Video Comes to Instagram

I just finished downloading the update of Instagram, the hugely popular photo sharing/social network app. The biggest update of course is video.  Users can now post 15 seconds of video to share among their friends.

 

It's so easy to use. Open the app then tap on the camera icon.  You will get to another screen with a video camera icon.  Tap on it and you're ready to go.  Press the record button and record anything you want: your new puppy running around the house, the kids playing basketball or even your partner cooking your favorite food. You don't have to shoot everything in one take. Lift your finger and the recorder automatically stops.

You don't need to worry about camera shake since Instagram incorporated an image stabilizer feature they named Cinema.  For now, it only works with iPhone 4s and higher.  Don't worry Android fans, it's coming to you soon.

 

Instagram also created 13 new filters exclusively for the video feature.  You can choose one of these filter and instantly preview its effect during play before sharing you post the video. Sound is instantly on and all posts are in square format, just like the photos.  Also when you post a video you can chose a scene as a “cover shot” which will be displayed while the rest of your video plays.

Super Moon Rising Tonight

Weather permitting, tonight we will see the moon rise from the east and become 14 percent bigger than usual.   No, the moon will not grow bigger instead it will be at its closest point to Earth - what scientists call the perigree.  On the average the moon  is 383,024 kms away from the Earth. On Sunday, it will be just 356,991 kms away -- or 26,023 kms closer than usual.

from space.com credit:Tim McCord 

Science.com says that supermoons occur about once annually, and this year, the supermoon is closer than it has been in a little while.  It added that the difference in size can mean as much as a 30 percent change in the brightness, so this will be a particularly bright supermoon.

If you want to see the largest full moon of the year, you just need to step outside and look up at the sky,  To take pictures of this event,  science.com offers the following tips: use a tripod, a zoom lens about 200mm and fast shutter speed.

As a final word, let me assure you folks that this event does not portend anything sinister.  It will not bring earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.  NASA says that the supermoon has very little effect on the tides, that even those who live in coastal areas will not notice any change in the height of water.  

UPDATE: As expected, it was a cloudy night so the super moon was not visible at all. 

Flickr Gave Me 1TB Space for My Photos for Free!

I just noticed this afternoon that my Flickr account looked different. The photos that used to be arranged neatly in columns are now filling the pages.  No more empty white spaces, just photos in different sizes.  Then I opened my mail and discovered that Flickr has just introduced innovation to my favorite online photo sharing site.

Flickr has a new design that puts photos at the heart of its users' Flickr experience.  The homepage is now a gateway for everything the site has to offer. A new Activity Feed combines recent uploads with activity of photos of the users and their friends.  There is also a slideshow mode to allow users to flip through photos hands-free.

The biggest change of course is the amount of space allotted for the users to store their photos.  Flickr just gave each one of us a whopping 1 terabyte of space for free.  This is to encourage users to upload their photos in high resolution.  Here's what Flickr has to say:

At Flickr, we believe you should share all your images in full resolution, so life’s moments can be relived in their original quality. No limited pixels, no cramped formats, no memories that fall flat. We’re giving your photos room to breathe, and you the space to upload a dizzying number of photos and videos, for free. Just how big is a terabyte? Well, you could take a photo every hour for forty years without filling one. 

And yep, you heard us. It’s free.

Aside from more spaces for photographs, Flickr is now supporting up to a full 3 minutes per video of 1080p HD quality.

And there's another major change, a little kink for me.  Flickr Pro is not being offered anymore and in its place, the site introduced the Ad-Free and the Doublr accounts which basically have the same benefits as the free account except that subscribers can browse ad-free.  Doublr account holders also have up to 2 terabytes of space for their photos.  Ads-free accounts come at US$49.99 per year while the Doublr is offered at US$499.99 annually.  

By the way, if you have a pro account you can still renew it at US$24.99 per year and still have an ads-free and unlimited browsing experience.  However, the "pro" badge in your profile and buddy icon will not be there anymore.

Anyway, that's 1 terabyte of free space plus ALL your photos and videos are available for your visitors to see and watch.  Not bad for a free account.  I just hope it stays that way.

Nikon announces the D7100

Fellow Nikonians rejoice! The upgrade we've been waiting for has been announced finally. Meet the Nikon D7100.  The D7100 incorporates recent advancements in HD-SLR technology and new levesl of image quality, speed, and connectivity

 
The D7100 makes it easy to share your great photos immediately, wherever you are. Connect the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter and instantly transfer shots to a compatible smartphone or tablet, then upload them to the web. With Nikon's free Wireless Mobile Utility installed on your smartphone or tablet (available for both Android and iOS), you can also remotely control the D7100. Use your phone or tablet as a Live View monitor to take shots without having the camera in your hands, a huge advantage for everything from self portraits to digiscoping with a Nikon fieldscope.

