It’s back to school time and many of us are mourning the end of summer’s carefree ways.  While we want to look ahead to fall’s own unique beauties, we can still take summer with us.  Here are just a few ways to keep summer alive as the seasons change:

Create a Summer Scrapbook—the Easy Way: Take a few minutes to search through your summer shots and tag your favorites (many popular image editing programs have a function that allows you to do this).  Copy the images to CD or a flash drive and bring them into our store.  We can show you how to create a great scrapbook in no time flat.  Consider making an extra copy or two to share with your kids or loved ones; there’s something special about holding a book of your favorite images in your hand.  We love seeing them on the screen but nothing compares to the printed version.

Get Framed: Have you often thought about enlarging and framing some of your favorite images but just never seemed to get around to it? Let us do the heavy lifting for you!  Just bring your images into the store and we’ll show you all the amazing ways that we can bring your summer shots to life.  Imagine that incredible memory hanging on your wall in a place where you can enjoy it each day.  And think of all the great conversations that image can encourage…

Make Note of It:  Email is wonderful for casual communications but the art of handwriting a card to someone remains highly valued—especially by the person who receives it!  Bring in one of your favorite summer photos and let us turn it into a personalized note card set.  Now, the next time you feel like dropping a line, you can share a summer memory, too!

Lunch Kit Surprises: Order a 4×6 set of your favorite summer photographs and tuck them into your kids’ lunchboxes now and then.  Kids love surprises and photographs are an easy way to give your kids comfort and support as they transition back into a busy school year.

Did you know that you could create one or these fantastic keepsakes just by bringing your images into the store? Come on in and get started!

Let Your Summer Memories Follow You Into Fall is a post from: The Mack Blog

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Fuji’s Press Release

Following on from the successful launch of the world’s first 3D camera in September ‘09, Fujifilm continue to offer consumers the opportunity to make their own true, rather than interpolated, 3D content with the launch of a new camera – the FinePix Real 3D W3.

A world’s first!
While smaller and lighter than the original model, the FinePix W3 adds a bigger and better quality screen, an Auto 3D mode, stereo sound recording and the unique ability to shoot video in Real 3D in High Definition, with live or recorded playback via direct connection to any 3D TV – using an HDMI mini-cable (hi-speed type) 1.4 cable.

The FinePix W3 continues Fujifilm’s strategy of offering Real 3D content by replicating the human visual system in combining two high quality lens and two CCDs in the one chassis – and allows consumers the option of viewing 3D images and video either with or without special glasses.

3D content can be viewed, and on a huge scale, on any of the increasing number of large screen 3D TVs by using the sets’ supplied glasses.

Alternatively consumers can also view stunning 3D images and video without glasses through the camera’s built-in 3.5inch LCD display or via the optional 8” 3D digital viewer/photoframe. Images can also be made into special ‘lenticular’ prints – via a unique printing process which will shortly be available in the UK for the first time and in a range of sizes up to 9”x6”.

Owners of 3D TVs can also rest assured that the FinePix W3 will show their new screen at its very best, thanks to the unique 3D HD video recording and a parallax control function which helps to remove crosstalk problems by allowing 3D fine tuning, even after the images have been taken.

A rather special 2D Camera
They may already be bowled over by the unique 3D performance of the FinePix W3, but consumers can also be happy in the knowledge that they are also purchasing a very special 2D camera indeed.

This new technology has also brought some unique benefits to shooting images and video in the 2D world, bringing new creative freedom to the user.

By featuring twin high quality Fujinon lens and two CCD sensors the FinePix W3 effectively becomes two cameras in one body, while the powerful, proprietary processor allows the camera to take two different photos at the same time.

So photographers can select to shoot both close-up and wide angle versions of a photo, or two alternative colour balances or have an image with two versions with high and low sensitivity.

The FinePix Real 3D W3 camera will be launched in early September 2010 with an estimated selling price of £399 and will be available from major department stores and leading independent camera specialists.

Key features at a glance:

• 3D HD Movie (720p) and 3D still image capture
• Instant 3D playback on build-in High Contrast, 3.5” 3D LCD (without the need for special 3D glasses)
• Direct Connection via HDMI high-speed 1.4(Type A-Type C) cable to any branded 3D HDTV
• Two 1/2.3” 10 Megapixel CCD
• Two Fujinon 3x optical zoom lens
• 3D RP(REAL PHOTO) HD PROCESSOR
• Compact and light-weight 230g body (excluding accessories, battery and memory card)
• 2D Special effects using Simultaneous Shooting functions

(via DPREview)

Fuji Finepix Real 3D W3 Camera is a post from: The Mack Blog

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Photographing wild horses can be an amazing experience—the subject matter is compelling, beautiful and often unpredictable.  You don’t need to be an accredited professional photographer to take on such a feat, but you do need to make sure you’ve got a few important facts in your knowledge toolbox.  If you’re close to an area where wild horses roam or are planning a travel adventure to a particular location for this purpose, here are just a few things to keep in mind:

Bring a Good Zoom Lens…and a Tripod: It will take a bit of time and patience to get close enough to wild horses to photograph them, so a high-quality zoom lens will quickly become an important ally in making sure you can get close without intruding.  The tripod will be important for stability and ensuring your images are as sharp as possible, especially when you’re photographing horses on the move. We’ve got some excellent tripod choices here:  http://www.promaster.com/tripods

Stay on the Traveled Path: Don’t venture off the main roads when traveling to the roaming grounds.  Some areas can be damaged from tire tracks and vehicles, and that damage can take many years to repair.  While we love the idea of traveling off the beaten path, this isn’t the time to do it.

