Use A Light Meter Outdoors

Some digital cameras have a light meter and exposure built in. However, the light meter can get confused in certain cases, such as shooting a snow-covered landscape, when the light meter assumes that all things in the picture are equally reflective.

Using the "Sunny 16" rule helps you understand use a light meter outdoors and draw up a table based on exposure values. The rule is based on the fact that the sun is equally bright between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., so if you know the exposure for sunlight at midday, you can estimate it for cloudy or overcast days. Proper exposure is an aperture setting of f16 for ISO 100.

Instructions

1. Make an exposure chart. If you have ISO 1600, the f16 at 1/1600 is the correct exposure. You can construct the rest of the exposure table by using equivalencies:

F16 is 1/1600

F11 is 1/3200

F8 is 1/6500

F5.6 is 1/13000

2. When making the exposure chart, keep a few things in mind. Since there are no consumer cameras with shutter speeds as high as 13000, you will need to dial back the ISO in bright sunlight; but if it is a cloudy day, light is described by shadows seen or not seen.

3. Know your shutter speeds. Know whether or not your camera has automatic exposure and light meter settings. Some are automatic and others use a manual light meter.

4. Know the lighting conditions. "Soft Shadows," which is characterized by soft edges, is weak sunlight, and needs one stop more light--or F11 instead of F16 in our example. Cloudy but bright days may require two more stops of light, or F8 and 1/ISO. "Overcast" means no shadows at all, and requires three more stops of light, or F5.6, which is the same as in the shade on a sunny day.

5. Purchase or set your light meter. If you do not have a separate light meter, you may not need to purchase one, if your camera has an automatic light meter setting. In the event it is not equipped, you will need to find the light meter that will give you the results you want for your specific conditions and equipment.

Tags: light meter, light meter, camera automatic, exposure chart, more stops, more stops light

Flash A Sprint Q9 To Cricket

The Sprint Q9 uses the Windows Mobile 6 operating system.

The Motorola Sprint Q9 is a smart phone featuring a media player, text messaging, digital camera, and 3G Internet capability. Sprint locks the Q9 phone from being used on other networks, such as Cricket. You can flash the phone by downloading a PRL file that unlocks the device so it can be used on the Cricket carrier. You can complete the entire process using your phone and the Motorola CDMA General phone software.

Instructions

1. Download and install the Motorola CDMA General Set-Up Wizard software on your computer. The software will guide you through the installation process.

2. Download the "10042" PRL file from the Corolada website. The PRL file overwrites programming on your phone so that it can be used on the Cricket network.

3. Open the Motorola CDMA General software on your desktop. The setup wizard will automatically create a desktop icon for the application. Double-click this icon to open the program.

4. Connect the Q9 to your computer via USB cable. Insert the USB cable into the small slot on the left side of the phone. Connect the other end of the cable into an open USB slot on the computer.

5. Click the "Phone Provisioning" icon inside the Motorolda CDMA General software.

6. Click the check box next to the "PRL" button in the "Phone Provisioning" menu.

7. Click the "PRL" button, and then open the PRL file you downloaded to your computer. Click the "Open File" button inside the "PRL" menu. Navigate through the browser window to find the PRL file you saved to the computer. Select this file and click the "Open" button.

8. Click the "Write Phone" button in the "PRL" menu. The CDMA General program will begin installing this PRL file onto your Sprint Q9 phone. Wait for program to display "Installation Successful" before unplugging your phone from the computer.

Tags: CDMA General, Motorola CDMA, Motorola CDMA General, your computer, your phone, cable into, CDMA General software

Epson Rd1 Instructions

The Epson R-D1 is a digital rangefinder camera. The camera has a built-in device used to measure distance. The R-D1 is capable of taking images at a 6.1 megapixel resolution. Additionally, the camera has a 2-inch flip out LCD monitor, 1.x viewfinder and a hot shoe used to connect an external flash. Prior to using the R-D1, the digital camera must be set up for use. The R-D1 will be ready to use after correctly following multiple steps.

Instructions

1. Connect the provided power cord into the back of the battery charger. Insert the other end of the power cord into a nearby wall outlet. Place the provided lithium-ion battery into the battery charger using the oval slot. The charger's charge lamp will turn on to indicate charging. Take the battery out once the charge lamp turns off.

2. Open the battery cover -- located at the bottom of the camera -- by sliding the cover's switch forward. Insert the battery into the camera until it clicks. Ensure the flat side of the battery is facing inside. Close the battery cover.

3. Pop open the SD memory card cover located on the right side of the camera. Insert a SD memory card into the memory card slot until it clicks. If the card does not click, then the orientation is incorrect. Flip the card to correct its orientation and reinsert into the slot. Close the memory card cover.

4. Match the red mark located on the front of the camera body with the red mark on the lens barrel. Insert the lens into place and turn it clockwise until it clicks into place. Pull the lens slightly to secure it in the mount.

5. Turn the power switch -- located at the top of of the camera -- to the "On" position. When the camera is turned on for the first time, the current date and time must be set. Use the JOG dial at the top of the camera -- on the left side -- to change the year and press "Enter" -- on the right side of the LCD display. Repeat the process to set the month, day and time. Press the Enter button once "Set" highlighted to save the changes.

Tags: memory card, until clicks, battery charger, battery cover, battery into

Kodak V550 Troubleshooting

The Kodak V550 is a 5 megapixel digital camera released in 2005 as part of the EasyShare line of Kodak cameras. Though the camera will operate optimally for years, there will be times when the camera malfunctions or takes low quality pictures. You can save time and money by troubleshooting and fixing the problem before sending it off for service.

Power Issues

Several of the most common problems with the V550 can be traced to the power supply. If the camera does not turn on or off, the lens does not extend or retract or if the camera buttons do not work, first check that you are using the correct battery type. The V550 uses the Kodak rechargeable Li-Ion battery that is supplied with the camera. Different battery packs will not work with the V550.

If you are using the correct battery, make sure that it is charged. To charge the battery, connect the camera to the AC adapter included with the camera and plug it into a working power outlet. It takes approximately three hours to fully charge the battery. When charging is complete, four lights on the top of the camera will light.

Finally, if you can get power but you still cannot control the camera, turn the power off, wait five seconds, and turn the camera on again. This should clear out any errors in the camera. If this still doesn't work, check that you are not in "Favorites" mode. Turn off this mode by pushing the "Auto/Favorites" switch on the right side of the camera to "Auto."

Error Message

The V550 returns error messages on the LCD when there is a problem with the memory card or the battery. First, remove the memory card and try to operate the camera as normal. If no error message appears, insert the card again and try to use the camera. If the error message reappears, the memory card was corrupted and you will need to reformat the card. To reformat the card, press the "Menu" button, scroll through the list with the down arrow until "Settings" is selected and press "OK." Use the down arrow again to highlight "Format," press "OK" and "Menu." Please note that you will lose all information on your memory card when you reformat it.

If the error message exists with the memory card in or out of the camera, you may have a problem with the battery. Remove the battery and wipe off the contacts with a clean, dry cloth. Reinsert the battery and use the camera as normal.

Memory Card

The V550 may not recognize your memory card or the camera may freeze when using a card. In these instances, reformat the memory card and use the camera as normal. If the problem persists you will need to replace the memory card.

Tags: memory card, camera normal, card camera, error message, memory card camera, your memory card

Format My Micro Sd 2 Gb Memory Card

MicroSD cards are 1/4 the size of a standard SD card.

Secure Digital (SD) is a small, removable storage format introduced by SanDisk, Panasonic and Toshiba in 1999. MicroSD cards are smaller than standard SD cards and are often used in devices such as mobile phones. The MicroSD card is currently the smallest flash memory card available (as of 2010). Formatting a MicroSD card will remove all the data stored on it and can also help resolve issues with a malfunctioning card.

