The Two Oceans Aquarium and Responsible Tourism

The Two Oceans Aquarium is one of Cape Town's prime tourist attractions and a portal into the diverse marine life that the Indian and Atlantic oceans are home to. This aquatic sanctuary at the V&A Waterfront boasts over 3000 live animals, among which are sharks, fish, turtles and penguins.
In the name of the preservation of our two ocean's diversity of species, the aquarium urges South Africans to join in the world's third annual Responsible Tourism Week by spreading awareness about what they are doing to conserve our planet.
As an organisation, they believe that Responsible Tourism Week has and should continue to be about lending some support to the smaller players in the industry, "bringing to light the great strides that have been taken in unexpected ways by unlikely players". Their call to action is simple: start spreading the word to your peers about an issue that will eventually contribute to our well-being as a species.
Cape Town residents and visitors of all ages flock to The Two Oceans Aquarium throughout the year, so it is essential that, as a travelling society, we support them by raising awareness of environmental issues for their many noble initiatives. The Aquarium's conservation efforts around the Cape Peninsula includes a mission to improve their Heritage Environmental Rating score and the selling of water bottles that are 100% renewable at Shoreline Cafe (the first African restaurant to pursue Marine Stewardship Council certification), which is closely linked to their promotion of sustainable seafood choices.
Their compassion is not lost on the public as The Aquarium recently received calls from concerned citizens regarding sunfish washing ashore on Cape Town beaches. It is not surprising, then, that in January this year, the One&Only Cape Town and other V&A Waterfront tenants treated the Two Oceans Aquarium team as an authority and notified them of a large fish trapped in the marina canals. The team carried out a rescue mission on what turned out to be an ocean sunfish that had become stuck in the canals over the weekend.
It is safe to say that a The Two Oceans Aquarium is a team of educated, determined and considerate environmental heroes, based at the tip of the African continent where two mighty oceans meet.

http://www.searchforhotels.co.za/ Written by Narique Sangster on behalf of Integrated Search Media and Search For Hotels. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Narique_Sangster

Are Picnic Totes a Good Solution for You?

Picnics can be romantic, they can be excuses for family fun and they can be relaxing sojourns away from the rigors of the modern world. However, enjoying these outings as you should means that you need to have the right equipment and supplies. While most people will automatically assume that a basket is required here, picnic totes are an increasingly popular option. Why is this? What benefits to you gain from a tote, as opposed to a standard basket?
Easily Handled
Anyone who has ever carried a heavily laden basket for any length of time knows that they can be quite unwieldy if overloaded. In addition, some people prefer something a bit more comfortable than hard wicker handles. Therefore, picnic totes can be a bit more easily handled. You'll find traditional tote bag designs, somewhat similar to beach bags and the like.
However, you'll also find specialty bags that are designed to be used in conjunction with baskets. For instance, you will find bottle bags designed to hold several bottles of your favorite vintage. You will also find coffee and blanket bags, as well as wine and cheese options.
Colors and Styles
While wicker baskets are available in different shades, colors and accent patterns, you will find that picnic totes are a bit more vibrant. You'll find bight solid colors, bold patterns, elegant fabrics and more. This gives you a great way to accessorize even with your supplies and picnicking equipment. Of course, the number of different styles is also of benefit here. You'll find baby tote bags, as well as basket bags and bamboo bags, all of which offer a different look and feel.
Convenience
Often, the choice to use a tote boils down to simple convenience. Is it easier to carry a bag or a basket? Is it simpler to store a bag or a basket in your home? Picnic totes can usually be folded up and stored away in a smaller area than a basket can, so even if you prefer the look and feel of a traditional basket, a tote might be a better idea if you have limited storage space at home.
As a final note, you should also consider the accessories that come with any tote you consider. While some are sold empty, others are available with plates, cups, silverware and other accessories that can make your life easier.

Polly Godwin writes the blogs for "picnic totes", a North Carolina-based company that aims to share their love of people, nature and life through outdoor living products. Visit PicnicFun.com today for more picnic supplies. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Polly_Godwin

Which Type of Picnic Baskets Are Best for You?

When going on a picnic, one of the first items that every family needs to choose is the correct container to use for transporting every item you need to the picnic site. Out of the myriad picnic baskets available, how do you choose which one is perfect for the needs of your family?
The first part of the decision is how many people are going to be going on the picnic. This will help you decide on the size of the basket you need, as well as how many, and what type, of compartments fit your family. You have to consider whether you're taking plates and silverware or are you using disposable items that are usually transported in their original packaging?
Many of the newer picnic baskets come with areas on the lid to transport your dishes and dining utensils. They also come in a variety of sizes, from the small basket that is great for one person carrying their lunch, to larger sizes that can easily transport enough food and dinnerware for a family of up to six people.
If you are taking full size dinner plates as well as enough food for the entire family, then one of the best options to choose is a sturdy basket make out of wicker or woven wood. These types of picnic baskets are easy to maintain, have some weatherproofing and are light weight, which is great when stocking them with all of the supplies for a family outing. Many of these baskets also come with side compartments or dividers, which help you separate food that should be kept warm from food that needs to be cold.
Try to find a basket that allows for storage of a number of other items and make sure the dishes are secured to the basket. Some picnic baskets include leather or vinyl straps that secure the dishes to the lid of the basket. This is very important because when carrying the basket or even driving with it in the car, the dishes can shift or move and harm the food. Imagine getting to the picnic site and having the beautiful dessert ruined because it was squashed by the dinner plates.
There should also be areas in the basket itself that allow for the transportation of glasses or cups. There is nothing worse than arriving at the picnic site and having no way to serve the drinks that you have chosen to compliment your meal.

