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Posts Tagged ‘Video’

Video: insane drone footage shows Muscle Beach in the early a.m.

20 Jun

Drones are not easy to fly. As a novice drone enthusiast myself, I’ve become acquainted with the learning curve that comes with taking to the skies. As a result I’m always amazed by highly skilled drone pilots and their videos. But some videos go above and beyond simply inspiring: they make you question the very laws of physics and space.

The video above, filmed at Santa Monica’s famed Muscle Beach, falls into this category. It was posted by Vimeo user Robert McIntosh, whose page features a ton more awesome drone videos. A bit of research reveals that he shoots most of his footage with a 250 mm mini quadcoptor that is likely custom-built – with an action camera mounted to it. The small size explains its uncanny ability to squeeze through tight spaces mid-flight.

Sure, the sound effects in the video are a bit silly, but McIntosh’s flight skills and the resulting footage are nothing short of breathtaking – which makes me feel either inspired or intimidated. I’m not sure which.

Also, you can check out the original clip, before stabilization right here. There’s also a few outtakes near the end.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video tutorial: how to make a double exposure in Photoshop

17 Jun

Youtube user Eye Stocker makes a lot of useful Photoshop tutorials and we found this one in particular to be valuable. Even if you are not well-versed in the program, this double exposure tutorial is easy enough for anyone to follow along. And for those already comfortable with PS, it’s still full of useful tips and advice.

After all, one of the beautiful things about this Adobe staple is there are a near infinite number of ways too accomplish a task. And it’s always nice to watch someone else achieve an outcome in a completely different way than you might.

To get started, all you will need to make a cool double exposure is two images that pair well, a copy of Photoshop and a desire to learn. There’s also written steps, which some might find easier to follow.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Benjamin Button captures *and edits* your family video footage

17 Jun

As a parent, I take a lot of photos and videos of my children and the things we do together as a family. I edit most of the photos but barely any of the videos, because who has time for that? Even when I manage to set aside some time to go through them, I get sucked into a rabbit hole of watching old videos of my son laughing for the first time or my daughter running around the house with a waste can on her head. Those videos are adorable, seriously.

That’s why the announcement of a Kickstarter for a new HD video camera that captures, culls and edits (!!) video for you has caught my eye. Benjamin Button is a hands-free and kid-friendly “button” that clips to your child’s (or your) clothing and records up to 3 hours of video. When you plug it in to recharge, it automatically processes the video and uses a combination of face detection, sound recognition, and human activity to analyze the footage and edit it into a movie for your enjoyment. You can also use a mobile app to manually select footage that you want to be included, so you get some control over the results.

We haven’t had a chance to try it out yet, but I sure am curious. Will this be the gadget that gives me family videos more recent than 2010? Or that gets me into a video or two, rather than just my disembodied voice saying, ‘No, come back here’? Do you think I can clip it onto one of my children’s jackets without them noticing so that I can find out who really started the argument? Or will this go the way of the pet’s view cameras that were so popular a few years ago? (Turns out my dogs don’t do anything very interesting when I’m not there.)

Press Release

Benjamin Button – The World’s First Smart Wearable Camcorder for Kids

It’s never been easier to capture and store childhood memories.

CHICAGO, June 12, 2017 – Many parents have long struggled to balance the chaos of life with kids and recording all of the precious moments that happen along the way. Especially those that children will most likely not remember, but play a significant role in forming their lives and personalities (from 0 to 4 years old, children have a very limited memory). Thanks to the team at Benjamin Button, now there’s an easy solution. They’ve just launched the first smart wearable camera in the shape of a button created for kids and parents alike.

Parents simply clip Benjamin Button to their child’s clothing and they will get authentic, natural, and loveable full HD content from their child’s perspective with up to three hours of recording time. Based on sound recognition, face recognition and action recognition parents will automatically be given only the best parts of the day that have been captured with Benjamin. There’s the option to hand choose the best moments after they have happened, too. The button is large enough to eliminate any risk of choking, has advanced encryption privacy security, no WiFi or Bluetooth radiation, and is made of safe BPA-free plastic.

