More info on tonight’s concert here: http://www.saltnpepadubai.com/

Salt-N-Pepa performs tonight at Guilty Pleasures alongside Anna Greenwood and New Cosmo Baker at Madinat Arena, Jumeirah, Dubai. 7pm.

Photos of the concert to be published soon,

More info on tonight’s concert here: http://www.saltnpepadubai.com/

-Perth, Australia. 1st of Dec.
-Munich, Germany. 4rd of Dec.
-Melbourne, Australia. 13th, 16th of Dec.
-Auckland, New Zealand. 14th of Dec.

Note: I do TF* work only outside the U.A.E. on selected projects so please feel free to send me your ideas but paid work takes priority.

Photo sessions are available in Dubai and on request all around the U.A.E., Choose from a variety of locations or we can arrange to shoot in your own home.

Bookings still available on the following dates:

December: 3th, 6th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 18th, 20th and 21st. (booking availability subject to change)

To book please contact Dubai Photographer Mario Guarneros here or by phone at: +97150 873 84 69 .

Book your Christmas and New Year Photo session now!

MPMH UAE enables the creative people in the UAE related to Fashion and Photography to network more efficiently by being able to post services / job offerings / castings / events in one place without the need to search and join multiple pages and/or extremely genre specific groups.

We will be adding more info and resources day by day.

Please help MPMH UAE by adding anyone you think can benefit from it as the usefulness of the group is directly linked to the amount of members.

What are the requirements to join?

To join the group all you need is a Facebook account and preferably be involved with or be a: Model, Photographer, MUA, Hair stylist, Agency, Magazine or anyone related to the Fashion and Photography Industry.

Who can join?

Any individuals, freelancers, agencies, magazines or companies related to the Fashion and Photography Industry are welcome to join.

To visit MPMH UAE (Models, Photographers, Make up artists, Hair stylists in the U.A.E.) please click here.

Hope you enjoy the group and get posting!

Mario Guarneros
Dubai based Photographer

http://marioguarneros.com/

With light field (or plenoptic) technology the camera is able to record all the light traveling in every direction in every point in space, which then gets recorded in a proprietary file (much like a RAW file) which allows for adjustments (focusing included) in post production (yes, you read that right).

So basically you can take a photo now and select the focus later, Lytro is calling the resulting images: Living Pictures; plus whenever you share your images on the Internet you or the viewer can interactively adjust the focus point “on the spot” (pun totally intended) plus according to Lytro’s blog this extend to 3D. Some examples of Lytro’s Living Pictures can be found here and some more examples with super model Coco Rocha on 3D here.

The Lytro light field camera comes in three flavours: Red Hot($499), Graphite($399) and Electric Blue($399) and will start shipping early 2012 in the US only.

Initially compatibility will be for Mac only with Windows support being under development at the time of writing.

Full Lytro specs and product image gallery:

Jump to the Image Gallery here.

Canon U.S.A. Press Release:

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., October 18, 2011 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, is proud to introduce a completely revolutionized EOS-1D series camera, the Canon EOS-1D X Digital SLR camera.^* As the new leader in Canon’s arsenal of professional DSLRs, the EOS-1D X will be a high-speed multimedia juggernaut replacing both the EOS-1Ds Mark III and EOS-1D Mark IV models in Canon’s lineup. Enhancing the revolutionary image quality of the EOS-1Ds and speed capabilities of the EOS-1D series, the EOS-1D X DSLR features an 18-megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS sensor, Dual DIGIC 5+ Imaging Processors, 14-bit A/D data conversion and capable of shooting an incredible 12 frames-per-second (fps). Canon’s EOS DSLR cameras and accessories have a long-standing legacy of providing high-quality results to professionals in a wide range of markets, including sports, nature, cinematography, wedding and commercial studios. The addition of this new model will help take this tradition to a whole new level.

The EOS-1D X announcement comes on the heels of Canon’s recent manufacturing milestone with the production of the Company’s 50-millionth EOS-series SLR camera in September of 2011. Furthermore, Canon will achieve yet another milestone at the end of this month producing the 70-millionth EF lens.

“The EOS-1D X represents the re-invention of the EOS-1Ds and EOS-1D series, combining new proprietary Canon technologies with the culmination of customer feedback and requests from the field. We are proud to introduce this camera to the worldwide community of professional photographers and cinematographers with the features and capabilities they need to capture the great moments that display their talent,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A.

The EOS-1D X features three DIGIC processors, including Dual DIGIC 5+ image processors capable of delivering approximately 17 times more processing speed than DIGIC 4, and a dedicated DIGIC 4 for metering and AF control. In conjunction with the newly developed high-performance 18-megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS image sensor, the Dual DIGIC 5+ processors provide high-speed continuous shooting, lower noise, and a significant increase in data processing speed than previous EOS-1D models. This new level of data processing speed allows the EOS-1D X to perform many functions including chromatic aberration correction for various Canon EF lenses in-camera instead of through post-production software. The DIGIC 4 processor utilizes a new 100,000-pixel RGB Metering Sensor for enhanced exposure accuracy with color and face detection, and works together with the camera’s new EOS iTR (Intelligent Tracking and Recognition) AF.