Instructions

1. Insert the MicroSD card into the SD card adapter. Gently press the card down until it clicks into place.

2. Insert the SD card adapter containing the MicroSD card into the card reader. If you are using an external card reader, make sure it is connected to your computer.

3. Click "Start" and select "Computer." Right-click the drive letter that represents the MicroSD card and select "Format."

4. Select "FAT" from the file system drop-down menu and click "Start" to reformat the card.

Tags: MicroSD card, card adapter, card into, card into card, card reader, into card, MicroSD card into

Steady Income Ideas

For people with bills to pay, the reliability of income can be more important than its size. Having a steady income allows you to plan for future expenditures, know how much you will have available to cover mortgages and other ongoing expenses, and budget to avoid going in the red. This provides a greater feeling of security than a large payoff followed by periods of financial uncertainty.

Rental Properties

Being a landlord is not as easy as many people think. Dealing with disruptive tenants or tenants who can't or won't pay their rent is no picnic. However, if you acquire the right property with a manageable mortgage and can find stable, long-term tenants, property ownership can provide a steady income. Paying your mortgage with the rent you receive will build equity over the years. After the property is paid off, the tenants' rent will provide you with direct income. A proactive stance is essential for success as a landlord. Dealing with problems immediately, whether they are structural or with tenants, will help to keep things running smoothly and profitably.

Diversified Freelancing

The Internet provides various opportunities for freelance income, including copy writing, editing and consulting. In tight economic times, many companies are downsizing their work forces and are relying on the temporary or contract-based services of freelancers. Doing work for a single client may be profitable, but it is generally not reliable. By diversifying your freelancing activities and developing relationships with several dozen clients, you increase the stability of your income by increasing the odds that several clients will always have work for you.

Passive Income

Passive income is any income that continues to accrue after you stop actively working for it. This can be in the form of online writing for which you are paid based on readership or ad clicks or financial investments that have an income that is dependent on how they perform in the market. As with active freelancing, the stability of this form of income is largely dependent on its diversity. It requires self-discipline to establish a passive income stream because the payoff is often small in the beginning. Other forms of passive income include vending machines and inventions that you have patented that bring in income when they are utilized.

Investments

To get any substantial amount of steady income from investments, you will either need to be quite lucky or have a large amount of money invested. If you have a nest egg that you aren't using at the moment, investing it in dependable stocks and bonds can be a wise choice. Investing $200,000 at a steady return of 6 percent would bring in $12,000 a year before taxes.

Tags: Dealing with, income that, steady income, that have

Put Pictures Back On Your Nikon Digital Camera

Put Pictures Back on Your Nikon Digital Camera

Nikon digital cameras store photographs on a memory card installed in the camera. When plugged into a computer, you can move photographs stored on the card to the computer. Moving the photographs off of the memory card frees up space for additional pictures. Some users may find that they want to place some pictures on more than one computer. In order to move the pictures to another computer, you need to place the pictures back onto the memory card.

Instructions

1. Plug the small end of the Nikon USB cable into the data jack on the camera and the other end into a USB jack on the computer. The computer will recognize the camera as an external storage drive after several seconds.

2. Open "My Computer" and locate the camera in the list of drives. The drive is located under "Removable Drives," or another similar title.

3. Double click the drive and then the "DCIM" folder.

4. Click and drag the picture from your computer to the "DCIM" folder. A status bar will appear on the screen indicating the amount of time remaining until the picture is transferred.

5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 for each picture you want to place back on the Nikon camera's memory card.

Tags: memory card, Your Nikon Digital, Back Your, Back Your Nikon, DCIM folder

Program A Uniden Bearcat Scanner

Program a Uniden Bearcat Scanner

The Bearcat line of emergency radio scanners is produced by the Uniden company. The scanners provide users a way to listen in on radio conversations between emergency groups, including police, fire departments and ambulance services. Using this device during an emergency such as a natural disaster will help you stay alert to what is happening in your area. By using the controls on the scanner you can program multiple emergency frequencies into the Bearcat's memory.

Instructions

1. Turn on the Bearcat scanner by pressing the "Power" button. When the device is turned on, press the "Manual" button to ensure that the device is not scanning through channels.

2. Locate the list of emergency frequencies for your area. This can be done several ways, including using the online database at radioreference.com (see Resources). You will need to make a note of all of the frequencies you want to save into the scanner.

3. Use the number pad in the center of the control panel of your scanner to enter in the channel number that you want to save the first frequency to. In this instance, the Bearcat 200XL model can save 200 channels, but this number will vary from model to model. Press the "Manual" button after entering in your number.

4. Enter in the frequency for the station you want to save using the number pad. Include the decimal point in the correct place. Press the "E" button when finished to save the frequency. If the frequency doesn't exist or is out of range, you will see an error message on the display.

5. Repeat the process for each frequency you want to store. When finished, press the "Scan" button to scan through the saved frequencies, or press "Manual" followed by the channel number to listen to a specific station.

Tags: want save, Bearcat Scanner, channel number, emergency frequencies, Manual button, press Manual

Cleaning Rear Projection Televisions

Preparing for Cleaning

If you own an older style rear projection television, you will want to learn properly clean the set without causing damage to the different parts. Certain cleaning solutions can lead to problems like corroding and distorted picture. To prepare the rear projection television for cleaning, you will want to remove the back cover. You can unscrew the screws in the rear in order to do this. You will then have access to the mirrors and projection lamps. In some sets, you are able to remove the front screen as well in order to clean it.

Frequency of Cleanings

You should clean the lamps and mirror of your television annually or on an as needed basis. You will need to dust and clean the front screen much more often; most likely every couple of weeks or so.

Your Cleaning Solution

Use a cleaning solution that is safe to use on glass and will not damage the coating on any of the parts. Many times, a camera lens cleaner will work particularly well on the mirror and projection lamps. Avoid any cleaning products that contain ammonia since this can lead to corrosion. Apply the cleaner with a lint free cloth in one direction in order to avoid streaking. Once you are finished with the mirror and projection lamps, you can clean the front screen with the same cleaning solution. Also, if you have a plastic cover that protects the screen, you can use a dry cloth in order to dust this while cleaning the television. You can also dust off speaker grills with the same dry cloth.

Considerations

Remember to always disconnect the power before attempting to clean your rear projection television. You may also want to look through the television manual in order to review any specific cleaning instructions for that model. Don't move around any parts of the television set while cleaning. If you break or misadjust one of the parts, it can prove to be an expensive fix. Also, don't use paper products since they can easily scratch the screen.

Tags: front screen, projection lamps, projection television, rear projection television, clean front, clean front screen, cleaning solution

Convert A Canon Fs100 Into A Usable Media Format

You can convert Canon videos into other formats using computer software.

The Canon FS100 is a hand-held, compact digital camcorder that records all video to an SD memory card. The video is saved in a format known as .mov. Transferring the videos to your computer is simple, since you can put the SD card into a card reader and insert the card reader directly into your USB port. Some computers are even manufactured with an SD slot within the computer. But if your video watching or editing software will not read .mov files, you must convert the files into a useable form before editing or watching them.

Instructions

1. Connect the SD card to your computer's hard drive.

2. Save the file to your computer. You can do this by moving the file's icon from the SD folder to your desktop.

3. Launch your computer's Internet browser. Select an Internet search engine such as Google or Internet Explorer.

4. Type in the search words "MOV Converter." A list of websites that have free converter software will appear in your computer's browser. Select one of these and click on it to pull up the browser. Some available converter programs are ImToo MOV Converter and OJOsoft Total Video Converter. You can also purchase software such as Quicktime Pro or Flip4Mac Studio.