Polly Godwin writes the blogs for "picnic baskets", a North Carolina-based company that aims to share their love of people, nature and life through outdoor living products. Visit PicnicFun.com today for more picnic supplies. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Polly_Godwin

Good Movies That Have Stayed Unparalleled

The movies are made under different genres which are classified as animation, comedy, thriller, action, and so on. Under action, the movies "Die Hard", "Blade Runner", "Blow Up", "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" are well known are provide lots of great scenes. For science fiction lovers, there is "Terminator" and "Star Wars", where the supernatural happens, although it is not true, it shows us the scope of human thinking. Famous drama movies include "Titanic", "The Godfather", "The Shawshank Redemption" and many more.
Comedies delight the audience because everyone likes to have some laughs every now and then. Movies like "The Sting", "Toy Story", "Dr. Strangelove", etc. are top rated and provide peals of laughter. There is nothing better than a light hearted comedy because it has a happy ending and that is what one looks for in a movie. Under the romance genre, there are a few good movies like "A Walk to Remember", "Definitely, Maybe", "The Notebook", "Rear Window", "Vertigo". There are quite a few others but these stand out.
Good movies have good music and most of them are background scores. The most notable song is from "Titanic" named "Every Night in My Dreams". This is by far the most romantic song and everyone feels a good vibe about it. Other amazing movies are "Taxi Driver", "Wall-E", "The Departed", "Cocktail", "The Prestige", "Reservoir Dogs", "Back to the Future", etc. The best movies are enjoyed when watched with our families sitting in a single couch. That is the best feeling in the world.
Munching on popcorn along with chilled beer is the perfect movie snack and suits all the themes. There more than a few exceptional movies made in English cinema and one should find time to watch them to have a memorable experience. Thus, the above mentioned movies make a good watch and missing it would mean missing a lot in life.

Chris is writing to share articles on topics like good movies and best movies 2010. Visit to read more detail. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chris_C._Sturat

A Few Must See John Travolta Movies

John Travolta is a well known actor, director and singer in English cinema. Travolta was born in New Jersey and has five older siblings. He is a Roman Catholic owing to the fact that is father was part Italian. He was born in 1954 and is still pursuing his career of acting at the age 56. He is, of course, in his twilight zone but he is going great guns still. He started off his career with the super hit television series "Welcome Back, Kotter" and then played significant roles in big films like "Grease" and "Saturday Night Fever". This is was in the 1970s and after that he went downhill with his acting career almost coming to a stop. In the early 90s he came back with a bang with the very famous movie called "Pulp Fiction". Ever since, he has been a regular actor in many Hollywood films.
He also had a great movie called "Look Who's Talking" at that time which helped him revive his acting career. His other notable movies are "Broken Arrow", an action movie, "Face/Off", "Get Shorty", "Ladder 49" and many more. He is a very well known celebrity and a top actor, because he is still on some huge projects which might land him added fame. He is, however, though to be the actor of yesteryears because many other youngsters have taken over. The 90s being his best days because of his rise to fame through a second chance like a wild card entrant.
His upcoming project is "From Paris with Love" along with his wife Kelly Preston who shares the lead. In 2008, he was nominated under the Best Original Song category for the film Bolt. He is a talented person with exceptional singing qualities. He has had a great career spanning over 30 years with its own ups and downs. All in all, he is a splendid actor and a marvelous singer, not to forget that he is also a gentle human being with a great personality.

Chris is writing to share articles on topics like John Travolta movies and John Travolta biography. Visit to read more detail. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chris_C._Sturat

A Handful Of Top Movies Of 2010 That Need Mention

People of all ages love watching movies and some are ranked as the best of all times and are ranked the top most in any generation. The year 2010 was no different. Some unparalleled movies have been made in this year and will stay unsurpassed in ratings for a long time to come.
Of the different genre the animation world saw some incomparable movies made till date and the movie that needs mention is the "Toy Story 3". It is an animation movie targeted at an audience comprising of kids and was expected that they would take it well but not only kids but people of all ages have loved watching it and most of the theatres ran packed shows not only at weekends but all through the week.
Another movie is in the thriller section which has surpassed all records. It is "Inception". This movie is unique in the sense its plot is really a unique one. The imagination of the film maker carries us away no doubt but even the making of the film is unparalleled. The score, the direction, the screenplay, all stand out and it has been rated the best movie of the year 2010 and is correctly so.
Other many movies stand out and need mention are "The Fighter", "How To Train Your Dragon", "The King's Speech", "Black Swan" and the list can go on. All these were genuinely well made movies and are worth a visit to the movie theatre to watch them. Not only will you be entertained watching them but also you will learn a lesson or two in the couple of hours you spend at the theater.
Several other movies too were made well and well accepted and appreciated by the public. But these movies may be forgotten in times to come for they are not unique but made using some repetitive plot. These movies are one time watchable for our enjoyment no doubt.