The EOS-1D X employs a completely new imaging sensor, producing the lowest noise of any EOS digital camera to date for stunning portraiture and studio work. The new 18-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor utilizes large pixels – 1.25 microns larger than those in the EOS-1D Mark IV sensor and .55 microns larger than those in the EOS 5D Mark II sensor – together with gapless microlenses to achieve enhanced light gathering efficiency, higher sensitivity and less noise at the pixel level. The new sensor has improved on the already very high signal-to-noise ratio of sensor output of earlier EOS models for outstanding image quality, even in extremely low light. When combined with the Dual DIGIC 5+ imaging processors the results are stunning. The images produced with the EOS-1D X camera’s new sensor are so clean that files can easily be up-sized if necessary for even the most demanding high-resolution commercial applications. The EOS-1D X will also feature new Ultrasonic Wave Motion Cleaning (UWMC), Canon’s second generation self-cleaning sensor unit, which utilizes carrier wave technology to remove smaller dust particles from the sensor and it includes a new fluorine coating on the infrared absorption glass to help repel dust.

The low-light capability of the EOS-1D X is evident in its incredible ISO range and ability to photograph in extremely low-light conditions. Adjustable from ISO 100 to 51,200 within its standard range, the new model offers a low ISO 50 setting for studio and landscape photography and two high settings of 102,400 at H1 and 204,800 at H2, ideal for law enforcement, government or forensic field applications.

The EOS-1D X includes a brand new 61-Point High Density Reticular AF, the most sophisticated DSLR AF system Canon has ever released. The 21 focusing points in the central area are standard precision cross-type and effective with maximum apertures as small as f/5.6, depending on the lens in use. The center five points are also high-precision diagonal cross-type points for maximum apertures as small as f/2.8. All 61 points are sensitive to horizontal contrast with maximum apertures as small as f/5.6 and 20 of the outer focusing points function as cross-type points with maximum apertures as small as f/4.0. Other innovations of the new 61-point High Density Reticular AF include expanded AF coverage area, superior focusing precision and low light sensitivity, and greater low-contrast subject detection capability compared to earlier EOS AF systems. (See image below for AF point configuration)

All AF functions now have their own menu tab for quick and easy access (formerly AF custom functions in previous EOS models). A new AF Configuration Tool allows for customized setting of tracking sensitivity, the acceleration and deceleration of tracking subjects, and AF point auto switching, all of which are easily accessed and adjusted via the new AF menu tab. A built-in Feature Guide advises photographers on which settings to use according to subject matter.

Similar to the AF point selection options offered in the EOS 7D Digital SLR camera, the EOS-1D X offers six AF point selection modes: Spot, Single Point, Single Point with surrounding four points, Single Point with surrounding eight points, Zone selection and Automatic AF point selection. (See image below AF point selection options.)

The Canon EOS-1D X features incredible new EOS iTR (Intelligent Tracking and Recognition) AF options ideal for wedding and event photography as well as sports and photojournalism. The default AF mode for the EOS-1D X uses phase detection AF information, while a new second option uses Face Detection technology to track recognized faces in addition to color information, ideal when shooting events such as tennis or dancing where facial recognition of the original subject will help keep that person in focus throughout the scene.

For the first time in a Canon DSLR camera, a DIGIC processor is used exclusively with the metering sensor for fast, accurate exposure control. The Canon DIGIC 4 processor takes advantage of the EOS-1D X’s 100,000-pixel RGB Metering Sensor and utilizes 252 zones for general metering or 35 zones for low-light metering to help ensure accurate evaluative ambient or flash exposure. The new subject recognition capabilities enhance nearly all of the camera’s automatic functions, helping to adjust exposure, autofocus, Auto Lighting Optimizer and Automatic Picture Style to the scene being captured for enhanced image quality.

The EOS-1D X is the first EOS Digital SLR to feature Multiple Exposure capability. The camera can combine up to nine individual images into a single composite image, with no need for post-processing in a computer. Four different compositing methods are provided for maximum creative control, including Additive, Average, Bright and Dark. Compositing results can be viewed in real time on the camera’s LCD monitor, and there is a one-step Undo command that allows photographers to delete an image and try again if desired. The EOS-1D X’s Multiple Exposure mode even allows photographers to specify a previously captured RAW image as the starting point for a new Multiple Exposure composite image.

The Canon EOS-1D X camera breaks new ground in the world of digital SLRs, offering a Super High Speed Mode which increases shooting speeds up to 14 fps at full 18-megapixel resolution in JPEG modeⁱ. The new camera is also capable of shooting RAW, JPEG, or RAW+JPEG at speeds up to 12 fps in One Shot AF or AI Servo AF for enhanced performance in sports photography and other applications requiring high-speed digital capture. This new level of performance is made possible by the combination of the EOS-1D X’s 16-channel readout CMOS sensor, Dual DIGIC 5+ image processors, and a completely new reflex mirror mechanism that has been engineered by Canon to combine high-performance with exceptional precision and reliability.

Centered around an all-new full-frame CMOS sensor with larger pixels than those found on the EOS 5D Mark II image sensor, the EOS-1D X utilizes new HD video formats to simplify and speed up post-production work. The two new compression formats offered on the EOS-1D X include intraframe (ALL-i ) compression for an editing-friendly format and interframe (IPB) compression for superior data compression, giving professionals the options they need for their ideal workflow. Answering the requests of cinematographers and filmmakers, the EOS-1D X includes two methods of SMPTE-compliant timecode embedding, Rec Run and Free Run, allowing multiple cameras or separate sound recording to be synced together in post production.

Canon’s all new full-frame CMOS sensor ensures that video footage captured on the EOS-1D X will exhibit less moiré than any previous Canon model, resulting in a significant improvement in HD video quality. A desired feature for many documentary filmmakers using Canon DSLRs was to enable recording beyond the four gigabyte (GB) file capacity and the EOS-1D X is the answer. The new camera features automatic splitting of movie files when a single file exceeds 4GB. The new file splitting function allows for continuous video recording up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds across multiple 4GB files; no frames are dropped and the multiple files can be seamlessly connected in post production, providing filmmakers the recording time they want in the same convenient DSLR form factor. The camera records Full HD at 1920 x 1080 in selectable frame rates of 24p (23.976), 25p, or 30p (29.97); and 720p HD or SD video recording at either 50p or 60p (59.94). SD video can be recorded in either NTSC or PAL standards.