5. Download the software to your desktop following the instructions on the computer's website. Click on the software to install it. The software will walk you through the installation process. Once the software is installed, click on the software's icon to launch it.

6. Select the video that you want to convert using the software's 'browse' option. Then select the output format from a list of output format choices. Then select the 'convert' option. This process is the same across all software platforms. The interfaces of each software program will vary.

7. Save the converted video.

Tags: your computer, software will, browser Select, card reader, output format, Then select, your desktop

Pause Olympus Digital Voice Recorder Vn4100pc

The Olympus VN-4100PC Digital Voice Recorder allows a person to make audio recordings with simple push-button commands in one of four separate recording modes--extra high quality XHQ, high quality HQ, and extended SP and LP. Olympus designed the VN-4100PC voice recorder to record when the sound-sensitive microphone picks up sound after you've chosen the "REC (Record)" command. If you need to interrupt your VN-4100PC digital voice recorder's ability to record, you only need to push a single button to pause it.

Instructions

1. Set up your recording mode--XHQ, HQ, SP or LP--as desired. Push the "MENU" button for 3 seconds, push the "+" and "-" buttons to select the "Mode" on the display, then the "Right/Left Arrows" buttons to select a specific mode. Push the "PLAY" button to save the mode, then the "STOP" button to go back to the main screen.

2. Press the "FOLDER/INDEX" button on your Olympus VN-4100PC Digital Voice Recorder until you reach the folder--"A, B, C, or D"--to which you want to record. Press the "REC (Record)" button to begin your recording.

3. Push the "REC (Record)" button again to pause the recording at any time. If done correctly, the "Record/Play Indicator" light should flash and "PAUSE" should appear on the recorder's screen.

4. Select "REC (Record)" to start recording again.

Tags: buttons select, Digital Voice, Digital Voice Recorder, high quality, Olympus VN-4100PC, Olympus VN-4100PC Digital

Kid Friendly Digital Cameras

Modern kids are geared toward technology early and digital cameras are one of the first gadgets they learn to use. The concepts for taking digital photographs and uploading them to a computer are simple for kids to learn, but may require adult supervision at first. One risk includes accidental damage to the equipment. Digital cameras are tools kids use to explore their worlds, and the models available have changed drastically in the last few years.

The Facts

Kid friendly digital cameras may be a little chunkier than the sleek versions marketed to adults. Larger models are easier to hold in small hands and are less likely to get lost or broken. Bright colors and cartoon themes on store shelves attract children. The buttons are usually limited to power, shutter, flash, play and erase. Cheaper models of cameras will not include the review function; they will only take digital photos for uploading to a computer.

Features

Kid friendly materials, like heftier plastics and larger buttons, are often used. If the digital camera includes an LCD review screen, it will be small (1 inch) to limit possibilities for breaking. Digital cameras marketed to preteens may be key chain-size with no review screen so children can take them to school. Digital cameras marketed for children lack the sophisticated features of adult models, such as scene modes, manual focus and zooms. The resolution is usually the smallest available, currently an average of 3 megapixels, so a small digital media card is adequate.

Misconceptions

Savvy parents with quality digital cameras may be hesitant to purchase child-designed cameras with limited resolutions. Compared to average models marketed now, 3 megapixels seems too small for quality photographs. However, 3-megapixel photos are more than large enough for quality files to use online. They are adequate for prints up to 4-by-6 inches large. Since most children will make few prints larger than that, this is a good resolution for a beginner's camera.

Risk Factors

Risk of dropping or damaging of digital equipment is a concern when young children are unsupervised. Accidental service plans through the camera retailer serve as insurance for accidents. Also, children may be confused when uploading photos to a computer or making prints at a commercial kiosk. Adult supervision helps these processes go smoothly until children learn the procedure.

Benefits

Digital cameras are a tool children can use to express themselves and explore their world. Even toddlers who begin using simple digital recording devices become more comfortable exploring technology and learning simple computer concepts. Digital cameras encourage children to be more open, sociable and comfortable with their bodies and personalities.

Evolution

In recent years, digital cameras marketed to children have undergone a massive transition. Early kid friendly digital cameras were key chain-size and less than 1 megapixel of quality. These products sold based on the media they were marketed with, such as cartoons and music designs. More recent versions still keep brightly colored designs featuring cartoon and pop icons to attract children, but are better quality, usually 3 or 4 megapixels. Models have transitioned from holding 5 or 6 photos on internal memory to incorporating removable media cards or digital film.

Tags: cameras marketed, Digital cameras, attract children, cameras marketed children, Digital cameras

Wind & Weather Information

Study, collection and prediction of wind and weather information falls under the purview of the interdisciplinary scientific field called meteorology. By observing data pertaining to macro variables of the Earth's atmosphere (specifically, the troposphere)--such as temperature, atmospheric pressure and water vapor--and analyzing their gradients, interplay and time variance, this science has tremendously evolved in the last few decades.

Historical Context

Mankind has tried to predict weather for a long time, with the first recorded attempt by Aristotle (considered to be the father of meteorology) in 350 B.C. Later, Theophrastus, a Greek philosopher and naturalist, also wrote a book that described how weather could be predicted by observing atmospheric signs. Research on predicting cyclones and air flow further evolved from the 15th century onward--subsequent to Columbus' journey to America--with more detailed studies to follow in subsequent years on related topics such as the effect of Earth's rotation, solar and lunar eclipses and the role of fluid dynamics in predicting air behavior. In recent years, elaborate numerical and computationally intensive models have been developed to predict and analyze wind and weather information.

Instruments

Weather information is collected at weather stations and observatories specifically constructed for this purpose, through various equipment that aids in the observation, measurement and recording of specific data pertaining to various meteorological parameters such as wind speed and direction, humidity, temperature, pressure, cloud cover and rain. Apparatus such as thermometer (temperature measurement), barometer (atmospheric pressure measurement), anemometer (wind speed measurement), hygrometer (humidity measurement) and rain gauge (rainfall measurement) are a few standard weather station instruments.

Upper Atmosphere Weather Information

Weather equipment measures weather parameters at the ground level, but weather information in the upper atmosphere is also critical for developing correct predictive models. This is achieved by launching radiosondes, which are weather measuring instrumentation packs. They are launched in the upper atmosphere with the help of weather balloons and transmit meteorological data to a fixed receiver on the ground. This is further aided by a network of aircraft flying in the atmosphere and radars on the ground. More recently, geo-stationary satellites are also positioned at various altitudes in the atmosphere for this purpose.

Weather Data Collection

Given the large amount of data collected and analyzed on a continuous basis, and the complex numerical models used in predicting wind and weather, dependence of meteorology on computationally intensive systems has also significantly increased.

Unpredictability and Inaccuracy

Despite scientific advances in fluid dynamics, numerical computation, instrumentation and space technology (all of which are important in studying wind and weather), it still remains an approximate science given the highly complex nature of the field and the number of parameters influencing the weather as well as their interplay. A new class of study, called chaos theory, is also now used to develop weather predictive models. It tries to analyze the various possible end states of the weather based on marginally different current states and develop the probability of which end state is the most likely scenario.

Tags: weather information, atmospheric pressure, computationally intensive, data pertaining, fluid dynamics, predictive models, this purpose

Buy A Slide Projector For Home Use

What's the surest way to get guests to leave from your home? Show 1,000 slides of your vacation. Most pictures today are shown via a PowerPoint presentation through an LCD projector. It is becoming increasingly hard to find a slide projector and a camera store that will process slides.

Instructions

1. Scour Internet sites that sell used camera equipment. The most popular slide projector was made by Kodak. Kodak discontinued production of the Kodak Slide Carousel in 2004. European-made slide projectors house the slides in trays instead of carousels.

