Wire Audio Throughout The House

Having wired audio throughout your house can be a fun feature to have in your home. With this, you will have the ability to walk from room to room and still be able to listen to the same song, or even to your television. Follow these few simple steps and you will be up and running in no time.

Instructions

1. Establish a "hub" area for your audio system. This will be the area where all of your speakers lead to, as well as where your receiver will be placed.

2. Connect your speaker selector to your receiver's "B" speaker ports. Your speaker selector is what will allow you to send your audio throughout your home with the push of a button.

3. Determine where you are going to put your speakers. Once you've figured this out, you will then need to determine the best path to get the speaker wire there. If you are building a new home, this will be relatively easy. However if you are installing into an existing home, it will be more difficult. Consider drilling through walls or running wires through crawl spaces.

4. Also consider where you want to place the speakers. You can place them on top of tables, shelves or speaker stands. The best speaker is a speaker that's just out of the way. Consider purchasing speaker mounts and attaching them to the wall; these are easy to install, just follow the directions that come with them.

5. Run the wires from the speaker selector to each of your speaker locations. Be sure to leave at least six extra feet on the end of the wires; you might want to move them around someday.

6. When running wire through a room, you will want to consider placement of the wires. The best and least obtrusive place to run the wire is to place it on the baseboards, and use a staple gun to tack it in place. Other alternatives are to remove the baseboard and tuck the wire under it, or, if you have a carpeted room, pull up the edge of the carpeting and tuck it under there.

7. Connect the speakers to the wires, and the wires to the speaker selector. Turn on your "B" speakers on your receiver, and listen to the wonderful sound of whole home audio.

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Troubleshoot Color Alignment On A Kodak Printer Dock

There are several troubleshooting options for fixing Kodak printer issues.

The Kodak printer dock lets you print off photographs directly from your camera instead of transferring the images from your digital camera to your computer first. Like any other type of printer, a Kodak printer dock may occasionally experience problems with the alignment or color of the images. The printer dock uses a type of ink cartridge that includes a spool, which may need to be rewound in order to resolve alignment problems.

Instructions

1. Unplug the AC adapter from the back of the Kodak printer dock. Set the Kodak printer dock on a flat and level surface, such as a desk or table.

2. Grip the plastic paper tray at the front of the device and pull it out of the printer dock. Moisten a soft cloth with water until it is just barely damp. Gently wipe off the rotating feed roller component located at the front of the printer dock.

3. Dry off the feed roller with a dry cloth. Wipe off the visible interior portion of the Kodak printer dock with a dry cloth to remove any built-up dust or other residue.

4. Pull down the plastic access panel on the right side of the printer dock that covers the ink cartridge. Push in the release tab below the cartridge and pull the entire cartridge out of the Kodak printer dock.

5. Push in on the circle-shaped cartridge spool, which is located at the front-right end of the cartridge. Rotate the spool clockwise with your finger twice to ensure the color alignment is correct.

6. Slide the cartridge back into the Kodak printer dock and close the plastic access panel. Plug in the Kodak printer dock's AC adapter. Slide the paper feed tray back into the front of the printer dock.

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A Spotting Scope To A Digital Camera

To get really close with a digital camera, try using a zoom eyepiece. Commonly known as a spotting scope, these adapters for your name brand digital camera will really work when you need to get up close and personal. These scopes begin at a relatively low price and increase greatly as the quality goes up.

Instructions

1. Try the ScopeTronix 1.25 with a Nikon digital camera. It has a great price, good optics, rubber eyeguard and comes threaded for use with filters. The mountings and mechanics of this generation of camera equipment is truly state of the art. You can assemble the adapter, camera and eyeguard with ease by following the manufacturer's instructions.

2. Pull off the eyeguard (made of rubber for easy handling), slip on the adapter you choose and tighten the thumbscrews. Many of the Nikon Cameras (800, 900, 990, 995 and 4500) use a 28mm adapter.

3. Use a top of the line Kowa spotting scope to capture the true image you're looking for in your photograph. Used with the TSN DA-1 adapter, you have a very easy-to- use assembly. Just connect the attachment with a screw lock in a flash. You'll like the Sky and Earth adapter with Nikon digital cameras and 60 or 80 mm scopes.

4. Buy the best and check into the greatest brands available for professional grade digital camera spotting scopes. They are Yukon, Nikon and Bushnell. Moving from one to the other, you get brighter images as you step up in aperture. Of course, the price goes up as well.

5. Come back to earth, now. You might want to try a cheaper version first. You will learn with less expense and pain than if you got a professional grade scope and had to deal with payments while you were learning to love it.

Tags: digital camera, Nikon digital, professional grade, spotting scope, with Nikon, with Nikon digital

Use A Coolpix Digital Camera

Coolpix cameras by Nikon are designed to be compact cameras you can take with you anywhere.

CoolPix is the name given to the line of point and shoot digital cameras manufactured by Nikon. The cameras range from entry level models which retail for less than $100 right up to more advance models that can cost nearly $500. These cameras feature zoom lenses and a number of automatic shooting modes. While the cameras differ from model to model, operating them is very similar as Nikon keeps the menu screens and control buttons in similar positions from model to model.

Instructions

1. Hold the Nikon Coolpix camera in your hand, turn the camera upside down, slide open the battery compartment door and insert a fully charged battery into the camera and close the compartment door. Slide open the memory card compartment door, insert an empty SD memory card and close the door.

2. Press the "On/Off" button to turn the camera on. Press the "Menu" button on the back of the camera to access the Coolpix's shooting menus. Toggle through the selections and select "Shooting mode." Select "Auto" from this menu, this will set the camera into a mode where the camera will set the shutter speed, aperture and ISO (light sensitivity) to take the best picture. This setting will also activate the built in flash if the camera determines it is needed.

3. Press the "Menu" button again to return the camera to its shooting mode. Hold the camera up in front of you. Compose the picture on the rear LCD screen. Adjust the zoom lens by pressing the "W/T" button that is located on back of the camera, until the picture is composed the way you like.

4. Press the shutter release half way down to activate the camera's metering and auto-focusing programs. Once the camera has focused on the subject, press the shutter release the rest of the way to take the picture.

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Troubleshoot A Samsung D53 Digital Camera

The Samsung D53 is a small digital camera suitable for taking snapshot images. When using for the first time, 2 new AA Alkaline batteries should be inserted, and the date, time and language should be set. The camera uses SD Memory Cards or Multi Media Cards. Memory cards should be formatted in the camera.

Instructions

1. Verify that the batteries are installed properly and have a charge if the camera turns off prematurely, or fails to turn on.

2. Turn the camera off and on again if you receive a memory card error. If you continue to get the error, take the memory card out, and reinsert it again.

3. Reformat the memory card if Step 3 did not work. To do this press the Menu button 3 times for the menu to appear. Select "Format" in the menu. When you format a memory card it will delete all the pictures saved on the card. New memory cards should be formatted before using.

4. Slide the write protect switch to the top of the memory card if the memory card is locked. If the camera beeps several time after turning on, and then turns off, the lock switch by the memory card may have been moved to the incorrect position.

5. Insert a new memory card or delete or remove the images from the card if it is full. Adjusting your settings to take smaller images will allow you to store more images on the memory card. Larger images will print better, yet are suitable for Web use.

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Use A 4gb Sd Card In A 1gb Sd Slot

Secure Digital Cards, also known as SD cards, are the perfect way to store a decent amount of memory on a very small-sized space. Cards can be moved from PCs to cell phones and cameras and other devices with ease, however, in some cases, you may want to change the size of the card being used, and therefore it is important to understand how larger 4GB SD cards can be used in slots that you've been using your 1GB card in.

Instructions

1. Check what type of cards are support by your memory card slot. There are two major types of SD card slots: standard SDIO slots and SDHC (high capacity) slots.

2. Check if your 4GB card is an SDHC card. If it is you'll need support for that card type. If your card is not supported, the device manufacturer may have an SDIO-to-SDHC upgrade. You'll need to check with the manufacturer.

3. Remove the 1GB SD card and replace it with the 4GB card once you have determined that the drive supports your card. You may need to choose the "Format" option found on your device. If your device does not offer card format support, you can place the card in a supported computer and format the drive as you would a standard hard drive via the "My Computer" screen, which will display your SD card drive.

4. Test the card by loading a file onto the drive and then attempting to open the file. If the file opens, your new 4GB card is supported.

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What Is Bulk Film And How Is It Used

Bulk film is often purchased by photographers who shoot many pictures.

