Bamboo Capture

I suppose it will come as no surprise that Mike and I enjoy taking photos of the world around us. We've done a little photo editing in the past and are very interested in doing more. The problem is that editing on a laptop is less than ideal. Making corrections to small areas that require intricate detail using a track pad or mouse is not easy.

Last weekend we undertook a project to help us visualize some changes we were discussing. Specifically, we were trying to figure out how a new landscape feature would fit into our yard. We wanted to compare a few different sites and positions so the idea would gel a little better in our minds.

We decided to mark off the areas we were considering so they would be visible, then we photographed the various sites. Next, we went to the store that sold the item(s) we were considering. We took photos at various angles that matched the angles we shot at home.

I planned to use Gimp for my edits, as I have had a lot of success with it in the past. As I contemplated how we would execute the project, the Bamboo tablet came to mind. My stepfather John introduced me to the Bamboo years ago. At the time, I didn't really understand its power and utility. Yesterday, the benefits hit me like a brick wall.

Bamboo makes a tablet and stylus system that lets you draw on the tablet to make precise edits to a document or image. After reviewing the various options, I decided the Bamboo Capture was the best fit for our long range uses. A quick trip to Best Buy (which included the use of some gift cards -- thank you, Dad) and we owned it!

The Capture as shown on Wacom's website

The Capture experience, also from Wacom

The Capture made short work of our editing task. I didn't read any instructions or follow any tutorials. The tablet was incredibly intuitive and easy to use out of the box.We place our item of consideration in several different spots and got to see the final look, with just a few clicks.

I am in love with the Bamboo... I can't wait to use it more!

Photo Project

I recently mentioned starting a photo project for 2010. The project is underway and going strong. I've started a new blog for purposes of sharing my photos and getting your feedback. You'll find 365 Days of Photos at http://tracy365photos.blogspot.com/. I hope you check it out and comment as you feel appropriate.

Smiles!

Inspiration for a New Year

One thing about me: I gave up New Year's resolutions years ago. I never really meant them, or could only stick to them for a short time. Let's face it, change can be difficult. Just because it is a new year doesn't meaning turning over a new leaf is any easier.

Another thing about me: more often than not, I do not have a direction. I've never had a master plan for my life. Rather, I've taken life as it comes and made decisions based on opportunities. I am a happy person for it. Don't get me wrong, I don't just bumble around (usually). Its just that I am open to the unexpected.

So, what's my point? Now that I've established the first two things about myself, I want to tell you about my inspiration for 2010. Yes, inspiration.

I was catching up on the world with Google Reader (you know my proclivity for it) when I came across an interesting post on Lifehacker. I scanned it, then linked directly to the original post from the original author. The post was dedicated to "Hints and Tips for doing a 365 day Photo Project".

When I read the title I turned into Scooby Doo with a tilted head and  "hrmmmm?" The idea of a 365 day photo project is pretty basic. You take one photograph a day. You can have a theme that you stick to, or not. The article is stock full of great ways to keep motivated and reward your continuity.

Mike got me a beyootiful new camera for Christmas. It is an ultra compact because I carry a camera in my purse -- who knows when opportunity will present itself? The timing of the post couldn't be more perfect. A new year, a fresh start, an opportunity to do something I like and use a Christmas gift.

I am really excited to start my 365 day photo project. I don't know how I'll share my pictures yet. Right now, I want to get started and stick to it. Do you enjoy photography and want to join me? If you do, please, let me know! We could encourage and inspire each other. We could even create some cool way share our work. The possibilities are endless.

I can't wait to get started!

Also linked above, check out the Dawnstar Australis post "Hints & Tips For Doing A 365 Day Photo Project"