Red Dot Photo

Latest cool Technology from Adobe Revealed! Puppet Warp

2009-10-30T12:03:00.001+08:00

This is the latest technology from Adobe which may or may not be implemented in future Photoshop CS versions.

Check this out!

Images from Photoshop World Singapore 2009

2009-10-29T23:14:00.002+08:00

A great time at Photoshop World 2009. Here are some images from the event. Red Dot Photo was there to learn more as well as providing 'live' tweets to those who were not able to attend this event.

Russell Brown, Senior Creative Director from Adobe Systems gave the keynote session. His session was filled with his unique blend of humor that includes giving an attendee a prize for raising to admit that he is still using Photoshop 7!

The event held at the Pan Pacific Hotel ballroom was well-organised with 4 large projector screens giving everyone an easy view of the terrific demos shown.

Huge crowds pouring out after Russell Brown session to break for lunch. The organizers provided lunch queues at level 1 and level 2. Although the queue for food was long, it was ample.

Catch "live" Tweets on the latest happenings from Photoshop World Sg

2009-10-28T23:15:00.001+08:00

For those of you who are unable to attend the event, you can follow our Red Dot Photo correspondent's 'live' tweeting directly from the venue!

Catch us: http://twitter.com/reddotphoto

Red Dot Photo @ Asia Auto Salon

2009-10-09T00:44:00.009+08:00

Red Dot Photo had a great field day checking out the Asia Auto Salon media preview day. Simply VIP treatment with free lunch, drinks, etc. Although it was cloudy, there was no rain to dampen the fantastic drift performance!

Race queens from Japan, Australia, Venezuela and Singapore add glamour and eye-candy to the event!

The Asia Autosalon runs from 8th to 11th October 2009 at Singapore Expo Hall 5! Entrance for Adult is $15! Get your tickets now!!! Asia Auto Salon 2009

Check out our Media Preview Shoots:

The show covers the entire Hall 5 with drift performance at the back of the exhibition centre

Race Queens!

One of the stars of the show, LB Performance with the eye-catching lime-green Lamborghini Murcielago.

Novitec Rosso with KBS racing brings a Ferrari F430 up to 770BHP @ a stunning price tag of SGD$880,000.

Tsutomu Fujio stunts the crowd with precision drifting not seen in Singapore! The last in line to show off his skills, Tsutomu blasts of immediately with wheel spins and pin-point accuracy with his drifting!

Breath-taking drifts

About Asia Auto Salon

MPT Motor Trading will be hosting the first Asia AutoSalon in Singapore this coming October. Supported by the Singapore Convention and Exhibition Bureau, the 4-day trade and exhibition event will be ready to impress at the Singapore EXPO, Hall 5. Modeled after the Tokyo Auto Salon – the world’s biggest custom car show – Asia AutoSalon will feature more than 100 renowned automotive and performance brand names from over 50 distinguished industry exhibitors spanned over countries like Singapore, Australia, Japan, Taiwan, China and Malaysia.

Attracting the best of the region, the Asia AutoSalon promotes both consumer and commercial interest. Targeted as a one-stop solution for automotive products, customised cars, aftermarket parts and accessories, car tuning and performance products; a feast awaits automotive enthusiasts.

Directly from the manufacturers or factories, expect the best prices and gain easiest access to products you have been looking for. Be ready for an enticing range of products like body kits, brake kits, HID and LED lights, exhaust or suspension systems, engine management, racing and performance parts, in-car entertainment systems, and more.

Car enthusiasts can look forward to exclusive promotions on complete engines from Tomei for Nissan GTR-RB28, Mitsubishi EVO-4G63 or Subaru Impreza-EJ25, complete engines from OS Giken for Nissan RB31 or the sequential transmission from OS Giken for Nissan RB26 R34.

The Asia AutoSalon also acts as a regional trade hub, providing regional business opportunities to buyers or business owners who can source for potential partnerships across Asia Pacific in just one place. Regional exhibitors are expected from markets like Japan, Taiwan, China, India, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Korea and Australia. Confirmed exhibitors for the Asia AutoSalon 2009 include big names like Fujitsubo, Tomei and Tein.

"Live" feed of Phottix Showcase

2009-10-03T15:57:00.001+08:00

Demonstration of Phottix Geo One

Launch of Phottix Hector in Singapore!

Phottix Showcase "Live" image feed

2009-10-03T14:46:00.002+08:00

Model Shoot!

Singapore Phottix Product Showcase

2009-09-24T00:38:00.004+08:00

Come down for the first ever Singapore Phottix Product Showcase, happening "One afternoon only". There will not only be Phottix products for you to try and learn more about it, but also free model shoots to try out Phottix gear!

Happening from 1pm to 6pm only on Saturday, 3rd of October at 34 Arab Street #03-02.

Model shoot Details:
Session 1
2-3pm:
8 photographers, in teams of 4, rotation every 15-20mins. Model shoot using Phottix wireless triggers.

Session 2
3.30-4.30pm
8 photographers, in teams of 4, rotation every 15-20mins. Model shoot using Phottix wireless triggers.

Please email to enquiries@reddotphoto.com.sg with 'Phottix showcase!' as title, with CS nick, real name, slot preferred!