Some photographers prefer to buy film in bulk rolls, which usually come in lengths of 100 feet. Bulk film is sold by most major film manufacturers and the reasons for buying film in such large quantities sometimes go beyond the economical.

Econmic Savings

Bulk film can come in black and white or color and is considerably cheaper than the prepackaged rolls, which are usually calibrated for 24 or 36 exposures. Along with the large roll of film, a photographer must also purchase some empty film canisters and a bulk film loader. The film is transferred to the film canister and then cut to length. Once the bulk film has been transferred to the bulk loader, total darkness is not necessary to prepare a length of film.

Benefits

The biggest benefit of bulk film is that the photographer can choose how many exposures are available on each roll of film. For example, a sports photographer might want to load up each roll with as many shots as possible, while a black-and-white nature photographer could opt for a very small number of exposures on each segment, so he can use different rolls for the changing lighting that occur during the course of a day.

Quality

The manufacturing quality of the film does not change, but the purchaser should always check the date of the film. The fresher the film, the more sensitive it will be to light. Once the bulk film is purchased, it needs to be stored in the refrigerator to help maintain freshness.

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Format A Canon A540 Memory Card

Digital cameras, such as the Canon A540, eliminate the need for 8mm film.

The Canon PowerShot A540 is a 6.0 megapixel digital camera with four times optical and digital zoom, ideal for taking snapshots of special occasions, such as birthdays, graduations or weddings. All of these specifications need very little configuration and know-how on the camera operator's part--just point and shoot. The last snafu anyone wants to encounter is having the memory card low on storage space, or worse, improperly formatted. If the memory card is new or needs reformatting, this process is effortless in the Canon A540.

Instructions

1. Press and hold the "On/Off" button. Wait for the power lights to turn green.

2. Press the button labeled "Menu." Note that the "Rec" (Record) or "Play" menu will be displayed.

3. Press the circular button surrounding the "FUNC./SET" button to the right to choose the "Set Up" menu.

4. Press the circular button surrounding the "FUNC./SET" button upward or downward to choose the "Format" option. Then press directly on the "FUNC./SET" button, the center button.

5. Press the circular button surrounding the "FUNC./SET" button to the right to select "OK." Then press directly on the "FUNC./SET" button, the center button.

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Instructions For A Motorola H685 Bluetooth Headset

The Motorola H685 Bluetooth headset is part of the Motorola H600 series of Bluetooth headsets and share the same features and functions as the H680 and H681 models, differing only in model number due to changes in their manufacturing process. The H685 is designed to accommodate wireless connections of up to 33 feet between the device and the phone or any other device that it is being paired with. The operation of the Motorola H685 is fairly straightforward and very user-friendly.

Instructions

Setup an Pairing

1. Plug the Motorola H685 charger cord into the port on the back of the charger case and the other end into an outlet. Place the H685 headset onto the charging case with the charging contacts on the headset aligned with the charging case contacts. The indicator light will turn red while the device is charging and turn off when the device is fully charged. When the device is fully charged, remove it from the charger case.

2. Slide the "Power" switch on the side of the H685 headset to "On." The indicator light on the device will be lit in a steady blue to show that the device is ready for pairing with your phone.

3. Initiate a pairing link with the H685 headset through your phone using its Bluetooth settings. The process for this varies from phone to phone, but normally involves going through the phone's menu and turning on the Bluetooth link. This will bring up a list of devices that are available for the phone to link or pair with. Select the Motorola H685 headset from the list and enter "0000" as the passkey if prompted to do so.

Making Calls

4. Tap the "Call" button on the side of the headset to receive a call and to end a call.

5. Tap both "Volume" buttons on the top and bottom of the headset to mute or un-mute a call in progress.

6. Press and hold a "Volume" button until you hear two descending tones to reject a call.

7. Press and hold the "Call" button until you hear two ascending tones to redial the last call.

8. Tap the "Call" button and speak the name after the tone to make a voice dial call.

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Instructions For The Canon Dc95

Remove your DVD from the DC95 after you've finished recording.

The Canon DC95 digital camcorder captures video footage and saves it directly to a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc). The DC95 captures video in both widescreen (16:9) and full screen (4:3) format and is capable of recording still images up to 530,000 pixels in size. Once you have set up your camcorder, you might need to know about its basic operations. You'll want to know your camcorder well before relying on it to capture special events like weddings, birthdays and sporting events.

Instructions

1. Open the LCD screen (located on the left side of the camcorder if your facing it from behind) by flipping it out with your finger and insert the battery pack (metal receptors first) into the battery chamber in the direction of the arrow until it snaps into place. Plug the power supplied power cord into the back of the power adapter. Plug the power adapter into the "DC In" terminal (located on the underside of the camcorder toward the front) and plug the pronged end of the power cord into an AC outlet. You will see the "Charge" icon illuminate on the back of the DC95. Allow the battery to charge fully for approximately 165 minutes.

2. Turn the power switch (located on the back of the camera) to "On." Push down the "Open" switch (located on the back right edge of the camera) to open the DVD chamber. Insert a DVD-R (records once) or DVD-RW (can be reused several times) into your with the label facing outward. Push the DVD in until it clicks. Close the DVD cover.

3. Slide your hand into the grip on the right side of the camcorder. Lift up the strap and pull it tight against the back of your hand. Your hand should be snug inside the grip and you should be able to reach the buttons on the back of the camera and the "Zoom" buttons (located on top of the camera).

4. Push open the lens cover lever (located on the left side of the camcorder on the side of the lens). Tilt the LCD screen so that the screen is easily viewable. Frame your subject in the LCD screen or the viewfinder (the small window on the back of the camcorder) by pointing the lens toward it. Push the "Start/Stop" button with your right thumb to begin recording. Stop recording by pushing the button with your thumb again.

5. Slide the power switch over to "Mode" and release it until you see "Play" on the LCD screen. Push the navigation button (located on the upper side of your camera's left toward the back) to select the scene you wish to play back. Push "Play/Pause" on the bottom of the LCD screen to begin playback. Push the "Stop" button (on the bottom of the LCD screen) to stop playback.

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Compare Lcd Tv Models By Sharp

Sharp is one of the leading brands in electronic products. The company has recently ventured into the LCD and Plasma TV market and has launched a few models of LCD TVs. Shopping for LCD TVs require some preparation. Here is what to look for when buying a Sharp LCD TV model.

Instructions

1. Get the details about the specifications and the variety of options available for Sharp LCD TV by visiting the Web site or by visiting the nearest authorized TV shop.

2. Check out the nearest electronisc outlet such as a Circuit City or Best Buy. See if they carry any Sharp TV models.

3. Request a catalog from the store or the website. The best way to go shopping for any TV brand is by checking out their latest catalog.

4. Assess the space available where you want to mount your new TV set. This is because the sizes of different models vary. Select a model depending on the viewing distance. Sharp offers LCD TV models as big as 65 inches diagonally. In case you have huge available space, the Sharp models are a good option for home theater displays.

5. Decide on your budget for buying a Sharp LCD TV.

6. Consider the portability of your TV set. The larger the model, the heavier it is and more difficult it will be to move from one place to other.

7. Examine the distinct features of all Sharp LCD models. The new Sharp AQUOS D90U series offers one of the most exciting ranges in LCD TVs. All the TVs have a titanium finish. This range also includes the largest LCD TV currently available in the market. (65 inches) The resolution of the 65-inch, 57-inch and the 37-inch screen size is 1920 x 1080 pixels, which is among the highest HDTV specification available in the current market. All models of this series are worth buying, and come with CableCARD slot and a TV guide. An on-screen programming guide is included in the LC- 65D90U and LC-57D90U. The D90U series also offers a dual IEEE 1394 FireWire inputs and DVI inputs for your PC.

Tags: Sharp models, buying Sharp, D90U series

Parts Of A Camera Lens

Single lens reflex (SLR) cameras use interchangeable lenses. These lenses give the photographer a variety of focal lengths to work with and creative options for controlling depth of field in the pictures. Each camera lens has a set of common features to make it work effectively.

Zoom Ring

Camera lenses that have a zooming capability (not fixed focal length lenses) are operated by rotating the zoom ring on the barrel of the lens.

Focusing

SLR camera lenses can be focused manually or by using autofocus. Some lenses have a toggle switch on the side to choose manual or auto. If focusing manually, rotate the focusing ring on the barrel of the lens until the desired level of focus is reached.