Chris is writing to share articles on topics like top movies of 2010 and comedy movies 2010. Visit to read more detail. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chris_C._Sturat

A Review Of The Five Best Movies Of 2010

In the year 2010 numerous movies were made by various companies in the Hollywood. Out of them the best five need a mention and a review of sorts. They stand in this category for various reasons like a unique plot, good story line, excellent direction, etc. All of them were a box office hit and were well appreciated by the masses all over the world and also by the jury and critics alike.
The movie that can be rated the fifth is "Exit Through the Gift Shop". It is rated so not because it is not up to the mark but because the other movies had better ratings and stayed in the lime light longer. It is a movie spun around a French shopkeeper. It is not a comedy of sorts but it has its fun moments that will make you laugh.
Next is the movie that took the fourth place among the best of the 2010 movies. It is "Winter's Bone". It is a story of a teenager who is in search of her father who is wayward. It has some very good moments when we see many emotions being given vent to. The main role of Ree a headstrong girl is played by Jennifer Lawrence and can be rated as the best performance of the year that any female has played.
The rating of three is carried away by the movie "Inception". It is in the genre of sci-fi and a story about some spies that come across a technique that will help them know about people's dreams and steal information from them. It is a weird concept which you have never heard of and keeps you to your seats till the end. It is applauded for the cast of the characters, action and score which are some of the best any movie can have.
The movie that lost its rating to be the best of the year is "The Social Network". It stood second best to the best movie an animated movie that carried away all the limelight. It is a movie woven around Facebook and its making. Some wonderful performances were displayed by the stars and the co-stars that got an excellent and positive reception from both the critics and the public.
Lastly the best rated movie of 2010 is an animated movie by name "Toy Story 3". It is a must see movie for all ages. It cannot be out of place to say that it has surpassed many records to gain this position in its genre till date. No one will feel it is not worth the first place after watching it.
These are the ratings of the movies 2010 and you miss watching them you lose something.

Chris is writing to share articles on topics like best movie of 2010 and best Disney movies. Visit to read more detail. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chris_C._Sturat

3 Very Important Underwater Photography Tips To Bear In Mind For Stunning Underwater Photographs!

Underwater Photography Tips #1 - Objects Underwater Are Further Away Than You Think They Are
Are you aware that the ocean acts like a gigantic lens? It refracts whatever you see underwater at an index of 1.33. Hence, underwater photographers should note that when they wear a mask or when their DSLRs are in housings, objects that may seem to be only one metre away from them are actually 1.33 metres away.
So what I'm trying to say is that objects you see underwater are actually at a further distance than they appear to be in your eyes. This is why you will have to be aware when focusing on underwater photography subjects.
Underwater Photography Tips #2 - Get Creative with Settings
We all know that setting your DSLR to automatic will make things easier for you. However, be mindful that you should get creative. You can make use of the different settings available for shutter and aperture.
Using manual for underwater photography will be a great way for you to experiment what settings works well and doesn't work well underwater. From experience, pictures will normally appear looking a little flat with presets. This is simply because you adjusted neither the depth of field or exposure.
Another thing that you might want to try out is to vary the shutter speed settings. What this does is that it helps you gain control of the background color. Let's put aside the thought of how fast your subject is moving underwater and the use of the strobe for now.
Be mindful that using a slow shutter speed at 1/60 sec normally produces a beautiful blue ocean background. However, using faster shutter speeds like 1/125 sec will create a background color that is close to black. Why is it so, you ask? Well, using faster shutter speeds allow less light into the camera, resulting in a dark background.
Underwater Photography Tips #3 - Light Is Important
There you have it - light is indeed a very important element in underwater photography. This is why it is of utmost importance that you use an external flashlight or strobe. These gadgets will provide light while you're taking pictures underwater so that all the colors of the spectrum are put back together into your photographs.
When you conduct underwater photography attempts without using external light, you will notice that the results of your photos will be tinged with yellow, green or brown. Be on the lookout for lights that provide a variety of settings.
It is best for beginner underwater photographers to use strobes. Strobes are external light gadgets that can adjust automatically. Strobes have through the lens (TTL) metering. This metering is based on your DSLR's automatic metering.

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Scanning for Newbies - How to Scan and Digitize Photos, Slides and Negatives to DVD

I guess most of us out there have plenty of old pictures and photos that we have stores in multiple photo albums that we have collected ever since we were little. Many of us not only own our own images, but also images of our parents, and some even grandparents! Nevertheless these images might have deteriorated in terms of quality over the last few years, partly due to the fact that they are getting old. There is one simple way of salvaging these old pictures for the future, by simply scanning them and obtaining digital images that one can store for years and even decades without a worry about deterioration. You could opt for a professional photo scanning service provider to help you with this task, or if you have the right equipment, you could perform this task yourself!
The latter option would prove to be more cost-effective, and would also allow you to conserve the privacy of your photos as you do not need to show them to anyone else! If you own the negatives of these images, that is even better as you would be able to scan negatives and obtain images that have more details and clarities compared to scanning photos. Let us now look at ways of how you can scan and digitize not only your photos, but also your slides and negatives into DVDs or your hard drive for safe protection and conservation for future use.
The first thing that you should look at would be the equipment. You would need a decent scanner (at least 1200dpi), as well as a laptop or desktop that would be used for the DVD burning process. Or you could also opt to save your scanned images into an external hard drive if you have plenty of images that you want to save. Converting from 35mm slides to DVD format couldn't be easier, as long as you follow the right steps in scanning and burning the images. A decent scanner would cost you approximately $200, thus it should not burn too big a hole in your pocket.
If you have a small amount of pictures to scan, then it is recommended to perform the task yourself. But if you have hundreds of photos to scan and save, you would maybe be better off opting for assistance from professionals that would be able to digitize and store your images within digital storage items such as DVDs, CDRs and even external hard drives without much hassle. Opting for a professional service should save you time and even money if you realize that you could use the time for more beneficial purposes. If you do have the time for it, you could scan and digitize your images yourself, but do it gradually over a longer time period or you would get tired of the task before too long.
Once you digitize your photos, you could share them online, or you could even generate digital photo albums that you could view as a slide show whenever you want to. You could also print them when you please, and keep them for years or even decades without a worry in the world. Follow the tips mentioned above, and you should be able to scan and keep your crucial photos in digital format for years to come!