2. Make note of the wide variation in prices with slide projectors. An average price for used slide projectors is approximately $250.00. Prices for some slide projectors range as high as thousands of dollars.

3. Purchase extra accessories with a used slide projector. Stock up on bulbs and lenses to keep the equipment running.

4. Buy extra carousels or trays to store all of the slides. Storing the slides in carousels or trays requires less handling of the slides.

5. Locate a camera shop that processes slides to convert pictures to slides. These shops are increasingly harder to find.

6. Show slide shows projected on to a screen. A screen makes for easier viewing than projecting on to a wall.

Tags: slide projectors, carousels trays, slide projector, used slide

Repair A Jammed Cd Player In An Acura

Fixing Acura CD player

The CD player in your Acura freezes or gets jammed and refuses to eject the disc when dust from outside accumulates on your lens or when the motor that ejects the CD gets too old. To return the CD player to working condition, you must unjam it.

Instructions

1. Straighten a paper clip. Use the pointed end of the clip to push through a small hole next to the eject button of the player. This is your emergency eject button. Once you push through this tiny hole, the disc should eject out. If this doesn't work, follow step 2.

2. Turn off your car engine and release the key or open the door to force your CD player to turn off. Wait for a few minutes and turn it back on. Do this multiple times until the disc ejects. Follow step 3 if this doesn't solve the problem.

3. Insert an empty or useless disc about an inch deep into the slot that mounts your discs. Make sure the disc is placed on the top of the jammed disc. Move this empty disc sideways while pushing the eject button repeatedly. Keep doing this for at least 2 to 3 minutes until the disc comes out. If this fails to work, follow step 4.

4. Clean the lens with a CD cleaner. They are available in most electronic stores or online. Make sure you buy a cleaner that is meant specifically for CD/DVD players. Game consoles have different kinds of cleaners.

5. Take your car to an authorized dealer if the CD player is still under manufacturer's warranty. Keep in mind, if you try to open the player by yourself, then the warranty becomes void. If your player is not under warranty, take it to your local repair shop. You may have to change the motor that ejects the discs. The motor stops working when it becomes too old.

Tags: eject button, Make sure, motor that, motor that ejects, push through, that ejects

Portrait Studio Photography Lighting Techniques

Use lighting configurations that flatter your subject.

There is one thing all people want from a portrait--to look great. The reason people seek out professional photographers instead of taking their own portraits is because professionals know use studio lighting techniques to bring out a subject's best features. If you're setting up studio lighting for portraits, these guidelines will allow you to use lighting in a flattering way to enhance your client's portrait.

Instructions

1. Bounce your light sources into photography umbrellas in order to diffuse the light beams and soften the shadows on your subject's face. Harsh direct lighting creates sharp unflattering shadows that make facial features look stark and angular. Instead of aiming the studio lights towards your subject, point them into a photography umbrella that will diffuse the light as it illuminates the model's face.

2. Try a traditional three-light configuration that is flattering to most subjects. Use two lights at 20-degree angles on either side of your camera and one more light, opposite your main light to reduce shadows from behind. This configuration allows full soft illumination of the subjects face while reducing rear shadows and providing a backlit effect.

3. Place the studio lights, described in Step 2, progressively farther away from the model. Position the main light where it illuminates the model's face then increase the distance of the front fill light by 1/3 and increase the distance of the rear fill light by 1/2. For instance, if your main light is 6-feet from your model, your front fill light should be 8-feet away and your rear fill light should be 9-feet away.

4. Elevate your rear light in order to highlight your subject's hair. This light is sometimes called a "hair light" because it illuminates the fine hairs around the outside of the head from behind. The rear fill light adds a professional touch that a snapshot just can't achieve.

5. Cover your main light with a soft box if you want direct illumination with moderate diffusion. This creates a more dramatic effect and is useful when shooting portraits for advertising and business cards. Position the soft box at a 25-degree front angle to your subject and use a reflector instead of a front fill light as described in Step 3. Position your backlight to shine on the backdrop instead of the subject's hair to reduce shadows. Adjust the reflector until facial shadows are very soft, just enough to lend depth to the subject's features.

Tags: fill light, your subject, main light, front fill, front fill light

Use A Diverging Lens

Telescopes and cameras use diverging and converging lenses to focus images.

Lenses are used in many applications and it is common to find both converging and diverging lenses in the same object. The most common everyday use for diverging lenses is glasses for nearsighted people. But recreating this requires complex machinery to measure focal points and to prepare the lens itself. There are several uses for diverging lenses which can be recreated, although they are not going to achieve the same effect as a specially-engineered item.

Instructions

Telescopes and Binoculars

1. Place one diverging lens in front of a converging lens.

2. Encase the lenses in a tube to shut out any additional light.

3. Adjust either lens to focus the telescope on an object.

4. Look through the telescope to see a magnified image of the object. The diverging lens collects the light from the object, spreads it to make the object larger before it is focused by the converging lens, so it can be seen by the human eye. This is why if you look through a telescope the wrong way, the object gets smaller.

Cameras

5. Place a diverging lens in between to converging lenses.

6. Put a shutter holding camera film behind the lenses.

7. Encase the lenses, shutter and film to shut out additional light.

8. Adjust the distance between the lenses to focus the image.

9. Open the shutter to project an image onto the camera film.

Ray Diagrams

10. Set up a screen with three thin slits in front of a light bulb.

11. Place a diverging lens in front so when the bulb is on the light, it will shine through the three slits and onto the lens.

12. Turn on the light bulb and turn off all additional lighting.

13. Observe the three rays of light separating as they pass through the diverging lens. This is a very important experiment to learn about the wave nature of light and about the focus point of light, a technique used in telescopes and cameras.

Tags: diverging lens, diverging lenses, Place diverging, Place diverging lens, additional light, additional light Adjust, camera film

Use A Digital Photo Booth

Digital photo booths are the next evolution of the traditional photo booths. A digital photo booth allows the user to move the camera, choose the photo and pick the style of photo you want. These photo booths are more expensive to use than the traditional kind but they produce a better picture than the traditional photo booth.

Instructions

1. Sit on the bench inside the digital photo booth. Look at the camera. Digital photo booths have a screen inside that show you exactly what your picture will look like.

2. Adjust the height and angle of the camera as needed. There are buttons in front of you that allow you to do this.

3. Pay the fee required by the digital photo booth. This varies depending on the booth. Most accept both cash and credit cards.

4. Press the start button when you are ready to begin. After you do this, the digital camera takes 3 pictures.

5. Select the digital photo you like from the three pictures provided on the screen. A list of styles appears for you to choose from. Some options are oil painting, caricature and drawing. These change your picture into the type you choose. You can see on the screen what your photo will look like and change the style at this point.

6. Press the print button when you have chosen the picture and style that you like. The digital photo booth prints your photo, places it in a holder and sends it out of a slot on the outside of the booth. The printing takes up to 1 minute to complete.

Tags: digital photo booth, photo booth, photo booths, button when, digital photo

Set Alarm Clocks

Alarm clocks are an essential tool for anyone who has trouble getting up in the morning. The dreaded alarm buzz is known world-over and can make anyone cringe when heard outside the bedroom. But the buzz can be a lifesaver, helping you make your meetings and classes on time. Enjoy the benefits of the marvelous invention as this guide walks you through setting up your alarm clock.

Instructions

1. Make sure you clock's time is correct and matches the current time.

2. Hold down the "Alarm" button. This should take you to a blinking "12:00." Upon releasing "Alarm," your clock should switch back to the regular time, but do not release it just yet.

3. Select "Hour" repeatedly, while keeping "Alarm" held down. Select the hour and pay careful attention to select the AM or PM hour correctly. A small dot in the upper right corner of the display typically indicates PM. Release "Hour."