To RSVP this event, join the Facebook event link and keep updated on more details!

View Larger Map

Canon users wait no longer!

2009-09-21T12:01:00.003+08:00

The long awaited Nissin Di866 for Canon users will be launched in Singapore in early October 2009! Red Dot Photo will be the first to get the units. Stay tuned!

Day 1 @ Comex 2009

2009-09-11T00:28:00.017+08:00

RDP goes to Comex 2009!!! Full house in terms of parking, it's crazy to see so many on a THURSDAY afternoon. Recession? A long forgotten word!! When it takes 2 hours to clear certain queues, the economy is surely set to rise!!

Here're some snaps to share:

Which way to start!? With 6 floors of exhibition space and over 820 exhibitors, one needs to plan it well before starting the marathon!!

Huge crowds and lines of flyer givers! With Suntec city and neighbouring complexes having full packing, it is the annual event of grapping IT products at great deals.

The Apple bites back!! A snapshot of the madness at Epicenter for Apple/Mac products.

Shooting stars with Nikon:A huge Nikon sign drawing all to the yellow booth.

Do-re-Me: Eye candy were few this year perhaps due to the 'recession'.

Canon fails to fight back. It is perhaps a long shot to ask for Canon 7D, but with Nikon offering D3000 and D300s, Canon had nothing new on offer... C'mon Canon!!

Sony with the usual HUGE coverage covering a large part of level 2.

The shoot star of the show: Nikon D300s. With 7fps, dual CF and SD slots, DX format (1.5 crop), 12,3megapixel with 51-point autofocus system, and HD video recording at an unbeatable $2999, this was the shooting star of Comex 2009!

Re: Learn Photoshop and more about Creative Common from Creative Crew's August Meeting

2009-08-10T13:29:00.002+08:00

For this month's meeting, the Creative Crew (Singapore Adobe User Group) will come together with friends from Creative Commons Singapore to explain to you everything about Creative Commons. In particular, they will point out:

1. What is the value of Creative Commons to me?
2. How exactly does Creative Commons protect me as a creator? And what does it not do?
3. Would I be able to change a Creative Commons license?
4. Does adopting Creative Commons really make a difference

In addition, Creative Crew will show more tricks on using Photoshop and interesting features of Flickr.

Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Time: 6.45pm - 8.45pm

Venue: Bedok Public Library

Map:
http://www.streetdirectory.com/asia_travel/travel/travel_id_692/travel_site_76158/

How to get there:
Nearest MRT Station: Bedok
Nearest Bus Interchange: Bedok
Buses: SBS Transit 7, 9, 14, 16, 17, 18, 25, 26, 30, 30e, 32, 33, 35, 38, 40, 60, 66, 69, 87, 168, 196, 197, 222, 225W/G, 228, 229, 401
SMRT 854

Program:

6:45 PM Registration

7:00 PM ADD LIVE TO YOUR ART WORK by Stefano Virgilli
Synopsis: Stefano's 3 favorite ways to add live and depth to images and photos. Unsharpen Mask, Bevel and Emboss, Burn-Screen tools. Three quick technique that will change your Photoshop workflow.

7:20 PM ABSTRACT ON THE FLY by Obhet Cristobal
Manipulating photos and textures to create unrecognizable abstract designs. Exploiting the powers of layer blending, filters and color techniques to transform imaginations to digital artworks.

7:40 PM Break

8:00 PM CREATIVE COMMONS in by Chung Nan, Creative Commons Singapore
Chung Nan from Creative Commons Singapore will give an introduction on what Creative Commons is about and how it can benefit in your creative work.

8:20 PM FLICKR AND ITS USES by Preetam Rai
I have been a paid user of Flickr since 2004. Flickr is the largest image site in the world. In addition to a photo storage and photo album, Flickr has several other features that you might find useful. Let me demonstrate these to you.

8:45 PM End

National Day Special: Free Asian Geographic Magazine

2009-07-28T00:53:00.001+08:00

Between now and National day, for all purchases above S$80, you'll stand to get a copy of the latest Asian Geographic magazine with tips by a local photographer on how to capture fireworks in Singapore!

Latest Asian Geographic Magazine

Nissin Di866: Most powerful in the world

2009-07-26T11:11:00.005+08:00

Nissin has created a revolution in flash technology that has created a craze on internet forums and websites around the world even before it was launched. The Di866 flash from Nissin Japan company boast the most powerful clip-on today (Guide number 60). It's control is also simplified with a colour menu panel display and friendly graphic user interface. The screen interface even auto rotates upright when shooting in potrait mode. There is also a fill in sub-flash, which is activated while the main flash is bounced.

Red Dot Photo is proud to be the 1st to launch this great flash to fellow photographers.

You can now download the user interface to take a look.
If you have the patience, you can also read the full manual so that you can learn more about this amazing flash.

For a limited time, we are offering the Di866 flash with the following package (while stocks last):

Di866 + 4 X AA size Imedion Batteries (Worth $20) - $420

Di866 only - $410

Click here to buy

Into the Codes by Adobe User Group

2009-06-16T23:55:00.002+08:00

If you thought Creative Crew (CC) Singapore was just about design, think again!