If you are looking for the best photo scanner and best slide and negative scanner to scan and digitize photos, slides and negatives, visit cannerReviewsInfo.com. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Vignes_Chandran

How to Scan Photos Effectively With the Best DPI Setting For the First Time

Digitizing photographs and pictures is now something that is being performed quite commonly almost everywhere, as it allows you the liberty to scan pictures that you want to keep for the future, and store them in digital format which proves to be safer and more secure. But before you purchase a photo scanner and start scanning your images, you would first need to understand how to scan photos effectively. You would also need to have sufficient knowledge on the best dpi for scanning photos so that you are able to scan properly without applying the wrong dpi setting. But before we start on the right dpi settings and how to choose them, you would first need to know what dpi really is.
For your information, the dpi setting is something that you can adjust within your scanning software, and it should have a varying range from approximately 50dpi all the way up to 6400dpi (sometimes even more). Usually when you want to scan a photo, you would need to set your dpi before your scanner is able to scan the image. The dpi is the variable that determines how much of details that you would have in your scanned image, how much resolution that your image would end up with, as well as how big your scanned file would actually be. If you have no idea of what dpi setting to choose, it would be easy to choose either too small a figure or even too large a number!
In reality, your choice of dpi would depend on how much detail you want on the picture. And this translates to you choosing the size of the picture that you would be viewing, thus if you are going to view the scanned image in a smaller size, you would realistically need a lower dpi value (which means there is less detail, but you would save it as a smaller sized file as well). On the other hand, if you intending the blow up your scanned image and re-print it in a bigger size, then you should naturally scan it with high dpi values, this would ensure that all the important details and features are captured during the scanning process, and you would be able to re-print a clear image compared to a blurry one if you choose a low dpi value.
So if you are wondering on how to scan your image effectively, perhaps the guide below might help you determine your dpi settings effectively in accordance to the size of your paper prints:

1. 2.5x3.5' - 1000dpi
2. 3.5x3.5" - 900dpi
3. 4x4.5" - 600dpi
4. 4x5" - 600dpi
5. 4x6" - 600dpi
6. 4x7" - 600dpi
7. 5x7" - 600dpi
8. 8x10" - 600 dpi

Generally you would realize that using 600dpi would suffice in most photo sizes, and it should allow you to print your images clearly and with enough details in them. And the file size that you obtain would also be manageable! Follow the photography tips as mentioned above, and you should be able to accomplish photo scanning effectively with the right dpi setting at all times!

If you are looking for the best photo scanner and best slide and negative scanner to scan and digitize photos, slides and negatives, visit cannerReviewsInfo.com. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Vignes_Chandran

Start Protecting Your Pictures by Making Digital Copies on Your Own

Pictures pretty much make up our lives in the way they replicate and capture how we have lived our lives in the past and present times. Pictures can also be used to capture and mark important dates and occasions such as birthdays, weddings, travel trips as well as other memorable events such as the birth of a child. These picture provide us with proof of how life used to be in the past, and how life evolves year after year. I guess that it is now easier to capture and organize photos with the existence of digital cameras instead of the old film cameras. Although it is easier to browse your pictures through your digital camera, it is also charming to be able to browse through old photos that are displayed in a photo album.
Thus it has become exceptionally important that you are able to protect pictures of yours, both your digital and analog photos so that you do not lose them, and so that they do not get destroyed. In terms of protection of photographs, the first thing that you would need to accomplish is to organize them properly. Plan of how you want to organize your photos first, for instance you might want to start with the newest pictures first and go back in time with the older pictures and place the oldest pictures last. How you want to arrange your pictures is totally up to you, thus decide wisely! Keep them safely organized on your hard drive, this would allow you to look for the pictures that you want to see in the shortest duration possible.
Digitizing your photos would also allow you to place all your pictures in a photo library or new folder within your hard drive, and this would make the act of protecting your images all the easier. Make sure that you remember where you save your images so that you can locate them easily in the future. And if you want to make digital duplicate photos, make sure that you have a good photo scanner with you. Having a good scanner is crucial so that you can obtain clear scanned copies of your images, the minimum would be 1200dpi if you asked me. The price of a decent scanner would be anything between $150 to $300, though you could obtain better one if you want to spend more.
And it is always advisable that you back up your images by storing the digital photo libraries in different locations, for instance within an external hard drive, or you could also burn them in DVDs or CDRs. Multiple back ups are good if you want to be really secure, and you would also be able to avoid having to scan all your images once again if you lose your data for the first round of scanning!
Remember, when you are scanning your physical pictures, the process might take a few hours or even a few days, depending on the amount of pictures that you have. The key is to scan them slowly without missing out on any images, organizing them properly, and backing them up securely. And you would be able to protect your photos effectively by digitizing them by following the above-mentioned tips. All the best!

