Canon Powershot N…which stands for “not quite there”

In late April Canon released a new point-and-shoot camera, the PowerShot N. I pre-ordered it from Amazon.com (where I now see that it’s temporarily out of stock) based primarily on two features described in a preview article: an 8:1 optical zoom, and built-in WiFi. It didn’t hurt that the camera is about 20% smaller than my all-time… Continue reading Canon Powershot N…which stands for “not quite there”

Macro Mania

Made some time this afternoon to play with my new(ish) macro lens and ring flash, with just a dash of Photoshop thrown in. ‘Tis not the season for much nature photography, but it’s fun to see what subjects present themselves in the garage. To wit… Heat sink from a computer circuit board Pliers Driver bits… Continue reading Macro Mania

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New Year Snow

We didn’t exactly get a blizzard in Midland (although parts of West Texas did get just that), but it was nice to wake up to a snow-covered view on our day off. I suspect that the back yard horny toad – who, by the way, is attracting way more coverage lately than he merits –… Continue reading New Year Snow

Guardian Horny Toad

Doves don’t strike me as being the most intelligent members of the avian world, if only because of how often they seem to knock themselves silly by flying into our windows. But their silliness can also be sort of tranquil, in the right setting. This guy (gal?) apparently decided he (she?) was among friends, regardless… Continue reading Guardian Horny Toad

Best Photos of 2012? Could be…

As we stumble into a new year, a pleasant way to idle away some time is by looking at some really striking photos, and the aggregation website Twisted Sifter has assembled a pretty decent 2012 “Top 100” list. I suspect there are a few that have been subjected to some Photoshop manipulation, but that shouldn’t… Continue reading Best Photos of 2012? Could be…

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Two Things: HaloRig / Flyboard

Our Two Things spotlight today focuses on a couple of “add-on” products, things that make other things work better, or at least differently. HaloRig: Video Stabilizer Anyone who’s tried to shoot video with a small digital camcorder, point-and-shoot camera, or phone knows how hard it is to keep the dang thang steady. The form factor… Continue reading Two Things: HaloRig / Flyboard

A Damp Tour Through the Neighborhood

I’m pretty sure we’re setting some kind of rainfall record in Midland, Texas today. While it’s not unusual to have monsoonal downpours in September, it’s been years since we’ve actually experienced one. I’m of the opinion that, except for reasons of bereavement or illness, there’s no such thing as a bad day off, especially in… Continue reading A Damp Tour Through the Neighborhood