“We wanted to create a product that made it possible for parents to be free to focus on enjoying time together with their child, rather than operating a camera. That’s exactly what Benjamin Button does! Our long term goal is to create an ecosystem around family memories and create a revolution in parenting by allowing parents and their kids to spend time together and capture and keep memories for future generations to enjoy. Through the memories of the youngest family members we are creating a world where we are bringing families together in this fast and demanding era,” said Dominik Orfanus, CEO of Benjamin Button.

Benjamin Button’s Specifications

  • 140 degree diagonal FOV aspherical lens
  • 1080/25 fps full HD recording (video), time-lapse mode, advanced video enhancement features
  • 16 GB storage
  • Custom made Li-pol battery
  • Automatic turn on and turn off system
  • 3hrs of video recording
  • Water, dust and kids-proof (IP 66/67)
  • USB type C connector
  • 264 video encoding
  • 2 inch (53 mm) in diameter and 0.79 (20 mm) inch in thickness
  • Weight of 65 g (2.3 Oz) = 4 packs of chewing gum
  • No active WiFi or Bluetooth

About the Benjamin Button Team

The Benjamin Button team is led by serial entrepreneur and former journalist, Dominik Orfanus. Together with Andrej Spanik (CTO), co-founder of the tech company and serial entrepreneur too, they are now focused on bringing the final hardware prototype to life. The girl power behind Benjamin Button: Michala Lipkova is in charge of UX and product design, together with Boris Salapa, the Head of Marketing and Ivan Za?ko, the crowdfunding manager, they have launched a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign.

The company is taking pre-orders for Benjamin Button exclusively through Kickstarter until July 3, 2017. The campaign, where early adopters can still take advantage of the special Kickstarter only discounted prices, was funded in under four hours.

Kickstarter page: http://kck.st/2rajbZB

For additional information about Benjamin Button please visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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This video of Boeing’s new planes has nothing to do with photography but we’re posting it anyway because it’s cool

17 Jun

Boeing’s new and very shiny 737 MAX 9 is a pretty cool plane. And so is the equally new and equally shiny 787-10. And in Boeing’s latest promotional video you can see its two newest airliners flying together in close formation, ahead of the annual Paris Air Show.

Does this video have anything to do with photography? Absolutely not. But you should watch it anyway.

Read about our experience recently shooting the 737 MAX 9 first flight

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: shooting the streets of Tokyo with the X-T20

16 Jun

We’re fans of the Camera Store TV and their highly-entertaining , informative videos. We also think Chris and Jordan are genuinely nice dudes. The duo was recently flown out to Japan by Fujifilm and while there they reviewed the X-T20, both in the streets of Tokyo and while touring a Fujifilm factory.

The video is full of useful information and observations about the camera, from the field. By the end it becomes pretty clear that Chris really enjoys using the X-T20 for travel and street photography. And we tend to agree.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: a quick introduction to panning photography

16 Jun

Panning is a cool and simple way to photograph moving subjects or objects. And when executed properly, it can make a subject appear to be moving considerably faster than it really is. Panning is also an easy way to deal with a messy or distracting background – simply blur it away. Plus, it’s just plain fun and can result in some really creative outcomes.

In this how-to video, Josh Katz provides useful tips for getting started and improving your pans. If the concept is new to you, this video is a great place to start. All you’ll need is a camera with the ability to set a custom shutter speed and a moving subject.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Technique: The ‘Dolly Zoom’ can add new dimension to your video

15 Jun

We all know that a good camera is helpful when it comes to producing high quality video. Just as important, however, is how the camera moves. A good director or cinematographer can utilize camera motion in to set the mood, add emotion, or even to disorient the audience.

One of the most jarring camera moves – but a very effective one when used well – is the dolly zoom. Hitchcock made the move famous in Vertigo, and it has been used in many other films to add tension to a scene.

The dolly zoom works pretty much the way it sounds – you simultaneously zoom in or out on your subject while moving the camera in the opposite direction on a dolly. The result is a subject that appears to stay in place as the perspective of the scene changes noticeably. It takes a bit of practice, but employed correctly it can be very effective.