CC will "borrow" 2 speakers from Flex User Group, and together will deploy a coding sessions. We will not forget design, though.

Our goal is to reduce the barriers between designers and developers.

Speakers:
Arul Kumaran, Flex developer

Arul Prasad, Flex developer

Stefano Virgilli, Adobe Certified Instructor

Linus Lim, Creative Crew Vice President.

Date and Time:
Saturday 20 June, 2009 from 2:30pm - 4:30pm

Venue: Bukit Merah Community Library

Address:
3779 Jalan Bukit Merah
Singapore 159462

Creative Crew is the official Adobe User Group in Singapore. They hold monthly meetings to teach everyone how to use Adobe softwares. Red Dot Photo is proud to be one of the sponsors of Creative Crew.

Popular Bryan Peterson books now in Store!

2009-05-20T00:00:00.002+08:00

Red Dot Photo is now offering 2 new popular Peter Bryson books in our store. Apart from learning how to handle your camera, you can improve your photography by learning how to "see" the world in a whole new light and develop your photographic vision. You can read more about it in the best-selling "Learning to See Creatively", written by Bryan Peterson who also writes a photography column "Picture Points," for Popular Photography Magazine.

Another highly demanded book is "Understanding Exposure". For serious amateur photographers who already shoot perfectly focused, accurately exposed images but want to be more creative with a camera, here’s the book to consult. More than seventy techniques, both popular and less-familiar approaches are covered in detail in A-Z format for easy reference.

Now for a limited time, we are offering these 2 Bryan Peterson books as a bundle for only S$79 (Usual price S$83)

Click here to buy

Adobe User Group Meeting @ Tampines Regional Library

2009-05-12T00:02:00.003+08:00

Adobe User Group will be having their monthly session tonight, 12 May 2009. This time at Tampines Regional Library from 6.45 pm to 8.45pm.

Those photographers who are staying at the east can make a trip to attend this free session where you can learn more Adobe Photoshop and After Effects tricks..

The evening's program

6:45 PM Registration

7:00 PM Inexpensive Video Making by Preetam Rai
Synopsis: Last couple of years have seen a spate of inexpensive video cameras that are also very easy to use. In these 20 minutes, I will share my video shooting and publishing experience with one such camera - Creative's Vado HD.

7:20 PM Ctrl Print for InDesign by Ctrl Print
Sponsored session: CtrlPrint, a leading global supplier of workflow solutions and plugins for the publishing and media market, based in Stockholm Sweden is launching its products together with Software Exchange Singapore. The plugins are for the Adobe InDesign family of products that increase efficiency and add extended functionalities to Adobe InDesign and Adobe InCopy.
CtrlPrint will launch two new Plugins for Adobe Software: CrossTalk for InCopy and CtrlChanges for Adobe InDesign and Adobe InCopy.

7:40 PM Break

8:00 PM Nesting Composition in After Effects by Stefano Virgilli, Adobe Video Specialist
Nesting (or pre-composing) is one of the keys to have a pleasant time in After Effects. If you are not making use of nested compositions, yet, you cannot imagine how much time you would save. Learn the ABC of nesting in After Effects with Stefano Virgilli. He will show you the most common advantages of pre-composing animated items.

8:20 PM Taking your design template from photoshop and implementing in PHP by Leon Lim
Leon will demonstrate a simple workflow of how to take a design template that you have done in Photoshop, export it out to HTML and then use PHP to replicate and reuse that template.

8:45 PM End

Presenting... Red Dot Photo Ecommerce

2009-04-11T11:54:00.002+08:00

After months of preparation, we are proud to launch the Red Dot Photo Ecommerce website. You can now purchase your photography items from our new website which boast an easy to browse and clean interface. We have a wide selection of items to satisfy your needs and expand your photography skills. Visit us now!

Something is brewing at RDP

2009-03-21T12:09:00.002+08:00

Red Dot Photo is brewing something new for everyone.

Stay tuned!

The Hot Shoe Diaries Pre-launch Sales

2009-03-20T00:22:00.007+08:00

Red Dot Photo is proud to be the 1st in Singapore to offer the pre-launch sales of "The Hot Shoe Diaries" by internationally acclaimed photographer and author, Joe McNally.

"The Hot Shoe Diaries: Big Light from Small Flashes" will follow the style of another immensely popular book by the same author, "The Moment it Clicks". It will entail Joe McNally's experience with using small flashes to take wonderful pictures. Of course he will also show some bad ones to teach us something essential. There will be sections related to using hot shoe flash such as buttons, dials, flash attachments, gaffer tapes, umbrellas, etc.

We are now launching this book for a special price of S$45 only.

Collection will be in 2 weeks time.

Self-collections available at Lakeside/Braddel/Tampines/Macpherson/Potong Pasir

Shipping is also available at extra charge of S$3 for Singpost regular mail and s$5 for Singpost registered mail.

Email us at enquiries@reddotphoto.com.sg with the title "Hot Shoe Diaries Wanted".

On the Wall Photo Bazaar (OTW)

2009-02-19T00:39:00.003+08:00

ON THE WALL (OTW) is the community gathering-cum-flea market about ANYTHING pertaining to PHOTOGRAPHY, will be back in action during 2902's birthday month (2009.02)! For its second season, OTW is gonna be BIGGER, with more activities (seminars & sharing sessions) lined up for both photographers & collectors!