Front

The front of an SLR camera lens is threaded so it can accept a variety of filters with a thread mount. UV haze filters, sky filters and black and white filters are often attached long term to the front end of a lens to protect the glass and multicoating on the end of the lens.

Rear

The rear of the lens has a series of contact points that align with the body of the SLR camera to transfer data.

Lens Data

On the barrel of the lens the focal range and aperture will be printed. The filter size will be printed on the front end of the lens.

Tags: barrel lens, camera lens, front lens, ring barrel, ring barrel lens, will printed

Parts Of An Optex Tripod

Optex tripods can be used with video and still photography cameras.

Tripods, like those manufactured by Optex, are important tools for photographers and videographers who need to keep their camera's as stable as possible when shooting. Videographers need a tripod for most of their work, otherwise the video they shoot can look very jumpy and will be difficult for viewers to follow. Photographers use tripods when using long exposures or telephoto lenses.

Head

At the top of an Optex tripod is the head. This is where the camera is mounted and positioned for taking the picture. If you are shooting with a video camera, the head will be a "Panning" head that allows you to easily turn the video camera to follow what you are shooting. If the tripod is going to be used for still images, then it will have a three way head that can be tightened in one place.

Legs

As the name suggests, tripods have three legs. These legs are often supported with connections to the center column for added rigidity. Tripod legs are easily extended; most Optex tripods having three sections to them. This allows the tripod legs to be positioned on slightly different elevations and still remain level.

Center Column

The center column serves as a stabilizing column for the legs; sometimes, an Optex tripod is constructed with cross connections that attach to the tripod legs. The center column also holds a column that can be extended to allow the camera to be further raised if needed.

Center Column Crank Handle

The small center column crank handle raises the center column that supports the head; it can be folded in for transport. This handle is connected to a gear system that makes it easy for the photographer to raise the center column. Once the correct height is reached, a locking mechanism can be turned to lock the center column in place. This prevents it from retracting quickly and possibly damaging any camera that may be attached to the tripod.

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Read A Gas Meter

A good way to monitor gas usage is by reading the gas meter and comparing it to the previous reading. If you know read the meter, you can check on the accuracy of an unusually high bill. It isn't difficult if you follow the simple steps.

Instructions

1. Secure your last gas bill so that when you read the meter, you'll have a point of comparison.

2. Take a pencil and paper to record the numbers that you see.

3. Start reading the dial at the left. There are three to six dials. Each one goes in a different clockwise direction from the previous one.

4. Look at the arrow. If the arrow is between numbers, the number that you'll want to write down is the lowest number.

5. Look carefully to see if the hand of the dial is directly on a number. Check the dial to the right. Notice whether it has passed the zero. If it hasn't, you need to use the lower number for the first dial.

6. Subtract the reading from the previous gas bill from the number you wrote down, and the answer is how much gas you have used since the last reading.

Tags: from previous, read meter

Connect A Camcorder To A Tv

When it's time to share your digital videos, you'll want to connect your camcorder to a TV. Hooking up your camcorder to the television is easy. Follow these steps to begin viewing your videos with your friends and family.

Instructions

1. Find the inputs on your TV. Depending on your television, find either RCA jacks (red, white, yellow) or an S-video connection (a single round plug). You can also connect through your VCR but only do this if your TV does not have inputs.

2. Find the outputs on your camcorder. You may have to remove a panel or look in a compartment. Refer to your manual if you simply can't find it. It may look like the outputs on your TV or it may be a single jack that uses an adapter cable. It should be clearly marked.

3. Find the right cables. These should be included if you bought your camera new. If not, you may have to order them from your manufacturer. You can also find common adapter cables at an electronics store. S-video cables are easy to find and inexpensive, and most families have some extra RCA cables laying around.

4. Make the connection. Connect the cables to your camcorder first. If you are using S-video, you'll need to hook up audio too. Most cameras will have just one plug to hook up to your camcorder. Next, hook up the cable to your TV. Make sure you put all the plugs into the same input. For RCA cables, make sure you match the plugs by color to the corresponding inputs.

5. Choose the input on your TV. This is usually done by pushing an INPUT or VIDEO button on your remote (although some TVs use channel 3 or 4). Select the input channel that matches the jacks you plugged your camcorder into.

6. Play the video. Make sure your camcorder is in playback mode and view the video as if you were watching it on your LCD screen. It should appear on the screen. If it does not, continue scrolling through the input channels. Check the cable connections. If you are using the VCR, make sure the VCR is turned on and the TV is on the correct channel.

Tags: your camcorder, outputs your

Connect The Cyberhome Chdvd 300 Dvd Player To A Tv With Composite Video In And Stereo Audio In

The Cyber Home CH-DVD 300 DVD Player is a compact, high-powered DVD player that has all the features of far pricier players. It offers crisp, true-color video and digital audio for a truly impressive viewing and home theater experience. The Cyber Home DVD Player is designed to take advantage of the highest quality video input that your television can support. To do that, it features several different types of connectors. Choose the connector that is the highest quality that your television supports.

Instructions

Determine That Your Television Supports a Composite Video in and Stereo Audio In

1. Look for the video and audio cable connectors on your television. Depending on the make and model, you may find them on the back of the set or under a panel on the front of the set or on the front of the set.

2. Composite Video with Stereo Audio is the lowest level quality on most modern television sets. You'll usually find it as a set of three jacks, one labeled Video In and the other two labeled Stereo In, R and L for right and left speakers.

Connect Your DVD Player to the Television

3. Make sure the power is OFF to both the television and the DVD Player.

4. Plug one end of the yellow composite video cable into the VIDEO OUT connector on the back of the DVD Player. It is located above the S-Video connector (the round, black, circular plug above the video label).

5. Plug the other end of the yellow composite video cable into the VIDEO IN connector on your television set.

6. Plug one red audio plug into the 'L' AUDIO OUT connection on the back of the DVD player.

7. Plug the other red audio plug into the 'L' AUDIO IN (or Speaker In) connector on the television.

8. Plug one white audio plug into the 'R' AUDIO OUT connection on the back of the DVD player.

9. Plug the opposite white audio plug into the 'R' AUDIO IN jack on your television.

10. Connect the power cord to the DVD player.

11. Plug the DVD player power cord into an AC wall outlet.

12. Turn on the television and the DVD player using the power switch on the back and turning standby to on.

13. Select the video input on your TV. This may be called Input 1 or Aux 1 on your television set.

14. You should now see the DVD player's splash screen on your television.

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Troubleshoot Night Scout Night Vision Binoculars

ATN's Night Scout night vision binoculars are perfect for outdoor needs in low light or dark conditions. The binoculars can be used both day and night for hunting, boating, scouting and surveillance. The Night Scout binoculars are also compatible with numerous camera devices, allowing you to photograph or video images during day and night. As with all electronics, problems may arise from time to time. Knowing troubleshoot your binoculars will protect you from poor performance while in the field, or from having to pay for costly repair services.

Instructions

1. Look through the eyepiece and focus on a distant object within the range of the binoculars. If the image is not clear, adjust the objective lens or the eyepiece by rotating it until the image becomes clear. If the image is still not clear, turn on the IR feature.

2. Replace your batteries if the screen becomes dark. If you notice a dim screen, the batteries may be wearing out. If after replacing the batteries the screen appears darker than with previous use, contact a dealer or the manufacturer.

3. Clean the eyepiece thoroughly if you see dark spots on the screen. Loosen the base set screws on the eyepiece. Rotate the eyepiece counterclockwise to remove it. Wipe away any dust from the eyepiece with a photographic lens cleaning tissue, or use compressed air to blow dust particles off.

4. Change batteries if flashes or clicking occurs while operating the binoculars. Typically, after inserting new batteries this is normal within the first five minutes. If the problem persists, check the batteries and remove and replace again. If the problem keeps persisting, contact an authorized dealer or service center.

5. Check to ensure all your camera settings and eyepiece focus are correct for the range and image you're viewing. The wrong setting could make the image appear blurry.

Tags: Night Scout, batteries screen, eyepiece focus

Use A Twin Lens Camera

There was a time when the three main professional cameras were the rangefinder, the single lens reflex and the twin lens reflex. All of them were good designs, but all were expensive and complex. The digital revolution didn’t make these older cameras any less valid, but it did make them a lot cheaper. What would have cost $1,000 or $2,000 a few years ago can be obtained for a couple hundred dollars now. Follow the steps below to use a Mamiya C330 twin lens camera.

Instructions

1. Load the film. There is a pressure plate inside the drop-down back of the camera that can be turned with a knob on the outside to accept 120 or 220 film. Make sure it is set to the correct film type before loading. Close the back compartment, and lock it.

