Failsafe White Balance For Your Digital Camera

With all the high tech gadgetry that the digital world has brought to photography, one low tech way to get a perfect white balance is as close as your kitchen pantry. This little tip is one that I use every time I shoot and it never fails me. The trick is to set your custom white balance setting on your digital camera by placing a coffee filter in front of the lens and shooting the test shot in the custom white balance setting mode.

Since I shoot with a Nikon D1x, I'll show you how to do it on that camera. Follow your camera's instructions for exact instructions if you don't shoot with a D1X.

First I set the focus to manual mode by moving the focus lever on the left side of the camera to M. The camera will try to focus and will be unable to with the filter on, so setting to manual will make it easier. I then place a single white paper coffee filter over the lens. You can either hold it or use a rubber band to secure it on your lens. Just make sure if completely cover the front of your lens and your camera is pointing towards your subject. Next, hit the MONITOR button, then the MENU button.

Make sure your cursor is to the left and then scroll down to the Shooting Menu. Highlight White Bal cursor and move your cursor pad to the right. Choose WB Preset and then choose set, press shutter, cursor right to choose OK and your set. From then on, every shot will be setup with a perfect white balance.

You can do this with flash as well as cloudy and sunny days. The trick is to make sure if your lighting changes drastically, to reset the balance. Especially if you put your camera away and then shoot on another day. Shooting in RAW mode, will at least offer a recovery plan. I have seen other discussions on the net for using plastic lids and other opaque plastics, so experiment and see what works best for you.

I know this is a low tech trick in a high tech world, but this technique works every time.

Terry Divyak is a photographer based in the Pacific Northwest. His credits include magazine covers. He has been recognized as a top 10 photographer in international competition, as well as a winner in the travel category in Photo District News Magazine. His photography can be seen on his personal website at http://www.terrydivyak.com

The Best SLR Digital Cameras For 2009

The SLR, or Single Lens Reflex camera is the choice of professional photographers around the world for a lot of good reasons. Better quality lens, and the added flexibility to change lens when the situation calls for it are just a couple. A good SLR makes for some truly exceptional photographs. While the pros have come to rely on SLR as their first choice in camaras, there's no reason to assume that beginner, or serious amateur photographers can't benefit from the advantages of SLR cameras. With their considerably cheaper pricing over previous years, and the incorporation of many easy to use features found in inexpensive point and shoot cameras, the SLR is quickly becoming the choice of pros and the amateurs alike.

With that in mind, lets take an early look, at what promises to be the best DSLR cameras for 2009. As new cameras hit the streets in the coming months, be rest assured that prices will drop, and the number of features offered will only increase. We'll update this report as those cameras are released.

Nikon D90 DX 12.3MP & 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR DX Nikkor Zoom Lens

One of the first digital SLR cameras to offer at least basic video recording capabilities. Image quality is top rate. While the lens kit is a favorite of many, I can't totally say it's my first choice. The plastic mount feels a little cheap compared to the metal mount provided with the 70-300mm from Nkon. On the plus side though, it does have the same ISO functionality as the D300, which actually costs about $600 more. For under $1200, this is a lot of camera, but it needs to be handled with care because of the construction of the body. Given the price of it though, I expect many people would do that anyway. A solid performer.

Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP & EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens

If you want to feel like Joe-Super-Photographer, or maybe even Peter Parker, then this is the camera for you. It's a few hundred dollars more than the D90, but not without good reason. The 50D is truly a very adept camera, that produces eye watering photographs at any ISO setting. With very fast shutter times, and next to no lag, you won't miss a thing with this Canon. One point to ensure true photography bliss, is to pair the 50D up with a good lens. While the 28-135 is adequate, the EF 24-105mm f4.0L is a much better choice. The extra dollars will be forgotten about as soon as you start to develop the brilliant pictures produced by this very capable camera.

Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12.2 MP & EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS

While the Rebel XSi, is a substantially less expensive SLR then my prior two choices, I would be remiss, if I didn't include it in this discussion.

