I have been in technology Hell today. I am not happy with Sprint's 3G Internet for my laptop. It does not have enough bytes to handle uploading pictures. I am writing this Blog on my son's laptop.
It is a hot, humid day in Minnesota today. The McGuire's backyard pool is getting a work out today. Please check on anyone who does not have air conditioning today.
I had some questions about yesterday's product recommendation for the Ashanti African Shea butter. It has been recommended by Dr. Oz to treat Eczema. I have been using it for about a week and a half and it I can see the results. My Crow's Feet around my eyes are almost gone. It is slower to work on the sagging skin but I see that getting better as well. I did see you can buy it in lotion form on Amazon. I think I will have to do some shopping around to see where you can get the best prices. I bought mine at Sheer Treasures.
http://www.sheertreasures.com/
If you are looking some unique jewelry pieces, take a look at the cool designs at Camba Jewelry. Owner, Kristen Krull, makes really cool, one of a kind pieces that make great gifts.
http://www.facebook.com/cambajewelry
If you looking for help with any kind of Photography check out the Learning Center on Photonet. They have all kinds of information on almost any kind of Photography. I have spent hours going through these and have learned a lot. Remember practice, practice, practice.
http://www.photo.net/learn
I tried out the new Drop Box online back up site for photos. The free version does not allow you to store many pictures and they keep trying to get you to sign up for the paid version to get more space. The uploader takes up a lot of room on your hard drive. I do not recommend this one.
Today's Thought For The Day:
Optimists Creed
I promise myself....
To be so strong that nothing can disturb my peace of mind.
To talk, health, happiness to every person I meet.
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own.
By Christian D. Larson 1874 to 1954
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire CTC,MCC
612-490-0359
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
http://www.redbubble.com/explore/tvlgoddess
http://www.flickr.com/26332264@N03/sets
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Tuesday Blog
Happy Tuesday everyone!
It is supposed a hot humid day today so try to keep cool and check on
anyone who does not have air conditioning to make sure they are OK.
I think we have all tried products that do not live up to
their promises so when I find something that works I get really excited. Just so you know, I do not make any money
from the products I recommend. Anyway,
my sister turned me on to African Shea Butter by Ashanti Naturals. This product works to minimize wrinkles and
firm skin. I tried it on my split ends
and it worked beautifully. It is a
natural sun screen as well. I have been
told it works to relive Eczema & Psoriasis too. I have been using it for a week now and I can
see the difference. How cool is
that! You can buy this at Sheer
Treasures at Northtown Mall in Spring Lake Park, Minnesota or on line at:
http://www.SheerTreasures.com
Hats off to the State of New Jersey. They have come up with a program that offers
Scholarships for the unemployed to enable them to become entrepreneurs. They even have small business loans to get
them started with their new businesses. Why aren’t there more states doing this?
Here are some tips on how to photograph insects. This is not my favorite kind of photography
but these tips will work for almost any Macro subjects. As most of you know, flowers are my favorite.www.popphoto.com/how-to/2008/12/how-to-photograph-insects
Today’s How I Took It Photo was taken
at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. I
used my Olympus E510 SLR Camera, F 4.5, 1/200th of a second, ISO
200, hand held.
Today’s Thought For The Day is:
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the
things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the Trade Winds. Explore, Dream, Discover. By Mark Twain.Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Monday, June 25, 2012
Birthday Blog
The work week is off to a start with a beautiful sunny
day. It is my Birthday today so I have
been enjoying all the Birthday wishes I have been getting today. My husband is taking me out to dinner tonight
and then we are going to downtown St. Paul to take some shots of the
Cathedral.
One of my Photo Buddies was talking about a website that had
some great prices on cameras. It is
called Digital Depot. I checked it out
and the prices really looked good. I
have not heard of this company before so I cannot comment about their services.
I am always wary when the prices are so
much lower than their competitors. I
have found that sometimes they have great prices but they charge ten prices for
the shipping. So, it is buyer beware.
If you are heading out on a vacation be sure to be aware of
what is going on around you. Make sure
you keep a close eye on your valuables and camera gear. Thieves do not take a break in the summer
months. They target IPads, laptops, cameras, cell phones, etc. I am a big proponent of travel insurance. It is a small price to pay for peace of mind. Call me if you would you need help with
travel insurance.
Here a couple of websites that will help you plan your next
photo shoot. They give you tips on the
best places to shoot in different locations around the globe. You can search locations by city or zip
code. They track sunrise, sunset and
moon rise times as well.