4. Select "Minute" repeatedly, while keeping "Alarm" held down. Select the minutes and release "Minute."

5. Double-check the time you have just set. If it is correct, release "Alarm."

6. Turn on the alarm. There is typically a toggle switch on one side of the alarm clock turn to turn on the alarm. There should options for "Off," "Music" and "Buzz." "Music" plays the radio as the alarm sound, "Buzz" plays the typical piercing alarm sound. Select "Music" or "Buzz" depending on your preference. There should now be another small dot on the lower right-hand corner of the display indicating that the alarm is on.

7. Double-check the volume. Select the "Sleep" button. This will turn on the radio. Adjust the volume as needed via the volume dial on the side of the alarm clock. When you're satisfied with the decibel level, select "Snooze/Sleep Off."

8. Sleep. You alarm is now set. When the alarm goes off, you may select "Snooze" to postpone the alarm another 9 minutes.

Tags: alarm clock, Alarm held, Alarm held down, alarm sound, alarm There

Use A Digital Camera On Manual

Digital cameras like this Nikon can be used in full manual or automatic shooting modes.

Digital cameras are very efficient at taking pictures and storing them to a memory card. Digital single-lens reflex cameras (digital SLR's) have many shooting programs including semi-automatic modes where the photographer can select the shutter speed or aperture and the camera will select the other variable for a proper exposure. Digital cameras also have "Scene" shooting modes where the photographer can select a program to match her lighting or shooting conditions. The "Manual" mode is present on most digital SLR's, but is seldom used by casual photographers; most basic point-and-shoot cameras will not offer this function. In manual mode the photographer controls all the settings on the camera.

Instructions

1. Turn your digital camera on, and set the exposure or shooting mode to "M" for Manual. Depending on the type and manufacturer of the digital camera you are using this may vary from model to model. However "M" is almost universally adapted as the setting for Manual.

2. Press the "ISO" button or access the "ISO" menu; this is the setting for the camera's light sensitivity. If you are shooting outdoors, set the ISO to "200" if you are shooting indoors set the ISO to "400." Increase the ISO in lower light conditions if you do not want to use a flash, but be aware that higher ISO's will cause more "noise" to appear in the photograph.

3. Press the "WB" button to program the camera's white balance. Light has different temperatures, and setting your camera to the correct light balance will not only ensure better looking pictures it will save you time in post editing.

4. Set your shutter speed to match your ISO setting. So if you are shooting outdoors, set your shutter speed to one two-hundredth (1/200th) of a second, or the closest setting to that number.

5. Hold the camera up to your eye, look at the rear LCD screen or through the viewfinder and look for the light meter. The light meter will likely be a line in the bottom of the viewfinder with a middle point and a "-2" on one end and a "+2" on the other end, with a pointer that rests just above or below this line.

6. Adjust the aperture on your camera until the pointer is at the middle point on the light meter. This now means your picture is properly exposed.

7. Press the shutter release fully to take the picture.

Tags: Digital cameras, light meter, shutter speed, your shutter speed, digital camera, middle point

Replace Mercury Cougar Rear Speakers

The Mercury Cougar was a staple of the Mercury lineup for many years, typically sharing a similar platform with other Ford vehicles. Cougars came equipped with factory stereo systems, but audio enthusiasts often wish to upgrade the systems. One excellent place to start on an audio upgrade is with the speakers.

Instructions

1. Open the doors to and move the front seats as far forward as possible. Then fold down the rear seat to give yourself access to the entire rear side panel.

2. Look for a rectangular piece of plastic on the front part of the rear side panel. This is a screw cover. Pry it off. Then remove the Torx screws that you've exposed. Set the cover and the screws aside.

3. Locate the rear seat latch and pry off its cover.

4. Pry out the rear side panel. Start from the top and work to the outer edges. When the panel is loose along the top and sides, pull it toward you.

5. While holding the panel, remove the 7mm screws holding the speaker, disconnect it and remove the speaker.

6. Attach the wiring to the new speaker. Mount it in place and reassemble the panels.

Tags: rear side, rear side panel, side panel, Mercury Cougar, rear seat

Hook A Tivo Dvr To A Computer Via Usb

Tivo's Digital Video Recorder (DVR) is capable of recording your favorite shows, programs and movies. When you connect your Tivo to a computer, you can transfer files between the devices, establish a network connection and update the Tivo's firmware. To connect the devices, you must go through a connection process on both the Tivo and the computer.

Instructions

1. Make sure your TiVo is connected to the Internet. TiVos are connected via ethernet cable, wireless adapter or through a phone line.

2. Download and install the TiVo Desktop software to your computer. This software is free and available from the link in the Resources section.

3. Insert one end of the USB cable to your computer and the other end to the available port on your TiVo. Your computer's "Add New Hardware" wizard will automatically detect the device. Wait until the drivers finish installing before proceeding.

4. Grab your TiVo remote and press the "TiVo" button to bring up the menu. Scroll to and select the option for "Messages & Settings."

5. Scroll down and select "Settings," then click the option for "Phone & Network." Select the prompt for "Use Network Instead" and click "OK."

6. Click the option to "Automatically detect IP." Scroll to and select "Get automatically from DHCP server."

7. Verify that a success window appears confirming you have successfully connected your TiVo.

Tags: your TiVo, Scroll select, Tivo computer, your computer

Find The Media Access Key For My Tivo

The Media Access Key is a specific 10-digit number assigned to every TiVo account holder to ensure safe transfers and replay to his or her PC. The Media Access key is an important component for the installation of the TiVoToGo software. Once you are sure you have the right version of the software, follow these steps to find your Media Access Key.

Instructions

Do You Have the Right Software?

1. Go to the "TiVo Central" menu, which is the top level menu in your TiVo software.

2. Select the "Messages and Set Up" button.

3. Click on "System Information" or "Account and System Information".

4. Click on "System Information" and note the version of your software.

5. Check if the version starts with 7.1-X. If so, the software will have the TiVoToGo feature. If not, sign up for a priority form to get the appropriate version of your TiVo software (see link below).

Find Your Media Access Key

6. Go to the "TiVo Central" menu on your TiVo software.

7. Select the "Messages and Set Up" button.

8. Click on "Account and System Information." You will find your Media Access Key there.

Tags: Media Access, System Information, your TiVo software, TiVo software, your TiVo, Account System, Account System Information

Troubleshoot A Dvd Player

Although DVD players may look like their CD-playing cousins, they're run on a very different kind of optical technology. And thanks to the audio and video demands of movies, they're also more complicated to set up.

Instructions

Intermittent or no sound, weak volume, poor sound quality

1. Check audio connections to make sure they're secure.

2. Replace the cable connecting the DVD unit to your receiver.

3. Clean the contacts on the player and receiver with electronics-grade contact cleaner.

Video images breaking up or freezing

4. Make sure DVD is clean and unscratched.

5. DVDs can be cleaned in the same way that CDs can, but they are more fragile and more sensitive to scratches than CDs are (see Restore a CD).

DVD disc not recognized after loading

6. Check that disc is loaded the correct way.

7. Check that disc is encoded for your geographical region. A disc from Europe (Region 2) will not play in a North American (Region 1) player.

8. Turn off player with disc inserted, unplug temporarily from wall outlet, plug back in and turn back on.

9. If your player has a transportation lock (usually a plastic screw on the bottom of the unit), make sure that it is not engaged.

10. If you have an older player, check with the manufacturer to see whether an update to the firmware is available. Many newer DVD titles with lots of special features are famous for causing problems on older players.

Other Technical Difficulties

11. Movies playing with subtitles on. Go to disc's menu and turn off subtitles. Some players will let you turn off subtitles by pressing the Subtitle button on the remote and then pressing 0 or clear.