The Rebel series from Canon has been responsible for converting more point and shoot amateur photographers into true photographic geniuses, the likes of which even Ansel Adams would be proud. If your new to the world of SLR, then you can't go wrong with the XSi. If however, your a more advanced photographer, then the Nikon D90 or Canon 50D are likely better choices.

Gun Scopes

Gun scopes are an excellent way to magnify a target and hit it accurately. New technologies have made them smaller and more accurate. The latest trend in gun scopes is making them magnify greater distances while simultaneously becoming smaller in size. With traditional optics and lenses there are many limitations to scopes, to magnify something far away the scope has to be very large and long. This makes them excessively heavy which affects the accuracy of the shooter. Long distance shots were exceedingly difficult with even the most high powered gun scopes.

With the use of digital technology which is common in high end video and digital cameras a digital scope can see as far, or further, than an optical scope. The main advantage is weight and size savings but there are a number of other advantages that can be utilized with a digital gun scope.

Digital gun scopes can easily integrate a range finder into the scope without sacrificing space and weight. Night optics utilizing infrared are also much easier on digital versions. About the only disadvantage a digital scope has is its need for batteries and susceptibility to water. High end scopes are weather proofed to combat the latter, only extra batteries can combat the former.

One advantage is that the view finder does not have to be aligned with the barrel of the gun. This means that a gun can be shot around corners without exposing the person firing the weapon. A small camera is installed on the tip of the firearm which is connected to a viewfinder, often wirelessly. This has paved the way for even more interesting gun systems where the firearm is operated completely remotely. The US military has a number of small treaded vehicles that can have different guns mounted on them, such as the deadly 50mm cannon, and be controlled, sighted and fired completely remotely.

Having digital gun scopes has another huge advantage that no other gun has ever had, the ability for commanding officers, generals and other military personnel to view what is happening on the front lines in real time. This gives them a huge tactical advantage over troops that are less informed and advised from their commanders. Changes to protocol can be made and followed instantly which is vital to preventing war crimes, friendly fire and other dangerous or politically disastrous situations.

Probably the most high tech gun scopes are not really scopes at all and most people will never get to use or even see them as they are used experimentally by the military. They are more similar to a sonar system on a submarine than a traditional gun scope. A signal is emitted from various points, such as a soldiers back pack and various "buoys" that can be dropped from helicopters or predator drones or thrown into hostile areas by the troops themselves. Another sensor detects the discrepancies in the signal and creates a virtual environment of the area which can be shown on a screen in the soldier's gun sight.

With GPS technology ordinance can be pinpointed to a specific spot and the targets neutralized without ever exposing any soldiers to danger. For less destructive missions the soldiers can go in knowing where everyone is and what to expect which is very uncommon on the battlefield. Digital gun sights are making targeting easier while exposing the soldiers to less danger which gives the owners of this technology a huge advantage over those without it which also makes it necessary that it is only used in the right way.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for Web sites on parenting, recreation, and home decor. Her background also includes teaching, gardening, and fashion. For more of her useful articles on firearms, please visit Gun Scopes, supplier of useful information on guns and gun accessories.

Christmas Toys Every Child Wants

There have never been as many toys - new and old - available to give as Christmas gifts as there are now. Cutting through the clutter and finding the toys that children actually want seems like mission impossible to many people. Knowing what types of toys are popular with children doesn't have to be too difficult. Below is a list of some of the top Christmas toys every child wants in 2010.

Top Christmas Toys Every Child Wants in 2010

This list has been compiled from various sources.

• 
  Stinky The Garbage Truck - It has an awful name, but this truck from Mattel Matchbox is shaping up to be a big hit this Christmas.


• 
  Kidizoom Video Camera - This camcorder for small children is high-tech and is sure to be on many Christmas lists this year.


• 
  Kung Zhu hamsters - The hamsters are back - with another inexpensive toy that many children love.


• 
  Jet pack Buzz Lightyear - This toy is rather expensive, but many children are wanting it after seeing Toy Story 3 earlier this year.