Your Car is an Asset: Not only will it get you to and from your destination; your car can be the ideal place from which to shoot.  Wild horses are often more used to seeing vehicles than people, and this can be a benefit because your car may help you get closer to the horses than you would be able to on foot.  Make sure to move slowly and with caution and keep noise to an absolute minimum.

Take Your Time and Find Cover: Once you leave your car, you’ll want to walk slowly and find areas where you can crouch down low or remain behind cover such as trees, large rocks or other objects.  Horses aren’t known to have exceptional eyesight but they can be easily startled so patience in your journey closer to them is important. You may also want to wear camouflage clothing to help you blend into your environment.

Remember the Word ‘Wild’: These amazing animals might seem approachable, but even so, remember that they can be unpredictable.  Do not put yourself in harm’s way in order to get a few feet closer.  They’re likely to keep a particular distance for their own comfort, and if you intrude upon that space, it’s possible they will spook and run, possibly causing a stampede.  You don’t want to find yourself in their path if that happens.  Always be aware of your distance from the subjects and your surroundings.

Photographing Wild Horses is a post from: The Mack Blog

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Think it Through: Imagine your trip for a moment.  Think about where you’ll be traveling.  Do you need to take your DSLR with you or will your compact camera suffice? Do you really need that extra lens or can you do without it? Making a mental checklist of your itinerary can help you decide which items you need and which can be left at home.

Remember the Essentials: Make sure to pack a lens cleaning kit, extra batteries, your charger and extra storage media.  These items alone will help you combat the majority of issues that might occur while you’re on holiday.

Choose the Right Bag: Traveling light means choosing the right bag for the situation.  Would a backpack style help you get through the airports more easily, or is something with wheels that can also accommodate your other items be more appropriate?  We’ve got designs that fit every need and budget here:

http://www.promaster.com/bags

Offloading for Longer Trips:  If you’re traveling with your laptop, consider offloading your digital pictures on a regular basis.  This technique can serve as protection in case your media card is somehow damaged or fails during your trip.  Here’s another great solution—take your card to the local photo retailer and print a set or two before your return trip home.  You’ll have one less item on your to-do list and your family will enjoy looking at the photos and reminiscing on the return trip. You can even use the pictures as a mini-scrapbooking project to keep the kids entertained while you travel.

Keep Everything Charged:  Dead batteries mean an instant end to picture-taking fun and a battery that dies while you’re shooting might even corrupt your digital camera card.  Fortunately, we’ve got a great solution!  The PROMASTER GO! Charger is a compact multi-function charger that can charge your DSLR batteries and also serve as a charger or power source for your cell phone or music player.

http://www.promaster.com/Go

Tips for Traveling Light with Photo Gear is a post from: The Mack Blog

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Join us on August 11, 2010 at 1PM

It’s FREE so stop in the retail store to sign up.   Seats are limited.

Mack Camera presents David Guy Maynard is a post from: The Mack Blog

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Neutral Buoyancy is Best: There’s never been a better time to be neutrally buoyant than when you’re trying to capture that ideal underwater moment.  It’s best to hover without using your fins because, if you’re negatively buoyant, you’ll end up kicking up sand and related debris.  Neutral buoyancy will also help you get closer to those shy fish and other nervous sea life. A calm diver in control is far more likely to experience success than one who is constantly adjusting and moving about.

Use Strobes to Compensate for Color Loss:  As you dive deeper into the water, the sunlight wavelengths of red, orange, and yellow are the first to disappear, rendering images with a cool, flat appearance.  In order to compensate for color loss, photographers find a flash or strobe critical to bringing back rich hues and textures in their images.

Get Close Whenever Possible: When it comes to shooting underwater subjects, fill the frame whenever possible.  Shooting close and wide will allow you to capture your subject in a more intimate manner and having less water between the subject and camera.  Many professional photographers recommend no more than three feet of water between the subject and the lens. This technique will also help your colors remain more vivid and textures more defined.

Patience over the Chase: Patience is a necessity when it comes to doing anything underwater, and it’s even more critical when you’re on the hunt for close-up shots of clownfish.  Many novice photographers make the mistake of chasing after fish in an effort to grab a shot before returning to the surface.  This method is highly ineffective as the fish are always faster.  Patiently waiting for sea life to return may be a challenge but it is the best way to get the image you’ve imagined.   There’s a difference between swimming towards a shot and hunting down your subject.

You’ll also need to make sure your dive buddy understands and is willing to be patient as well; the last thing you need is a frustrated dive partner swimming about and kicking up sand when you’re in the mode to wait it out for the shot.  Make sure you’re on the same page when working on your initial dive plan so there are no misunderstandings.