The Canon EOS-1D X also includes manual audio level control, adjustable both before and during movie recording, an automatic setting, or it can be turned off entirely. A wind filter is also included. Sound can be recorded either through the internal monaural microphone or via an optional external microphone through the stereo mic input.

Photographers familiar with Canon’s EOS 1D-series of cameras will notice the control configuration of the EOS-1D X takes a different approach to button placement. The re-designed exterior and ergonomic button configuration feels comfortable in your right hand, allowing seamless navigation through menu options.The Live View Button has been conveniently placed near the user’s thumb for one-touch switching between Live View and Viewfinder shooting. The Quick Control Button and menu navigation controls will allow users to change camera settings using only their right hand, for fast, simple one-handed control using their thumb on the scroll wheel. The new multi-controller is positioned by the right hand thumb when the camera is held for vertical shooting and enables the same level of control to camera operators when shooting vertically as they have when shooting horizontally. On the front of the camera are four user assignable function buttons, two for vertical shooting and two for horizontal shooting, allowing customizable button control when shooting in either position. The camera also features a level of weather resistance equivalent to earlier professional models such as the EOS-1D Mark IV.

Canon has answered the request of many professional EOS photographers and incorporated Dual Card Slots into the new EOS-1D X DSLR camera. The dual CF card slots will allow photographers to carry only one memory card format and still achieve instant image back-ups and enhanced storage capacity.

This camera also features a new shutter design with even greater durability and precision. Rated to 400,000 cycles, the new carbon fiber shutter blades are more lightweight and durable, allowing the EOS-1D X to achieve over 100,000 cycles more than the shutter of the EOS-1D Mark IV. A new shutter motion and new motor help further reduce vibration in the camera. The EOS-1D X also features an electronic first curtain, new to the EOS-1D series DSLRs, for minimal in-camera vibration during image capture.

For professional photographers who prefer a wired workflow and transfer system, Canon has included a built-in LAN connection in the EOS-1D X DSLR. The built-in LAN connection features a gigabit Ethernet Jack capable of 1000BASE-T transmission speeds, offering photographers a stable wired connection for ultra-fast data transmission. If the network were to go down, the camera will attempt to resend images until the files are sent. The EOS-1D X also features a direct image transfer function whereby images can be selected for transfer, and only sent once a LAN or USB connection is established.

Designed exclusively for the EOS-1D X, the new Canon WFT-E6A Wireless File Transmitter^* features wireless LAN support for 802.11n network transfer rates providing users with increased communication speed when compared to previous models. With this new dust and weather resistant model, professionals can synchronize clocks on multiple cameras and use the unit to support linked shooting when utilizing multiple cameras. In addition, Bluetooth-compatible equipment can be easily linked to the device as well.

The EOS-1D X also offers an optional Canon GP-E1 GPS Receiver^*, which can be easily integrated into the camera’s body. Powered by the camera, this GPS receiver provides the same weatherproof resistance as the EOS-1D X, even at the connector. With an electronic compass on-board, the GP-E1 will log movement – latitude, longitude, elevation, and the Universal Time Code – and allow viewing of camera movement on a PC after shooting. The receiver will also record camera direction when shooting, even when shooting vertically.

The Canon EOS-1D X Digital SLR camera is scheduled for March 2012 availability and will be sold in a body-only configuration at an estimated retail price of $6,800.00. The compact, lightweight WFT-E6A Wireless File Transmitter is scheduled to be available in March 2012 and have an estimated retail price of $600. Availability for the GP-E1 GPS receiver is expected in April 2012 with an estimated retail price of $300.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked fourth overall in the U.S. in 2010†, with global revenues of more than US $45 billion and is listed as number five in the computer industry on Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies 2011 list. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. At Canon, we care because caring is essential to living together in harmony. Founded upon a corporate philosophy of Kyosei – “all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future” – Canon U.S.A. supports a number of social, youth, educational and other programs, including environmental and recycling initiatives. Additional information about these programs can be found at www.usa.canon.com/kyosei. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

Canon EOS-1D X Digital SLR Camera image gallery:

Mario Guarneros, Dubai Photographer.

Canon is expected to release a new pro-model DSLR camera, more specifically an amalgamation of the 1D/1Ds lines.

The most rumoured specs are:
-Full Frame
-18 Megapixels
-12 fps
-61 AF points
-New battery (backwards compatibility expected)

The rumoured date of availability is around March 2012, then again I don’t really know if this would include Dubai and the rest of the U.A.E.

Client: Zouk Dubai (zouk-me.com)

I will try and get some of the arabic translated, or if anyone visiting this post can help translating please contact me.

By the way that is me in the sunglasses with the headphones

reliable, small, light, easy to use, devices do not require to “see” each other to work, compatible and/or built in with some studio lights.

Cons:

a bit pricey for the quality of construction, the mini TT uses a battery that you can’t get just in any shop, certain flash settings can’t be accessed from the camera’s menu.

Full technical specs links:

MiniTT1
FlexTT5

Unboxing:

Right out of the box the construction of both PocketWizard devices look and feel toy-ish compared to other equipment you might be used to work with as a photographer, this immediately raised some concerns to me in regards to packing them for traveling as I tend to shoot in tough environments, but on the other hand the materials used to build this great remote triggers also give them one of their biggest advantages and one of the most sought qualities in any photography gear which is that they are extremely light thus perfect to be taken anywhere you go so only time will tell how well built they really are.