• 
  Paper Jamz Guitar - The guitar has been around forever, but this year kids are going to be screaming for the Paper Jamz version.  They're made out of paper and very cheap. They use Touch technology and sound great.

If you see any of these items, it might be a good idea to get one while you can. There are no guarantees that the child you're buying a gift is going to like your selection, but these are some of the top toys that kids want in 2010. The old classics are sure to be favorites as well. From Barbie to LEGO blocks to GI Joe, there are many toys that have withstood the test of time and have been popular year after year.

K. Paul Mallasch is the publisher of Top Toys Blog, which has a great collection of top toys in 2010.

Key Fob Spy Camera

The key fob spy camera Recorder has to be one of the hottest new hidden camera recorder products currently available in the covert surveillance marketplace.

The spy key fob DVR camera is one of the most recent camera / recorder products to hit the market. This camera, as the name suggests, looks like a completely normal central-locking remote control for a car and a straightforward button press will start the unit recording the video and audio in its vicinity. Whilst very similar to the spy pen camera / recorder they can be used in somewhat different situations, possibly around the home or anywhere where it would not seem out of place to leave a set of keys. Set-up may also be a little easier where you can simply throw your keys on a surface, table or counter obviously trying to make sure the lens is pointing in the direction of your subject.

These little units are fitted with a standard micro SD card slot and will work with card sizes up to 16GB, which is enough to capture as much as 30 hours of video and audio data at VGA quality (640x480) and PAL 25 frames per second and NTSC 30 frames per second. However, the integral Lithium-ion battery will only power the unit for approximately 90 minutes before a recharge is required.

The key fob camera is just one of the covert camera gadgets that are now available. With the improvement of technical science, we will see numerous more variations on the camera / recorder product line. So watch this space but in the meantime you should always be careful with what you do and say as these days, you never know when someone is recording you.

Whenever you work with spy camera products you should get yourself completely up-to-date with the local laws pertaining to their operation. In many of instances, you may find that the recordings are not admissible as legal evidence and therefore may not be allowable for use in a court of law.

Chris Packer owns and runs several niche retail web sites of which, one markets and sells a range of spy camera equipment and hidden camera equipment and has been doing so since May 2001.

The Power of YouTube- How to Get Your Video Seen

A viral video can launch your brand into the stratosphere. But with all the videos out there, how can you make sure yours gets seen? While you never can predict with 100% certainty which videos will be knock-out successes, there are a few things you can do to raise your chances. Here are a few tips for making your video a viral success.

Make it short. People surfing online have lightning-quick attention spans. You may be able to do a longer video if you're showing it on your business's website for the purpose of instructing a select group, but on YouTube, it's got to be quick and catchy to thrive. Your video has a better chance of surviving in the cutthroat online market if it doesn't ask a lot of time from its viewers.

Make it funny (or shocking). This one should be obvious--but funny isn't always as effortless as it looks. The most effective viral videos inspire at least a chuckle, and they generally have a surprise twist at the end. So give your viewers something they're not expecting, and give them a reason to laugh.

Shock value also gets high ratings--the idea is to do things that can't be done on television, like off-color language, nudity, and controversy. Zoo, a Maxim-style men's magazine, did a viral video involving a topless model shopping for underwear--which worked for their demographic. Shock value may not be the best way to make a good impression on your customers, however, so make sure it's appropriate for your demographics.

Make it easy to relate to. If you do this well, you may be able to get away with a longer format. For example, one viral video shows a man delivering an increasingly manic rant about Macintosh computers. Since most of us can relate to being frustrated with technology, this video manages to make a longer format work--viewers will stick around to see the whole thing.

Don't make it look like an ad. You aren't likely to get a big viral following on a video that seems like a typical advertisement. Keep the sales pitch light--or nonexistent. Most successful viral videos have a home-grown feel: handheld cameras, no makeup, no professional lighting or sets.