If you are looking for the best photo scanner and best slide and negative scanner to scan and digitize photos, slides and negatives, visit cannerReviewsInfo.com. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Vignes_Chandran

Basic Lighting Knowledge Makes Photographs Shine

When trying to create perfect photography, it's all about the lighting. Good lighting can make any subject look great.
Studio lighting is perhaps the best way to accomplish good photography. In the studio, the photographer has complete control of the lighting dynamic. A photographer must first decide whether the lighting in the studio should come from the ceiling or be based on the floor using stands. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Ceiling-based lighting is out-of-the-way. It won't interfere with movement in the studio. But a ceiling-based system is usually far more expensive. Expect to pay thousands of dollars for the rover and rail system used to manipulate the lights.
Floor-based lighting systems are considerably less expensive. They are mounted on portable lightweight stands. They are easily moved, but contribute to clutter in the studio and can be easily knocked over.
There are three types of studio lighting. One is called hot lights. Hot lights are on continuously. This type of illumination is usually reserved for television and film production. However, they can be useful in still photography also. Their advantage is a photographer can set a shot and know precisely what the lighting will look like. One big disadvantage is that they use a lot of energy and put out tremendous heat.
Some still photographers use warm lights. Warm lights are color balanced fluorescent light bulbs. Like hot lights, they provide constant illumination. But unlike hot lights, they don't produce substantial heat and are more energy-efficient. The main disadvantage is they can cast an uneven illumination.
The most common form of lighting for photographers are cold lights. Simply put, these are electronic flashes or strobes. But these flashes are more powerful than those built into cameras. There are two types of studio flash systems: Monolights and Power Pack systems. They both do basically the same thing. The monolight is a single illumine that plugs directly into the wall. A power pack system connects one or more strobe lights to a timing mechanism and a charging system. Both systems link electronically to the camera and flash as a photo is taken.
Understanding the types of strobe lights or flashes is also important. For general-purpose photography, 500 watt-seconds should work. Photographers can employ a smaller strobe to photograph smaller subjects such as those on a tabletop. However, most professional studio photographers have at least 2000 watt-seconds. Experts suggest photographers purchase strobe systems popular enough to get accessories, replacement bulbs and tips and service.
Regardless of hot, warm or cold lighting, the illumination might need to be diffused. Hard lighting can be achieved by using bare bulbs placed at an appropriate distance. To achieve diffused or softer illumination, light must be bounced or reflected off umbrellas or other reflective material. Hot and warm lighting can be diffused with filters placed directly in front of them. Gold and silver reflective panels can be used to balance light and change the color temperature.
By creating a good studio plan, and having a basic knowledge of color temperature and types of lighting, even the most novice photographer can achieve professional results.

Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=John_Parks

How To Keep Your Camera Dust-Free

The digital camera has become a common gadget in the world of photography. Yet no matter how technologically advanced your equipment is, it would all be nothing if you don't maintain the cleanliness of the lenses and the sensors. Here are some tips from experts on keeping your equipment clean.
One problem with a digital SLR is that the sensor gets easily dirty. Of course, you can always manipulate it with an image-editing program. But it is always better to practice preventive measures, leave the editing as a last resort.
Always vacuum your camera bag to get rid of dust as much as probable, keep the storage dust-free. When changing the lenses, take extra care because this is the time where dust will enter your camera, do it in a place without wind or dust such as inside a car or a room. Turn the camera off and point the lenses to the ground while unscrewing them. Take a large sized blower bulb and blow off any specks from the mirror box or shutter portion inside the camera and the sensors. Blow off also at the back of the lens you are going to use.
To prevent dust from coming to rest on the surface of the low-pass filter, always keep the body cap screwed on the body of the camera when none of the lenses are affixed. In environments that are full of dust, store the camera body in a re-sealable plastic bag or, better yet, an airtight rubber-sealed plastic container (Lock & Lock) as an additional protection from the entry of dust. (This container would also come in handy when travelling through wet environments.) Keep the base of the mirror box clean regularly to prevent fine particles that fall off, from the flanges of the lens mount each time you screw on or off a lens; these will migrate to the low-pass filter. Always store the camera body with the camera lens opening facing downwards so that any floating dust will settle away and not into the insides, make gravity work for you. Periodically clean your camera bag with a vacuum cleaner. Maintain the cleanliness of your lenses thoroughly, front & back, because much of the intrusive material that settles on the innards of the camera is drawn from the vacuum created by the act of focusing and zooming. When the groups of elements of the lens are changed in position the difference in air pressure creates a vacuum that sucks dust into the camera.

Make sure to spray the lenses regularly with anti fog spray before using the camera. This anti fogging is helpful especially during cold weather. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Greg_Pierce

Commercial Photographers Reps, Marketing Assistants or Consultants - Who Is Right For You?

Today's market demands that photographers actively and consistently market their services. The question faced by many professional photographers is how to facilitate the many tasks related to marketing while continuing to service clients.
The answer that most photographers immediately turn to is "I need a rep!"
While an agent is indeed a solution for some, it is not the answer for most photographers. In fact, a marketing assistant and or a consultant will serve most photographers well.
Read on to discover how each of these three different professionals might help you.
Agents
While the responsibilities an agent will take on, varies from rep to rep there are consistent tasks that most will perform. Agents are historically responsible for:

• Creating an overall marketing plan
• Prospecting new client leads
• Sending and or showing your portfolio
• Negotiating all assignment bids
• Licensing all images
• Some agents will work on talent development.