Setting up the PocketWizard’s FlexTT5 and MiniTT1:

Before using the PocketWizard’s FlexTT5 and MiniTT1 there is software to be configured via USB. This process was painless on a Mac but I’ve heard mixed reviews coming from Windows users.

After reading the manual (which no matter how experienced you are you should always do) I followed the recommended setup and slid the MiniTT1 to my Canon 7D first and the FlexTT5 to a Canon Speedlite 580EX II mounted on a light stand next and started by switching them on in the following order: MiniTT1, FlexTT5, Canon 7D and the Speedlite last. I strongly suggest you do the same or try whichever order works best for you and stick to it cause there has been instances where I’ve had problems with one or the other not triggering properly, which once you are in the middle of shooting for a client can be quite frustrating.

If “all of a sudden” this ever happens to you I suggest first of all check that the battery light in all your PocketWizard’s MiniTT1, FlexTT5 that you might be using is blinking on a happy green colour, if they are and the Speedlite’s batteries are charged too then switch everything off (including the camera and any flashes involved) then switch them back on in the previously discussed specific order, if this doesn’t alleviate the issue then perhaps one or more of your strobes is overheated and it will not flash everytime you shoot (darn it, I know), this might be something to look out for that might have never happened to you before since PocketWizard devices have the option of “High Speed Sync” capabilities that will keep them firing non stop, and if you like me sometimes have external power attached to your Speedlites making the recycle times minimal you can easily and literally burn your strobes out so take that into consideration.

Using the PocketWizard’s FlexTT5 and MiniTT1:

The recommended operating temperatures of both PocketWizard devices are at around above -15°C (5°F) and below 50°C (120°F) but so far I have used the PocketWizards at -29°C while it was snowing in Stockholm with absolutely no problems at all except for the fact that I almost lost couple of fingers to frostbite every time I needed to adjust settings, hahaha. On the other side of the Celsius scale I have shot at around 36°C which is not too hot but I will put them to the test at around 45°C when summer hits Dubai in couple of months.

Shooting indoors I constantly face the challenge of setting up equipment in reduced spaces or having to shoot “through” mirrors or translucent glass doors and windows so the ability to place the flashes behind or around the corner out of sight from the shooting point is just out of this world. The fact that this little devices do not use infrared signals to “see” each other will allow you to find new and creative ways to light your subjects with absolute freedom and that’s where you get your money’s worth.

What I really like about these two PocketWizard devices is that they simply just work, and they work as soon as you switch them on. With that said that doesn’t mean that you cannot configure them more in depth to suit your needs as you can easily work with many flashes with different output ratios by adjusting everything on the master flash without the need of adjusting the slaves into an actual “slave mode”. The only disadvantage here is that you cannot use the Camera menu to adjust the settings so you need to familiarize yourself with the Speedlites and PocketWizard’s operation to take full advantage of the most “advanced” set-up’s.

In Conclusion

I would definitely recommend and buy the PocketWizard’s FlexTT5 and MiniTT1 again, in fact just recently I added an extra FlexTT5 to my gear, and with PocketWizard now offering support for Nikon in addition to Canon cameras and flashes there are few reasons why you should hesitate in purchasing these triggers. If you have found better/cheaper triggers out there please let me know as I am always in the look out for alternatives.

Adobe Photoshop Express

This one is the official iPhone app directly from Adobe. As many reviewers of the app have noted it has lots and lots of room for improvement but as I always say you have to use and make the best of whatever is in your resources bag right? so what I use Adobe Photoshop Express mainly for is to “Crop and Rotate”. As a photographer I’m not a big fan of the “cropping” part , it is always better to shoot the original photo as you intend the final to be straight from the camera but due to the mobility, quick opportunities of shooting stuff around you at anytime plus the obvious restrictions that shooting with an iPhone Camera imposes “cropping & rotating” to straighten and frame have proved to be an invaluable set of skills that this app delivers and it does it all for free.

I would like to be able to export the results without any changes to the exif data though or at least to have the ability to preserve camera info and some of the other basics. With that said I try to use it as less as possible cause I like to keep the photos as true to the original as possible regarding composition and EXIF data.

CameraBag

This one is a filter app, you pretty much load a photo from your collection or take a fresh one from inside the app and then you have the choice of applying 12 filters. There is no control over how much of the filter you choose to apply and you can apply only one filter a time which is not very convenient since you have to export and reload the photo with a filter already applied to apply a new one.

That said if you have an interesting composition but feel like any of the filters will bring the photo to a different level this app is a quick and easy way to achieve just that.

Filters available: Helga, Colorcross, Lolo, Magazine, Instant, Silver, Mono, 1962, 1974, Cinema, Infrared and Fisheye.

TiltShift Generator

Now this is my favourite one. If I had only one iPhone photography app this would definitely be the one.

Some of the features of this app are:

- Export into various resolutions (from 320 to original size)
- Radial or Linaer blur filter.
- Contrast and Saturation control.
- Vignetting Control.
- Camera and Library import.
- Direct email and twitter, and facebook exports.

The original concept came from using the effects as a ToyCamera and it allows you to make everyday city/landscapes look like miniatures by force focusing using blurs and exaggerated saturation levels. This in DSLRs used to be achieved by using tilt and shift lenses which are mostly used in architectural photography.

The app gives you control over the intensity of every adjustment applied plus you can combine all of them and then export the final result up to original size if needed.

First I would like to thank the folks at warehouseexpress.com for their outstanding customer service.

I had the HiLite delivered from the UK to Dubai via Aramex Shop and Ship service.