2. Wind the film until it locks on the first frame to expose. It’s ready to shoot.

3. Flip up the waist-level viewfinder. This is on top of the camera and gives access to the viewing lens. There is a magnifier for better focusing, or just look through the whole screen.

4. Focus the camera with the knobs on the bottom front. The screen either will have a standard ground glass or a split-screen. For the ground glass, just focus back and forth until the image is sharp. For the other, focus until the two halves of the split screen align. The image will be reversed left to right. If you move left, the image will go right.

5. Set the shutter speed and aperture. The faster the shutter speed, the more motion can be stopped, but less light will go to the film. The smaller the aperture, the sharper the focus, but again, less light will go in.

6. Prepare to shoot outdoors on a sunny day. Set the shutter speed to the highest, the aperture to the lowest, and position the sun behind the photographer. To shoot outdoors on a hazy day, set the shutter speed and the aperture in the middle. While shoot indoors, either use a flash—electronic strobes will sync with the TLR—or high-speed film such as 400 or 800 ISO.

7. Try different exposures under different circumstances, and note what you did.

8. Beware of parallax. Parallax is the difference between the lens you look through and the lens that takes the picture. At a distance, parallax is negligible. For portraits and other up-close subjects, it matters. There’s a parallax scale on the left side of the camera. If a tripod is used, simply set the camera to take the photo, then tilt down according to the scale to frame it correctly.

9. Finish the film roll. Wind it up, and take it out. Seal it with the attached tape, and process. Color and black-and-white film can be processed at photo shops or through the mail. Or, you can develop it at home.

10. Know that the negatives or slides are big—2.25-by-2.25 inches—so they can be enlarged a lot more than 35mm or standard digital exposures. Scan the negatives into a computer to manipulate them in a photo program or get an enlarger, trays and chemicals. Expose and develop the prints. There are some photo stores that will both develop the film and scan it. They will provide different resolutions on a CD or DVD from which they or you can print.

Tags: shutter speed, ground glass, image will, lens reflex, less light, less light will

Other Uses For Cameras

Other Uses for Cameras

Capturing a moment in time is the essential function of a camera, but there are many other uses for cameras as well, especially digital cameras. For example, have you ever thought of using the LCD screen on your digital camera as a flashlight? How about letting your camera act like binoculars by zooming in on a far-away object? Here are some other uses for cameras that you may not have considered.

Geography

Digital cameras can help keep you from getting lost. One of the greatest things about digital cameras is the LCD screen, where you can instantly replay the picture you just snapped. Next time you're trying to remember the bus-route map, the street map posted in a hotel lobby or airport or even the map at the mall, snap a quick picture with your camera. Then, when you're on your route and trying to remember just where you're supposed to turn, pull up the picture on the LCD screen and use it to help guide you.

Time Frame

When it comes time to remember where the car is parked (or other important information like what street your hotel is on or even the license plate on your car), you can easily pull up the information on the camera's screen if you've snapped a quick picture. You can also use the camera to remember the time. Did you say you'd meet your friends in an hour, but can't remember what time it was when you agreed to do so? Snap a quick picture of your watch or a clock whenever you want to track a starting time, and then you don't have to worry about remembering what the starting time was.

Potential

Traveling somewhere you don't speak the language? A digital camera makes a great "translator." Take pictures of common items beforehand, such as a bathroom, police officer or certain food items you want to be able to find. You might also want to find pictures of landmarks and important places at your destination and snap photos of them as well. When you arrive, take a picture of the exterior of your hotel, or of a bar or restaurant you really enjoyed. If you get lost or need to find something and have trouble communicating, you can pull up a picture of what you want to communicate what you're looking for. You can also take a picture of a sign or menu that you don't understand and then ask someone to translate it for you.

Prevention/Solution

Losing your camera (and all the memories you have captured on it) can be heartbreaking. Use your digital camera to help ensure its own return by letting it store its own reward poster. Create a sign with contact and reward information for the return of the camera. Snap a clear photo of the sign and then use the features on the camera to lock it on the memory card so it can't be easily erased. If a person finds your camera and looks at the stored pictures, they'll find the reward information and hopefully return the camera. One good way to help ensure the return of the camera is to find out what a pawn shop will pay for the model and then set the reward about $20 higher. If the person who finds the camera thinks about pawning it instead of returning it, the reward might provide enough incentive for you to get your camera back.

Size

"It's not the size of the camera, it's the size of the print." Another great use for a camera is to resize objects or papers to a manageable, printable size. Want a copy of a newspaper article, but by the time you reduce it to a standard 8 1/2 x 11 inches it's unreadable? Or is there a small photo you want to enlarge without losing quality? The easiest way to accomplish either of these is to take a picture of the item with a digital camera and then use your photo software to create the document size you want. You can also use your camera to enlarge the details on small objects that you might have trouble seeing. Set it to the highest photo size and quality settings and then take a picture of the object. View the picture at full size and you'll see the small objects magnified.

Tags: your camera, digital camera, take picture, quick picture, return camera, ensure return, have trouble

Recommended Macro Lenses For A Canon

Macro lenses allow amazing closeup images to be captured.

Macro lenses are essential for any photographer wishing to take life-size or higher magnification close-up images. Spectacular images of the natural world and many other objects can be captured with a high quality macro lens and camera. Many of these subjects are impossible to see in such detail with the human eye.

Prime Macro Lenses

A dedicated prime macro lens allows images to be captured at a 1:1 ratio or higher. A prime lens is one with a fixed focal length. The subject cannot be zoomed in or out from the same camera position. Macro lenses typically have focal lengths between 50mm and 200mm. Some offer magnification ratios up to 5:1. The advantage of a shorter focal length is the ability to get close to a subject. One disadvantage is that working so closely could frighten a live subject. In addition, lighting can be difficult at such short range unless on-lens ring lighting is used. Longer focal lengths allow the camera to be further from the subject. Lighting options are more varied and there is less risk of casting shadows on the subject. Canon currently makes six EF macro lenses ranging in focal length from 50-180mm. This includes one capable of 5x magnification. Tamron and Sigma also make several macro lenses compatible with Canon DSLR cameras.

Zoom Macro Lenses

Many zoom lenses claim to be able to take macro photos. In reality, this nearly always means the lens can achieve a very close focusing distance. Although good images can be taken, it is rare to be able to capture an image greater than half the subject's size using any standard lens. Dedicated prime macro lenses will nearly always outperform standard zoom lenses in speed and image quality. Look for a medium telephoto lens in the range of 50-200mm which offers a "macro" function to reduce the minimum focusing distance of the lens. Tamron in particular makes several reasonable lenses of this type.

Considerations

As with all lenses, you get what you pay for. More expensive lenses, particularly from Canon, will usually yield higher quality results than cheaper lenses. As some macro photography requires the ability to shoot where full lighting can be difficult, look for lenses with a high maximum aperture. Canon's macro lenses range from f/2.5 to f/3.5. The lower the 'f' number, the more light the lens will let in. This often means faster shutter speeds can be used.

Tags: focal length, focal lengths, focusing distance, images captured, lighting difficult

Use Studio Lighting Kit

Buying a studio lighting kit is a great way to take your photographs to the professional level. Most kits come equipped with the staples of studio lighting: a big light with a stand to light a large area, a soft box to diffuse the main light, a smaller light with an umbrella to reflect the light back on to the subject and a hair light to separate the subject from the backdrop.

Instructions

Preparing

1. Prepare your studio space by removing any unnecessary items. You are going to set up stands with long cords that you will have to work around. Keep your workspace free of clutter.

2. Set up your poser so that it is a few feet in front of your backdrop. Put your main light about three feet away from where your subject will be, at a 45 degree angle. Attach your soft box to the main light and notice how the light spreads evenly over your space.

3. Put your smaller light source behind the camera at eye level with your subject. Attach the umbrella and adjust so that you can see the light reflecting in your subject's eyes.

4. Use the hair light if you need to separate the subject from the background. It belongs off to the side of your subject pointing toward the top of the hair. This adds a halo effect that draws your attention to your subject.

5. Take several test shots with a family member or friend volunteer. Adjust your lights according to the height of your subjects. If you have hot lights turn them off between takes, to cool things down.

Tags: your subject, main light, hair light, light with, separate subject, separate subject from, smaller light

Tips On Lighting Outdoor Portraits

Taking portraits outdoors is one of the easiest ways to get a professional-looking, flattering photo everyone will love. Sometimes the pictures just seem to come out wonderfully without any effort, while other times nothing seems to work right. By following just a few basic tips, however, you can ensure your outdoor portraits almost always turn out well.