12. Squished picture. Check player's setup menu to make sure it's not set for a wide-screen TV if you don't have one.

13. CD-R disc not recognized after loading. Most DVD players can't read CD-R discs, even if they can play normal CDs.

14. Picture quality alternates between light and dark. This is caused by Macrovision copy-protection scheme if you copy DVD video to VCR or if you hook up DVD to TV by way of VCR.

Tags: make sure, after loading, Check that, Check that disc, disc recognized, disc recognized after, recognized after

Recondition Nimh Ev Ovonic Batteries

Premium chargers provide a discharge cycle enabling you to recondition cells.

Patented in 1986 by Stanford Ovshinsky, founder of Ovonics, Nickel-Metal Hydride --- commonly called "NiMH" --- batteries use nickel-hydride as the anode, and alkaline potassium hydroxide for an electrolyte. The typical cell voltage for a NiMH battery is 1.2 volts. The process of conditioning these cells has proven to extend the life of the battery, enabling it to perform many more successful cycles.

Instructions

1. Use the battery until completely empty. One of the drawbacks of NiMH batteries is known as "cell memory," which refers to the battery's reduced performance due to it remembering a reduced voltage from previous charges. Reconditioning the cell can erase cell memory.

2. Plug the charger into the wall, then insert the cells you want to recondition. Set the charger to discharge with a restriction to reflect the minimum voltage requirement of the battery --- in this case, 1.2 volts. Allow the charger to empty the battery until it is back to its minimum voltage.

3. Wait 30 minutes, then turn the charger back to charging mode. Charge the battery gradually at C10 --- meaning 10 percent of the battery's full capacity; in other words, if your battery has 100 mAH, charge it at a rate of 10 amps for 15 hours. If you want to do it quicker, charge the fully discharged battery at C3.33 for five hours.

4. Repeat the cycle of discharge and recharge four times over to completely recondition your NiMH battery.

Tags: battery until, cell memory, minimum voltage, NiMH batteries, NiMH battery

Install A Changer In A 1999 Toyota Corolla

Installing a CD changer to the Corolla factory deck will require you to get a universal changer with an FM modulator. The stereo on the 1999 Toyota Corolla does not have the connections to hook a changer directly to the deck, so you will need to run the signal through your FM stereo. You need to find a good place to mount your changer and the display unit that will come with the changer. There will be one data cable to run from the changer to the dashboard. Spend some time to find the best way to run the cable from the dash to the changer.

Instructions

1. Pull out the deck by removing the AC knob and unclipping the shift panel. You can now unclip the dash assembly below the stereo and remove the screws holding the deck in place.

2. Locate a spot to mount the FM modulator behind the dash. Screw it directly into the plastic, making sure you don't get in the way of the other wires behind the dash and keeping it close to the deck.

3. Plug the antenna lead directly into the antenna input on the FM modulator.

4. Connect the two power wires coming from the modulator to the power coming from the deck. There is a switched 12-volt source wire and a constant-power wire to connect.

5. Ground the modulator to a nearby screw by running the ground wire coming off the modulator to a screw that you can loosen enough to wrap the wire around it. Tighten down the screw to hold the wire in place.

6. Mount the changer in the spot you have selected, making sure you have room to eject the CD magazine in the changer.

7. Run the data cable from the changer to the modulator. Plug one end of the cable into the changer and the other end into the modulator. There is only one place the plug will fit on both ends.

8. Find an open frequency on your FM dial and set the modulator to that frequency.

9. Mount your display unit to the dashboard. Attach double-sided tape to the display and stick the unit to your dashboard.

10. Replace your deck.

Tags: cable from, 1999 Toyota, 1999 Toyota Corolla, behind dash, cable from changer, coming from

Use Live Mode On A Camcorder

The live capture mode makes recording footage directly to a computer a simple process. Capturing live video from a camcorder to a computer is a fast way to begin sharing your footage with friends and family. Whether you are capturing video blogs or using your camera as a webcam for a live Facebook stream, this simple process is sure to take your creativity to the next level.

Instructions

1. Plug one end of your fire cable into the port on your camcorder, then plug the other end into the firewire port on your computer. The location of the firewire slot on a camcorder varies depending on the model. Consult your manual to locate it.

2. Turn on the camera and set it to "Record" mode. When a window opens automatically, asking what you want to do, select the "Record Video With Windows Maker" option, then click "OK."

3. Type in a name for your video on the windows maker page. Select a folder or a location to save your video to, then click "Next." Select the best quality settings for your video, then click "Next."

4. Press the "Capture" button to begin recording. Move your camera around and frame your subjects as you desire. When you are done capturing, press the "Stop Capture" button.

5. Click the "Finish" button to load your captured image into the Windows Video Maker program.

Live Capture in Facebook

6. Go to the Facebok homepage on your website, then sign in.

7. Click the profile title at the top of the page, then click the video icon. On the "Create a New Video" page, click the "Record" button.

8. Click the large, red "Record" button to begin capturing footage directly to Facebook. Frame your subjects as you desire. Click the "Record" button again to stop the capture.

9. Click the "Save" button to save your video, or "Reset" to restart recording again.

Tags: then click, your video, Record button, button begin, button Click, Capture button

Get The Best Price On A Gps Navigation System For Your Car

Use the Internet to research pricing or shop for the GPS system you want to buy. Follow the instructions below to get the best price.

Instructions

1. Decide which GPS navigation system you want to purchase. Many systems are available, some more expensive than others. Consider buying a GPS system with fewer features to save money. The more bells and whistles the device has, the more it will cost.

2. Once you have identified the brand and model you want to purchase, research pricing on the Internet. Visit the Web sites of the electronics stores in your area. Search for the model you are interested in and compare prices. Type the brand and model type into a search engine and look for the Web site of the product itself. Usually you can purchase directly at the site.

3. Consider buying a used GPS navigation system. Try Web sites such as eBay, Overstock and Craig's List. You may be able to find a slightly used GPS navigation system for much less money than a new store-bought model. Some people constantly upgrade their GPS equipment, and you can get a good deal by buying their slightly used models.

4. Look for ads and special offers. Check your local newspaper for sales ads. The best time to look for deals is in spring, before the summer travel season begins.

5. Avoid needless warrantees. Most GPS models come with a one-year warranty, so you need not spend more for a store warranty.

Tags: navigation system, brand model, Consider buying, research pricing, slightly used

Connect A Nikon D80 To A Nikon Sb600

The Nikon D80 digital SLR camera was designed with a built-in flash, but you can attach a removable flash unit, such as the Nikon SB-600, for increased control over how the flash is used when shooting photographs. Unlike some flash units, the SB-600 does not require a wire to connect the flash to the camera. The accessory shoe on the D80 and the mounting foot on the SB-600 have contacts that connect the camera and the flash.

Instructions

1. Press and hold the "On/Off" button on the back of the Nikon SB-600 speedlight until the LCD screen turns off to power off the device.

2. Turn the power switch on the top and right of the Nikon D80 camera to the "OFF" position to turn off the camera.

3. Pull the cover off of the accessory shoe on the Nikon D80. The accessory shoe is the metal piece behind the built-in flash that is used to mount a separate flash unit to the camera.

4. Twist the mounting-foot lock lever on the SB-600 fully to the left, which is the unlock position. The mounting-foot lock is the dial located below the control panel on the back of the speedlight.

5. Slide the mounting foot on the bottom of the SB-600 into the accessory shoe on the top of the D80 camera. The control panel on the speedlight should face the back of the camera when inserting the mounting foot into the accessory shoe.