Programmes Details:

21st Feb Saturday, 1pm to 10pm

1pm – 9pm
ON THE WALL Photo Bazaar

1pm – 7pm
DIY Corner: Make Your Own Badges & Tote Bags ^

2pm – 5pm
Free Flow of Tea & Coffee * *

2pm – 3pm
Practical Tips I: B&W Archival Inkjet Printing - limited to 30 pax
* participants get to print for free with paper samplers to be given away
* latecomers' slots will be re-allocated to other interested parties

3pm – 4pm
Dialogue Session I: Dollars & Sense on Photography Works

5.30pm – 6.30pm
Dialogue Session II: Being a Commercial Photographer

7pm – 10pm
Complimentary Drinks – Sponsored by Martell VSOP **

7pm – 10pm
Photo Slide Show (Presented by Zann Huang & Gwen Lee)
& Birthday Cake!

22nd Feb Sunday, 1pm to 9pm.

1pm – 9pm
ON THE WALL Photo Bazaar

1pm – 7pm
DIY Corner: Make your own Badges & Tote Bags ^

1pm – 2pm
Practical Tips II: Digitalising Your Negatives - limited to 30 pax
* please bring own laptop if possible

2pm – 3pm
Practical Tips III: Collecting Photography Works

2pm – 5pm
Free Flow of Tea & Coffee **

3.30pm – 4.30pm
Dialogue Session III: Being A Photojournalist
(Presented by Mathias Heng)

4pm – 5pm
Practical Tips IV: Planning Your Own Photo Exhibition

5pm – 7pm
Photo Scavenger Hunt! With Attractive Prizes

Venue: Old School Block B #B2-09

11 Mount Sophia

Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut

Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=39768889774.

Facebook invite: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=48155573868

Location map: http://www.2902gallery.com/location.php

Singapore In Pixels Photo Contest 2009

2009-02-15T11:59:00.006+08:00

Episode 1: "Contrast" - Final Submission Date: 10/4/2009

Pit your photography skills and creativity in a photography contest today and stand to win Nikon cameras. Top prize includes
12.1 Megapixel Nikon D300 DSLR camera.

For more details and photo submission:
Singapore In Pixels Photo Contest 2009

Charles Howells Photography Seminar

2009-02-15T11:46:00.002+08:00

Join Charles Howells, a top fashion and beauty photographer as he talks about work and commercial experiences with brands such as Louis Vutton and Back 2 Basics. Charles will also run a live portrait demo to share shooting and digital imaging tips that have served him well in his work. You will also stand a chance to take part in a hands-on demo of Leaf AFi-II 10 camera which features the exclusive 56 x 36mm True Wide Frame sensor developed by Leaf.

Venue:
Singapore Art Museum auditorium
Date:
23/2/2009
Time:
Morning Session (for educational institutions only) – 10am to 1pm
Afternoon Session (open to public) – 3pm to 6pm

For more details and reserve your seat:
Charles Howells Seminar

Happy Lunar New Year

2009-01-26T11:06:00.002+08:00

The Red Dot Photo Team will like to wish everyone a Happy Lunar New Year!

Need a Light? Nissin Flash

2009-01-21T00:14:00.006+08:00

Red Dot Photo is proud to bring you Nissin Flash!

Nissin is one of Japan’s leading manufacturers of electronic flash units. Since its founding in 1959, it has supplied high quality lighting to the world-wide photographic community. We are selling 2 models from Nissin, Di622 and Di466. Both are outstanding flash units for your DSLR cameras.

Below is the comparison charts for Nissin flash

Contact us today to get your Nissin flash!
sales@reddotphoto.com.sg

PhotographyBB

2009-01-11T00:01:00.005+08:00

Red Dot Photo Blog aspires to bring our readers the best guides on photography for beginners and experienced photographers alike. Here we will like to introduce you another free online photography learning source. PhotographyBB, an online digital photography community based in far away Canada. Apart from being an online photography store, they also produce a monthly PDF magazine packed with tutorials. Check it out today!

A Photographer Reality TV: The Shot

2009-01-06T22:31:00.007+08:00

Yes we have enough of reality TV. However, in this reality TV, "The Shot" which was broadcasted back in 2007, it pit 10 aspiring fashion photographers against each other to win the top prize of USD$100,000 and also winning photographs featured on Marie Claire magazine and on the cover of Victoria Secret.

The 10 photographers were put into a series of photo shoots based on themes such as nude photography for 1st challenge and fashion photograhy on a yacht for the 2nd.

Do watch it to understand fashion photography from the other side of the fence: The Photographers.

CS4 Workshop - by Creative Crew Singapore (Adobe User Group)

2009-01-05T22:32:00.001+08:00

CS4 Workshop - by Creative Crew Singapore (Adobe User Group)

Date: 13th January 2009
Time : 7.30 p.m - 9.30 p.m
Venue: Motion Elements Pte Ltd, 81a Maude Road, Singapore 208355 (Closest MRT Lavender)

- 7.30 p.m - Registration

- 7.50 p.m - *Welcome to January meeting*
Synopsis > A warmest welcome from Creative Crew\'s Co-Manager, Carlsson Chee

- 7.55 p.m - *The RAW truth part 2*, by Samuel Chia
Synopsis > A continuation from December\'s meeting, Samuel will demonstrate the process of Image Processing Workflow in Camera Raw.
The tools and functions of camera raw - live conversion of a raw file using the ideas proposed in the previous session - showcase of how camera raw may be used to process jpegs and its advantages.