If you must make it look like an ad--have fun with it. That said, there are some hilarious examples of viral videos that admit they're ads--and let the viewers in on the joke. Again, the more effective ones tend to be a bit too racy for regular television. The Zoo viral started with a line something like "Our boss gave us £10,000 to make an ad, but instead we decided to hire a model and film her underwear shopping." It sounds a bit rebellious and prankish, so even though they're still making an ad, it appeals perfectly to their primarily young male audience. It can be quite funny to have a polished, professional-looking video that looks like an ad, but goes against the grain in a significant way.

Market your video. Once you've come up with the perfect video concept, shot it, and uploaded it to video sharing sites, your job is just beginning. It's very unlikely that your video will be an immediate smash hit, no matter how well executed. There are many ways you can get the word out. Blog about it--or get well-read bloggers to bring it up. Get friends and family to view it and give it a good rating, just to get things started.

One effective way to get your video in front of a big audience is to leave a video response to another, high-traffic video. Be careful with this, however, or it could come off as spam. Pick videos that have a similar sensibility to yours, and don't do it more often than would seem natural.

Don't limit yourself to YouTube. It's the biggest name in video-sharing sites. But it's easy to get lost in the crowd at YouTube, because so many people are trying to do the same thing you are. This doesn't mean you shouldn't use YouTube. But you should also post it on sites that get a lot of traffic and aren't focused only on video. Because the competition to stand out isn't so fierce--and you still have a decent viewership--your video has a better chance to catch on. Try Metacafe, Google Video, and Yahoo Video in addition to YouTube. There are also sites like Revver that inserts a one-frame ad at the end of your video, and pay you every time a viewer clicks on it. Revver doesn't have the high viewer volume, but it can make you some cash.

Do more than one. A viral video is a great promotional tool--but there's always something hotter, newer, and funnier coming up behind you. Even with the most effective videos, success can be short-lived. To keep your company in front of viewers, do a series of videos. If your first one becomes a success, the others will be eagerly anticipated--and if you don't succeed on the first try, your next video will give you a second chance.

A viral video can get your company in front of thousands of viewers--and may make you a runaway success. But it can take some time and effort to get the ball rolling. With proper planning, effective marketing, and a hilarious video, you could be the next viral star.

Gareth D works at GSINC Ltd and UK company providing a range of web video and internet marketing services to business. For more information on GSINC, web videos and SEO visit http://www.gsinc.co.uk/

Video Surveillance Cameras Make Your Car Road-Worthy

Your vehicle darts along the road, continuing to speed faster and faster. You press on the brakes, and discover you've lost control over the vehicle's breaking system! Seconds later, you hit a wall. Proving Newton's law that "for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction," your head whips back against the headrest. The airbag, which ballooned on impact, cushions your head. With your cranium buried in the inflated airbag, you feel like a dummy, and that is precisely what you are - a crash test dummy. To optimize what they could learn from you, researchers had placed a video surveillance camera on the wall. Such cameras remain useful throughout the life of an automobile.

The Production

From start to finish, the production of an automobile is a very precise and meticulous process. Video surveillance cameras are vital in ensuring that quality control is always maintained. They are mainly used for inspecting many parts, verifying that parts have been positioned properly and in 3D guidance of robots. For instance "smart" cameras are frequently used in various stages of automobile production. The camera helps robots "learn" certain parts. The robots, in turn, use a "vision processor" to verify that a correct product has been installed.

Along an automobile assembly line, video surveillance cameras are also used to monitor the totally automated installation of the windshield and rear-window. Cameras ensure that parts, such as panels, have been positioned accurately onto the vehicle's body.

The Testing

Many tests are conducted on automobiles. These are carried out to improve their quality and safety. One example is the crash test. High speed cameras, which can capture more frames per second than other cameras, are used. The camera helps to detail what happens to the passenger and automobile during the crash. Due to the high cost of crash tests, these cameras are invaluable in helping researchers obtain as much data as possible from the test. A video surveillance camera can be used for other types of tests on cars. For example, the road test checks whether or not the car is worthy to be driven on roads. Lastly, a video surveillance camera can be used to enforce quality control at emissions test centers, where the amount of pollutants that a vehicle produces is tested.