Let me start on the Aramex delivery, I ordered the HiLite with the White Vinyl Train as an offer from warehouseexpress.com and even though the people at Aramex received both packages (yes the HiLite and the train came separately I don’t know why) at the same time they managed to mess up the order and ship the HiLite immediately but left the train behind.

The total weight of the Hilite (without the train) is about 10kg for which I got charged DHS 609.00 just for the delivery by Aramex, which honestly is a rip off but it was kind of the only way since Dubai has little to none proper studio equipment retailres or if it does it is almost impossible to find either retailers with decent websites or with actual websites for that matter.

If you know of any please let me know and I will make a special section where we can list Photography suppliers in the U.A.E.

The HiLite comes in a round blue carrying bag which looks to be of good quality except  for the zipper which looks and feels cheap, yes cheap not underpriced just plain cheap.

Before I go any further let me just be absolutely be clear on something: the Lastolite HiLite is NOT EXPENSIVE, it is plain and simple OVERPRICED which is a big difference.

There are items that for whatever the reason turn out to be expensive, eg: because of the materials needed, the manufacturing processes, you name it, those are expensive items but when you get a Nylon curtain poorly stitched together onto an aluminum steel frame soldered and taped together the only term to describe it is: OVERPRICED ( you see, same as cheap does not mean underpriced).

Now that is just taking into consideration the manufacturing/build quality and by no means that makes justice to the glorious amount of awesomeness that this overpriced piece of bathroom curtain packs. Seriously.

From a photographers point of view the Lastolite HiLite delivers outstanding results, So please don’t confuse the quality of the manufacturing to the quality of the results you will get from this product cause they are night and day (day obviously being the amazing result achieved by using the Lastolite HiLite).

So as you can sense by now this hands on review of the HiLite is divided into two:

THE BAD (manufacturing quality, disassembling/dismantling, instructions on use and full details on how to use the products) and THE GOOD (the results right out of the box, the portability, the excellent use of space, and in a weird way how good it looks when its all up and ready to be used, the diversity of uses, the expandability)

THE BAD

As I have mentioned before the quality of the HiLite leaves me with a lot to wish for, I am hoping I got a defective unit or something but at a total price (including delivery and all) of around DHS 2,400.00 I can’t afford to sendit back for a refund or exchange since shipping it one way is DHS 600.00 so I’m sticking with my unit, dont get me wrong my HiLite works great but let me break you down its faults:

1.-Setting up the Support Bars.

To set it up you just unfold it nicely on a flat surface taking care not to knock over furniture, assistants, light stands, and most important of all: cats that might be nosing around.

The Support Bars literally chew the unpadded elastic fabric when you try to install them, I really expected the suggested points of fixing to be padded with a heavy duty plastic or at least some sort of more resistant material being attached there not only for extened durability but also to serve as an indication as of where to fix the support bars.

Also my Hilite support bars have the “ring” to knot them to the strings provided at every corner of the Hilte, but ONE BIG PROBLEM: THE ARE NO STRINGS ON MY HILITE! WTF?

Not that I actually wanted to attach them sinc eI find that a bit inconvinient but the whole thing is just not as advertised. I seriously think/hope I got a defective piece of equipment but I won’t find out until either I use the hell out of this one and have to buy another one or a fellow colleague photographer gets one.

2.- The Zippers

The quality of the zippers on the carrying bag can be overlooked but the fact that the ones on the actual HiLite are the same poor quality is just annoying and if you are wondering why this matters so much is because depending on your setting or many settings for the Hilite a broken zipper can mean “Light Spill” and also can mean that if you foreseen this you will end up carrying some extra pegs/clamps to overcome this fault in case it happens while on location.

3.-Unfolding the HiLite

We have all seen the videos, heck the official intructional guide that comes with the damn thing shows only 2 frames of a cute female model folding it as if it was a piece of paper but reality cannot be further away from this.

Yes, after many attempts it gets easier (I folded it the first time like in less than a minute but what a fluke that was, the second time took me one hour and forty five minutes, now that I read and saw every video possible and that I have managed to twist it and untiwist the damn thing more that a 100 times I can fold it in less than a minute but believe me I am scared for life) , after trying all the possible ways on youtube and in the forums you find the one that suits you but if on the first attempt your HiLite’s steel frames bends out of shape you are in for a treat!! Make no mistake, do not kid yourself this thing is not complicated if you get it right at first but if for whatever the reason yours gets twisted be ready to swear, scream, kick, cry, laugh, drink, smile and think that your A-levels were absolutely worthless since you can win against a piece of poorly stitched and soldered metal and nylon.

If you don’t believe me check the reviews of this product anywhere online, people have suffered with the dismantling of the HiLite.

Yeah it is all funny and frustrating but a word of advice: DO BE CAREFUL, it is a steel frame you are trying to fold and it has the capabilities to spring up in any direction you might not realize. My suggestion is, take a break, have a beer, put on some music, get laid or do whatever it is that relaxes you the most and have a go at it when you are the most relaxed cause otherwise not only you are going to destroy the damn thing (half on purpose just to get it in the damn bag even if it’s the last thing you do on earth) but you are going to destroy your hands cause bending the metal steel for few half hours will hurt afterwards.

I wont go about posting videos and instructions on HOW TO FOLD THE HILITE but I will do two things for you, one is to share the text based instructions that work for me every single time no matter if the damn thing has being bent into a hexagon from a rectangle and the second one which needs your collaboration is to share and post funny/frustrating videos of you and your friends/relatives/assistants trying to fold the Lastolite Hilite, succes or not.