Here are the key specifications of this camera:

• 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor (No optical low pass filter) 
• 51-point AF system (15 cross types with 3D tracking)
• Expeed 3 image processor
• 1299k-dot, 3.2-inch LCD screen
• 1080p full-HD video recording
• 7fps burst mode shooting
• Weather-sealed and dustproof 
• 675g (Body only, with batteries)

To learn more, read  the complete press release for the product:

Tokyo - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the advanced, high-performance DX-format D7100 digital SLR camera.

The D7100 is a compact, lightweight camera (W x H x D: approx. 135.5 x 106.5 x 76 mm; weight: approx. 675 g that offers superior portability. It is loaded with features that enable excellent subject acquisition and rendering performance capable of reproducing the finest details.

The high density of 51-point AF system accurately acquires the intended subject for superior subject acquisition and tracking performance. Cross-type sensors have been adopted for the 15 most frequently used focus points at the center of the frame. In addition, the center focus point (cross-type) is fully functional with lenses with a maximum aperture of f/8. This means faster, more precise autofocusing with a variety of conditions. The D7100 is also equipped with a new crop image area, 1.3x DX crop, which increases the angle of view by approximately 1.3x that of the standard DX-format angle of view. This effectively increases lens focal length to an equivalent angle of view of approximately 2x, making distant subjects larger. In addition, the 51 focus points cover the entire image area when 1.3x DX crop is enabled for quick and certain acquisition of subjects moving randomly through the frame with high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 7 fps.

The D7100 is also equipped with a DX-format CMOS sensor, an effective pixel count of 24.1-million pixels, the high-performance EXPEED 3 image-processing engine, and does not have an optical low-pass filter. These features enable excellent rendering with high resolution. The incredible potential of the high pixel count, high-definition D7100 can be maximized by the use of NIKKOR lenses, which offer superior rendering performance made possible with Nikon's own optical technologies.

The D7100 also offers a number of new functions that improve operation and support more natural and efficient shooting, including Spot White Balance, a white balance Preset Manual option that allows users to choose a specific subject from which white balance is measured with shooting in live view. Additionally, the D7100 features an RGBW array that enables more effective accumulation of light, as well as a large, 3.2-inch high-resolution TFT LCD monitor with wide viewing angle, and an button that enables direct access to frequently used function.

Nikon Launches the Nikkor AFS 85mm f/1.8 G

Woke up this morning to some great news.  Nikon announced yesterday three new products for 2012 but what I am most excited about is the new Nikkor AFS 85mm f/1.8G.  It is an updated version of its popular moderate telephoto prime lens that also works perfectly for portraiture.  Here's the official press release of the product from Nikon.com.

A fast, medium-telephoto fixed focal length lens with a focal length of 85 mm and a maximum aperture of f/1.8 compatible with the Nikon FX-format

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G, a fast, medium-telephoto fixed focal length lens with a focal length of 85 mm and a maximum aperture of f/1.8 compatible with the Nikon FX-format.

The AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is the new addition to the FX-format lens lineup. It utilizes an all new optical design allowing users to enjoy shooting portraits with pleasing blur characteristics only possible through fixed focal length lenses. Even with a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G is very lightweight at roughly 350 g, allowing users to easily carry their camera around with this lens mounted. The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ensures not only quiet autofocus operations, but also makes autofocus shooting possible when the lens is used with entry-level Nikon DX-format digital-SLR cameras such as the D5100 and D3100, which are not equipped with an autofocus drive motor.

Nikon has long had the support of professional, advanced amateur and entry-level photographers for its consistent development of innovative products that respond to the demands of customers and are equipped with the optical technologies Nikon has spent years cultivating as a manufacturer of optical devices. Nikon intends to continue to expand and strengthen the NIKKOR lineup as well as improve customer convenience with the steady release of new, high-performance lenses that offer advanced functions.

AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Primary Features

• A fast, medium-telephoto fixed focal length lens with a focal length of 85 mm and a maximum aperture of f/1.8 compatible with the Nikon FX-format
• An all new optical design that enables maximum utilization of digital-SLR camera capabilities in shooting high quality images
• Enables shooting of portraits with pleasing background blur characteristics only possible with a fast, medium-telephoto fixed focal length lens
• Very lightweight at approximately 350 g, even with the large aperture
• Equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) for extremely quiet autofocusing. Autofocus shooting is also possible when the lens is used with entry-level Nikon DX-format digital-SLR cameras such as the D5100 and D3100, which are not equipped with an autofocus drive motor.
• Equipped with two focus modes, M/A (autofocus with manual override) and M (manual)

And here are some sample shots from the same website.

from nikon.com

love that bokeh!
from nikon.com

from nikon.com

Morning Walk in Quezon Memorial Circle

I joined a few friends in a morning walk at the Quezon Memorial Circle recently.  Though the place is the resting place of the late President Manuel Luis Quezon, city officials in consultation with the heirs of the deceased decided to turn it into a people's park.  The circle, which used to be a flat piece of land in the middle of the city has been developed into a recreational hub for its citizens.

It is now a hub of activities.  When we were there, there were kids jogging around the park, young people playing volleyball, old people doing calisthenic exercises, and there was even a seminar on the benefits of coconut.

We were there to shoot photos and that's what we did the whole morning.  Here are some of the scenes I captured.

Revisiting the National Museum

I had the chance to see the National Museum again a few weeks ago, and I was pleasantly surprised to learn that they are allowing photography inside.  We were told that like in other similar places, they do not allow flash photography.  Since it was sunny that day, I knew I wouldn't have any problem with the light.

The National Museum houses the award-winning mural of Juan Luna called, "Spoliarium".  It is the first piece that will greet you upon entering the gallery.  It shows the bodies of dead and defeated gladiators being dragged in the dark undergrounds of the colosseum.  It won the gold medal at the Exposición Nacional de Bellas Artes in 1884. The art piece is a metaphor for the colonial rule of Spain in the Philippines and was used as propaganda material by the revolutionaries.

I love this painting and it never fails to impress me every time I see it.  You must see it for yourself to truly appreciate its beauty.  

Inside this hall are other works of Luna as well as those of Hidalgo and other great masters.  Most depict important events in our country's history.

On the other floors of the museum are pieces of sculpture and paintings from the 20th-century Filipino masters.  

On our way out, we passed by the floor where the Philippine Senate used to hold office.  It's there where we realized that the building of the National Museum is itself a work of art. Built during the American Colonial Regime, the hall gives us a glimpse of that time. The ceiling, flooring and even the friezes adorning the walls were real national treasures.

This section of the building is still being repaired and renovated.  I am not sure if it will be open to the public once the repairs are done.

In another gallery, mostly showing more contemporary works of art, I was reprimanded by a security officer for taking pictures.  When I told him that we were informed by the people at the front desk that we could take pictures he said that we are allowed only if we include ourselves in the photograph.  I was dumbfounded actually but I just followed and let it be.

I will still go back to the National Museum in spite that,  It is indeed a repository of our nation's soul.

Revisiting Historic Paco Park

I joined the photo walk of my camera club this weekend at the Paco Park in Manila.  It's been a while since I last visited the place and it was nice to see it again.  Aside from that, we celebrated the 50th wedding anniversary of our parents there three years ago so it's a memorable place for me personally.

Paco Park also has a place in our country's history.  Our National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal was buried there for a while after his execution.  The three martyred priests named GomBurZa were also interred there.

I was around 9 in the morning when we got there and the park was relatively quiet and almost empty except from a few visitors.  We have it almost to ourselves except that there were some construction going on.  Some areas were being dugged up while some of the walls were being reinforced.

Here are some of the photos I took during our photo walk.

LYTRO: The Future of Photography?

An exciting revolution is about to happen in the way we take pictures.  A start up company in Silicon Valley called LYTRO is set to release a new kind of camera to the consumer market.

They call it the light field camera and what it does is it uses the power light to help you capture life's precious moments.  The secret is in the sensor which captures all the light rays in the scene.  Unlike conventional cameras, this new sensor records the color, intensity, and direction of the ray of light.  A special software inside the camera will process all these information to allow the viewer to switch focus points.  

Thia means there is no need to worry about focusing your shot anymore or whether the auto-focus function in your camera actually focused on your intended area.  In fact, the company's slogan is "Shoot now, focus later."

You can give it a try with the photo below.  Click on Elvis and see what happens.

Want to try more of this? Then head off to the company's website and have fun with their Picture Gallery.

Light and Shadows

While lying in bed this morning, this scene caught my attention.  The early sun light filtering through the curtains cast shadows of the window grills and contrasted with the golden leave prints. The contrast between the bright light and the dark shadows was a sight to see.

I grabbed my camera and took a shot of the scene.  Admittedly, nature is far better at making such beautiful view than any man-made device.

I think I have GAS

No, not that GAS! It's the dreaded G.A.S. or gear acquisition syndrome. It's the uncontrollable urge to buy one gear after another.