Most seasoned agents are looking to rep advertising photographers. Clients in that market are comfortable with reps and the fees generated by the usage of a photo drive the project rates to the highest fees paid in our industry. Agents take a commission of 25-35% of the project fee on new accounts and often look for an across the board 10% fee on house accounts.
They tend to look at seasoned professional or commercial photographers, those with a highly; developed vision and client list. It is a rare rep that will take on a new talent, or one that services the corporate or editorial worlds.
Marketing Assistants
A marketing assistant is not a new position, however few photographers think to go here. The job of a marketing assistant is to perform the tasks related to marketing your studio that you choose, or have little time to do. Historically, assistants will:

• Research out new account leads
• Call and make appointments for you to show your portfolio
• Oversee and facilitate a drop portfolio program
• Develop a data base for new prospect leads
• Facilitate your direct mail program

Finding a competent marketing assistant can sometimes be difficult. Look towards grad students, recently retired senior citizens, and mothers looking for extra hours.
Know what tasks you want a marketing assistant to perform and create a short list of personal and professional skills that any potential prospect must have.
Hiring a marketing assistant is not always expensive. This is usually a part time responsibility and you can start them off with as little as 5 hours per week.
Tasks should be clearly defined and geared toward your business needs. Just 20 hours of marketing support per month can surely improve your revenue stream. Marketing assistants are usually paid by the hour.
Consultants
The job of a consultant varies according to the skills and interest of each professional. As one of the first in the country, I have had the opportunity for the last 30 years to watch my industry develop. Consultant's services usually revolve around one of three or all of the following categories:

• Talent development: working with the photographer to develop a clear and focused vision that is marketable.
• Creating sales and marketing programs
• Developing portfolios
• Teaching photographers show to price, negotiate and license images
• Training sales staff

When choosing a consultant, check their background to make sure that their experience matches your needs. For instance, some consultants come from an agency art buying background. While they might be perfectly suitable for an advertising shooter, their advice might not be appropriate for an editorial, corporate or consumer portrait photographer. Check the firm's services and always ask for recent referrals.
Consultants generally have hourly fees for short- term work.
If you are interested in repositioning your business, need help developing a portfolio that sells or need guidance as you create a defined sales and marketing program, this team player may be right for you.
Which Professional Works Best For You?
To determine which professional may be a fit for your company, list your short and long term marketing goals. Determine the tasks associated with each goal and honestly evaluate your skill set, your time and your commitment to getting the job done. Review the tasks that you truly do not want to do, or are not capable of doing well. As you look at them collectively, match the list of tasks with the responsibilities listed above under each service provider.
Be pro active. Spend the money it takes to work with a great professional who is dedicated to helping you grow your business. Do not get caught in the "I can't afford help" mentality. After all, if you won't invest in your company, why should clients invest in you?

Would you like more information about how to build a thriving photography business in 2011? Join 14 industry experts for the FREE Clarion Call 2011 Professional Photography Teleseminar. Clarion Call 2011 was created by Selina Maitreya, a 30-year plus photographer mentor and portfolio consultant. Selina teaches commercial and professional photographers of all levels how to build a profitable business. Clarion Call 2011 - February 11 -12, 2011 is FREE and will fill up fast. Register today. http://professionalphotographyteleseminar.com/ Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Selina_Maitreya

Learn Photography - Find Out What It Takes To Be A Photographer

have been on a quest to learn photography for quite some time. But I get too focused on the technical aspects rather than on the creativity involved in photography.
Is a photographer an artist? An even more pressing question: Does owning a digital SLR camera make one a photographer?
I have been pondering these two questions lately with regard to my own photography. I do own a digital SLR camera. It's a Canon 30D. I take literally tons of photos with that camera. Yet, I sometimes have trouble calling myself a photographer.
The reason I have such a problem is because of the work of others. I spend hours viewing the pictures of others who I consider very talented in the field of photography, and, by comparison, I consider my pictures pretty stinky. Yet, someone else looks at my photos and declares their excellence. My problem, I guess, is personal expectation.
I want to take pictures that can stand up to the likes of Moose Peterson or Joe McNally, two of my favorite photographers and teachers. In my eyes, my images just don't rate compared to theirs.
I'm pretty critical about my own work in photography. At times, I am even more critical of the work of others who actually do call themselves photographers. How can someone call himself a photographer is he doesn't know an f-stop from a shutter speed?
But after some deep introspection, I realize that I am being rather cynical. After all, one man's trash is another man's treasure, right? Much to my dismay, I have become a "pixel peeper," meaning that I spend more time on the technical data and sharpness of the image than on the artistic or emotional value.
That's where the art comes in. When someone can press the shutter button and cause others to feel something, then the photographer is an artist, in my humble opinion.
So what if the person behind the camera doesn't know where to set the ISO. Or if the camera menu is like reading a foreign language, why should that even matter? The key is that they are taking pictures that bring joy, or sadness, or wonder to others.
Another thought is that not everyone is trying to get their photos accepted by National Geographic or People Magazine. They only want to save a memory, and in that sense, they are photographers and artists.
So, as I end my muse about photography and art, let me urge you to continue to shoot those pictures. Don't be afraid to let your imagination lead you into your next shot. It may bring a smile to a friend's face, or it may end up in National Geographic in spite of us Pixel Peepers.