How to fold it even if it has suffered a bit of twisting but you have managed to untwist it till the point where all areas are flat even though you are not sure that they are not inside out:
a. collapse the background by removing the corner bars, open the zips fully and lay the background flat on the floor.

b. stand at one corner

c. pick up the corner and carry/push it towards the diagonal corner that is on the floor.

d. the two other corners on the opposing diagonal will fold down and around you as you push the corner you are holding toward it’s opposing corner.

c. twist your wrist (the one holding the the corner) to start to form a circle and the 3 circles that make the folded background should naturally start to take shape.

d. shuffle the three circles together and place in the bag… not forgetting to put the 4 corner rods in the bag as well.

Now lets move on to the why I would still recommend you to buy the Latolite Hilite:

THE GOOD:

1.-Easy to set up.

As much as the dismantling instructions are just non existent, the setting up instructions are over explained, this thing basically sets itself up: unfold, stick four support bars in each corner and stand the Hilite up, stick your light source of choice on either or both sides and shoot away.

2.-Setting up your light source for the HiLite.

Once you stick your strobe [or fluorescent continuous light in ; )] for the most standard succesful results make sure you position it exactly in the middle of the HiLite and aim it to the back panel, in other words just aim ur light source to the stitching in the back of it. This will produce no gradients at all on the front panel allowing you to achieve High Key photography (don’t nitpick, this is High Key photography and I’m sticking to my story).

3.-This baby is marked V for Versatility.

Once it is up and you forget about missing strings of cord, and that the stitching is not all perfect and you start using this baby as a backdrop, as a giant soft-box, as a beauty light, as a product light table, and if you have the creativity and the time to quick visit your hardware store to hang it horizontally flat from the ceiling, you got yourself an amazing light source/diffuser/provider.

We are all about light aren’t we? Not to mention that you can easily stick a piece of fabric and transform it into a Low Key backdrop or a green/blue Chroma Key background.

Heck, if you climb inside of it I’m sure you will find 101 uses to it, my point is that the HiLite is more than a HiLite, you just need to let go of all this common: “specific photography gear serves only for specific tasks and situations plus the “pros” use it only for this certain kind of shot” SCRATCH THAT!! Use whatever you have in whatever way serves your creativity better. the Hilite is great to use in so many ways,  Period.

There is a huge difference in using some equipment the wrong way (like shooting the swinger of a baseball game with flash from 100 meters up in the stadium bleachers) and using your equipment creatively (using the cellophane that came with your bday present as a gel like filter for your speed-lite).

3.-Amazing use of space.

The HiLite makes the best use of space since you can position subjects (depending which kind of photography you are making) as close as 0.8 meters for stunning results, you can get your subjects even closer depending on your camera/lens/artistic view combination.

4.-Results.

Forget the stitching, forget the pain in the ass that might be when trying to fold it back, forget that you  swore to cross continents to stick the HiLite up the designers ass for using unmarked steel instead of painting the outside one colour and the inside another and providing padded velcro flaps in each corner on the back and the front of the frames not only to elongate the durability but also to make sure you have untwisted the damn thing (cause believe me at some point you will twist it out of shape) the right way and restore it to factory defaults.

If none of that last paragraph makes sense to you, just buy one and maybe you will get what I’m saying, if not I have heavy concrete ideas to redesign this overpriced but simply amazing nonetheless glorified nylon curtain.

BOTTOM LINE: BUY IT!!!

Albeit be ready for some surprises related to the steps when you are not using it, like unfolding and expected durability but anticipate the most amazing results when it’s up and running, end of the day that’s thepart that counts since you buy it to be up and running right??? Go for it.

One last thing: just like buying the most expensive DSLR wont make you a better photographer, understanding your gear will and the best and most you make of the pro gear out there will certainly leap you forward, I still get a lot of people complaining that they cannot get an even back light form this one… SERIOUSLY…

By the way my wife and I will always refer to the Lastolite HiLite as: “the damn thing”, granted it doesn’t make any justice to the quality of results it delivers ( i love the damn thing up and running) but it definitely depicts the frustration it delivered on the first night when I almost missed my flight to Londoin from Dubai trying to fold it back and subsequently untwist it for just under two hours.

If you wish to see more pictures of the product or have any questions regarding this hands-on review of the Lastolite HiLite please drop a line in the comments.

Hope this was if not helpful at least illustrative.

Press Release:

Canon rounds out its Summer product introductions with four new L-series lenses and two new accessory extenders for professionals and advanced amateurs.

Leading the introductions, the EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM lens is the world’s widest fisheye zoom lens, providing professional photographers and cinematographers with a unique optical tool for capturing 180˚ angle-of-view shots on all EOS Digital SLR cameras.

Photographers looking for a broad focal length range with excellent image quality will enjoy the Company’s first L-series 70-300mm telephoto zoom lens, the new EF 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM lens, delivering outstanding sharpness, contrast and color fidelity in a compact, lightweight form factor. Canon is introducing two new versions of its popular super telephoto lenses, the new EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM and EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM super-telephoto lenses delivering incredible image quality at all apertures for professional photojournalists, sports and wildlife photographers.

For professionals and advanced amateurs looking to push their L-series Canon telephotos to the limit, the Company is proud to upgrade its two popular extenders with the new Canon Extender EF 1.4x III and Extender EF 2x III for additional telephoto reach and exceptional clarity.

Photographers will immediately notice that the latest Canon L-series telephoto lenses and extenders have a more neutral white tone compared to earlier models. This new shade of white will be used with all L-series telephoto lenses and extenders beginning in the second half of 2010. The introductions of these Canon lenses have been timed with Canon’s latest camera introduction, the Canon EOS 60D Digital SLR camera, designed for advanced amateurs and emerging professional photographers.