- 8.25 p.m - *Break* (Remember to bring your name cards!)

- 8.40 p.m - *Creating a website in Photoshop CS4* by Carlsson Chee
Synopsis > Learn how to design and create a simple website from scratch in Photoshop CS4.

- 9.00 p.m - *Cool New Features of CS4*, by Lynus Hee
Synopsis > Now that the euphoria of the CS4 launch is done and dusted, it is about time to start integrating the new features into our own workflow. From the new tabbed interface and navigation to the new and improved smart objects, Lynus will explore some of its new features in a practical demonstration.

- 9.30 p.m - End

Red Dot Photo "Fire in the Sky" Competition

2008-12-30T22:21:00.009+08:00

Learned a new photography skill and you want to show off? Your chance is here!

In conjunction with the Red Dot Photo Fireworks tutorial, we will be organizing the 1st ever Red Dot Photo "Fire in the Sky" Competition.

This competition aims to encourage you to take more pictures and apply what you have read from our tutorial. We also hope to give you a platform to showcase your wonderful fireworks photos.

Prize
As this competition is in the spirit for fun photography, as a small token, we will sponsor 3 digital photo viewer key chains and certificates to the top 3 winning entries.

Terms & Conditions
Each person limited to 3 pictures (so send in your best 3 pictures)

By joining this contest, you agree to the posting of your submitted entries in the Red Dot Photo Blog and Red Dot Photo Facebook Group for showcase. However, all rights will remain with the photographer.

Image submitted should not exceed 1024px on the longer side.

Winning entries and special mentions will be posted in the Red Dot Blog at a later date.

The closing date for the competition will be 14 January 2009 midnight.

Send in your entries to reddotphotoblog@gmail.com

Please include the following in your email:

1. Real Name:

2. Preferred Name to be attached onto the photo:
(This is to protect your privacy, if you desire)

3. Hand phone number:
(To facilitate us in contacting you if you win!)

4. Include your exif data in your photos.
(So that we can share with everyone how you take the pictures)

5. Include also any additional comments that you will like to share

Judging Criteria
Pictures will be judged according to the following criteria in the 1st round.

Creativity (40%)

Composition (30%)

Colours (30%)

2nd round for top entries may be decided by internet voting. Details to be announced in our Red Dot Photo Blog.

How to take photos of Fireworks at Marina Bay

2008-12-28T12:17:00.016+08:00

Simple steps to fireworks pictures for everyone!

A Newbie Guide

Every year at the stroke of midnight on the 31st of December, the entire Marina Bay sky will be brightened up with dazzling fireworks that last for 10 to 15 minutes. Apart from New Year eve countdown, there are also numerous chances of capturing images of fireworks. Examples include Chinese Lunar New Year (January/February), National Day Parade (August) and Singapore Fireworks Festival (August). If this is your first time attempting fireworks pictures, here's a guide to teach you how.

Firstly we will go into the gear required for fireworks pictures. Secondly, we will give some suggestions on the best locations to take the fireworks around the Marina Bay area, based on the firing point. Next we will go into the necessary preparations before the event. Finally we will go into the steps to take during the fireworks.

Gear
Here is a list of the gear you need:

1. Camera
It is not compulsory to take fireworks pictures using a DSLR. You can also use a point-and shoot camera. We will tell you the parameters to set as a guide as you ready on. However it will be advantageous to use DSLR.

2. Lens
For those with DSLR camera, you can use a variety of lenses. However we will encourage you to use the widest lens (shortest focal length) that you have. (Example: Consider a lens with a focal length between 10-20mm for a Camera with a APS-C cropped sensor (Such as Canon 1000D, 450D, 50D, Nikon D60,D90,D300, Sony A350 etc). For cameras with a ‘full-frame’ view, one should consider a lens with a focal length from 14-24mm. This is to ensure you have the widest field of view to capture not only the fireworks but also the beautiful Marina Bay as the backdrop.

3. Tripod
The most important equipment apart from the camera will be a sturdy tripod. Each exposure time (time at which the shutter will open is around 2-8 seconds, during this time) Ensure you can attach your camera sturdily using the tripod screw so as to point your camera skywards.

4. Wired Remote Trigger
It is important to use a remote trigger to trigger the shutter. Although you can use your finger to press the shutter, your movement might lead to unnecessary camera and tripod movement, which may lead to blurred images.

Phottix Wired Remote Trigger (Now selling at $19 each)

Location
Once you have prepared the necessary gear, the next question would be: where to take the pictures?

In previous years, the fireworks were launched over the reclaimed land opposite the National Day parade floating platform. However due to the construction of the Marina Sands integrated resort on the reclaimed land, the fireworks will be launched on a floating platform in Marina Bay. We have provided a simplified map as a guide to the best locations around Marina Bay to take fireworks pictures.