The Protection

In addition to assisting in the production and testing of automobiles, video surveillance cameras can also be used to safeguard automobiles from auto theft, a grave problem in America. Consider the following statistics.

* Every year, over one million vehicles are stolen in the United States.

* In 2005, the 2001 BMW M Roadster was the most frequently stolen passenger vehicle in the United States.

* In 2006, more vehicles were stolen in Las Vegas than in any other metropolitan area in the United States.

Mounted in places such as driveways, parking lots, parking garages, and car alarm stores, video surveillance cameras are valuable in protecting one's investment. In addition to capturing visual evidence against car thieves, they also serve as a deterrent for those who are thinking about taking someone else's Jaguar, Road Runner, or Bug.

There is no doubt that from the assembly line to the junkyard, video surveillance cameras shift gears to play vital roles in the lives of automobiles.

Thinking of buying a video surveillance camera? Visit our site today and find out more about security cameras and security camera systems.

Maximize The Message - Adding Online Video To Your Marketing Mix

Rising Popularity

It's almost a no-brainer. You've probably worked hard to put copy and graphic content on your web site, so why not use video too?

A study conducted by DoubleClick found that visitors are five times more likely to click on an online video ad than an ad without video. And there are many other ways to use online video to promote your company.

This is why big companies such as Cisco and GM are already into it. In fact, the amount of money spent for online video is expected to triple in the next three years. Are you ready to be a part of this new technology?

Use What You Have Now

You don't need a gigantic budget to create online video content

The best thing about online video is that there's a very low barrier to entry. Most digital devices already have the equipment you need built in, and it costs virtually nothing to post video on your web site.

You can choose to spend a lot of money on the production of a video, but this isn't critical. For example, a San Francisco real estate agent used the video camera in her cell phone to record a walk-through of a home she was selling, and then posted the video on YouTube. You can see it here.

A lot of other successful videos are little more than a person talking about their product or giving a demonstration. The key is creating the right kind of video for your goals and distributing it the right way. Getting your video to viewers is an important consideration that we will cover later.

Secrets to attention-grabbing videos that people remember and act upon

Telecare Recovery Story First off, if you want a successful video you need to use the same principles you would use in writing copy. This starts with a good title or headline to make sure people actually watch your video.

There's no absolute formula for writing this headline, but the three most important factors, in order of importance, are:

1. Self-interest


2. Specifics


3. Curiosity

For example, "Improve Your Retirement" has self interest. (More info on quality writing: http://www.enthusiastinc.com/articles1-56/?source=ezineArticle634138)

But if you call your video "How to double your retirement income," you've added specifics to make it stronger. A title such as "How a little-known tax loophole can let you double your retirement income" inspires curiosity as well, and this will certainly bring in a lot of visitors.

Likewise, your video should capture your viewers' interest, even if it's just a talking head discussing the product. Be sure to make it clear what they can gain by using your service, making an appointment, or carrying out whatever action you're trying to have them do.

As a rule of thumb, your video will be more popular if you can make it funny, weird, inspiring, or instructional. Brainstorm creative ways to do this. As an example, see the "Will It Blend?" series.

Here are some suggestions on ways to use online video:

• Demonstrate the actual product or service in action


• Graphically illustrate what the client's life will be like once they start using your product


• Offer tips and advice, or teach the viewer something they'd probably like to know


• Tell a story about your company


• Use clips from a speech or presentation you've made, or a media appearance


• Make a "video testimonial" of satisfied clients talking about your company


• Post at least one of your videos on YouTube (be sure to have a watermark with your URL) where it may go viral


• If you're just going to talk, keep the same enthusiasm and sincerity you would share in a real face-to-face meeting with a client. This alone has more impact than text on a page.

Some Additional Tips For Using Online Video

Know your audience, and the image you want to promote. Do you want to be gritty or professional? Irreverent or serious?

Consider the effects that online video will have on your Search Engine Marketing. Make sure you have an expert helping you manage your content so your video won't create a glitch.