You see, I recently upgraded my DSLR.  My old one, though was still very much able needed to be updated.  Even before I got my new one, I already bought a neckstrap that has more padding than the one provided in the kit.

After just one use of the equipment, I decided that I must have a bag that I could easily tote when I go on a photoshoot.  Luckily, I found one for sale on my online photo group.

After a couple of weeks of shooting with my new camera, I found out that I have outgrown its kit lens.  I wanted something that can help me zoom further than the high end of my lens.  So I acquired a new glass that could reach more than double than what the kit lens could afford.  Who knows when I will want to go farther than what my current lens could take.

from imaging.nikon.com

The more I shoot, the more I wanted to buy new gears.  I must have bought more gears since I bought this new camera than the entire time I have my old one.  

But the itch to buy more gears is becoming more unbearable.  Now, I want to buy a dedicated flash because on-camera flash has limited range.  I want to get prime lens because not only are they fast, they are more clear and have better bokeh than my present lens.  I'm thinking of a 35mm f/1.8 standard lens, a 105mm micro lens and a 10-24 mm f/2,8 wide angle lens.

In the near future, I would like to try my hand on portraiture.  This early, I am checking out available lighting equipment such as strobes, softboxes, etc, and also those seamless backgrounds that will give my photos a more, well, professional look.  I may also need to get a good portrait lens for this purpose like a 50 mm f/1.4.  I think the 35 mm and the 105 mm lenses are also good portrait lenses.  

Oh, and perhaps in a year or two I would be needing another camera body so I won't have to change lenses all the time during a photo shoot

Someone told me not to think about these gears too much.  He said the best way to get rid G.A.S. is to lay down on the bed and get a good sleep.  It doesn't help that much though because once on the bed, I start daydreaming of the gears I want to buy.  And the urge to acquire only gets stronger.

Sto. Niño Exhibit

Filipinos love the Sto. Niño, the little child Jesus.  Come to any Filipino Catholic home and chances are you will see an icon of the Child Jesus occupying a special place in the altar.  

The image of the Sto. Niño first arrived in the country when the Spaniards came here.  History tells us that when our ancestors were baptized, the Spanish priest gave Queen Juana, wife of the chief, a sacred image of the Sto. Niño.  It has survived a number of fires, including one during World War II and remained unscathed.  The same image now resides in the Basilica del Sto. Niño in Cebu City where it receives thousands of devotees on the third Sunday of January every year.

Last January, to coincide with this feast, a group of devotees of the Child Jesus called Congregacion de Niño Jesus  exhibited hundreds of images of their patron.  We were able to go to that exhinit at the PNB Building at the Government Center in Pasay City.  Since taking of photographs was allowed, I took several pictures of the beautiful images.

As a sign of their love and devotion, Filipinos love to dress up the Child Jesus in fineries.

Here are some of the numerous Niños on display. 

Nikon Introduces the Nikon D5100

Nikon recently announced the Nikon D5100, a Nikon DX-format digital-SLR camera equipped with a vari-angle monitor, and a 16.2 megapixels CMOS image sensor and the EXPEED 2 image-processing engine that enable high-resolution rendering.  

It is also equipped with the D-Movie function that supports recording of full-HD (1920 X 1080p, 30p) movies.  Along with this, are the in-camera movie editing functions that allow users to delete unnecessary portions from the beginning and/or end of movie files. There is also an HDMI output so that the users can show off their full-HD videos to their family and friends.

What I am excited about the Nikon D5100 is the Special Effects mode.  This is the first Nikon DSLR to offer this feature and the user can choose from seven special effects, including selective color where the entire photo is in black and white except for the elements chosen by the user.  There is also the night vision which  allows the user to capture images even in extremely dark places.  The special effects can be viewed through the lens before shooting, allowing users to see and confirm the results.  Complementing these features is the new High Dynamic Range (HDR) function which captures two shots at different exposures and combine these to create a single image that has little or no loss of highlights.

Another neat feature of this camera is the vari-angle monitor. The vari-angle monitor opens from 0 to 180° to the side, and can be rotated up to 90° clockwise and up to 180° counter-clockwise when it is open.  This will come in handy when shooting in a crowded place and the standard monitor won't do the job.  The 3-inch monitor is also bigger than the one in Nikon D5000 and since the hinge is now on the side, it will not hit the tripod when the camera is mounted.


The Nikon D5100 allows continuous shooting at up to approximately 4fps.  It also has a quiet shutter release mode for shooting in places and situations that needs quieter shutter operations.

The Nikon D5100 comes with an AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR kit lens. Amazon.com offers it at $899.