I am trying to get past the cynicism, and in doing so, I am trying to help others become better at the craft of picture taking. Would you like to learn photography from someone who has made most of the mistakes? To view some photography learning resources, you can visit my website at http://www.photographyclassesatlanta.org/. Happy Shooting. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Wayne_Rasku

Digital Photography History: A Brief Rundown

There's a history for everything; digital photography is no exception. Given the interest people show on digital photography, there's a modicum of Interest, on most people's part, to know all about digital photography history. Today, we take our cameras for granted but just like most things we use and enjoy, digital photography has an interest streak running back down the lines of history.
The first camera was invented in the year 1951. The early version of the camera operated on the same technology that got us our television images. The first video tape recorder was invented in 1956 by a team of engineers led by John Mullin. Later, this technology was fine tuned by Charles P. Ginsburg.
By the time 1960s come about, NASA already started using digital photography - for the first time in the history of digital photography, really -- to capture and send images from outer space. At the same time, computers were increasingly gaining acceptance and growing into the super machines that we now use. It's worthwhile to mention that even the government had a lot of use for digital photography in espionage and spying activities. In fact, the science of digital imaging that we enjoy today should be attributed to the efforts governments took to enhance their digital technology.
After the world war, when capitalism finally raised its head above the ground, American based Texas Instruments patented the first ever film-less camera in the year 1972. Soon after that, in the year 1981, Sony unveiled its Sony Mavica Electronic Still Camera which later ruled as one of the first commercial grade digital cameras ever produced. Sony never stopped experimenting with its products and has been a venerable brand as far as digital photography is concerned.
Following this, Kodak started out with a full-stomp march with its first mega-pixel sensor based cameras capable of 1.4 MP then. Sooner after, Kodak released 7 different products all using digital technology. However, Kodak's breakthrough came in the year 1991, exactly 10 after Sony's Mavica episode, when Kodak released the first digital camera released exclusively for professional photographers and photo-journalists. Quickly then, Apple's QuickTake 100 Camera and the Kodak DC40 models that were famous during mid-nineties.
A war-like effort on the marketing front followed with almost every camera manufacturing company following suit into the new trend exactly at the same time when personal computing was also an increasingly popular trend world-wide. Olympus, Nikon, Canon, Sony, Kodak, Samsung and many other camera manufacturers kept producing one technological marvel of a digital camera after the other - continuing well on to this day.
Today, Digital cameras are the mainstay electronic gadgets and their use has become so simple that almost anyone with a few fingers can use, operate and manage their cameras along with the peripherals with these cameras. Most people are now tech-savvy enough to handle picture management, storing and sharing too --- that's a long way to come from the flash bulb ignited photo print technology of the yester years.

As you can see, digital cameras are seemingly everywhere nowadays, and if you're deciding on which camera lens will be your next one a great resource to read up on reviews can be found right here: Canon Lens Review It is an essential resource for comparing the very best in Canon Lenses and can be found here: Canon Lenses Reviews Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cameron_Keller

How to Find Digital Photography Jobs

You have come to the right place if you are interested in learning more about potential digital photography jobs. Photography is becoming an ever increasingly popular career choice, particularly in today's world of digital picture taking. If this sounds like something you would be interested in keep reading, below you will learn about job qualifications, training and a summary of what the average photographer earns.
First on the agenda, let's take a look at what a photographer is. You could say photography is about capturing images the portray an event or story. The best photographers know how to use lighting, angles and lenses to capture these moments in such a way that the viewer is drawn into the scene. You will have several types of photography to choose from including landscape, fashion, wildlife and wedding photography. Many institutions offer courses in these and various other photography disciplines. In addition to taking pictures, many photographers are also learning about electronic equipment for editing and otherwise manipulating photographs. Some photographers still use a dark room for developing, however this is becoming less popular.
Exactly what qualifications are required to become a photographer? If you are looking for a photography position as opposed to striking out on your own you should know employers look for technical photography skills and a great imagination. While not necessarily required it is a good idea to have a photography degree from a reputable institution. Photography courses are available at many local colleges around the country. These classes will focus on technique, process, design, composition and proper use of photography equipment. Once you have the education you will then need to obtain some photography experience. One great way to get this experience is by volunteering as an assistant to another professional. In the meantime, work on building your portfolio, which you can present to potential future clients.
Today photography has seen a good deal of advancements, especially when it comes to technology. This is one reason the field has become more appealing to a variety of individuals. Of course, that means more competition! With competition being so fierce it is a good idea to gain as much specialized knowledge as you can, the more you know about your chosen genre of photography the better your chances at securing a position within that particular field.
Now, we come to money and when it comes to an annual salary, the range is wide and varied. You will see start out wages anywhere from $14,000 per year up to $50,000. Generally speaking, that gives you a median annual salary of around $24,000 in the field of photography. That being said the particular area you go into will make a huge difference in your salary. For instance, even an average fashion photographer makes a great deal more than the portrait photographer does.
It is very important that you obtain a photography degree regardless of the type of photography you want to focus on. This will be essential to creating a thriving career. If you are ready to begin your journey toward your dream career as a photographer it is time to begin searching for a school that offers the courses you need. Before you know it you will be well on your way to establishing a profitable and fun career

Find out exactly how easy it is to improve your skills and knowledge and continue your photographic education and learn tips and tricks by visiting here: Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gaetane_Ross