Adorama is offering a special on photo prints. You can get an 11 by 14 inch print for only
$2.00 plus tax and shipping. The sale
ends June 27th so don’t delay if you are interested.
Today’s Thought For The Day is:
“I believe that in the end the truth will conquer.” Thought to be by John Wycliffe.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Sunny Day
It has been a busy weekend for us. Granddaughter, Jordynn, had her Graduation party on Saturday. It was a great success and we managed to avoid any significant rainfall so that was a bonus. I will post some photos when I can.
Please say a prayer for my friend, Kathy's son, Chad. He was in a motorcycle accident last week. He is in the hospital with brain injuries. I always try to look closely when you are driving because those motorcycles are hard to see sometimes.
Here is an article about how to take your Photography to a higher level. It takes a lot of practice and studying to stand out from all the other Photographers.
http://digital-photography-school.com/getting-your-portrait-photography-to-the-next-level-%e2%80%93-part-i?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DigitalPhotographySchool+%28Digital+Photography+School%29
On that same note here is an article about how to make your landscape shots stand out. The two things that I have learned that have helped me the most is to get down low when you are shooting and to use a Polarizer to get the more vibrant colors in your shots.
http://www.outdoorphotographer.com/how-to/shooting/intensify-your-landscape.html?utm_source=adpromo&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=DPLandscapes_062212
Here is the How I Took It Photo. It is one I took in Colorado last fall when were visiting my friend. We took a tour of an old Gold Mine and this was sitting outside. I love old rusty stuff. I took this my Olympus 1020 Point & Shoot camera, F3.7, 1/500th of a second, ISO 80, handheld.
Today's Thought For The Day comes to us from The Happiness Project.
“Habit simplifies our movements, makes them accurate, and diminishes fatigue.”
-William James
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
Please say a prayer for my friend, Kathy's son, Chad. He was in a motorcycle accident last week. He is in the hospital with brain injuries. I always try to look closely when you are driving because those motorcycles are hard to see sometimes.
Here is an article about how to take your Photography to a higher level. It takes a lot of practice and studying to stand out from all the other Photographers.
http://digital-photography-school.com/getting-your-portrait-photography-to-the-next-level-%e2%80%93-part-i?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DigitalPhotographySchool+%28Digital+Photography+School%29
On that same note here is an article about how to make your landscape shots stand out. The two things that I have learned that have helped me the most is to get down low when you are shooting and to use a Polarizer to get the more vibrant colors in your shots.
http://www.outdoorphotographer.com/how-to/shooting/intensify-your-landscape.html?utm_source=adpromo&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=DPLandscapes_062212
Here is the How I Took It Photo. It is one I took in Colorado last fall when were visiting my friend. We took a tour of an old Gold Mine and this was sitting outside. I love old rusty stuff. I took this my Olympus 1020 Point & Shoot camera, F3.7, 1/500th of a second, ISO 80, handheld.
“Habit simplifies our movements, makes them accurate, and diminishes fatigue.”
-William James
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Friday, June 22, 2012
Friday Fun
Happy Friday everyone. My battle with Sprint's Internet connection is still going on so I writing this on my husband's IPad.
I had a great day yesterday shooting pictures with my Photo Buddy, Tina. We went to Hastings, MN and shot pictures of Vermillion River Falls. After that we went to Red Wing, MN and had lunch at the historic St James Hotel. After lunch we shot some pictures of their city park and then we drove up to a bluff over looking the city.
Here is a free knowledge sharing website for Photographers:
http://www.Better-Photographers.com
I have had some requests from people for copies of my Photography notes that I have been jotting down for the last few years. I thought I would do one or two each day. Here is the first one:
For Waterfalls or any moving water. Manual Mode F22, ISO 200, 1/2 to 1second exposure. Camera must be on tripod and you need to use your in camera timer or remote trigger. Cloudy days work best and you need to use a Polarizer or Neutral Density Filter. On a sunny day you can try using both.
Today's Thought For The Day:
"If you live through defeat you're not defeated. If you are beaten but aquire wisdom you have won. Lose yourself to improve yourself. Only when we shed all self-definition do we find who we really are. My Attitude-My Life-My Rules
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire CTC, MCC
612-490-0359
http://www.redbubble.com/explore/tvlgoddess
http://www.flickr.com/263364@N03/sets
http://www.Facebook.com/tvlgoddess
I had a great day yesterday shooting pictures with my Photo Buddy, Tina. We went to Hastings, MN and shot pictures of Vermillion River Falls. After that we went to Red Wing, MN and had lunch at the historic St James Hotel. After lunch we shot some pictures of their city park and then we drove up to a bluff over looking the city.