Have an intentional next action identified for the video such as applying for a free offer, reading a more detailed article, or even making a phone call. Then measure video views, viewers, and its success in moving people to the intended next action.

Finally, keep your eyes and ears and mind alert for new ideas. Look for moments at work where something happens that everyone asks about afterwards. If you do something that people want to watch, that's a good sign that you've hit upon video material.

Make The "Bread" Rise In Your Business

Most likely video is not the most important ingredient in your marketing recipe. However, it could offer exceptional returns for the investment. Since Enthusiast is in the business of Web Solutions that are simple and effective, we want to enable companies to take advantage of this great opportunity.

To enable this, we recently designed, developed, and released a web video player that extends the Site Director Media Library where video files are stored. Previously videos could be saved in Windows Media, QuickTime, and other formats but required additional player applications to be installed on the viewing computer and correctly integrated with their current web browser. This poses significant challenges to marketers who want to minimize barriers to viewing their message.

As a solution, we have created a Adobe Flash based video player that allows the seamless use of video that can be played right in the browser with no external players involved. All that is required is the small Flash plug-in that comes standard with all web browsers and converting the videos to the Flash format.

Some examples using the Site Director player:

• SpeedFreaks Radio - See archives of their ESPN show with ease! (Including sponsorship) (http://www.speedfreaks.tv/downloads/list.sd?catid=152&source=ezineArticle634138)


• Telecare Corporation - See true recovery stories! (http://www.telecarecorp.com/articles/258,1.html?source=ezineArticle634138)


• MAP - See left column for first hand accounts a of results. (http://www.mapconsulting.com/?source=ezineArticle634138)

We have taken this advice and are preparing to release compelling videos of real world success stories using Enthusiast Web Solutions with Site Director. For more information on how you can maximize your message using video, drop us a line today.

This article originally appeared here:
http://www.enthusiastinc.com/articles1-55/MaximizeTheMessageAddingOnlineVideoToYourMarketingMix?source=ezineArticle634138

Jon Cline is CEO and VP of Marketing at Enthusiast Web Solutions based in Los Angeles. Jon has an extensive background in technology, strategy, and marketing related fields. Enthusiast web solutions are an integral part of many successful industries such as education, health care, not-for-profit, automotive, retail, services and others. These companies include The American Film Institute, The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, Management Action Programs, Telecare Corporation, The Foursquare Church, L'ANZA, Claus Ettensberger Corporation, & The Culver Studios, and SpeedFreaks.

Enthusiast provides solutions that look beyond technology to results. More free information is available at http://www.enthusiastwebsolutions.com?source=ezineArticle634138

Instant Hit - New 10.1-Inch Mini Laptop Computers From Acer

Mini laptop computers are very popular these days. The new line of 10-inch Acer Laptop Computer - Acer Aspire One (AOD150 series) become an instant hit, right after it's debut last month. The new 10'' inch netbook is a natural extension to his predecessor Acer Aspire One 8.9''. Except for the new bigger screen, the new AOD150 has a new stylish design as well. The online mobility of this mini laptop computer is guaranteed with integrated bluetooth module and a 54g wireless LAN (Acer InviLink).

Other nice feature is that this netbook comes with a 5800mah battery. Whit that power is enough for continuous work away from the socket for up to 7 hours. The hard drive is the same 5400 rpm 160gb as on 8.9 version, with SATA interface One of the most nice features is the ultra bright 10.1'' monitor. Despite of max resolution 1024x600, the screen is very easy for the eyes, no matter how long you have to work on it. In addition to the screen Acer integrated in this mini laptop Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950, that can use shared video memory. That means that you can use some of your system ram for graphic needs.

The processor is the well-know Intel Atom 1.6 ghz which has power optimization, so you can use a little power, which is critical for a longer use with standard battery. The additional features that you have on this mini laptop are: Multy card reader, three USB port for your peripherals, 1,3 web camera integrated in the top of the screen, audio and microphone jack. one 15 pin port for an external monitor and 10/100 Fast Ethernet LAN connection.