Focus On The Eyes

Good portraits are all about the eyes. If you can see a person's eyes clearly in a photo, it's almost always considered a quality photo. Unfortunately, many outdoor portraits don't expose the eyes well because the person is squinting in the bright sunlight, or because they have dark shadows around their eyes. Fixing these two common problems is fairly easy with the following two tips.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight. When taking outdoor portraits, you want bright light, but you don't want strong direct sunlight. Direct sunlight will create harsh shadows on the person's face, and it usually makes them squint, too.

One way to keep the sun from shining directly in the person's eyes is to turn him so the sun is either at their side or at their back. If the light is still too bright when it's on the side, turn him a slight bit further so the light is coming over one of his shoulders.

With the sunlight behind the person, you'll get a pleasing backlighting or rim lighting effect that looks professional. The back lighting can confuse your camera's exposure meter, though, so you'll need to make adjustments to ensure the person's face doesn't come out too dark in the finished portrait. To compensate for the strong back lighting, take an exposure reading off the person's face or increase your exposure by +1 to +2.

The easiest way to get great outdoor portraits every time is to simply place your subject in a shaded area such as under a large tree.

Fill and Reflect

Use fill lights or reflectors. When you don't have access to a shaded or filtered light area for taking outdoor portraits, you can reduce the harsh shadows and squinting by using simple fill lights or reflectors.

A fill light is an additional light that helps open up the darkness of shadows. A camera flash set to fill flash setting works well as a fill light when taking portraits in direct sunlight, because the flash will light up the shadowed areas.

A reflector is any light colored or shiny reflective item that bounces light into dark areas. A plain piece of white paper works well as a reflector, as does any light colored fabric, cardboard or foam board. Shiny material works well, too: Simple tin foil is excellent in a pinch, as is a simple mirror and anything shiny and metallic.

To light up dark shadows under a person's eyes when taking an outdoor portrait, have him hold a reflector at waist or chest height and angled towards his face. The reflector will bounce sunlight back up into the face and open up the shadows so you'll get a professional-looking final portrait.

Tags: outdoor portraits, person eyes, person face, taking outdoor, works well

Wire A Double Pole Double Throw Switch

Wire a Double Pole Double Throw Switch

A double pole double throw (DPDT) switch is a three-selection electrical device in which there is one "off" and two "on" positions. An application for this switch is for reversing a direct current (DC) electrical motor. The motor's two-power leads are reversed at one of the switches screw terminals. This allows the DC power to be reversed going to the electrical motor. This action then reverses the motor's direction. Attention must be paid to the allowable power capacity of the switch. In all cases, the switch is plainly identified on the side or rear of the switch mechanism.

Instructions

1. Identify the six screw terminals on the side or rear of the switch. There are three pairs of screws that will conduct the electrical power through the switch's mechanism and contacts. The two terminals in the very middle are the power feed connections. The four outermost terminals conduct power to the device being controlled.

2. Remove all electrical power from the power source. Use the wire strippers and remove 3/4 of an inch of the wires' insulation to reveal bare copper. Do this on all wires that are being connected to the DPDT switch. Connect the positive (+) power wire from the power supply to one of the center screw terminals. Tighten the screw with a screwdriver. Attach the negative (-) power wire from the power supply to the other center screw terminal.

3. Attach the two motor leads to one each of the outer screw terminals on the DPDT switch. It does not matter which motor lead is connected to which screw terminal.

4. Strip each end of the two 3-inch-long wires. Using a screwdriver, connect the short wires to the other outer screw terminals on the DPDT switch.

5. Connect one of the short wires to the screw terminal on the DPDT switch that one of the motor leads is attached to. Cross the wire over so it is on the opposite side of the switch's screw terminal. In other words, you are crossing the wire over to make the reverse connection for current flow. Perform the same action with the other short wire by connecting it to the other motor lead.

6. Apply power from the power source. Move the switch in one direction. The motor should be running. Move the switch to the center position, and the motor is now off. Move the switch in the other direction, and the motor should now be running in a reverse direction. If the motor fails to reverse direction, simply exchange the two short wires in their positions on the switch's screw terminals.

Tags: screw terminals, DPDT switch, from power, screw terminal, direction motor, Move switch, short wires

Nutone Intercom Station Wiring

The NuTone company manufactures several models of intercom stations designed for indoor and outdoor use, and in large or small setup locations. Each NuTone Intercom Station system model has its own sets of functions and features that make it unique in the NuTone Intercom series, such as AM/FM radio tuner capabilities or CD changer capabilities. However, since all NuTone Intercom stations come with their internal wiring pre-configured and connected, they all have the same basic process for wiring at installation time.

Instructions

1. Loosen each of the "Line 1" screws on the terminal board of the intercom station, then place each of the color-coded wires of the IW-6 cable from the intercom remote under each of the corresponding colored screws on the board (red/white to "red/wht", black to "blk," etc.). Tighten each screw to hold the cable wires in place on the board.

2. Plug the two intertwined IW-2 speaker wires under the "Door Speaker" screws on the terminal board, then tighten the screws to hold the speaker wires in place on the board.

3. Plug each of the 9 to 14 pin plug wires from the main station unit to each corresponding port on the terminal board. There are five of these wire plugs (CN104, CN106, CN101, CN116 and CN102).

Tags: terminal board, board Plug, each corresponding, Intercom Station, NuTone Intercom

Nokia Mobile Phone Instructions

Nokia mobile phones combine easy operation with useful features like cameras and GPS navigation. Learning to program and use Nokia mobile phones is simple and can be completed in just minutes.

Programming

Nokia mobile phone users can program the settings on their Nokia phone by pressing the "Menu" button to access the device's main menu screen. From there, you can program the phone's ringtones, time, date, contact list, screensaver and wallpaper.

GPS

Some Nokia phone models are equipped with a GPS receiver to aid users in their navigation. The GPS antenna is located on the top left corner of most Nokia models. When using the GPS receiver, be sure not to cover the GPS antenna with your hand. Before you can use the GPS receiver in your Nokia phone, you must first allow the device to acquire the appropriate satellite signals. Take the phone outside, away from mountains, tall buildings or heavy foliage and wait for a few minutes while it acquires the signals. You can check how many satellite signals your phone has acquired by selecting the "Menu," "Applications," "Location and GPS Data" options, followed by "Position," "Options" and "Satellite Status."

Making a Call

Use the number keypad to dial the number you want to call, then press the "Call" button to send the call. When you're ready to end the call, press the "End" button. You can mute or unmute your Nokia phone during a call by pressing the microphone icon button. To hold a call, press the telephone receiver icon button. Press the same button to release the hold.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will help keep your Nokia mobile phone performing at its best. Care and maintenance for your Nokia cell phone include keeping the phone clean, out of extreme temperatures and away from moisture. Should your phone need to be cleaned, wipe it free of dust and dirt with a soft, dry cloth. If your phone comes into contact with water, remove the battery and thoroughly dry both the phone and battery before replacing. If your phone needs to be repaired, contact Nokia's customer support department.

Tags: Nokia phone, your Nokia, your phone, Nokia mobile, away from, call press, icon button

What Is A 3g Cell Phone

3G or third-generation is a type of technology used for cellular phones and other mobile devices. There are a number of phones on the market from various providers that offer 3G technology.

Identification

3G refers to the ability to connect to the Internet from anywhere that your cell phone can access a network known as the 3G network.

Effects

3G allows you to browse websites, check your email or communicate via instant messenger anywhere that is in range of your cell phone provider's network. You do not have to be in an area where there is wireless internet or WIFI available.

History

The first 3G networks began in Korea and Japan during 2000 and 2001, according to the International Telecommunications Union.

Benefits

3G cell phones often allow faster connections to the Internet than connecting to Wifi. Many 3G cell phones allow you to download media or files while text messaging or talking on your phone.

Considerations

3G technology is not available in every area. Before purchasing a 3G cell phone, ensure that your provider's network extends to places where you live, work and frequently travel.

Tags: anywhere that, cell phone, cell phones, provider network, that your, your cell, your cell phone

Open An Sd Card

Open an SD card and retrieve saved data in a matter of seconds.

An SD, or secure digital, card is a specific memory card format that a variety of portable devices--including digital cameras, PDAs and mobile phones--utilize. In order to retrieve data saved on an SD card, you must learn open the card on your computer. Once you open the card, you can copy files for transferring or editing purposes. You need to perform only a few steps to open an SD card, either with a USB reader or without one.