The video above from YouTube user ‘Now You See It’ does a great job of explaining the dolly zoom and how filmmakers have used it to great effect. It’s not a move to use every day, but it’s worth keeping in your back pocket so that when the opportunity arises you’re prepared to do it.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New Pro Light Bumblebee family from Manfrotto targets still, video and drone users

15 Jun

Manfrotto has introduced a new collection of outdoor backpacks and messenger bags that are designed to cope with extreme environments and to allow users to carry loads of kit. The largest backpack in the Pro Light Bumblebee series, the Bumblebee-230 PL can hold a DSLR with vertical grip with a 70-200mm F2.8 zoom attached as well as an extra ten lenses, according to Manfrotto.

The series comprises two backpacks and two messenger bags all of which can hold a laptop as well as cameras and lenses. The backpacks have configurable internal dividers so the main compartment can be arranged for high-end still or video cameras, lenses and accessories. These backpacks also have a tripod holder and the Bumblebee-230 PL features a lens pouch on the waistband strap.

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The two messenger bags, the Bumblebee-M30 PL and M10 PL, can also be configured to hold a small gimbal with their XtraSecure handheld gimbal strap. The larger of the two, the M30 PL can also be used to carry a DJI Mavic plus the Osmo gimbal camera.

The messenger bags have NoiseFree Velcro for silent access to the main compartments and all of the Bumblebee bags have DuoFace rain/sun covers. For more information see the Manfrotto website.

Prices:
MB PL-B-230 Bumblebee-230 PL Backpack $ 279.99
MB PL-B-130 Bumblebee-130 PL Backpack $ 229.99
MB PL-BM-30 Bumblebee M-30 PL Messenger $ 149.99
MB PL-BM-10 Bumblebee M-10 PL Messenger $ 129.99

Press release

Manfrotto Launches New Pro Light Bumblebee Camera Bag Family

Performance, Quality & Comfort, Redefined

Manfrotto, a leading global innovator and manufacturer of premium photo, video and lighting support products and accessories, has launched the new Pro Light Bumblebee bags – perfect for professional and amateur photographers and videographers who work outdoors and want a reliable carrying solution. With this collection, users can stay comfortable in the harshest of conditions despite high temperatures, extreme cold or high humidity.

The new Pro Light Bumblebee family is an exceptional assortment of high-performance camera backpacks and messenger bags which perfectly embody Manfrotto’s Italian heritage. This family introduces Manfrotto’s unique-to-the-market breathable harness system that greatly reduces photography gear fatigue, allowing image makers to cover more ground and locate the best spots for the perfect shots.

Inside, the bags’ innovative designs safeguard the latest professional equipment options. The renowned Camera Protection System (CPS) dividers take extra care of camera bodies and lenses. They are fully adjustable and built to distribute weight evenly and avoid tension to the body.

The new Manfrotto Bumblebee backpacks are designed to take stress and heat off the shoulders, neck and lower back and feature Manfrotto’s state-of-the-art AirSupport breathable harness and back panel, adjustable sternum support, shaped hip and waist support systems. A side handle helps users put the pack on or take it off, while elastic side pockets keep water bottles outside the critical gear zone.

The removable Manfrotto CPS insert safeguards equipment right at the heart of the pack and keeps it organized with the efficiency of a portable studio:

  • The Bumblebee-230 PL backpack protects a gripped DSLR with a 70-200/2.8 lens attached and 10 additional lenses or an attached 400/2.8 with five additional lenses. In video configuration, it protects a disassembled modular camcorder like the Canon C100 with numerous lenses & accessories. It also fits a 17” laptop in its own padded compartment.
  • The Bumblebee-130 PL backpack keeps a high-end CSC or a DSLR safe with a 70-200/2.8 lens attached and eight additional lenses or an unattached 400/2.8 with three additional lenses. In video configuration, it protects disassembled modular camcorders like a SONY FS-5. It also fits a 15” laptop in its own padded compartment.