The performance of this mini laptop computer is very nice if you use it to stay connected to friend and family or just browsing the WEB. It's perfect for a student or for a world traveler. As a back up on the go machine, or just to have it in your bag without noticing it. The prices are very reasonable and with this high competition on the netbook market, we can expect them to drop around 300$ until the end of the year.

For more information on the mini laptop computers and product information visit: http://www.shop-ideas.com

HTC EVO 4G Phone Review and Specs

With an ever growing market for android phones, the hype that surrounds the HTC EVO 4G is of the same type that surrounded Google's Nexus One back in January. With the resolution of a 4.3 inch screen, an 8 megapixel camera, 720p video camera, 4G WiMax and even a kickstand, it's no wonder that this phone is the topic of so much talk. However, whether you will like this phone or not depends on your own specific taste.

One of the first things that will hit you about EVO is that it's huge and you will either love the feel of this gigantic phone in your hand or you will find it awkward and annoying to be lugging around such a huge device. But the weight and size are not just for show. The phone is sturdy and can withstand a fall or five, so for the clumsier amongst us, this could be an invaluable feature.

Even if you don't care for big and heavy phones, another thing which makes the EVO worth considering is that it runs on Sprint's 4G WiMax network, connecting you to the web with an incredible speed. The phone's 8 megapixel camera is able to shoot a 720p video, so it takes care of HD on its own. The pictures turn out beautiful in daylight (as should be expected from an 8 megapixel camera); however, the quality of the photos at nighttime is questionable.

The screen, although massive, is beautiful and the 400x800 resolution makes everything look sharp. The EVO uses a TFT screen rather than OLED one (which Nexus uses). The former makes the screen easy to see at all times, while you could barely see the screen with the latter in sunlight. One of the extreme downsides of this phone, however, is its battery life. The maximum amount of time that the battery of this phone lasts is about 4 hours, so for those who move around a lot, you might want to keep your charger handy.

Another thing that may put some people off is the price. You need a fat wallet to commit to this phone. Besides the upfront costs, the phone's maintenance costs and the price for buying other features may drive some people up the wall.

In the end, however, whether you like or hate this phone will depend largely on your own taste. If you want a big and brawny phone with a plethora of specs then this is for you. If, however, big phones aren't your thing and you prefer something simpler and cheaper, you might want to consider checking out something else.

Dave has been writing articles for about 6 years now. Not only does the author specialize in tech, Sony and gadgets, you can also check out his latest website on forum skins which reviews and lists the vBulletin skins for web development.

Surveillance for Work Or Home

Security cameras are a sure way to increase protection for your belongings and personal well-being. Most people haven't given much consideration to having surveillance equipment installed because of the cost. However, as surveillance technology has improved, more affordable equipment has hit the market. Now, they are a realistic option for businesses or homes. Such surveillance offers a couple of benefits.

The first and most obvious benefit of security cameras is being able to identify intruders, or even prevent them from intruding. Knowledge is power, and cameras provide you with plenty of knowledge. Monitoring a live feed, you can identify intruders before they have done any damage, and get them to leave the area. Even if the intruders succeed in damaging or stealing your property, a recorded video will help to identify the intruders so you can retrieve your property.

The psychological factor of surveillance is notable as well. A home or business with them shows potential intruders that you'll not be easy to take advantage of. Criminals have many options, and if they have to choose between a house with a security camera and a house without, they'll quickly choose the latter. Think of security cameras as a ward that criminals won't go within a hundred feet of. With surveillance, you can exchange your fear for your safety with the intruder's fear of being caught.

With the price of safety sinking ever lower, surveillance has become a smart choice for nearly everybody. For the safety and ease-of-mind that security cameras bring, they are well worth the reasonable price.

Triton Security specializes in dual monitoring. They use reliable security and emergency systems that include complete phone and wireless systems. With an installed security camera Calgary residents and businesses can rest assured that all all types of safety and emergency issues are covered. (http://www.securedbytriton.com)

Video Backgrounds For Motion Designers

The growth of video has been phenomenal in recent times. Creative use of video backgrounds has enriched the market with innovative motion clips, movies and web videos. Video production has been simplified to a wider audience with more artistic design being introduced regularly.

