current price for customized kicks is $110.
Christmas will be here before you know it. How about a pair of customized sneakers as a gift?
The concept of customizing Adidas sneakers with a photograph was first introduced this spring.
The customized sneakers are now available in the US. The app has been updated to allow purchases in the US, but the web site has not been updated to reflect that update yet.
You'll need to download a phone app, available for iOS and iPhone 6 and Android phones. You'll need to use your phone to upload an image and order the sneakers. All images must be approved by a legal team before the image is applied. This prevents the use of any copyright protect images as well as anything obscene.
You will be able to see how the image looks on the sneakers before purchasing and the image can be manipulated for best results.
The current price for customized kicks is $110.
Christmas will be here before you know it. How about a pair of customized sneakers as a gift?
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Google Working on Computers That Can Describe Images in Detail
Hat Tip: PetaPixel
Google Research has teamed with Stanford University to improve computer image recognition capabilities.
The software being developed will allow computers to recognize objects in an image, determine context and produce a full description of the image.
For example this image:
Produces the description: Two pizzas sitting on top of a stove top oven
The technology still requires human interaction to "instruct" the computer by providing human captioned photos. Accuracy increases with each captioned image.
The most immediate impact would probably be in regards to image searches. Having a program that can determine image contents would greatly improve image search results. The search engine would not have to rely on surrounding text or the contents of an images <alt> tags.
This also holds promise for anyone that needs to produce image descriptions for large numbers of images, including photographers. The caption for every image could be automatically generated using a program instead of it having to be manually applied.
There are potential implications beyond those immediate uses. Security cameras, automated drones or cars, facial recognition software are items that could benefit from this ability to determine the items contained in an image along with context.
Google Research has teamed with Stanford University to improve computer image recognition capabilities.
The software being developed will allow computers to recognize objects in an image, determine context and produce a full description of the image.
For example this image:
Produces the description: Two pizzas sitting on top of a stove top oven
The technology still requires human interaction to "instruct" the computer by providing human captioned photos. Accuracy increases with each captioned image.
The most immediate impact would probably be in regards to image searches. Having a program that can determine image contents would greatly improve image search results. The search engine would not have to rely on surrounding text or the contents of an images <alt> tags.
This also holds promise for anyone that needs to produce image descriptions for large numbers of images, including photographers. The caption for every image could be automatically generated using a program instead of it having to be manually applied.
There are potential implications beyond those immediate uses. Security cameras, automated drones or cars, facial recognition software are items that could benefit from this ability to determine the items contained in an image along with context.
Deal Alert: Olympus OM-D E-M5 40% Off at B&H
Hat Tip: SLR Lounge
Another camera deal alter for all those camera shopping this Holiday Season. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Camera is currently 40% off at B&H.
You can pick the body up for $600 instead of the normal $1,000 price tag
The body can be purchased bundled with a lens for those that don't currently have lenses compatible with a micro four thirds mount.
B&H is also offering up to $200 off on some compatible Olympus lenses. (Click Save $100/$150/$200 On Select Olympus Lenses, just to the right of the price when viewing the camera.)
Another camera deal alter for all those camera shopping this Holiday Season. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Camera is currently 40% off at B&H.
You can pick the body up for $600 instead of the normal $1,000 price tag
The body can be purchased bundled with a lens for those that don't currently have lenses compatible with a micro four thirds mount.
B&H is also offering up to $200 off on some compatible Olympus lenses. (Click Save $100/$150/$200 On Select Olympus Lenses, just to the right of the price when viewing the camera.)
Monday, November 17, 2014
More Pre-Christmas Camera Deals: Nikon Deals at B&H
B&H is currently offering instant rebates on Nikon Cameras.
The deals run through 11/22 and cover just bodies as well as kits that include both the body and lens. The amount saved depends on the body and/or lens. The largest savings is on a D610 DSLR Camera with 24-85mm and 70-300mm Lenses You save $800 on this kit. (Roughly 25% off).
The deals run through 11/22 and cover just bodies as well as kits that include both the body and lens. The amount saved depends on the body and/or lens. The largest savings is on a D610 DSLR Camera with 24-85mm and 70-300mm Lenses You save $800 on this kit. (Roughly 25% off).
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Newegg Deal on Kingston Solid State Drives (SSD)
Just caught this on Twitter:
Newegg currently has a deal on Kingston SSDNow drives. Available in 60GB, 120GB, 240GB and 480GB sizes.