Here is a free knowledge sharing website for Photographers:
http://www.Better-Photographers.com
I have had some requests from people for copies of my Photography notes that I have been jotting down for the last few years. I thought I would do one or two each day. Here is the first one:
For Waterfalls or any moving water. Manual Mode F22, ISO 200, 1/2 to 1second exposure. Camera must be on tripod and you need to use your in camera timer or remote trigger. Cloudy days work best and you need to use a Polarizer or Neutral Density Filter. On a sunny day you can try using both.
Today's Thought For The Day:
"If you live through defeat you're not defeated. If you are beaten but aquire wisdom you have won. Lose yourself to improve yourself. Only when we shed all self-definition do we find who we really are. My Attitude-My Life-My Rules
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire CTC, MCC
612-490-0359
http://www.redbubble.com/explore/tvlgoddess
http://www.flickr.com/263364@N03/sets
http://www.Facebook.com/tvlgoddess
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Thursday Blog
I hope your week is going well. We are busy trying to get ready to leave on the 1st for our motorhome journey. We are doing a lot of lunches and dinners out trying to see all our friends and family before we leave. I had lunch with some friends from High School which was really fun. I love seeing those gals.
Please send prayers to all the people who are cleaning up after the floods here in Minnesota. It is devastating to loose so much so suddenly and it is so much work to try and get it back to normal.
Here is a link to the Huffington Post website reporting on the devastation.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/21/minnesota-flood-damage-duluth_n_1614958.html
Here are some creative ideas for making your own headboard from out friends at DIY Network. Some of these have seen before. I really like the one reusing the signage. Very cool idea.
http://www.diynetwork.com/decorating/12-creative-headboards/pictures/index.html?nl=DIY_062112_featlink2_&sni_mid=46266&sni_rid=46266.317.601129
Here is an article about photographing people who are wearing glasses. The easiest solution is to have them take them off but that is not always possible. Sun Glasses can be just as bad unless you want your reflection to show up in their lens.
http://www.dpmag.com/how-to/tip-of-the-week/how-to-photograph-people-who-wear-glasses-06-18-12.html?utm_source=newslettertotw&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=DPTOTWeNews_061812
Today's How I Shot It Photo was taken before my Granddaughter's Prom this year. I shot with my Olympus E510 SLR, F5, 1/400th of a second, ISO 400, hand held. In post processing I cropped it and then used creative filters to blur the background out to get the dreamy effect.
Today's Thought For The Day:
"One cannot collect all the beautiful shells on the beach; one can collect only a few, and they are more beautiful if they are few." by Anne Morrow Lindbergh
Thank you for reading my Blog!
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
Please send prayers to all the people who are cleaning up after the floods here in Minnesota. It is devastating to loose so much so suddenly and it is so much work to try and get it back to normal.
Here is a link to the Huffington Post website reporting on the devastation.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/21/minnesota-flood-damage-duluth_n_1614958.html
Here are some creative ideas for making your own headboard from out friends at DIY Network. Some of these have seen before. I really like the one reusing the signage. Very cool idea.
http://www.diynetwork.com/decorating/12-creative-headboards/pictures/index.html?nl=DIY_062112_featlink2_&sni_mid=46266&sni_rid=46266.317.601129
Here is an article about photographing people who are wearing glasses. The easiest solution is to have them take them off but that is not always possible. Sun Glasses can be just as bad unless you want your reflection to show up in their lens.
http://www.dpmag.com/how-to/tip-of-the-week/how-to-photograph-people-who-wear-glasses-06-18-12.html?utm_source=newslettertotw&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=DPTOTWeNews_061812
Today's Thought For The Day:
"One cannot collect all the beautiful shells on the beach; one can collect only a few, and they are more beautiful if they are few." by Anne Morrow Lindbergh
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Stormy Day Blog
I have been really busy the last few days getting ready to move into our motorhome for our great adventure. My husband, Tim, rolled in Tuesday afternoon with our motorhome and towing our Suburban. As luck would have it the refrigerator in the motorhome is not working right so that is priority one to get that fixed today. It is always something with the motorhome.
Sarah & Devin are getting ready for Granddaughter, Jordynn's, Graduation party this weekend. They are expecting over a hundred people to attend. The menu is going to include walking Tacos which I had not heard of before. It is like a regular Taco only you use a small bag of taco chips, crunched up, instead of a taco shell. Genius!