The entire internal space is padded to protect camera gear but can be also configured to accommodate accessories and personal gear as well. The main zipper comes with four pullers, which can be divided by a stopper into a top and lower compartment. Just open the top zipper for rapid access to frequently used contents from above.

A smart NeverLose tripod connection secures both longer and shorter tripods on the side of the pack. The connection straps are stitched in the side pocket and can be tucked away when not in use for a tidier appearance and to prevent straps getting lost.

The bigger Bumblebee-230 PL also features a lens pouch located in the waist belt. When not in use, the pouch can be flattened by tightening the webbing strap. (This feature is not available in Bumblebee-130 PL.)

Manfrotto’s new Bumblebee Messengers have significantly raised the bar for their category: a combination of flawless design and reliable performance, they meet all the needs of demanding professionals who travel light and fast. Like the backpacks, the messengers’ body-gripping fit and 3-point AirSupport harness system is breathable and perfect for prolonged outdoor use. The length of the strap can be rapidly adjusted using the EasyGrip buckle.

Despite their compact size, they hold a substantial amount of professional gear:

  • The Bumblebee M-30 PL Messenger protects a DSLR with a 70-200mm/2.8 lens attached and three additional lenses, a handheld gimbal (such as a DJI Osmo) and a 15” laptop in their own padded compartments, with all the necessary accessories.
  • The Bumblebee M-10 PL Messenger keeps a CSC/DSLR safe with a 24-70/4 lens attached and two additional lenses (including 70-200/2.8) and a handheld gimbal (such as a DJI Osmo) and a 13” laptop in their own padded compartments, with all the necessary accessories. It can also carry a full set DJI Mavic plus the Osmo gimbal camera.

These bags introduce the XtraSecure handheld gimbal-carrying solution – a stretchable band that holds the gimbal’s moving parts so it can be taken out quickly. The area can also be used as a traditional lens compartment if there is no gimbal in the bag.

Manfrotto’s Bumblebee Messengers feature a secure silent quick-access flap. When shooting in quiet environments (e.g. during a ceremony), apply the NoiseFree Velcro silencer to keep a low profile. The broad front organizer keeps everything on hand. There are two bungee cord straps to hang a small tripod, monopod or selfie pole, which are also protected by the front flap. The Bumblebee Messengers can hold a gripped DSLR body when you take out the laptop from its compartment.

All the bags of the Bumblebee collection come with a DuoFace sun/rain cover to protect from rain, reflect sunlight and keep the gear cool and dry all day long.

Key features:

  • Breathable design – comfortable carrying solutions for professional and amateur outdoor photography
  • Super lightweight construction – carry more lenses and stay comfortable even with prolonged use
  • High-performance materials – rip-stop fabric and the Manfrotto Protection System safeguard equipment

The following models are now available nationwide:

MB PL-B-230 Bumblebee-230 PL Backpack $ 279.99
MB PL-B-130 Bumblebee-130 PL Backpack $ 229.99
MB PL-BM-30 Bumblebee M-30 PL Messenger $ 149.99
MB PL-BM-10 Bumblebee M-10 PL Messenger $ 129.99

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Video: tips for black-and-white processing in Lightroom

10 Jun
This tutorial provides useful advice for getting the most out of Lightroom when it comes to converting images to grayscale and making edits. The narrator notes that it is OK to push sliders way more than you might be use to when editing color images, which is definitely important to remember! He also offers quality advice on using the color sliders to improve the tonality of b/w images.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Latest “Shot on iPhone” commercial puts focus on iPhone video capabilities

08 Jun
After previously mostly concentrating on still imagery Apple’s latest iPhone commercial showcases the iPhones video mode by combining several clips that were shot by iPhone owners. There are nature scenes, including beaches, mountains, animals, insects, and ice floes, but also some scenes that feature human subjects.
The soundtrack draws a thematic link by using a recording of astronomer Carl Sagan reading an excerpt from Pale Blue Dot, warning about the fragility of human existence and the importance of protecting the Earth.
While the footage looks impressive it’s important to mention that a footnote at the end of the video says that “additional equipment and software” were used in some or all of the featured videos.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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