The 120-480GB drives are more than 40% off. The 60GB drive in 30% off. (The best deal is on the 240GB size. It's 48% off.)
These are good for those applications that result in the computer constantly accessing the hard drive, which includes many image editing applications. This is especially true when dealing with a computer with limited memory. (32-bit Operating Systems may be unable to utilize more than 4GB of memory, even if more is installed.)
Using a SSD provides a way to avoid this limit. The SSD uses memory to store information, but the computer acts as if it is a hard drive. This increases the speed at which the computer can access the information stored on the device. It's not quite the same as installing more memory, but it's an improvement over a hard drive that uses platters.
These are internal drives. You'll either need to install them inside your computer or an external tower.
Newegg currently has a deal on Kingston SSDNow drives. Available in 60GB, 120GB, 240GB and 480GB sizes.
The 120-480GB drives are more than 40% off. The 60GB drive in 30% off. (The best deal is on the 240GB size. It's 48% off.)
These are good for those applications that result in the computer constantly accessing the hard drive, which includes many image editing applications. This is especially true when dealing with a computer with limited memory. (32-bit Operating Systems may be unable to utilize more than 4GB of memory, even if more is installed.)
Using a SSD provides a way to avoid this limit. The SSD uses memory to store information, but the computer acts as if it is a hard drive. This increases the speed at which the computer can access the information stored on the device. It's not quite the same as installing more memory, but it's an improvement over a hard drive that uses platters.
These are internal drives. You'll either need to install them inside your computer or an external tower.
More Info on Sony's APCS Sensor
SLR Lounge has some additional information on Sony's new APCS sensor, including diagrams.
Based on the diagrams, it appears that the APCS design uses a movable Bayer filter. There are some obvious questions raised if the design does indeed use a movable filter.
This introduces another moving part that can break or wear out. It is basically a second shutter. On that has to move every time the camera takes a picture. Increasing the moving parts involved in an electronic device also increases the chances that something will go wrong with that device.
This problem is magnified when long exposure times are factored into the equation. Presumably, the only way to prevent color artifacts during long exposures would be to have the filter repeatedly reposition itself. Possibly hundreds of times during a single exposure. This would vastly increase the odds of the part failing.
Using moving parts inside a camera introduces another potential issue. Movement while taking pictures results in blurred images. The filter will need to be engineered in such a way so that movement in the filter is does not result in movement in any other part of the camera. Otherwise the filter could result in "camera shake" even when a tripod is used.
None of these issues are obvious given the original, sketchy description of the technology involved. They become far more obvious after seeing the diagrams.
Based on the diagrams, it appears that the APCS design uses a movable Bayer filter. There are some obvious questions raised if the design does indeed use a movable filter.
This introduces another moving part that can break or wear out. It is basically a second shutter. On that has to move every time the camera takes a picture. Increasing the moving parts involved in an electronic device also increases the chances that something will go wrong with that device.
This problem is magnified when long exposure times are factored into the equation. Presumably, the only way to prevent color artifacts during long exposures would be to have the filter repeatedly reposition itself. Possibly hundreds of times during a single exposure. This would vastly increase the odds of the part failing.
Using moving parts inside a camera introduces another potential issue. Movement while taking pictures results in blurred images. The filter will need to be engineered in such a way so that movement in the filter is does not result in movement in any other part of the camera. Otherwise the filter could result in "camera shake" even when a tripod is used.
None of these issues are obvious given the original, sketchy description of the technology involved. They become far more obvious after seeing the diagrams.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
More Holiday Gift Ideas: Pre-Black Friday Camera Deals
Check out Imaging Resource's Deals of the Day for the latest deals from B & H and Adorama.
The list includes deals from Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Fuji and Nikon.
(I'm not going to list them here, that strikes me as being in bad form since they've done all the work involved in listing the deals. You'll have to go to their site to see the deals.)
The list includes deals from Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Fuji and Nikon.
(I'm not going to list them here, that strikes me as being in bad form since they've done all the work involved in listing the deals. You'll have to go to their site to see the deals.)
Friday, November 14, 2014
First Hasselblad Camera in Space Fetches $275,000 at Auction
This one combines two of my interests: auctions and photography.
More accurately, it was the first Hasselblad camera in space. The camera was used on the Mercury-Atlas 8 and Mercury-Atlas 9 missions. It was recently sold at an auction ran by RR Auctions for $275,000.
The auction company verified the identity of the camera from first hand account from the astronauts and by comparing wear on the camera to wear visible in 1963 pictures of the camera after the flights returned to earth.