Simplified Map of Marina Bay

1: Bridge along Esplande Drive

2: Waterfront in front of Esplanade

3: Marina East – Only for the adventurous. Not easily accessible.

Creative fireworks composition taken from Marina East

4: Open space in front of One Raffles Quay building

Preparation
Experience has shown due to the huge crowd drawn to the Marina Bay area during the New Year Eve, you will need to reserve the best and unrestricted spot to take pictures. Since you will need to set up a tripod, your best bet will definitely be the parapets besides the waterfront. It is advisable to go there a few hours early to secure a space. There are people who go there at 2 pm to secure the best view in the area.

After selecting your location, using the map as a rough guide, visualize where the fireworks will be firing from and place your camera field of view to cover it. Set up your tripod and mount your camera on it. Attach your remote trigger to the camera (recommended to be wired for fast response). If your tripod is still shaking, you can hang something heavy (example: Bags, Water bottle) on the tripod to improve its stability.

Camera set up with Phottix Wired Remote Trigger

Now comes the million dollar question. What are the settings for capturing fireworks?

Set your camera at ISO 100
Any higher ISO will cause the pictures to be over exposed. You will be surprised how bright the trails produced by the fireworks are.

Set your shutter speed to bulb or “B” setting
This can be easily switched on your camera dial. By setting to Bulb, your shutter will be opened as long as you press the shutter.

Set the aperture of your camera to f/8 to f/16
This will give you sufficient depth of field in focus

Focus camera to infinity
The problem with fireworks is that there is nothing for you to focus until the actual launch of the fireworks and even during the performance; you will have little chance to focus anyway. Thus set your focus to infinity and switch off your auto focus. You can manually focus on a building or landmark in the distance.

For point and Shoot Camera
Similarly, mount your point and shoot on a tripod. Most of the latest point and shoot models will have a fireworks mode that you can use. If you have it, use it. Otherwise, you can switch to the camera’s manual mode. Try to switch to similar settings as above. However, one cannot attach wired remotes onto a point and shoot cameras to control the shutter, you will have to adjust the shutter speed to about 4 -6 seconds so that the shutter will open for this duration when triggered.

Make sure you test your set up especially the operation of the wired remote before the fireworks and mentally rehearse the sequence to open and close the shutter using the wired remote. Remember, once the fireworks starts, it will be too late to do any trouble shooting. Hence it is recommended to start playing with your setup and be familiar.

The Moment
Taking fireworks is a trial and error experience. Fortunately, there are plenty of chances in Singapore at the Marina Bay for you to gain experiences to improve your pictures whole year round.

The most beautiful fireworks pictures will normally come at the initial first few bursts. This is because after that, the skies will be filled with smoke. These smoke do not look good in pictures and they will scatter all the light making your pictures over exposed.

At the moment when the clock strikes 12, open your shutter so that your camera can capture the trails of the fireworks projectiles. As the projectiles burst in air, let the streaks of light open like a flower. When you feel that the spreading of the fireworks flower is sufficient, close your shutter to prevent over-expose from the subsequent fireworks burst. Immediately preview your pictures check and see if your camera is tilted and is able to capture the fireworks. If the fireworks are out of the picture, adjust your camera. This time round you will have the fireworks happening concurrently to guide you. Do not spend too long else you will be wasting your chances.

Check also if your background and the fireworks are at the correct exposure. If under exposed, you can increase the ISO higher or increase the aperture (smaller f/stop). If over-exposed, adjust ISO lower or decrease the aperture (bigger f/stop).

Once you are satisfied with your first round and made minor adjustments, go for the second round. Again, get into the rhythm of timings of the fireworks bursts. Open and close your shutter in sync with the rhythm. Immediately check every trigger using camera review. Go for subsequent shots again. Remember this is the digital era and digital memory is cheap. Take as many shots as possible.

Good luck!

For more enquiries on the Wired Phottix Remote

Please drop an email to enquiries@reddotphoto.com.sg

A combination of the wired-wireless remote can be found here (The Cleon remote)

C6: For Canon 350D/400D/450D etc
C8: For Canon 20D/30D/40D/50D/5D/5DM2/1Ds2/1D3 etc
N6: For Nikon D70s/D80 etc
N8: For Nikon D200/D300/D700/D2Xs/D3, Fuji 85 etc
S6: Sony A100/A200/A300/A350/A700, Minolta 5D/7D etc

While stocks last!

How to take pictures of Christmas Lighting

2008-12-22T23:20:00.006+08:00

Have you tried taking picture of Christmas lighting, especially at Orchard Road but realized that no matter how you try, the pictures look under exposed and lightings are not balanced?

Here is a great article from Strobist that teach you the secrets to great Christmas lighting pictures

Strobist: How to photograph Christmas lights?

Enjoy the article!

Lastly, Red Dot Photo will like to wish all readers a Merry Christmas and a happy new year!

Digital Photography Connection: Tutorials

2008-12-17T00:39:00.002+08:00

There is another source of free tips to improve your photography skills online. Check out Digital Photography Connection. This website contains numerous short tips about Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom and photography. The tips are self-explanatory short video clips which are ideal for many of us who do not have the patient to sit down and watch long clips. Best of all, the clips are also uploaded onto itunes as video podcast free of charge! Type "Digital Photography Connection" in your itune today.