Vlogging

When it comes to social media, video blogging or vlogging is one area we have seen demand grow to make use of royalty free motion graphics. An off-shoot of blogging, vlogging uses a snappier, multimedia environment where people share videos that are appealing to their audience and viewers. some are even able to comment on them through links on the site.

This creative use of Video Backgrounds is a hit among the younger generation who are attracted to interactive media which does not require them to read text. As attention spans are ever shortening,vlogging is the ideal avenue for sharing thoughts, ideas and messages. Video production in vlogging boils down to having a camera, broadband internet connectivity, a PC and editing software. Inspiration, imagination coupled with inexpensive royalty free video clips is all a motion designer needs to produce a short promotional clip to share with their network.

Video backgrounds can be used in numerous ways by businesses and individuals alike - from making multimedia ads, video emails, promotional movies to games and music clips. Vlogging is a creative use of motion design which allows viewers to connect instantly with the content and provide commentary on the clip itself. The low cost of motion production has made vlogging an affordable and interesting way for people to connect on the web.

Brian is CEO of Anistock. Anistock is a leading source on the web for downloading Video backgrounds and motion backgrounds royalty free library.

Security Cameras - Surveillance Camera Equipment Checklist

The security market is exploding. It seems that every night there is a news broadcast of some terrible break and enter or murder. The next day, the phones ring off the hook in the offices of companies that sell security cameras.

This is understandable since we are afloat in an ocean of crime, many of them vicious and violent. The moment you start looking around for technology to keep you, your loved ones and your property safe you hit a brick wall. Unless you are a techie, you quickly find yourself adrift in a sea of jargon about surveillance cameras equipment that you don't understand and options you haven't a clue how to judge.

While I cannot cover everything involved in this article, I will give you a checklist of things to make sure to get,some things that are just nice, but not necessary and others that are downright useless.

The best advice I can give you right off the bat is for you to find someone you know who has gotten a security cameras system installed. They can help you with ideas and helpful hints, but the greatest thing they can do for you is make a recommendation about the company they bought their system from. If they say they would buy again from the same company, you have found pure gold. There are many scam artists out there who will sell you a system and install it. You might not find out until after it's too late that it doesn't work well, doesn't give you the protection promised or no protection at all.

There are two types of systems. The first system involves a series of hidden video cameras. Bear in mind that these systems have never stopped one crime! They are terrific for what they do, but all they do is video a crime in progress. It is small consolation to know that your murder will be well documented for the police.

The other is a system where all the cameras are highly visible. There is no doubt about what they are and what they are for. These are the ones that tell any would-be criminal to smile because they are on surveillance camera! This is a great deterrent to crime. They know without a doubt that they will be videoed. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that this evidence is iron clad in court.

Here is your checklist for the high visibility surveillance cameras equipment system:

• It it hard wired or wireless? This will have a great impact on the cost of the finished product. A wireless system is basically plug and play. A wired system takes special crimpers and cable.


• If there are dark areas that you want covered, make sure that the system has night vision cameras included to cover those areas.


• Does the system include outdoor, weatherproof cameras? These are a lot more expensive than the indoor ones.


• If the system is wireless, get your hands on one of those cheap baby monitors and use it as an experiment. If they will transmit along the path you want your camera signal to cover, you'll be alright. If there are electric motors, noisy light fixtures or other sources of electrical noise along the way, the monitors will be noisy or won't transmit at all. Neither will your wireless system.


• What frequency does the wireless system operate at? The lower the frequency, the better the signal penetrates obstacles.

This checklist will give you a great head start in your quest for a security cameras system. There are many other factors. The best piece of advice is to get a referral from a satisfied person you trust. The second best piece of advice is to follow this check list.

By the way, if you're interested in further empowering yourself, click on The Best Revenge. (It is living well!)