View the ePhotozine, Amateur Photography or PetaPixel articles on the sale for more information.
(Articles include photos for those interested. I haven't asked for permission to reuse. The auction company had a page with a huge amount of information on the camera. There's is no guarantee the page will be available in the future.)
Those articles list the price at $281,250 instead of the $275,000 listed on the auction page. The difference may be due to auction fees in addition to the actual price.
As a side note, this isn't the first camera in space. There were missions that sent cameras into space using missiles. Those cameras didn't produce the type of images produced by the Hasselblad used by an actual person.
The Hasselblad is an important part of space history due to some of the iconic images taken using it.
More accurately, it was the first Hasselblad camera in space. The camera was used on the Mercury-Atlas 8 and Mercury-Atlas 9 missions. It was recently sold at an auction ran by RR Auctions for $275,000.
The auction company verified the identity of the camera from first hand account from the astronauts and by comparing wear on the camera to wear visible in 1963 pictures of the camera after the flights returned to earth.
View the ePhotozine, Amateur Photography or PetaPixel articles on the sale for more information.
(Articles include photos for those interested. I haven't asked for permission to reuse. The auction company had a page with a huge amount of information on the camera. There's is no guarantee the page will be available in the future.)
Those articles list the price at $281,250 instead of the $275,000 listed on the auction page. The difference may be due to auction fees in addition to the actual price.
As a side note, this isn't the first camera in space. There were missions that sent cameras into space using missiles. Those cameras didn't produce the type of images produced by the Hasselblad used by an actual person.
The Hasselblad is an important part of space history due to some of the iconic images taken using it.
More Gift Ideas: New Products Featured at Photokina
For those not familiar with Photokina, it's a biennial imaging fair. The major imaging companies (including those that produce digital cameras) use the fair to introduce new products, and to hype future products.
SLR Lounge has a list of some of the products introduced at this year's Photokina event that are now available for purchase. The list covers products from Canon, Fuji and Sigma.
Check the list if looking for some gift ideas for the photographer on your list.
SLR Lounge has a list of some of the products introduced at this year's Photokina event that are now available for purchase. The list covers products from Canon, Fuji and Sigma.
Check the list if looking for some gift ideas for the photographer on your list.
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Cameras for the Budding Photographer
It's time to start seriously thinking about Christmas Gifts.
For those looking for a camera suited as a gift for a budding photographer try ePhotozine's Top 10 Best DSLR ILC Cameras For Beginners 2014.
These are all interchangeable lens cameras. This is a Biritish web site so prices are listed in pounds. All the cameras are listed for under 500 pounds. (Roughly $750) You can find the current price in the US (or elsewhere) with a quick Internet search.
The cameras listed are often designed with ease of use in mind, making them good choices for someone just getting into interchangeable lens cameras. The list includes both DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
Some use the same lenses and mount system used in more advanced camera models from the same manufacturer. This allows photographers to upgrade by purchasing just a more advanced camera body. No need to by new lenses at the same time.
For additional savings, try purchasing a good used model. Many reputable camera stores sell used cameras. Reputable stores do their absolute best to ensure used cameras are in good working order before selling and will often offer a store warranty for the camera.
For those looking for a camera suited as a gift for a budding photographer try ePhotozine's Top 10 Best DSLR ILC Cameras For Beginners 2014.
These are all interchangeable lens cameras. This is a Biritish web site so prices are listed in pounds. All the cameras are listed for under 500 pounds. (Roughly $750) You can find the current price in the US (or elsewhere) with a quick Internet search.
The cameras listed are often designed with ease of use in mind, making them good choices for someone just getting into interchangeable lens cameras. The list includes both DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
Some use the same lenses and mount system used in more advanced camera models from the same manufacturer. This allows photographers to upgrade by purchasing just a more advanced camera body. No need to by new lenses at the same time.
For additional savings, try purchasing a good used model. Many reputable camera stores sell used cameras. Reputable stores do their absolute best to ensure used cameras are in good working order before selling and will often offer a store warranty for the camera.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Sony Making News for Image Sensor Innovations, Again
Last Week, Sony made news with its patent for an image sensor that could apply multiple exposure times to a singe image.
This week, it's an image sensor that can capture Red/Green/Blue information at every pixel. The sensor uses something called "Active-Pixel Color Sensing" to achieve this. Instead of having some pixels detect green, others red and still others green by use of a color filter array, every pixel in an Active-Pixel Color Sensing (APCS) sensor would detect those three colors by using a moving electronic color filter.