“Canon’s core has always been our optics, and we are constantly challenging ourselves to produce better and more advanced optical systems for our customers. These six new products advance the state of the art in Canon lens technology and provide new and innovative tools for professionals and advanced amateur photographers,” stated Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM lens

With its unique focal length range, the EF 8-15mm f/4L USM is the world’s widest fisheye zoom lens. It delivers 180§ diagonal angle of view images for all EOS SLR cameras with imaging formats ranging from full-frame to APS-C, and provides 180˚ circular fisheye images for full-frame EOS models. Professional photographers and cinematographers will revel in the unique perspectives afforded to them through this lens, particularly when coupled with the highly popular full-frame EOS 5D Mark II DSLR camera. Canon’s new Fisheye zoom lens features both UD and aspherical lens elements to enhance image quality and is equipped with rubber gaskets and seals to enhance weather resistance. Canon’s proprietary SWC (Sub Wavelength Structure Coating) is used to minimize flare and a new fluorine anti-smear coating is applied to the front and rear elements to make lens cleaning easier than ever.

The Canon EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM lens is expected to be available in January of 2011 for an approximate retail price of $1,400.

Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens

Compact and lightweight, yet durable and professionally sharp, the EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens is the ideal telephoto zoom lens for advanced amateurs looking for that extra reach to bring a subject in tight and close. Providing the power and durability to maximize every shooting opportunity, the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens features two UD ultra-low dispersion glass elements for enhanced sharpness, L-series weather and dust sealing for shooting in harsh conditions, improved mechanical design, and streamlined ergonomics to help avoid inadvertent mode switch operation. The shapes of the lens elements and their coatings have been optimized to minimize ghosting and flare to produce high-contrast and high-resolution throughout the zoom range. A sophisticated floating system optical formula optimizes image quality at all distance settings and reduces minimum focusing distance by more than a foot. An updated optical image stabilization system compensates for camera shake up to an equivalent of four full shutter-speed steps, a full step improvement compared to earlier EF 70-300mm lenses. A new fluorine anti-smear coating is applied to the front and rear elements.

The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens is expected to be available toward the end of October for an approximate retail price of $1,500.

Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens

The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM is the 6th generation of a venerable family of Canon 300mm f/2.8 lenses that began in 1974, and have become famous for their exceptional sharpness, contrast and color fidelity. Ideal for a wide range of applications ranging from professional photojournalism and sports photography to nature and wildlife, Canon’s 300mm f/2.8 lenses have always led the industry with new technical advances in every generation. The EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens carries on this tradition with improved image quality, lighter weight, improved Image Stabilization and enhanced durability making it a great option for handheld work in the field. The optical formula of the new lens has been upgraded with the inclusion of two fluorite lens elements for improved image quality and reduced chromatic aberration. Helping to reduce arm fatigue, Canon has reduced the overall weight of the lens by 8 percent to 82.9 oz., making it the lightest weight lens in the Canon EF 300mm f/2.8 series. The Image Stabilizer provides an equivalent of approximately four full shutter speed steps of shake compensation and has been enhanced through the incorporation of a rolling-ball-friction system in place of sliding parts in the compensation optics barrel for a minimum-friction structure. The overall durability of the lens has also been enhanced through increased usage of magnesium alloy and titanium for lens barrel components, together with weather sealing for all exterior joints and switches and a new fluorine anti-smear coating applied to the front and rear elements.

The Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $7,000.

Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens

Quintessential for many sports assignments including baseball, football, soccer and golf, Canon’s professional 400mm f/2.8 lenses provide the light gathering capability and long telephoto reach that photographers need to freeze the action and fill the frame . The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM is the 5th generation in Canon’s 400mm f/2.8 series and the successor to the current EF 400mm introduced in 1999. The new lens has been engineered for the ultimate in optical performance through the use of two fluorite lens elements for improved quality and reduced chromatic aberration. Helping photographers in the field, Canon has reduced the overall weight of the lens by a substantial 28 percent from 189.4 oz to 135.8 oz, making it Canon’s lightest weight 400mm f/2.8 lens ever. The Image Stabilizer provides an equivalent of approximately four full shutter speed steps of shake compensation and has been enhanced through the incorporation of a rolling-ball-friction system in place of sliding parts in the compensation optics barrel for a minimum-friction structure. The overall durability of the lens has also been enhanced through increased usage of magnesium alloy and titanium for lens barrel components, together with weather sealing for all exterior joints and switches and a new fluorine anti-smear coating is applied to the front and rear elements.

The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $11,000.

Canon Extender EF 1.4x III & Canon Extender EF 2x III

The two new EF extenders are direct replacements of the current extenders offered by Canon as essential accessories for professionals. These new extenders have been designed to provide faster autofocusing and improved autofocus precision with compatible EF lenses. Each extender includes an anomalous dispersion lens element for reduced chromatic aberration and enhanced optical image quality. Each extender also features a newly developed microcomputer that increases AF precision when the extenders are used with a IS Series II EF super-telephoto lens. Both extenders are equipped with rubber gaskets and seals to enhance weather resistance. A new fluorine anti-smear coating is applied to the front and rear elements of both extenders.

The Canon Extender EF 1.4x III & Canon Extender EF 2x III are expected to be available in December for an approximate retail price of $500 each.

New Lens Features
In addition to an anti-reflection multi-coating, the front and rear elements of all newly announced EF lenses and extenders are treated with Canon’s new fluorine anti-smear lens coating. The fluorine layer is highly oil- and water-repellent so that any oil smears or water droplets on the lens can be wiped off quickly and easily without the aid of solvents using a soft dry cloth. These four new lenses and two new extenders are the first of their type to employ fluorine coating, and it is expected that this new feature will enhance the usability of the lenses during adverse shooting conditions.