If you are going on a vacation soon here are some tips from a hotel expert. He makes a good point that you are more likely to get an upgrade in a more upscale hotel that you are in a budget hotel.
http://www.learnvest.com/2012/06/how-to-snag-that-room-upgrade-and-more-top-tips-from-a-hotel-expert/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=lvdaily&utm_campaign=titlejump
If you use your IPhone to take pictures you might want to consider buying this. It attaches to your IPhone and gives you three different lenses. I have seen some pictures taken with the IPhone and I was impressed with the quality of photos. Very cool product!
http://photo.net/equipment/iphone/accessories/olloclip-3-in-1-wide-macro-fisheye-lens/
Here is an article about how to shoot an air shows from our friends at Tamron. The challenging part is when they are doing the stunts in the air. You need a big, fast lens and you have to be quick to get those shots. A fast shutter speed and prefocusing will help as well.
http://www.tamron-usa.com/enews/archives/2012/jun212_hall.php
Today's How I Shot It Photo was one I took at the Raptor Release event in May. I took this with my Olympus E510 SLR camera, Manual Mode, F5, 1/40 second, ISO 400, handheld.
Todays Thought For Day was posted on Facebook by my niece, Sara. Thank you Sara!
"He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with is hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist." by St. Francis of Assisi.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
Sarah & Devin are getting ready for Granddaughter, Jordynn's, Graduation party this weekend. They are expecting over a hundred people to attend. The menu is going to include walking Tacos which I had not heard of before. It is like a regular Taco only you use a small bag of taco chips, crunched up, instead of a taco shell. Genius!
If you are going on a vacation soon here are some tips from a hotel expert. He makes a good point that you are more likely to get an upgrade in a more upscale hotel that you are in a budget hotel.
http://www.learnvest.com/2012/06/how-to-snag-that-room-upgrade-and-more-top-tips-from-a-hotel-expert/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=lvdaily&utm_campaign=titlejump
If you use your IPhone to take pictures you might want to consider buying this. It attaches to your IPhone and gives you three different lenses. I have seen some pictures taken with the IPhone and I was impressed with the quality of photos. Very cool product!
http://photo.net/equipment/iphone/accessories/olloclip-3-in-1-wide-macro-fisheye-lens/
Here is an article about how to shoot an air shows from our friends at Tamron. The challenging part is when they are doing the stunts in the air. You need a big, fast lens and you have to be quick to get those shots. A fast shutter speed and prefocusing will help as well.
http://www.tamron-usa.com/enews/archives/2012/jun212_hall.php
Todays Thought For Day was posted on Facebook by my niece, Sara. Thank you Sara!
"He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with is hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist." by St. Francis of Assisi.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Monday, June 18, 2012
Good Bye Miracole's Candy Shoppe
If you did not read my Weekend Blog, you may not have heard that Miracole's Candy Shoppe has closed it's doors. The store was doing great and all the customer's loved it which made having to close that much more difficult. My husband has retired and he wants to travel in our motor home and my business partner did not want to run the store. We tried to find a buyer for the store but we did not get any offers. I am consumed with guilt having to disappoint my customers. I hope someone will come in and open up a store some time in the future. I had a lot of fun running the store and I will miss all of my customers. Thank you to you all.
One of my favorite vendors for the store was Camba Jewelry by Kristin Krull. Check out her great designs.
https://www.facebook.com/#!/CambaJewelry
On our two month trip to Montana & Canada, I will be blogging from the road and posting pictures on line of our journey so stay tuned. We plan to leave Minnesota July 1st and be gone for 2 monthes.
I went to the dentist this morning because I thought I had lost a filling. Fortunately, I did not and I just had chip in my crown which they buffed so it was smooth. They did not even charge me! I had myself all stressed out about. I hate going to the dentist so this was a best case scenario.
Disneyland has a new theme park based on the cars movie. If you have someone in your house who loved that movie then this is a must see. I found a lot of pictures of the new park on a Disney Blog. As always, Disney did a great job!
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2012/06/ka-chow-lightning-mcqueen-friends-bring-radiator-springs-to-life-at-the-cars-wing-at-disneys-art-of-animation-resort/?CMP=SOC-WDWFY12Q2FBDM0298
Today's How I Took It Photo is one I took at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory in St. Paul, MN. My Meet Up Photography group was able to get into the Conservatory before the general public which allowed us to use our tripods. I shot this with my Olympus E 510 SLR camera, Manual Mode, F2, 1/500the of a second, ISO 400 with my 50mm Olympus Macro lens. The blurry dreamy effect is called Bokeh.