The details are a bit sketchy right now, but rumors have the sensor showing up in products starting late 2015 or early 2016. (With the Experia smartphone being the first recipient.)
Using each pixel to capture Red/Green/Blue data would result in advantages.
First, this allows Sony to eliminate the Bayer filter traditionally used to capture color information.
Eliminating the Bayer filter eliminates the need to interpolate color data from several pixels in order to produce color information. This eliminates a great deal of the processing currently needed to produce color images. Eliminating processing should greatly increase the speed at which images can be captured and recorded. It might also lower power consumption.
Eliminating the Bayer filter also eliminates the need to deal with moire. This means that a camera equipped with this type of sensor could eliminate the anti-aliasing filter found in many digital cameras. This would help increase image clarity. Sharper images are always a plus.
Second, the pixels used could be larger than those used in Bayer based sensors with no loss of image resolution. Larger pixels are more efficient when it comes to capturing light and less prone to noise at high ISO settings. Fewer pixels would also increase processing speed.
The increase in processing speed actually seems to be one of the largest advantages for the new design. Sony is suggesting 2K video recorded at 16,000 fps.
There is one obvious problem with the new sensor: the name. The acronym for the current name would be "APCS". That is far too to APS-C, which is a common sensor size found in digital cameras. Imagine a camera being described as having an APCS APS-C sensor.
That might be just a tad confusing.
Keep track of developments on this sensor and other Sony camera news at Sony Alpha Rumors.
This week, it's an image sensor that can capture Red/Green/Blue information at every pixel. The sensor uses something called "Active-Pixel Color Sensing" to achieve this. Instead of having some pixels detect green, others red and still others green by use of a color filter array, every pixel in an Active-Pixel Color Sensing (APCS) sensor would detect those three colors by using a moving electronic color filter.
The details are a bit sketchy right now, but rumors have the sensor showing up in products starting late 2015 or early 2016. (With the Experia smartphone being the first recipient.)
Using each pixel to capture Red/Green/Blue data would result in advantages.
First, this allows Sony to eliminate the Bayer filter traditionally used to capture color information.
Eliminating the Bayer filter eliminates the need to interpolate color data from several pixels in order to produce color information. This eliminates a great deal of the processing currently needed to produce color images. Eliminating processing should greatly increase the speed at which images can be captured and recorded. It might also lower power consumption.
Eliminating the Bayer filter also eliminates the need to deal with moire. This means that a camera equipped with this type of sensor could eliminate the anti-aliasing filter found in many digital cameras. This would help increase image clarity. Sharper images are always a plus.
Second, the pixels used could be larger than those used in Bayer based sensors with no loss of image resolution. Larger pixels are more efficient when it comes to capturing light and less prone to noise at high ISO settings. Fewer pixels would also increase processing speed.
The increase in processing speed actually seems to be one of the largest advantages for the new design. Sony is suggesting 2K video recorded at 16,000 fps.
There is one obvious problem with the new sensor: the name. The acronym for the current name would be "APCS". That is far too to APS-C, which is a common sensor size found in digital cameras. Imagine a camera being described as having an APCS APS-C sensor.
That might be just a tad confusing.
Keep track of developments on this sensor and other Sony camera news at Sony Alpha Rumors.
Monday, November 10, 2014
Facebook Shop Open!
My Facebook fan page now has an integrated shop thanks to Fine Art America.
The site makes it extremely easy to set up. You just have to go to the "Behind the Scenes" screen and scroll down to the marketing options. Click on the Facebook applications button. Then activate the shopping cart link option under the Facebook for Fan Pages.
The only complaint? It only covers prints. No phone cases and no licensing options.
The site makes it extremely easy to set up. You just have to go to the "Behind the Scenes" screen and scroll down to the marketing options. Click on the Facebook applications button. Then activate the shopping cart link option under the Facebook for Fan Pages.
The only complaint? It only covers prints. No phone cases and no licensing options.
Friday, November 7, 2014
My Facebook Fan Page
I have just created a Facebook fan page.
It's still a work in progress, so keep that in mind.
I'll be posting to that site whenever I add something to one of the sites where my photography and artwork is available for sale. Red Bubble suggests using a fan page when updating.
Why create a Facebook fan page despite already having a personal profile?
Well, for starters that's "personal profile". According to Red Bubble, using a personal profile for commerce can result in the profile being deleted by Facebook. It apparently violates their terms of service. (Don't ask me why. Ask Zuckerberg.)