6. Twist the mounting-foot lock dial fully to the right to lock the SB-600 to the D80.

Tags: accessory shoe, mounting foot, mounting-foot lock, built-in flash, control panel

Use An Ultrasonic Rangefinder

One of the latest developments in rangefinder technology is the use of ultrasound as a medium of measurement. Ultrasound waves are emitted by the rangefinder and return to the device to help determine the distance from the targeted object. Your use of an ultrasonic rangefinder can help you get around a variety of obstacles found in traditional devices.

Instructions

Use an Ultrasonic Rangefinder

1. Maintain a steady hand over your ultrasonic rangefinder to get accurate readings. Ultrasonic devices are sensitive to excessive movement due to their unique medium for measuring distances. You should use a table or tripod while using your rangefinder to avoid human error during each use.

2. Increase the ultrasonic frequency on your rangefinder to receive finer measurements of distance. You should start every measurement at a lower frequency level in order to get a general distance measurement. When targeting points within 100 feet of these devices, most ultrasonic rangefinders will allow you to get accurate measurements down to the inch.

3. Clear a path between your rangefinder and your target before each use to avoid muddled readings. Most ultrasonic rangefinders do not feature a visual component for alignment, which means you must inspect the wave path personally before activation. You should walk the potential wave path when possible to ensure accuracy.

4. Pack up your ultrasonic rangefinder after each use to avoid damaging internal parts. Manufacturers of ultrasonic devices tend to value accuracy and light weight over protective packages that increase size. Use the included carrying case and clean the device with soft towels or cloth to prevent irreparable harm.

5. Test your ultrasonic device between uses to avoid failure in the field. When performing tests, try to use outlet power to conserve your batteries. Most rangefinders feature battery power, but there are a few devices that have AC adapters that allow for electrical charges.

6. Experiment with incremental measurements and other features on your rangefinder immediately after purchase. You can utilize known distances, like your garage or living room, to test correct calibration.

Tags: your rangefinder, ultrasonic rangefinder, each avoid, rangefinders feature, Ultrasonic Rangefinder, ultrasonic rangefinders, wave path

What Type Of Camera Lens Should You Use For Action Photography

Shooting action and sports events requires the right camera settings and timing.

Action photography involves shooting fast-moving main subjects such as those doing sports and other motion-oriented activities. The challenge of shooting a very mobile object is get the best timing to frame and expose it.

Without the right lens and camera settings, it is not possible to take a good action photo. This type of photography generally requires stopping the action to capture a clear shot. Otherwise, the photo may merely show an unintentionally blurred and/or ghost-like image.

Telephoto Lenses

Telephoto lenses ranging from 100 mm to 300 mm allow intimate close-ups of action subjects from a considerable distance. The longer the lens, the longer the required distance to capture a suitable framing for the subject.

As a general guide, a 100-mm lens would suffice when taking shots of a basketball game from the baseline or sideline near the baseline. However, 135 mm to 150 mm lenses are more suitable when taking photos of players at the mid-court. And 200-mm to 300-mm lenses best fit shots of players on the far side of the court.

Super-Telephoto Lenses

Wildlife and sports photographers use a variety of super-telephoto lenses, especially when shooting animals from very far distances and sports events that require the photographer to be significantly far from the action. The wide range of super-telephoto lenses typically starts from 400 mm.

As a basic guide, shooting a soccer game from a typical distance within the audience area requires a 400-mm lens. This type of lens makes it possible to safely shoot even dangerous animals incognito. In such cases, the photographer can be very far from the subject but still produce close-up photos that seem shot from nearby.

Macro Lenses

Macro lenses are similar to telephoto and super-telephoto lenses because of their ability to produce detailed close-up shots of their subjects. However, the primary difference between them is the distance required to shoot their subjects.

Unlike telephoto and super-telephoto lenses that are widely used in action shots shot from afar, macro lenses are used to shoot very small objects coming from a regular distance -- anywhere from a few millimeters to a number of inches away from the main subject. A macro lens is ideal when shooting very small insects and other small moving things or creatures without having to go significantly far from them.

Zoom Lenses

A zoom lens features a changeable focal length and maximum aperture to give the photographer the flexibility to take different types of action photos. It can provide shots similar to prime lenses, which is the category where telephoto and wide-angle lenses fall. There are many options for zoom lenses such as a 28 mm to 200-mm lens, 200 to 300mm lens and 55 to 100mm lens.

Although a zoom may look more beneficial compared with a prime lens, it also has its disadvantages. It is generally heavier than most primes and it has moving parts that are more prone to damage through wear and tear and bumping accidents. It also requires more light to properly expose an image, which is not favorable for low-light photography.

Tags: super-telephoto lenses, camera settings, game from, shooting very, shot from, significantly from

Use A Canon Speedlite 580ex

Canon Speedlite 580EX system

The Canon Speedlite 580EX is a high-end external flash from Canon's flagship line of external flash equipment. The Speedlite 580EX is a powerful flash that has become a popular external flash for many serious amateurs and professional photographers using Canon cameras when a dedicated flash is needed. With so many options available with the Canon 580EX, there is a learning curve; however, getting into the basics will provide the essentials to get you started right away.

Instructions

1. Slide the battery compartment to open. Use NiMH rechargeable batteries, because these provide shorter recycling time and greater flash count. Recycling is how fast the flash can produce a flash of light. The flash count is a prediction of how many flashes the Canon Speedlite can take according to the power provided and settings on your camera.

2. Slide the Speedlite's mounting foot onto the camera's hot shoe, located on the top of the Canon D-SLR body. Secure the flash by turning the locking ring to the right. The ring is located at the base of the Speedlite 580EX. To detach, turn the locking ring toward the left; the locking pins will detach from the hot shoe. Slide the flash from the camera hot shoe.

3. Turn the flash on, and allow it to recycle. The pilot lamp, located next to the set button, will first turn green, which indicates the flash is ready for "quick flash"; the pilot will then turn red, which indicates the flash has recycled and is ready. By pressing the pilot lamp button, a test fire flash will occur. Quick flash allows the flash to fire when your subject is near or when full light output is not necessary.

4. Set your camera to full auto. Set the Flash to ETTL (Evaluative-Through-The-Lens). Press the mode button until ETTL is displayed in the upper left of the LED display. ETTL is a full auto shooting mode that makes using your Canon Speedlite 580EX a more intuitive experience. Focus your subject by pressing the shutter button halfway to allow the camera's focusing system and the flash to sync accordingly. When taking a photo, a preflash is fired, and then the main flash is fired as the shutter is tripped.

5. Set the Flash Exposure Bracketing (FEB). Flash Exposure Bracketing is used to compensate for underexposed or overexposed subjects in 1/3 or 1/2-stop increments, according to the camera model preferences. Press the set button until the lightning bolt appears, and the flash compensation amount will blink. Turn the dial to set the compensation amount. Press the set button to save your changes.

Tags: Canon Speedlite, Canon Speedlite 580EX, external flash, Speedlite 580EX, button until, camera shoe, compensation amount

Troubleshoot A Dish Dvr 625

The Dish DVR 625 is a dual tuner digital video recorder receiver offered to Dish Network subscribers. Features include 120-gigabyte hard drive, 200 feet remote range, dual and single mode availability and extended electronic programming guide. If you are experiencing some problems with a Dish DVR 625, you can try to troubleshoot the issue on your own.

Instructions

1. Check the screen for an error message code. The Dish DVR 625 will likely display a numbered message on screen if an error has occurred during operation. You can find the meaning of these codes as well as fix the issue in your reference manual or on the Dish Network website.

2. Be sure you have correctly entered the password you previously set for your Dish DVR 625. A feature of this DVR is the ability to lock the receiver, preventing use until a password is entered. If you have forgotten your password, contact Dish Network for assistance.