Instructions

With USB Reader

1. Insert the SD card into the SD slot on the USB reader.

2. Insert the opposite end into a USB port on your computer.

3. Click on the desired option when a pop-up menu appears on the screen. Options include "Open folder to view files," "View pictures" and "Import pictures and videos," if not more. Each of these opens the SD card for you to view saved data.

Without USB Reader

4. Locate the SD slot on the computer. On a desktop computer, you will generally find the slot in the front of the tower; on a notebook, look on the side.

5. Insert SD card directly into SD slot on your computer.

6. Click on the desired option when a pop-up menu appears on the screen. Options include "Open folder to view files," "View pictures" and "Import pictures and videos," if not more. Each of these options opens the SD card for you to view saved data.

Tags: saved data, your computer, appears screen, appears screen Options, card view, card view saved

Nimh Vs Nicad Battery Charging

Charging a battery incorrectly can cause damage.

NiCAD batteries are less expensive than NiMH batteries but not always the right choice for powering an electric item. The different chemical structures of the batteries means that how they hold a charge and the rate at which they discharge is dissimilar. These differences become apparent in the comparison of NiMH vs. NiCAD battery charging requirements.

Charge Rates

NiCAD batteries can handle high amperage rates for charging better than NiMH batteries. Using a high charge rate for a NiMH battery can damage or burn the battery. The lower charge rate needed by a NiMH means a longer charging time.

Discharge Rate

When in use, NiMH batteries have a slower discharge rate than NiCAD batteries, except under high amp loads. When stored, a NiMH battery will also lose its stored charge at about double the rate of a NiCAD battery, according to servocity.com.

Charger Types

NiCAD batteries require a more sophisticated charger than NiMHs. While NiMHs can use inexpensive, generic chargers the NiCAD chargers are usually brand specific, more expensive and have built-in charge monitors and automatic shut-off capabilities.

Memory Effect

NiMH batteries experience less of the memory effect common with NiCAD. With the memory effect, the battery redefines its zero discharge level to match the level at which it begins to recharge. This means that a habit of recharging the battery before it is completely dead will lessen the amount of energy the battery reads as having available, seeing only the energy from the point of charge (not the point at which the battery is empty) to the full point.

Tags: NiCAD batteries, NiMH batteries, charge rate, means that, memory effect, NiMH battery

Record A Show With At&T Uverse

AT&T U-verse combines a cable box for high-quality television with a recording device to provide a customized television-watching experience. The U-verse receiver allows you to program the device to record your favorite television shows, which can then be viewed at a later date. Recorded shows are stored on the receiver's hard drive, which enables 37 hours of high-definition shows or 133 hours of standard-definition shows.

Instructions

1. Press "Guide" on the AT&T U-verse remote, and press the up or down arrows on the remote's directional pad to navigate show listings.

2. Leave the tab on the highlighted show you want to record, and press "Record" to record a single episode of the show, or press "Record" twice to record the show at the same time and day every week.

3. Push "Exit to Live TV" to return to your previously viewed channel.

4. Press "Recorded TV" to view a list of shows scheduled for recording. Press "Play" to begin watching the recorded show.

Tags: press Record

Will A Nikon Speedlight Sb600 Work With A Canon Dslr

Photographers usually stick with one camera brand.

Camera enthusiasts typically find a brand they like, such as Nikon or Canon, and stick religiously to that brand. Many companies make generic-brand accessories, such as lenses and flashes, designed to be compatible with brand-name SLR cameras. However, it's not a good idea to experiment with a Nikon flash on a Canon camera -- you could end up ruining both.

Will It Work?

The short answer is yes, most likely, with significant limitations. If you slide a Nikon SB-600 speedlight into the Canon SLR's hotshoe, it will most likely flash when you take a photo. It won't communicate effectively with the camera, so you have to use full manual mode on the flash with lots of trial and error to correct your exposure.

TTL

TTL, or through-the-lens metering, will not work when using the Nikon SB-600 with a Canon SLR camera. This means you will have to calculate the distance between the camera and the subject, then use a mathematical formula to determine the correct aperture setting based on ambient light and the distance. Older flashes had an on-board sliding scale to help with this calculation, but these scales went by the wayside once TTL became mainstream.

Voltage

Each camera manufacturer requires a different voltage to trigger the flashes. Nikon uses 12v, while many Canon SLRs are set up for 6v. If you use a 12v SB-600 flash on a Canon camera, you risk destroying the electronics that manage the Canon's flash system as well as connections inside the flash.

Remote

The Nikon flash will not work remotely with a Canon SLR camera. Canon uses infrared technology to remote-trigger its flashes, while Nikon uses radio signals. Radio signals allow the flash to be farther away and at different angles from the camera, while infrared allows for less interference and missed flashes. The two technologies are not compatible.

Tags: Canon camera, flash Canon, flash Canon camera, most likely, Nikon flash, Nikon SB-600, Nikon uses

Instructions For A Polaroid Sx70 Land Camera

Polaroid SX-70 images can be manipulated into abstract art.

The Polaroid SX-70 Land Camera was the first single lens reflex (SLR) Polaroid camera made. Released in 1972, it brought the advantages of SLR camera photography to the Polaroid world and found a place in many a photo studio and in the bags of many amateur photographers. It captured photos in color that seemed peculiar to it, and its photos were often manipulated by many into artistic renderings. Polaroid improved the SX-70 over time, eventually releasing models such as the Alpha and the Sonar Autofocusing SX-70.

Instructions

1. Hold the camera in one hand and with the other, grasp the sides of the raised section at the rear and pull straight up until it latches.

2. Push down the latch on the right side of the camera when viewing from the back. This will open the film door. Remove the film pack from its package, grasp the entire pack by the sides and push it into the film slot with the film tab to the front and at the bottom.

3. Close the film door. The camera will whir and eject the film cover.

4. Hold the camera in your left hand behind the hinge. Bring it up to your eye and look through the viewfinder. You should see all four sides of the black frame inside.

5. Turn the focusing wheel, on the top deck, just above and to the right of the lens, so that a vertical edge that is at the distance you want to be sharp meets in both halves of the split image focusing circle. Roll the focusing wheel in both directions until you achieve optimum focus.

6. Compose the picture within the black frame of the viewfinder. Hold the camera steady. Squeeze the shutter release, found on the front panel to the right of the lens, with you finger on the button and thumb of the right hand at the back of the front panel, until the picture exits the camera.

7. Push the cover support strut, on the left side of the camera bellows, to the rear and push down on the viewfinder cap until it latches to close the camera.

Tags: Hold camera, black frame, film door, focusing wheel, front panel, Land Camera, Polaroid SX-70

Nikon Lenses Explained

Nikon camera lenses often have a extensive series of letters before and after the focal length, such as AF-S 70-300mm 1:4.5-5.6 G. To the unknowing, all those letters can look like alphabet soup. Knowing decipher the letters can instantly tell a user the features of the lens, as well as the cameras on which the lens will work.

History

Nikon introduced the f-mount lens mounting system in 1959, and there have not been any notable changes. That is good news for consumers, because film camera lenses manufactured decades ago with what Nikon calls automatic indexing, or AI, can be used on the company's new digital cameras. While the mounting system has not significantly changed, Nikon has introduced several new lens features.

Types

Nikon manufactured its first autofocus lens in 1986. The acronym is AF. AF-D lenses told the camera the focusing distance. This is beneficial when using a flash and taking a picture of a subject that takes up only a small portion of the frame. The distance information helps the camera get the correct exposure. AF-S lenses are the only lenses that will focus on the D40 model. DX lenses are made for cameras that do not have full-frame sensors.

Considerations

If you are using the most recent Nikon cameras, a D-type or a G-type lens will provide the most metering and flash capability. If you use any other lens type, you will be giving up something in automatic metering or through-the-lens flash metering. The D40, D40x, D60 and D5000 camera body models will only autofocus with an AF-S lens. An AF-S lens has a silent wave integrated focus motor in it.

Features

VR means vibration reduction. Nikon introduced this feature in 2000. It helps take out blur when a camera cannot be held still. It is useful for taking handheld pictures in low-light situations. It eliminates the need to use a tripod in some conditions.

Warning

Lenses manufactured between 1959 and 1977 are called pre-AI lenses. Do not mount these lenses on any of the newer Nikon cameras except the D40, D40x, D60, D5000, a modified F5, a modified F6 or an F4. Mounting on any other camera can cause damage to the camera mount. A pre-AI lens has a solid coupling prong. Compatibility charts are available online.