There is also a limit on the number of "friends" one can have. (I'm no where near the 5,000 limit). There is no limit on "fans" Again, don't ask me why.
It also allows for separation of personal and business activity. This can be important when attempting to create a professional appearance. I'm not worries about that right now, but might be in the future. It also helps with branding as you can use a Company name for the fan page. I used "The Great Fire Dragon", same as this blog site.
It also opens up some options not available when using just a profile page. Red Bubble offers image options when linking to a fan page that aren't available on a personal profile page.
It's still a work in progress, so keep that in mind.
I'll be posting to that site whenever I add something to one of the sites where my photography and artwork is available for sale. Red Bubble suggests using a fan page when updating.
Why create a Facebook fan page despite already having a personal profile?
Well, for starters that's "personal profile". According to Red Bubble, using a personal profile for commerce can result in the profile being deleted by Facebook. It apparently violates their terms of service. (Don't ask me why. Ask Zuckerberg.)
There is also a limit on the number of "friends" one can have. (I'm no where near the 5,000 limit). There is no limit on "fans" Again, don't ask me why.
It also allows for separation of personal and business activity. This can be important when attempting to create a professional appearance. I'm not worries about that right now, but might be in the future. It also helps with branding as you can use a Company name for the fan page. I used "The Great Fire Dragon", same as this blog site.
It also opens up some options not available when using just a profile page. Red Bubble offers image options when linking to a fan page that aren't available on a personal profile page.
Lytro Announces Developer Kit
Hat Tip: DP Review
(This has been covered by other outlets as well. DP Review just happens to be the one that caught my attention.)
Lytro is the company that has developed light field technology for camera use. Light field technology allows the camera to record a light ray's direction, intensity and color. (As opposes to regular sensors which only record intensity and strength.) The additional directional information allows light field cameras to be for applications beyond those that normal digital cameras can be used for.
The new Lytro Developer's Kit allows outside companies to develop those applications. NASA and the DoD are apparently already interested in the kit.
Light field technology does not seem to be positioned to compete with traditional digital cameras when it comes to producing still images. The still images produced don't stack up resolution wise. That means Lytro needs to find another reason for consumers to purchase light field cameras, which makes the development kit a smart move. It will enable other companies to develop the technology in directions other than those aimed at producing still images.
The annual subscription for the kit starts at $20,000.
I'll let you decide whether that's reasonable.
Update: PetaPixel has a link to the Lytro Platform page. It provides specifics on what is included in the kit.
(This has been covered by other outlets as well. DP Review just happens to be the one that caught my attention.)
Lytro is the company that has developed light field technology for camera use. Light field technology allows the camera to record a light ray's direction, intensity and color. (As opposes to regular sensors which only record intensity and strength.) The additional directional information allows light field cameras to be for applications beyond those that normal digital cameras can be used for.
The new Lytro Developer's Kit allows outside companies to develop those applications. NASA and the DoD are apparently already interested in the kit.
Light field technology does not seem to be positioned to compete with traditional digital cameras when it comes to producing still images. The still images produced don't stack up resolution wise. That means Lytro needs to find another reason for consumers to purchase light field cameras, which makes the development kit a smart move. It will enable other companies to develop the technology in directions other than those aimed at producing still images.
The annual subscription for the kit starts at $20,000.
I'll let you decide whether that's reasonable.
Update: PetaPixel has a link to the Lytro Platform page. It provides specifics on what is included in the kit.
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Red Bubble Tips - Mug Design
Red Bubble recently announced the addition of mugs to the range of items offered for sale.
There has been a little confusion on how to design for mugs. Part of this stems from the site changing how images are applied to a certain extent.
Currently, the site uses one image for mugs (tall and standard) and a different image for travel mugs. Travel mugs aren't currently available on the site, but should be sometime in the near future.
The image for coffee mugs needs to be 2700 x 1624 for full coverage on tall mugs. The same image can be used for standard sized coffee mugs, but the vertical portion of the image that will show on a standard mug is just over 1120 pixels.
For best result you'll want to limit important portions of the image to the central 1000 pixels or use a repeating pattern.
Here's a template to use when designing mugs:
It's 2700 x 1624. Use the entire template (dark and light gray) for tall mugs. (These aren't available yet, but it's a good idea to design with them in mind.) The light gray area shows the area that will be printed on standard mugs. It's roughly 1126 pixels tall.
The green line represents the point immediately across from the handle. If you want to center an image across from the handle, use this line.