Christmas Gift: Photo Key Chain

2008-12-13T20:01:00.012+08:00

Looking for christmas present? Give your friends and love ones a photo key chain this christmas. The 1.5 inch CSTN (colour super-twist nematic passive matrix LCD) display will display your images (JPEG, TIFF, GIF) which can be transfered via a Windows compatible photo conversion software.

You can store up to 70 images into the internal memory of 8MB. Just plug in via USB cable to sync images into the key chain and charge the key chain with its internal rechargeable Li-battery.

Accessories included:

-USB cable

-Photo conversion software

-Handphone strap + key strap

-Box

Red Dot is selling each at $25. Contact us to order now! While stocks last.

enquiries@reddotphoto.com.sg

Phottix Batteries for Sale

2008-12-11T23:48:00.005+08:00

The worse that can happen to a photographer in the digital world is the lack of power, battery power. Imagine letting the beautiful moments go away because you have used up your battery power. As a photographer, you will rather be in the situation of taking lousy shoots than not taking any at all. We recommend all photographers to get spare batteries for back up.

Here Red Dot Photo is selling Phottix batteries for a wide variety of camera system:

Phottix Premium Series Li-on Rechargeable High Performance Battery (Free Shipping for all!! via regular mail)
EN-EL3e, 1600mAh - Nikon D50, D70, D70s, D80, D100, D200, D300, D700 $ 22
EN-EL9, 1300mAh - Nikon D40, D40x, D60 $14
BP-511A, 1600mAh - Canon 300D, 10D, 20D, 30D, 40D, 50D, 5Dmk1 $14
NB-2LH, 900mAh - Canon 350D, 400D $12
LP-E5, 1080mAh - Canon 450D $14

Find the perfect match for your camera today!

Christmas Fire Sale

2008-12-11T23:11:00.004+08:00

For a limited time, the following books will be on sale.

(1) The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2 Book: The Complete Guide for Photographers

Christmas price: $45

(2) Adobe Photoshop CS3 for digital photographers

Christmas price: $55

All prices are inclusive of free shipping in Singapore.

Contact us to grab your copy now!

Adobe User Group Meeting > RAW from A to Z

2008-12-08T15:31:00.003+08:00

Creative Crew Singapore is having their December meeting tomorrow night. The topic will be dedicated to RAW.

Program (As taken from their Facebook group)

7:30 - Registration

7:45 - Welcome to December meeting, by Carlsson Chee (Creative Crew co-manager)

Synopsis > Carlsson will give the warmest welcome to the new users. Followed by the best tips and tricks from Adobe CS4 official launch.

8:00 - Welcome to MotionElements, by Mark Sun (MotionElements Director)

Synopsis > Mark will give a brief introduction to MotionElements.com and
some of our activities promoting Artists in Asia.

8:10 - Adobe Creative for Mobile, by Stefan Wessels (co-founder of Breakdesign.com)

Synopsis > Stefan will give an overview of creative things you can do for your phone using Adobe technologies and some free apps!

8:30 - Break
Remember to bring your name cards

8:40 - RAW Overview, by Samuel Chia (founder of The Cacao Print Studio)

1. What is a digital Raw file?
2. Data capture from camera's image sensor
3. Exposure and linear capture
4. Raw vs Jpeg
5. Raw limitations
6. Adobe Camera Raw - why we use it

9:00 - Demonstrations of Image Processing Workflow in Camera Raw, by Samuel Chia (founder of The Cacao Print Studio)

Coverage for basic control tabs
- basic
- tone curve
- detail
- HSL/grayscale

Date: The meeting will be held on December 9, from 7.30 to 9.30.

Venue: 81a Maude Road, along Jalan Besar, Singapore 208355 (Closest MRT Lavender)
Map: http://tinyurl.com/meetingvenue

To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=65223947456

Weekend: Sports Car Galore

2008-12-06T08:39:00.005+08:00

There will be an exotic car exhibition at the Singapore F1 grandstand building (near Singapore Flyer) this weekend from 6 December to 8 December. This is part of the 40 years anniversary celebrations of Hong Seh Motors who is a dealer for Ferrari and Maserati. The company will showcase 40 sports cars. among which is the Spyker and Artega which are not yet available on Singapore roads. Other cars include Ferrari Super America, Ferrari Enzo, F40, F50, Marserati GranTurismo, etc. Apart from cars, there will also be MV Agusta motor bikes and Riva luxury yacht.

Entrance charge is $5 per person which will go to charity.

Opening hour 11 am to 6pm.

Open to public at 6 December after 3pm.

How to spot fake memory cards

2008-12-04T01:15:00.004+08:00

Although Sitex has just ended and the price of memory cards are falling drastically, we felt that it is good public education to learn how to spot fake memory cards.

Do look at the links here to find out more:

How to spot fake memory cards (CF and SD)

Books Rush 2

2008-12-03T19:53:00.003+08:00

We are now selling these ever popular books "The Digital Photography book" volume 1 and 2 bundled together at a special price of $52. We include free shipping at this price. Usual is $30 per volume. While stocks last!