Numbers

Lens have two sets of numbers. The number followed by "mm" is the focal length. The larger the focal length, the more the subject is magnified. The second number is the minimum f-stop for that lens. The f-stop, also called aperture, determines how much light the lens allows in and the photo's depth of field. A lower f-stop means a narrow depth of field, and more light is allowed into the lens. A zoom lens can have different minimum f-stops for different focal lengths.

Tags: focal length, Nikon introduced, AF-S lens, camera lenses, D40x D5000, depth field, lens will

The Best Batteries For Digital Cameras

Use disposable batteries when traveling with your digital camera.

When choosing a digital camera, make certain that it supports rechargeable and long-life disposable batteries. The best types of batteries for digital cameras are hybrid rechargeable batteries, oxyride and lithium batteries. Digital cameras that uses a variety of battery types are very popular among travelers and avid photographers. Because when you are unable to locate an electrical outlet for a battery charger, disposable batteries can used to provide electrical power for your digital camera.

Hybrid Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries

Hybrid rechargeable batteries are considered the best ones because their electrical power lasts longer in digital cameras. A set of AA-sized batteries electrical power will last about an hour or two from continuous use. Hybrid rechargeable batteries can be recharged several hundred times. However, if you don't use them very often, the NiMH cells will lose some of their charge each day. Make certain that you recharge the batteries at least once a month. Avoid over-charging the batteries to higher voltages than the digital camera battery threshold voltage. Purchase rechargeable batteries such as the Sanyo Eneloop, Uniross Hybrio, Rayovac I-C3 and E8DE 1000 from your local hardware store, Radio Shack and online digital camera battery retailers.

Oxyride Disposable Batteries

Oxyride batteries performance is excellent and ideal for high-drain digital cameras. They are considered the best non-rechargeable disposable batteries, because they are inexpensive and have a low self-discharge rate. Oxyride batteries electrical power lasts longer than alkaline batteries and puts out about 1.7 volts of electrical power as opposed to 1.5 volts from standard alkaline batteries. The Panasonic Oxyride Extreme Power has received good reviews from consumers, and voted as one of the best types of high-drain disposable batteries that you can use for your digital camera.

Lithium Disposable Batteries

The advantages of disposable lithium batteries is they have a shelf life up to 10 years when not in use. The disposable batteries are ready for use when you need them and can be used as emergency spares with your digital camera. When disposable lithium batteries run out of electrical power, you can throw them away and replace the batteries with a new set. Use non-rechargeable 1.5 volt disposable lithium batteries, because their high-drain performance is very good and they will provide an adequate amount of electrical power for your digital camera.

Alkaline Disposable Batteries

Alkaline batteries can be used as a short-term backup power source for your digital camera. Standard alkaline batteries are inexpensive and have a shelf life up to three years. You can find standard alkaline batteries from anywhere around the world. However, the batteries electrical power only lasts for about 15 or 20 minutes in digital cameras. Avoid using rechargeable alkaline batteries, because they don't work very well in high-drain digital cameras. Use high-current alkaline batteries such as Eveready's Energizer Advanced Formula, Duracell Ultra, and Kodak Photolife batteries. But keep in mind, standard and high-current alkaline batteries should be used as a last resort to power your digital camera.

Tags: digital camera, electrical power, your digital, your digital camera, alkaline batteries, batteries electrical

Nikon Lens History

Nikon is Japan's oldest manufacturer of camera lenses. Prior to making camera lenses, the company specialized in high-end optics. Nikon has a rich tradition of making some of the best camera lenses in the world.

First Lenses

Nikon actually developed their first lenses before they had even created a camera. The first Canon camera to come to market, a rangefinder released in 1936, came with a 50mm Nikon lens. It wasn't until after the Second World War that Nikon released its own camera body and a line of lenses to go along with it.

First Systems

The first Nikon camera came out in 1948, and shortly thereafter the company developed a rangefinder system that started to compete with European heavyweights Contax and Leica. Nikon developed several lenses to support this camera, and these lenses quickly were recognized as some of the best in the industry. In fact, the Nikon S series camera used a Contax mounting system. Most of the S series lenses were coated to improve performance.

Single Lens Reflex (SLR)

Nikon introduced its famous F series SLR camera in 1959, and quickly followed with a series of prime lenses for the camera, as well as the first zoom Nikon lens. The company also developed an adapter so the new lenses would fit on their old rangefinder bodies.

These lenses are called the "pre-AI" lenses because of the way you had to match the lens to the camera meter by rotating the lens to its largest aperture and back.

In 1977, Nikon upgraded its lenses to an "automatic indexing" system that enabled the user to match the aperture and meter with one twist. These lenses still work well with the new Nikon digital camera bodies.

E Series

Nikon introduced its E series lenses and cameras in 1979. These lenses were designed with affordability in mind. The professional lenses still had the Nikkor designation, while the E series were called Nikon lenses and skimped a bit on materials to save money. These lenses were the first to use plastic materials in the lens bodies. The lenses were still high quality and in fact better than many third-party lenses of the day.

This system never really caught on, however, and was supplanted in the 1980s when Nikon started to make cameras with autofocus in the camera body.

Autofocus Lenses

Nikon introduced autofocus lenses in 1986. Autofocus provides a tremendous benefit to both the amateur and professional photographer, enabling much faster photography. Improvements on these lenses followed in the 1990s. Nikon introduced the AF-D series lenses in 1992; these lenses helped provide distance information to the camera. In 1998, Nikon introduced the AF-S lenses. These lenses have the Silent Wave Motor; the motor is controlled by the camera, and these lenses are the only ones that work on Nikon's less expensive digital SLRs like the D40.

Modern Developments

Nikon introduced its vibration reduction (VR) lenses in 2000. These lenses help a photographer take better pictures without using a tripod in low light. VR helps reduce the effects of blurring from a shaky hand.

In 2003, Nikon introduced the DX lenses. These lenses have a smaller opening that matches the size of the sensor in their digital SLRs. Only Nikon's more expensive SLRs, such as the D700 and D3, have a sensor that is the same size as 35mm film. Using a DX lens on an FX camera will result in black around the edges of the photograph. The advantage of a DX lens is that enables a digital SLR with the smaller sensor to take wide-angle shots, though there still is a crop factor of 1.5 on the lens. For instance, a 12-24 DX lens is about the equivalent of a 20-35 film lens.

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Make 3d Photos In Photoshop

If you have ever wanted to create your own amazing 3D photo, but thought it would be too difficult, think again! Photoshop can make it easy to make your own fantastic photo images, like you would see on a professionally built website.

Instructions

1. Choose what or who will be the centerpiece, or pop, of your 3D photo. Take one photo dead on, not against a wall (or there will be no 3D effect no matter what you do). Then take a tiny step to one side and shoot another photo. Take a tiny step to the other side of center and snap one more shot.

2. For a digital, hook up your camera to your PC and transfer the pictures. For 35 mm camera, get your photo developed and scan them into your computer. Once the pictures on the computer open them up in Photoshop.

3. For both of the side shots you want them in grayscale. Choose one side shot at a time. Click from menu bar: Image, then Mode and finally Grayscale.

4. Choose from the menu bar: Image, then Mode and finally RGB. The picture will still look black and white and should look this way. Click from menu bar: Window and then Channels. Holding the shift key on your keyboard down click on blue and green only.

5. Click on right side photo. Using 'select' from menu bar, click on All. Go to Edit and click on Copy. Return to your RGB left side photo and paste the right side onto it.

6. Pick something small on the main subject of the 3D photo and zoom in on it. Move one side photo around using the 'move' tool on the toolbar until the object in both photos match up perfectly.

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Hold Shoulder Strap Bags On Your Shoulder

Hold Shoulder Strap Bags on Your Shoulder

If you have never thought much about the shoulder strap of a bag, you have probably never toted a heavy shoulder bag along with you throughout an entire day. Several key design features of the shoulder strap of a shoulder bag make it more or less comfortable to carry. The width of the shoulder strap and the materials in the shoulder strap are both instrumental in the comfort of a shoulder bag. Make sure you hold the shoulder strap properly on your shoulder to reduce fatigue and discomfort as you carry the bag.