The red lines are where you want to place images to center them on the sides. Yes, the red lines are closer to the edges than to the middle. The area missing on the edges is where the handle is located.
Travel Mugs
Image dimensions for travel mugs (when implemented): 2376 x 2024. Travel mugs don't have a handle, so you don't need to make allowance for the handle.
For travel mugs:
For a single element (like a logo) center it on the green line. For two elements, center on the red. You can use the entire vertical area without worrying about losing part of the design.
There has been a little confusion on how to design for mugs. Part of this stems from the site changing how images are applied to a certain extent.
Currently, the site uses one image for mugs (tall and standard) and a different image for travel mugs. Travel mugs aren't currently available on the site, but should be sometime in the near future.
The image for coffee mugs needs to be 2700 x 1624 for full coverage on tall mugs. The same image can be used for standard sized coffee mugs, but the vertical portion of the image that will show on a standard mug is just over 1120 pixels.
For best result you'll want to limit important portions of the image to the central 1000 pixels or use a repeating pattern.
Here's a template to use when designing mugs:
It's 2700 x 1624. Use the entire template (dark and light gray) for tall mugs. (These aren't available yet, but it's a good idea to design with them in mind.) The light gray area shows the area that will be printed on standard mugs. It's roughly 1126 pixels tall.
The green line represents the point immediately across from the handle. If you want to center an image across from the handle, use this line.
The red lines are where you want to place images to center them on the sides. Yes, the red lines are closer to the edges than to the middle. The area missing on the edges is where the handle is located.
Travel Mugs
Image dimensions for travel mugs (when implemented): 2376 x 2024. Travel mugs don't have a handle, so you don't need to make allowance for the handle.
For travel mugs:
For a single element (like a logo) center it on the green line. For two elements, center on the red. You can use the entire vertical area without worrying about losing part of the design.
Oh, the Humanity! Canon 7D Mark II Disassembled
Don't worry, it was all in a good cause.
The good people over at LensRentals.com have disassembled a Canon 7D Mark II. You can see all the gory details on their blog.
Why take one apart?
To test Canon's claim on improving the camera's weather resistance. (The claim was that weather sealing was "four times better" than on the original 7D.)
Canon certainly seems to have concentrated on improving the build quality of the 7D, including weather resistance. The Mark II has rubber gaskets not present in the previous model, increasing the camera's ability to resist water penetration. (Pretty much any area that could allow water into the camera has been addressed by Canon.)
There are other build improvements and the Lens Rental article goes into those as well. For example, the CF card reader has been moved to its own board instead of being connected directly to the camera's main board. This means that any damage to the CF card reader can be fixed by simply replacing the daughter board.
Check out the article for all the improvements and for lots and lots of pictures.
Hat Tip: Imaging Resource
Update: While Canon has improved weather resistance and build quality, image quality could apparently use some work at least at lower ISO settings.
The good people over at LensRentals.com have disassembled a Canon 7D Mark II. You can see all the gory details on their blog.
Why take one apart?
To test Canon's claim on improving the camera's weather resistance. (The claim was that weather sealing was "four times better" than on the original 7D.)
Canon certainly seems to have concentrated on improving the build quality of the 7D, including weather resistance. The Mark II has rubber gaskets not present in the previous model, increasing the camera's ability to resist water penetration. (Pretty much any area that could allow water into the camera has been addressed by Canon.)
There are other build improvements and the Lens Rental article goes into those as well. For example, the CF card reader has been moved to its own board instead of being connected directly to the camera's main board. This means that any damage to the CF card reader can be fixed by simply replacing the daughter board.
Check out the article for all the improvements and for lots and lots of pictures.
Hat Tip: Imaging Resource
Update: While Canon has improved weather resistance and build quality, image quality could apparently use some work at least at lower ISO settings.
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Red Bubble Tips - Image Files
Red Bubble currently accepts two formats for image files: jpg and png.
So which format should be used when uploading images?
JPG Images
Jpg images are good for complex images or images with a large number of different colors. Or both. This is format you should use when uploading photographs or artwork with complex images. Jpg images can be compressed when saved. This lowers the image quality. Images should be saved with no compression if possible.
(Digital cameras can automatically apply compression when saving images.. Make sure to use the lowest compression setting on your camera when taking pictures.)
PNG Images
Png files tend to be larger than jpg images when dealing with complex images, like photographs. (Less complex images like line-art tend to be smaller when saved in png format.)