Know Your Controls: Experienced divers realize that many of their actions must be instinctive as visibility is limited; they must be able to complete several tasks intuitively.  This concept also extends to your camera controls.  Make sure that you know where key controls are without having to hunt and double-check as you may end up missing a shot when fiddling with your camera.  When shooting underwater, you’ll only need to adjust focus, exposure and your strobe settings.  Don’t worry about anything else as you’ll also be managing maintaining neutral buoyancy and composing your shot.  Everything else is just a distraction at this point.

If there’s one thing that is similar with both land and aquatic photography, it’s the importance of mastering the basics.  You’ll find that your aquatic photography skills improve quickly if you’ve paid ample attention to your foundation.

Straps for Safety: Your camera strap is the first line of defense between your expensive gear and the pavement.  Make sure your current strap is in good order and free from fraying and malfunction.  We’ve got several high quality straps to help your camera stay secure and in your control.  http://www.promster.com/straps

Keeping it All Together: Professional photographers know that the ability to keep all their gear together and quickly accessible is critical to executing a successful event.  One of the most useful tools for working photographers is also one of the most overlooked—the photojournalist vest.  The PROMASTER Photographers Shooting Vest has 21 pockets, ranging in size from pen-sized to oversize. The vented back and mesh liner allow free movement of air around the body. The snap epaulets will keep your camera, binoculars, or tote bag straps on your shoulder. The vest includes a heavy-duty zipper that will close the entire front or any portion you wish. It also has a single snap closure for the front and two snap adjustments for the sides. And, our PROMASTER Photographers Shooting Vest is built oversized to accommodate fully-filled pockets.  http://www.promster.com/vests

What is Fast Glass? You may hear photographers tossing around the term ‘fast glass’ but aren’t sure what it means.  The term ‘fast’ refers to a wider aperture, which lets in more light and because less light is needed, the shutter doesn’t need to be open as long.

Aquatic Photography, Part II: Basics of Shooting Underwater is a post from: The Mack Blog

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What is the theme?: The theme is “Springfield at Work & Play”. The contest offers photographers the chance to contribute to the building of Springfield’s visual archives for future historians and the photographs will be available on the Springfield Library web site and the New Jersey Digital Highway (njdigitalhighway.org) site for future generations.

Read more about the contest at Springfield Public Library – Photography Contest.

Springfield Public Library – Photography Contest is a post from: The Mack Blog

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In the last ten years, we’ve seen a mass exodus of photographers leaving film cameras for the many benefits digital technology has provided.  The industry continues to progress, offering us a dizzying array of new features, accessories and ways of better leveraging the equipment we currently own.  One of the most significant advancements is the ability to have a DSLR camera capable of shooting high quality video in low light conditions. This advancement opens doors in a variety of personal and professional applications.

To illustrate just how far we’ve come, the recent season finale of the television show House was shot entirely using the Canon 5D Mark II!  The show’s director Greg Yaitanes states that he believes this is ‘the future,’ and we’re inclined to agree.

If you’re considering a new DSLR camera, here are a few reasons why you might consider getting one that has HD Video Capability:

Combination Convenience: Many people find they need to carry both a still camera and a video camera when they travel for vacation, special events or even attending simple functions such as a birthday party or anniversary bash.  Having this combination allows us to consolidate the amount of equipment we need to care for and carry, and this benefit alone warrants serious consideration.

Depth of Field Benefits: Today’s DSLR cameras have an advantage over many of today’s current video cameras in that DSLR lenses have a greater DOF (depth of field) control than comparable video camera lenses.  This is particularly beneficial for those instances where the photographer needs to convey a certain sense of distance or expansive space.  Professionally shot films leverage a shallow depth of field, making the foreground sharp while keeping the background blurred.  The HD DSLR cameras currently available provide greater flexibility and control over the DOF due to the ability to change lenses for different scenarios.

Using What You Already Own: One of the wonderful benefits of DSLR cameras is the ability to use lenses you already own on a new model DSLR body.  If you’re considering a new HD DSLR camera, you may very well be able to use your existing lenses, which will allow you to further expand your options when experimenting with video.

More Potential Work for Working Photographers:  Whether you make a part-time or full-time living as a professional photographer, the ability to shoot HD video opens countless new doors for you and your clients.  Wedding photographers can now incorporate video clips of key moments in the ceremony and reception, commercial photographers can now assist with web-based promotion videos and related content, and school photographers can offer videos for schools looking to promote special events or looking for community support for fundraisers.

It’s important to note that learning to shoot high-quality video will take some time and experimentation—and learning to edit video is an additional skill you will need to study– but it has never been a better time to consider this exciting new frontier.  The technology that exists today would have cost tens of thousands of dollars just a few years ago.  If you’re looking for a new way to expand your client offerings, this may be the perfect fit for you.

The ABCs of HD Video on Your DSLR Camera is a post from: The Mack Blog

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Call ahead service available.  Give us a call before stopping in and if we can accommodate it we will clean your camera’s sensor while you wait.

CCD / CMOS Cleaning price reduction is a post from: The Mack Blog

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Aquatic Photography Definition: Backscatter is a post from: The Mack Blog

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