Instructions

1. Select a bag with a shoulder strap of a comfortable width for your shoulder. Because a shoulder strap sits on the muscles located between your spine and your shoulder, it will invariably place significant pressure and stress on these muscles. If the shoulder strap is too narrow or too wide for this area on your shoulder, it will begin to feel uncomfortable quite quickly. Test shoulder bag straps prior to making a purchase to ensure the width of the shoulder strap feels comfortable on your shoulder.

2. Look for a bag with shoulder straps that have gripping materials on the underside of the strap. These gripping materials will enable you to place the shoulder strap on your shoulder and it will stay where you place it. If the gripping materials are ineffective, you will constantly be repositioning the shoulder strap on your shoulder and this will lead to fatigue and discomfort.

3. Choose a bag with shoulder straps that flex with the shape of your shoulder for greatest comfort. Once you place the shoulder strap on your shoulder in a comfortable position, with effective gripping materials and a flexible strap, the bag should stay in place on your shoulder as it fits comfortably around the shape of your shoulder.

4. Fill the bag with the items you will carry in it. An average weight for a shoulder bag is between 15 and 20 pounds. As long as your shoulder strap meets the above criteria, you should not have difficulty carrying around a shoulder bag of this weight on your shoulder.

5. Place the shoulder strap onto your shoulder so the width of the strap is directly over the muscles of your shoulder (between your clavicle and neck). Bend your arm at the elbow and support the bag slightly by resting your arm on the bag and holding onto the front strap.

Tags: shoulder strap, your shoulder, your shoulder, your shoulder, gripping materials, shoulder strap, shoulder strap your

Watch Youtube Videos On Your Iphone

One of the functions featured of the iPhone is online video watching through YouTube. YouTube allows members to upload videos to the website for the viewing pleasure of millions. iPhone users can explore new videos or watch old favorites through YouTube without learning a whole new search process.

Instructions

1. Touch the "YouTube" icon on the main screen of your iPhone. This icon looks like a small television and allows you direct access to the YouTube main page.

2. Locate the "Search" button on the YouTube main page to get started. Many iPhone users make the mistake of typing in their keywords without lightly touching the space for YouTube keywords. You must make contact with the keyword field to avoid wasted typing.

3. Use keywords to locate new videos on YouTube from your iPhone. Use the virtual keypad to write down words that help you locate a specific video of interest.

4. Highlight the "Video" icon of a YouTube entry. You can simply use your index finger to press down on the icon to access the video and accompanying information.

5. Initiate quick play options for YouTube videos by tapping the "Play" icon. This icon will be centered on the bottom of your iPhone screen and allows you to skip other viewing options to get right to the video.

6. Access YouTube and iPhone video tools by touching any space outside of the main video screen. The "Rewind" and "Fast Forward" keys let you watch a video at your own pace. You can also access a sliding bar that lets you zip through an entire video to get to the end.

7. Create your own YouTube icons and video tool bar with the "Edit" tool on your iPhone. You can access this editing feature by clicking on the "More" icon at the top of your phone. Adjusting your tool bar for favored icons currently off the list is a matter of dragging old icons off the screen and pulling new features into your tool bar.

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Nikon Digital Flash Vs Speedlight

Nikon Digital Flash Vs. Speedlight

Digital photography has taken off over the last decade. Cameras are smaller than ever and still have excellent picture quality in the proper lighting. Ken Rockwell, author and creator of KenRockwell.com, states that, "Lighting is the most important technical issue in all of photography." Most cameras have a built in, or internal, flash. These internal flashes are good for all-around picture taking; however, an external flash like the Nikon branded Speedlight will give you amazing results when used properly. Having an external flash gives you many options over the standard internal flash including off-camera flash, bounce flash and a more powerful direct fill flash.

Internal Flash

Most Nikon digital cameras have an internal flash. These range in power depending on the size, battery and type of camera. Digital Single Lens Reflex cameras, or DSLRs, have a much more powerful internal flash than a standard pocket size camera. Having a more powerful flash will give you better fill coverage and eliminate some shadows dark spots in some pictures. But internal flashes use the camera's main battery and reduce the number of pictures you can take.

External Flash

External flashes are more popular in the DSLR world that with standard point and shoot cameras. To use an external flash, the camera must have a hot-shoe. The hot-shoe is the holder and interface for the external flash, so it will "know" when to fire. Since many of Nikon's Speedlights are actually larger than their point and shoots, the hot-shoe is only available on Nikon DSLR and some Nikon Coolpix cameras. According to their website, Nikon currently has four different Speedlights ranging from the SB-400 to the SB-900. The features that separate the different levels of flash include flash power, zoom, remote firing and head movement.

Direct Fill Flash

A direct fill flash is a flash that is pointed directly at your picture subject. A direct fill flash is produced with internal flashes and external flashes that are forward facing. A direct fill flash from an internal flash usually produces "red-eye." Red-eye is not as common when using an external flash, since the flash is farther from the lens. An article on Digital-SLR-Guide.com explains that red-eye occurs when the flash bounces off the retinas of your subjects back into the lens.

Bounce Flash

A benefit of using an external Speedlight is the ability to point the flash in a different direction than your picture subject. This will cause a "bounce" flash effect--the flash bounces off another surface. A bounce flash gives you a much more natural and soft light compared to the direct flash of an internal or external flash.

Off-Camera Flash

A flash that is fired while not connected to the camera is considered an off-camera flash. An off-camera flash can give a dramatic shadow effect or create back lighting. An advantage of off-camera flashes is that more than one flash can be used at the same time. Certain Speedlights can control other flashes to fire remotely. The SB-900 is able to wirelessly fire other SB-900 or SB-600 Speedlights at the exact same time. Other external flashes can be controlled by a wireless controller, a sync cord or a light sensor that will fire the flash as soon as it detects a large amount of light.

Tags: direct fill, bounce flash, external flash, external flash, fill flash

Nikon D40 Tutorials

A Nikon D40

Incredible Pictures... Incredibly Easy! That is Nikon's catch phrase for its entry-level digital single lens reflex camera, the D40. The D40 is a very capable DSLR and comes at an affordable price. Consumers can get the customization and flexibility of a DSLR without the price tag of higher-end equipment. It is compact and light and has many features that can help photographers take pictures of much higher quality than is possible with a standard point and shoot camera.

Focusing

The stock lens included with the D40 is an 18-to-55mm auto-focus lens. The camera has three auto-focus points. In the menu you can select the AF-Area Mode option to choose the type of auto-focus you want: closest subject, center or manual.

The closest subject setting should be used only when you are trying to use the D40 as a point-and-shoot camera. Center or manual auto-focus will allow you to select the object on which you want to focus.

Auto-focus on the D40 works very well. However, if you want to be creative with the depth of field, you can easily switch to the manual-focus mode and use the focusing ring to adjust the focal length.

Exposure

Exposure is the amount of light reaching the camera's sensor. There are three aspects of exposure: ISO, aperture and shutter speed.

Setting the D40 to "Auto" will take care of exposure, allowing the photographer to focus attention on the image in the viewfinder. However, you can set exposure manually.

The D40 can adjust the sensitivity of the sensor with its ISO setting. For lower light situations you will need to use a higher ISO. In daylight and bright indoors settings, use a lower ISO.

The D40 allows you to select from among 200, 400, 800, 1600 and High ISO levels. Using 200 ISO will give you very sharp pictures in bright lighting, while using 1600 or High will allow you take pictures in much lower light.

Shutter speed is the amount of time the lens is open allowing light to hit the sensor. The D40 will allow a shutter speed as low as 30 seconds and as fast as 1/4000th of a second. Typically, you will take most shots with shutter speeds between 1/60th and 1/500th of a second. If you are using a tripod, lower shutter speeds can be used for low light situations; but because of camera shake, hand-held shots with shutter speeds below 1/30th of a second are not advisable.

The last component of exposure is the aperture, or the size of the lens opening. A higher f-stop or aperture reading will mean a smaller opening for light on the lens. The D40's stock lens will allow f/3.5 to f/36 depending on the zoom.

Composition

The Nikon D40 will allow you take great pictures out of the box.

However, here are a few tips for taking some amazing pictures:

Many professionally made photographs will have a blurred background with the main subject still in sharp detail. This is accomplished by limiting the depth of field with a lower aperture or f-stop.

If you zoom the stock lens to 55mm and get close to your subject, your background will have a nice blur effect while your main subject will be in focus.

The D40's three auto-focus areas can be used to ensure that all of your pictures do not have the main subject in the center of the frame.

Another feature of the D40 is the fixed focal length. Once the camera is in focus on a particular object, you can move and zoom the lens while keeping the same focal length. This is useful when photographing a subject in front of a landscape.

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