Unlike the jpg format, png allows you to save transparency information. This transparency information is necessary if you want to print something other than a rectangular or square image. Use this format if you want an image to blend seamlessly into the background.
Png images should be used on apparel and stickers, but can be used on other items as well. (They often work better on mugs or cases than jpg images.)
Png files do support multiple transparency values by using an alpha channel. This allows certain portions of the image to be fully transparent, others partially transparent and the rest opaque.
Multiple Images
Red Bubble does offer the option to use different images depending on what items is being purchased. For example, you can use one image for the majority of items but use a modified image for mugs. (I've done this. The default file is just the image. The image file for mugs includes text. The result is the image on one side of the mig and text on the other. All other items just have the image.)
When you upload an image (or edit an existing one) you will wind up on a page that shows product previews. The top of the page has a "REPLACE ALL IMAGES" button. Use this to upload a new file for all items.
Clicking on the preview image or "EDIT" button for an item will open the setting options for that item.
On the right hand side of the options there will be a "REPLACE IMAGE" button. Click this to upload an image to be used with that item.
There are times when an image needs to be modified based on what items it is used on. Red Bubble provides the option to do this.
Image Size
Red Bubble does have a maximum file size: 300MB or 13500 x 13500 pixels. The last is important when dealing with Duvet Covers. Images for King sized duvets need to be 13500 x 11462 for full coverage. This is almost maximum size.
Other products require smaller images. If an image exceeds the size needed it will be scaled down when the product is produced. This allows a single large image to be used for most items. The individual items may need to be edited so that the image is positioned properly.
Color Space
A color space is a specific organization of colors. This organization allows for reproducible results when the image is rendered, either on screen or when printed.
Images uploaded to Red Bubble should be saved using the sRGB color space. (The "s" is for standard.) This allows for the most predictable results when the image is used.
Some image editing software offer the option to automatically assign a color space to image created or edited by that software. Doing so ensures that the image uploaded always have the correct color profile.
In plain language, the color space or color profile tells the device what the colors used in the image should look like when the image is reproduced. It is then up to that device (monitor or printer) to correctly reproduce the color. Using the sRGB color space will give Red Bubble the best change to render the colors in your images correctly.
So which format should be used when uploading images?
JPG Images
Jpg images are good for complex images or images with a large number of different colors. Or both. This is format you should use when uploading photographs or artwork with complex images. Jpg images can be compressed when saved. This lowers the image quality. Images should be saved with no compression if possible.
(Digital cameras can automatically apply compression when saving images.. Make sure to use the lowest compression setting on your camera when taking pictures.)
PNG Images
Png files tend to be larger than jpg images when dealing with complex images, like photographs. (Less complex images like line-art tend to be smaller when saved in png format.)
Unlike the jpg format, png allows you to save transparency information. This transparency information is necessary if you want to print something other than a rectangular or square image. Use this format if you want an image to blend seamlessly into the background.
Png images should be used on apparel and stickers, but can be used on other items as well. (They often work better on mugs or cases than jpg images.)
Png files do support multiple transparency values by using an alpha channel. This allows certain portions of the image to be fully transparent, others partially transparent and the rest opaque.
Multiple Images
Red Bubble does offer the option to use different images depending on what items is being purchased. For example, you can use one image for the majority of items but use a modified image for mugs. (I've done this. The default file is just the image. The image file for mugs includes text. The result is the image on one side of the mig and text on the other. All other items just have the image.)
When you upload an image (or edit an existing one) you will wind up on a page that shows product previews. The top of the page has a "REPLACE ALL IMAGES" button. Use this to upload a new file for all items.
Clicking on the preview image or "EDIT" button for an item will open the setting options for that item.
On the right hand side of the options there will be a "REPLACE IMAGE" button. Click this to upload an image to be used with that item.
There are times when an image needs to be modified based on what items it is used on. Red Bubble provides the option to do this.
Image Size
Red Bubble does have a maximum file size: 300MB or 13500 x 13500 pixels. The last is important when dealing with Duvet Covers. Images for King sized duvets need to be 13500 x 11462 for full coverage. This is almost maximum size.
Other products require smaller images. If an image exceeds the size needed it will be scaled down when the product is produced. This allows a single large image to be used for most items. The individual items may need to be edited so that the image is positioned properly.
Color Space
A color space is a specific organization of colors. This organization allows for reproducible results when the image is rendered, either on screen or when printed.
Images uploaded to Red Bubble should be saved using the sRGB color space. (The "s" is for standard.) This allows for the most predictable results when the image is used.