Modeling Tips

To become a successful model, you need not just beauty and other physical attributes, but other key traits that will make you stand out among the countless other beautiful faces. Modeling is not just a glamorous job, it is also stressful and requires hard work. If you are not prepared for the grueling schedules you will be put through, you may quit before you have even begun. To help you prepare for a career in modeling, we have some modeling tips for you.
Have a Professional Attitude
Just like any other business, modeling requires a professional attitude from you as a model. Treat your colleagues, who includes photographers, casting directors, art directors and make up artists with the respect they deserve. A good work ethic is part of being a good professional, and will take you places in your modeling career.
Make a Modelling Portfolio and a Website
A good portfolio will make the best first impressions in a field where impressions count for a lot. Your portfolio should have a minimum of 5-6 photographs, and a maximum of 20. A website can serve as your virtual modeling portfolio as well as your calling card.
Get an Agent
Contact a modeling agency, and see if they are willing to represent you. There are a lot of shady people an agencies in this business, so do adequate research before you sign on with one.
Use Networking Skills
To reach more potential clients, you need to use networking techniques such as getting referrals from your older clients. People who have used networking to their advantage will tell you that usually they can get 2-5 new clients from every satisfied client through referrals. As long as you behave professionally with your clients and others, and remain in good terms with them, new clients will contact you.

Modellingjobs.com is the leading modeling jobs site. Search and apply for modeling jobs, create modeling portfolio, view modeling agencies, and participate in Modeling Forum frequented by models, agents and photographers. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_Shiny_Smith

Modeling Tips

To become a successful model, you need not just beauty and other physical attributes, but other key traits that will make you stand out among the countless other beautiful faces. Modeling is not just a glamorous job, it is also stressful and requires hard work. If you are not prepared for the grueling schedules you will be put through, you may quit before you have even begun. To help you prepare for a career in modeling, we have some modeling tips for you.
Have a Professional Attitude
Just like any other business, modeling requires a professional attitude from you as a model. Treat your colleagues, who includes photographers, casting directors, art directors and make up artists with the respect they deserve. A good work ethic is part of being a good professional, and will take you places in your modeling career.
Make a Modelling Portfolio and a Website
A good portfolio will make the best first impressions in a field where impressions count for a lot. Your portfolio should have a minimum of 5-6 photographs, and a maximum of 20. A website can serve as your virtual modeling portfolio as well as your calling card.
Get an Agent
Contact a modeling agency, and see if they are willing to represent you. There are a lot of shady people an agencies in this business, so do adequate research before you sign on with one.
Use Networking Skills
To reach more potential clients, you need to use networking techniques such as getting referrals from your older clients. People who have used networking to their advantage will tell you that usually they can get 2-5 new clients from every satisfied client through referrals. As long as you behave professionally with your clients and others, and remain in good terms with them, new clients will contact you.

Modellingjobs.com is the leading modeling jobs site. Search and apply for modeling jobs, create modeling portfolio, view modeling agencies, and participate in Modeling Forum frequented by models, agents and photographers. Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=James_Shiny_Smith

Images of Asia Travel Photography

Just as Chinese painters of many centuries ago focused their art on the natural world, so do modern photographers capture the varied images of the Asian landscape. Photographic images of Asia reveal the photographer's response to the varied cultures and environments of the orient.
According to an ancient Confucian text, "Nature is vast, deep, high intelligent, infinite and eternal." The Asian landscape is uniquely beautiful, but it is more than that. Its vastness is a reflection of eternity, and its balance is a measure of the order of the universe.
The interaction of mountains and water is at the heart of Chinese landscape; one element does not exist without each other. Asian travel photography reveals the constant interplay of the flow of water and the solid mass of mountain rock, feeding the plants and animals that rely on this eternal relationship.
Travel photography in the Orient depicts not only the natural environment, but also the built environment and the people who inhabit it. Steep mountain paths winding from the hills greet the photographer willing to venture off the beaten path. Elaborate villas exist in remote mountain villages. Women still work in kitchens and serve meals, while children ride astride water buffalo. A teacher instructs a child while the father sits nearby. Travelers start their journey on the twisted mountain paths.
The architecture of Asia is instrumental to the built environment. The ardent adventure photographer may very well find two-court structures in remote areas. These classic buildings have a public front gate and kitchen at one end and a private family court in a separate wing. The photographer is likely to find such a building, with its sharp lines, integrated into the landscape of rugged rock and earth.
The Great Wall of China may be the most magnificent example of man's influence over the natural environment. This ancient structure fits into the landscape as if it were always there.
But the photographer of images of Asian need not be confined to scenes from the past. Images of the twenty-first century China, for example, show the newly wealthy nation moving at rapid speed into the modern era. Automobiles replace the traditional bicycles and create traffic jams and pollution. Buildings designed by the most esteemed contemporary architects in the world replace small courtyard homes in cities, and rise high into the sky. The cultural environment encompasses massive sculptures of the past along with modern technology. The photographer in a garden in the city may spot an old man carefully writing Chinese characters on the sidewalk with just a wet brush as a teenager talks excitedly on a cell phone.
The Orient today is a land of harmonies and contrasts. A photographer with a quick and sensitive eye can capture the complex images of Asia, with its tributes to ancient times and its excitement over the future. Fine Asian travel photography gives viewers a window into this enormous and diverse continent, a region of the world most people will never see on their own.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Robertson