Books Rush!

2008-12-03T19:26:00.009+08:00

Red Dot is now selling a complete set of photography books.

The Photoshop CS3 book (Scott Kelby)
This is probably the best and comprehensive Abobe Photoshop CS3 book for digital photographers. Goes into step by step guide to edit your pictures.
Only $60 nett now!

The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2 Book: The Complete Guide for Photographers
A new innovative software by Adobe, The Lightroom is now becoming part of every photographer's workflow. Now we are selling the complete technical guide book to Lightroom at $60.

Free Photography Magazine: Inside Photo

2008-12-02T22:28:00.007+08:00

Photographers listen up! There is a new magazine devoted to teaching beginners and advanced shooter alike skills to improve your pictures and your workflow. Best of all, it is a free monthly online pdf magazine.

Inside Photo, based in New Zealand is setup by the former magazine editor and award winning photographer John Cosgrove. Ring a bell? Yes. John Cosgrove used to be the editor of PhotoVideoi magazine in Singapore.

Do check out this great magazine Inside Photo

The Moment it Clicks

2008-12-01T23:41:00.009+08:00

Red Dot Photo is proud to bring you "The Moment it Clicks" by internationally acclaimed photographer, Joe McNally. Joe's work has been featured in magazines such as Sports Illustrated, Time and National Geographic.

Apart from being of the best in the field, Joe has taught photography in workshops around the world which are reserved only for limited lucky photographers.

Now you can learn his tricks and secrets in photography, especially at the critical "Moment you click", which is the most important definition between a master and an amateur photographer.

In this beautifully crafted book filled with photographs, you will be able to gain insight into the minds of the master and be inspired.

For more information, check out Joe McNally's talk on the book at Google.

Red Dot Photo is now selling this book @ S$60.

Email us@: enquiries@reddotphoto.com.sg to order. We offer free shipping in Singapore.

Photix Nikos

2008-11-24T08:01:00.003+08:00

Red Dot Photo is proud to launch another product from Phottix. Phottix Nikos.

This is a digital timer remote with an 90cm cord and self-timer, interval timer, long exposure timer, and exposure-count setting features. The timer can set from 1 sec to 59 hours, 59min and 59 sec. The internal battery life can last for 3 years and it weights only 85g including battery, hence great for outdoor astro pictures and nature photography.

Currently, the following options are available:

1) Phottix Nikos Timer Remote C8: For Canon 10D/20D/30D/40D/5D/All 1D series

2) Phottix Nikos Timer Remote N8: For Nikon D100/D200/D300/D3

All priced at $80 nett (Free shipping included via Singpost)

Meetup and self-collection possible via NUS/SP/TP/Dover MRT/Lakeside MRT/Macpherson/Toa Payoh/Tampines/Woodlands

Scott Kelby’s Gonzo Holiday Gear Guide 2008

2008-11-22T11:02:00.005+08:00

Scott Kelby has just put up his christmas Wishlist, among which is the R-strap. His comments,

If you shoot sports, weddings, travel, or any type of photography where you need to have your camera handy and ready to shoot in a moments notice, you’ll love the R-Strap. It lets you carry your camera without straining your shoulder, and you can whip it around to shoot in a split second. Everybody’s raving about them, and I had to get one myself (and now I’ll be giving some as holiday gifts too).

Great Photography Books for Beginners

2008-11-21T00:26:00.004+08:00

We are selling the best photography books by the Photo-guru, Scott Kelby. The book is targeted for beginners and anyone who wants to learn the basics of photography. They are extremely simple to read that gives you no technical headache. It goes straight to the point to tell you how the masters do it. Volume 2 is an extension of Volume 1. I managed to complete reading Volume 1 on the bus journey. It is how simple.

Volume 1 and 2 are each selling at $30.

Buy 2 books to get $5 off.

This price includes free shipping in Singapore.

Contact us at enquiries@reddotphoto.com.sg

Black Rapid Special Price

2008-11-17T00:34:00.007+08:00

We offer the following R-series Black Rapid Straps at a special price for our soft launch.

RS-1: S$69

RS-2: S$89

RS-3: S$79

We include Free Shipping within Singapore.

Meetups/self-collection is also possible at NUS/SP/TP/Dover MRT/Lakeside MRT/Macpherson/Toa Payoh/Tampines/Woodlands

While stocks last!

Check out Black Rapid for the specifications to the straps.

To order: Email us at enquiries@reddotphoto.com.sg

Black Rapid Camera Straps

2008-11-17T00:17:00.004+08:00

Red Dot Photo is proud to bring you a new revolutionary camera strap. Usually photographers will either hang their camera on their neck or hang it across the shoulder. There is always the fumbling to bring the camera to your eye level for the rapid snap on a golden moment.

With Black Rapid straps, it allows you to to maneuver easily through a crowd without worrying about your camera bumping into anything. The camera rested securely against your hip, leaving both hands free. Whenever you needed it, you could slide the camera easily into shooting position with one hand.

For those who have handled assault rifles on the Close-quarter combat (CQB) situation, it works exactly on the same principle. Just one action, you slide up your secondary weapon and engage the target. Simple and clean.

Video Clip on the revolutionary camera strap