Some image editing software offer the option to automatically assign a color space to image created or edited by that software. Doing so ensures that the image uploaded always have the correct color profile.
In plain language, the color space or color profile tells the device what the colors used in the image should look like when the image is reproduced. It is then up to that device (monitor or printer) to correctly reproduce the color. Using the sRGB color space will give Red Bubble the best change to render the colors in your images correctly.
Sony Patents Varying Exposure Image Sensor
Hat Tip: PetaPixel
Chalk another one up to engineers realizing there is no need for a digital image sensor to behave exactly the same way film behaves. Sony has now designed a new image sensor that uses variable exposure times. The exposure time for each pixel depends on the amount of light hitting the sensor at that pixel's location.
The sensor works by applying one of two exposure times to each pixel. A short exposure time to the bright areas of the image and a long exposure time to the dark areas. Theoretically, this allows the sensor to capture details in the darker areas of an image without over exposing the lighter areas.
There are obvious issues with using different exposure times for a single exposure.
The most obvious issue involves movement. Moving object could conceivably move from "light" areas into "dark" areas (or dark to light.) This would result in a motion-blur with different exposures in different areas. Not necessarily the result the photographer is looking for.
Light emitting objects could produce additional problems. A light emitting object that starts in a "light" area and moves into a "dark" area could result in the dark area being over exposed.
Sony has apparently considered the potential problems associated with using multiple exposure times for a single image and have attempted to address these issues via the software used with the sensor.
The actual patent can be viewed here for those interested.
The patent description includes a link to a pdf file with images and includes a little more detail on the approach used to address blurring/movement.
It's always nice to see digital imaging innovation that comes as a result of diverging from the "image sensor as film" mentality.
Chalk another one up to engineers realizing there is no need for a digital image sensor to behave exactly the same way film behaves. Sony has now designed a new image sensor that uses variable exposure times. The exposure time for each pixel depends on the amount of light hitting the sensor at that pixel's location.
The sensor works by applying one of two exposure times to each pixel. A short exposure time to the bright areas of the image and a long exposure time to the dark areas. Theoretically, this allows the sensor to capture details in the darker areas of an image without over exposing the lighter areas.
There are obvious issues with using different exposure times for a single exposure.
The most obvious issue involves movement. Moving object could conceivably move from "light" areas into "dark" areas (or dark to light.) This would result in a motion-blur with different exposures in different areas. Not necessarily the result the photographer is looking for.
Light emitting objects could produce additional problems. A light emitting object that starts in a "light" area and moves into a "dark" area could result in the dark area being over exposed.
Sony has apparently considered the potential problems associated with using multiple exposure times for a single image and have attempted to address these issues via the software used with the sensor.
The actual patent can be viewed here for those interested.
The patent description includes a link to a pdf file with images and includes a little more detail on the approach used to address blurring/movement.
It's always nice to see digital imaging innovation that comes as a result of diverging from the "image sensor as film" mentality.
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Uploaded New Work to Red Bubble
I mentioned earlier today that I was going to start concentrating on uploading images to the various selling sites I have accounts on whenever I have a little down time during my job search.(I'll probably open new accounts as well.)
I have just uploaded a new image to Red Bubble: The Giant Robot Attack.
It's available on iPad and iPhone cases, Galaxy cases, Tote Bags, Throw Pillows and as a card, print or poster.
I have just uploaded a new image to Red Bubble: The Giant Robot Attack.
It's available on iPad and iPhone cases, Galaxy cases, Tote Bags, Throw Pillows and as a card, print or poster.
Update for Those Interested
Just a quick update.
The ol' job search really hasn't been going that well. (I do have an appointment today, but it's just a basic introductory orientation for all those interested in the job.)
I have decided to concentrate on uploading my photographs, art and designs to the various selling sites. (Red Bubble, Cafe Press, Zazzle, etc.)
I will provide updates and insights here as I do so.
On a personal note, my brother is doing better.
They moved him out of the hospital yesterday and into a long-term care rehab facility.
The ol' job search really hasn't been going that well. (I do have an appointment today, but it's just a basic introductory orientation for all those interested in the job.)
I have decided to concentrate on uploading my photographs, art and designs to the various selling sites. (Red Bubble, Cafe Press, Zazzle, etc.)
I will provide updates and insights here as I do so.
On a personal note, my brother is doing better.
They moved him out of the hospital yesterday and into a long-term care rehab facility.
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