3. Make sure there are no obstructions, such as trees or tall shrubs in front of the satellite dish, that are interfering with the signal to the Dish DVR 625 receiver. Precipitation, such as snow or rain, can also impede the signal. You might want to check with Dish Network about ways to increase your satellite signal strength to avoid service disruption during bad weather.

4. If the picture is black or fuzzy, review your TV and receiver settings. Make sure the television and receiver settings are the same. For instance, they must be using the same channel.

5. Check all of the cables and connectors running between the satellite dish and the Dish DVR 625 receiver. Make sure these are tight and dry.

Tags: Dish Network, Make sure, Dish receiver, issue your, receiver settings, satellite dish, screen error

Use The Imate Jam

HTC has designed and built an extremely versatile pocket PC telephone called the i-Mate K-Jam. This device has most of the features you would want in a pocket-sized smart phone. The connectors and ports are readily identifiable and accessible. With the Windows Mobile 5 technology, QWERTY keyboard, and 65K color display, the device is truly a pocket PC. The i-Mate was designed to be user-friendly, and the instructions are easy to understand and execute.

Instructions

Use an i-Mate K-Jam PC Phone

1. Install the Subscriber Identity Module card (SIM) provided by your local network service provider. First, turn off the device. Then open the Battery/SIM Compartment located on the back side of the i-Mate by sliding the cover latch to the open position and lifting it up. Pull the ribbon up and remove the battery. Insert the SIM card into the card slot with the gold contacts facing down. (Be sure that the cut-off edge of the card matches the cut-off indentation in the compartment.) Replace the battery and push it down until it snaps into place. Replace the Battery/SIM Compartment cover.

2. Charge the battery prior using the phone the first time. Plug the end of the AC adapter cord into the adapter port located on the bottom of the device. Plug the AC adapter into an AC power outlet. To check the battery power status, press "Start," then "Settings" then "Systems" then "Power." When the battery icon is totally green (fully charged), disconnect the AC adapter from the device and from the AC outlet.

3. Prepare the device for operation. Press the "Power" button to turn the device on. Calibrate the device when prompted by using the stylus (provided) to tap the center of each cross as it moves across the screen. This procedure will activate all of the features of the device and prepare the device for operation.

4. Enter text by either the QWERTY keyboard or the keyboard on the LCD screen. Uncover the QWERTY keyboard by sliding the LCD screen panel to the right. Call up the screen keyboard by tapping the "Input Selector" arrow and then tapping the word "Keyboard." Edit text by drawing a line across the text to be edited with the stylus. When the stylus is lifted, the highlighted text will be deleted and you can place new text in the blank space.

5. Make and receive telephone calls. Make a phone call from the phone screen by tapping out the phone number desired on the numeric key pad and then pressing "Talk." Receive a telephone call by tapping "Answer" or pressing "Talk." Tap "Ignore" or press "End" to silence or reject and incoming call. Hang up by tapping or pressing "End."

6. Adjust the volume. Adjust the volume on the i-Mate K-Jam by tapping the speaker icon and moving the volume slide to the desired level. Adjust the phone volume by tapping the speaker icon and moving the volume slide to the desired level. Tap "On," "Vibrate" or "Off" to change the ringer and system volume settings. The phone conversation volume can only be adjusted during an actual call.

7. Set up an email account. Tap "Start" then "Messaging" then "Menu" then "Tools" then "New Account. Enter your email address and then tap "Next." Once the auto configuration has downloaded the email server settings, tap "Next." Enter your user name and password and tap "Next." (You must have an email account set up with an Internet Service Provider before you can send and receive emails.)

8. Send an email. Enter the email address or text message address of each recipient. (If more than one addressee, separate each by a semicolon.) Enter your message. Tap "Send."

Tags: Enter your, i-Mate K-Jam, QWERTY keyboard, Adjust volume, Battery Compartment, desired level

Copy An Sd Memory Card

Although most often used in mobile digital equipment such as cameras and gaming devices, an SD memory card can also run on a computer and even hold files and programs, just like a USB flash drive. If you have content stored on an SD memory card that you want to back up and copy onto your computer, you can do this without any additional programs or software installed on your system.

Instructions

1. Connect the SD memory card reader to the computer via the USB cable running from the back of the device.

2. Insert the SD memory card into the reader. In a moment, the computer states it has detected a new removable memory device.

3. Right-click on the desktop (or any other location on the computer you want to store the contents of the SD memory card) and select "New" followed by "Folder." A folder appears. Title the folder and press the "Enter" key. Open the folder and leave it open for now.

4. Open "My Computer" ("Computer" in the latest versions of Windows) and double-click the SD removable memory card icon.

5. Drag-and-click over all of the items in the SD memory card. This highlights all of the items in the card. Click on one of the highlighted items and drag it into the created folder. Wait for all of the content to copy over. Once the copying process has finished you can right-click the SD memory card icon and select "Eject" from the pull-down menu.

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Use A Camcorder Telephoto Lens

From children's events and special moments, camcorders provide a way to keep a moment in time suspended in time. Often the event or moment is a little too far away from the camcorder to record the moment in its best possible resolution. Telephoto lenses help reduce the focal distance of the subject in relation to the camcorder.

Instructions

1. Read through the camcorder's user manual for the section regarding using telephoto or conversion lenses. This section will identify the camera's ability to use a conversion telephoto lens and the manner to attach it to the camcorder.

2. Attach the camcorder telephoto lens to the front lens assembly of the camera. Typically, the telephoto lens will have a threaded barrel that screws right onto the camcorder lens. Turn the conversion lens onto the camcorder lens until it's secure.

3. Check that the camcorder correctly identifies the lens on the camera. Most camcorders that accept telephoto lenses will have a menu option to use that particular telephoto lens. This step is crucial to the proper use of the lens.

4. Turn on the camcorder and ensure that the lens is functioning properly by zooming in on a subject a good distance away. All images in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen must be clear and in focus.

5. Steady the camcorder when using a telephoto lens. The bigger the distance between the subject and the camcorder means there will be camera shake. Place the camcorder on a tripod or enable the camcorder's shake reduction system, if equipped.

Tags: telephoto lens, camcorder lens, lens Turn, onto camcorder, onto camcorder lens, using telephoto

Use A Vivitar Auto Thyristor 2800 Flash

The Vivitar 2800 is manual flash.

The Vivitar 2800 Auto Thyristor flash is a manual flash that was designed to be used with 35mm film cameras. The Vivitar 2800 fires at one intensity and you adjust the your cameras aperture to select the proper exposure. (Modern flashes communicate with the cameras they are attached to and use the camera's metering system to adjust their power output. ) The flash uses four "AA" batteries and has input jack for a sync cord, allowing the camera to be used remotely.

Instructions

1. Turn off the power to the flash and the camera you are using and slide the flash on to the camera's hot shoe. While it doesn't happen often, there can sometimes be a voltage spike between the camera and flash if you slide the flash onto the camera when it is turned on.

2. Turn on the flash and your camera. Depending on the camera you are using, set the exposure mode to "Shutter priority" and set the camera shutter speed to 1/125, or the shutter speed that your camera uses to synchronize with an external flash.

3. Slide the ASA/DIN selector to match the speed of the film that is loaded into the camera, or to the ISO setting if you are using digital camera.

4. Slide the selector on the front of the flash to its middle "White" position.

5. Set the camera aperture to match the number on the F-stop guide located on the back of the flash.

6. Tilt the flash head toward the ceiling when shooting indoors for a more natural-looking light. This is known as "Bounce photography" and reduces the harsh shadows associated with direct flash photography.

7. Hold your camera to your eye and press the shutter release to take the picture.

Tags: Vivitar 2800, your camera, Auto Thyristor, camera using, flash camera, manual flash