The new Series II EF super-telephoto lenses can correct camera shake up to four full shutter speed steps, compared to two shutter speed steps for the original versions. This improvement is made possible by a new low-friction stabilizer mechanism that is not only more efficient than the previous design but also smaller and lighter. Other enhancements to the IS systems of both new super telephoto lenses have enabled quieter operation ideal for use during video capture.

Providing professional sports and wildlife photographers with greater tracking flexibility, Canon has introduced a third Image Stabilization mode option to its new EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM and EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM lenses. When mode 3 is selected on the lens, the image stabilization effect will not be seen in the viewfinder. When the shutter button is pressed halfway, the lens will begin detecting camera or lens movement and only during exposure, when the shutter is fully depressed, will the Image Stabilization engage and provide the equivalent of four stops faster compensation for blur-free images. The new Mode 3 is particularly useful when a photographer does not want to see the IS working in the viewfinder while tracking a moving subject.

Helping moviemakers achieve smoother and more appealing focus shifts when filming on EOS DSLR cameras, Canon has included a new Power Focus (PF) mode on the Company’s two new super telephoto lenses. This mode allows manual rack focusing to be operated smoothly by turning a playback ring that is normally used for the focus preset function. Both low-speed and high-speed focus shifting are available.

Additionally, a new security slot attachment has been included on both new super-telephoto lenses to allow a wire-type security lock to be easily affixed, a great safety feature for professionals shooting from high vantage points above arenas and crowds.

Well the simple answer comes in the form of two questions:

1.- How big is your budget?

2.- Which brand do you prefer?(Canon, Nikon, Sony, etc.) or even already own or have access to, including equipment for that particular brand such as lenses and flashes (this is important cause each brand uses their own set of lenses and most of them cannot be interchanged between brands).

Other thing to consider is: How much into photography are you really getting into? cause let me tell you this is one of the most beautiful and rewarding activities but it is not a cheap one.

Ok so is no secret that I am a Canon user myself but there’s no arguing that Canon and Nikon are the top two choices amongst pro’s so here is a small list of Canon entry DSLR’s and their Nikon counterparts that will get you started and will hold their value so you can resell them when you are ready to upgrade.

These are the four DSLR Canon/Nikon cameras that can get you started:

Canon Camera Model: Canon EOS Rebel XS (1000D) Announced 10-Jun-08
Nikon Counterpart: Nikon D60 Announced 29-Jan-08
Price: $520.00 / £320.00

-This are the most basic DSLRs in the market.
-They do not shoot video.
-Both at around 10 Megapixels.

—————————————————

Canon Camera Model: Canon EOS Rebel T2i (550D) Announced 08-Feb-10
Nikon Counterpart: Nikon D5000 Announced 14-Apr-09
Price: $900.00 / £576.00

-They also shoot video.
-Both at around 18 Megapixels.

Personally if I had to start again and didn’t have the budget to get a Canon 7D I would definitely go for the Canon EOS Rebel T2i (550D) or Nikon D5000 and the best (and because of that most expensive) lens I could afford, but hey lenses are a whole different subject.

In any case you (the photographer), your skills and passion towards learning more about photography everyday will always be the most important factor to get the best and most satisfying results.

For more on this subject check out my other post on: “Which DSLR Camera is the best?” by clicking here.

Hope this post helps you get started and I will be happy to answer any questions posted in the comments below.

Notes:

-Prices  may vary immensely according to your Country of residence.

-Camera names/models may vary according to your Country of residence, for example in the US they refer to a camera as the Canon EOS Rebel XS and in Europe the exact same camera is called: Canon EOS 1000D. You can find more info on this here.

-The most important thing is to buy the best quality lens, a good glass will always output better results no matter which DSLR you use so aim for an entry DSLR that you can afford plus a good lens.

-The info provided was compiled from many sources and from my own experience and are accurate at publishing date, remember that new cameras will be announced every year and the info on models and prices will change eventually this guide was published August, 2010.

-This is an extremely simple guide intended to point you in the right direction, I will work on bigger and more in depth photography guides on my spare time.

The launch doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be available for purchase immediately but it will be great to see what is new.

Even though many people believe Adobe’s products are bloated or simply does not play nice with each other I am excited to see what comes new in Photoshop CS5 and Illustrator CS5.

One of the most expected features is: “Content Aware Fill”, for a demo check out the next video.

Head to: Adobe Creative Suite 5 Launch for more info.

Here’s a preview:

I’m working on the next book which will contain Digital Art only, hope you enjoy them.

But to elaborate more and once we get past the point of thinking outside the box for photography enthusiasts my preferred website is:

Digital Photography Review™

It covers all brands in a very in depth manner. They run all sorts of tests if you are into very technical info and without being partial they do make pros and cons quite easy to spot.

So if you are after your next Camera or you are just interested in how your actual equipment rates pay them a visit here: http://dpreview.com/

From their About us:

“Digital Photography Review™ is an independent resource dedicated to the provision of news, reviews and information about Digital Photography and Digital Imaging published at the Internet address www.dpreview.com™.”

Mario Guarneros’ Blog via About this site: Digital Photography Review.

you can check out my FOTOLIA PORTFOLIO here.

I know it is very small catalogue at the moment but getting those photos approved is not easy, so it is a great challenge mixed with some good old fashioned “hit and miss”.

Please check them out even if you don’t buy as I could use the visits per image to boost and encourage possible customers.

Soon I’ll be applying for some other Stock Agencies so I’ll keep this space updated.

Happy Holidays!!!