Here is a great UTube video that teaches you how to use bad light to your advantage. The best light is in the morning and in the evening but sometimes you have not choice about when you are shooting.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdw3BVJr7vk&feature=related
The Thought For The Day:
"Ask yourself this question: Will this matter a year from now?" by Richard Carlson, author of the Don't Sweat The Small Stuff book.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
One of my favorite vendors for the store was Camba Jewelry by Kristin Krull. Check out her great designs.
https://www.facebook.com/#!/CambaJewelry
On our two month trip to Montana & Canada, I will be blogging from the road and posting pictures on line of our journey so stay tuned. We plan to leave Minnesota July 1st and be gone for 2 monthes.
I went to the dentist this morning because I thought I had lost a filling. Fortunately, I did not and I just had chip in my crown which they buffed so it was smooth. They did not even charge me! I had myself all stressed out about. I hate going to the dentist so this was a best case scenario.
Disneyland has a new theme park based on the cars movie. If you have someone in your house who loved that movie then this is a must see. I found a lot of pictures of the new park on a Disney Blog. As always, Disney did a great job!
http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2012/06/ka-chow-lightning-mcqueen-friends-bring-radiator-springs-to-life-at-the-cars-wing-at-disneys-art-of-animation-resort/?CMP=SOC-WDWFY12Q2FBDM0298
Today's How I Took It Photo is one I took at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory in St. Paul, MN. My Meet Up Photography group was able to get into the Conservatory before the general public which allowed us to use our tripods. I shot this with my Olympus E 510 SLR camera, Manual Mode, F2, 1/500the of a second, ISO 400 with my 50mm Olympus Macro lens. The blurry dreamy effect is called Bokeh.
Here is a great UTube video that teaches you how to use bad light to your advantage. The best light is in the morning and in the evening but sometimes you have not choice about when you are shooting.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdw3BVJr7vk&feature=related
The Thought For The Day:
"Ask yourself this question: Will this matter a year from now?" by Richard Carlson, author of the Don't Sweat The Small Stuff book.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Father's Day Weekend
I hope you are all having a great Father's Day Weekend. I am planning to spend Sunday afternoon with my Dad & Mom as well my sisters and their families. I have five sisters and no brothers so our family gatherings are always large and noisy but really fun.
It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce that Miracole's Candy Shoppe has closed it's doors. It has been for sale for some time now and no one is willing to take over the business. I wanted to find someone who would keep the store open in Downtown Lakeville for the kids, but it was not to be. I will miss all my wonderful customers and will always have fond memories of them all. Thank you to everyone who made working in the store such a joy.
My husband is retiring and we are going to spend July & August traveling in our motorhome. I will be blogging while we are on the road so stay tuned. I will post pictures on my Facebook page. We plan to visit our Grandson in North Dakota, then on to Montana to meet some friends and go to a Music Festival. From there we are planning to visit some other friends in Edmonton, Canada and then on to Banf & Lake Louise. On the way back we will stop in Slocan, British Columbia to visit my Cousin and then stop in Pleasanton, CA for a car show on our way home.
Lake Havasu City, AZ is one of my favorite places, as many of you know. The Go Lake Havasu website has a new page featuring tours that you can book on vacation. There are lots of fun things to see and do and some cool Photo Ops as well!
http://www.golakehavasu.com/tours/
Here is an article I found on one of my favorite Photography websites, Digital Photography School. This one talks portraits and paying attention to where your subject is looking. If they are facing to one side of the shot leave a little room on that side or even show what they are looking at.
http://digital-photography-school.com/where-is-your-subject-looking-and-why-does-it-matter
Today's How I Took It Photo was taken just after my Granddaughter's Graduation Ceremony. It was taken with my Olympus E510 SLR camera, Manual Mode F4, 1/400th of a second, ISO 400 with my Olympus 70-300 lens, hand held. Notice how I left some space on the left side of the shot. Today's Thought For The Day is from National Ovarian Cancer Coalition's Inspiration Board on Pinterest. Thank you to my friend, Karen, for posting this on Facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce that Miracole's Candy Shoppe has closed it's doors. It has been for sale for some time now and no one is willing to take over the business. I wanted to find someone who would keep the store open in Downtown Lakeville for the kids, but it was not to be. I will miss all my wonderful customers and will always have fond memories of them all. Thank you to everyone who made working in the store such a joy.
My husband is retiring and we are going to spend July & August traveling in our motorhome. I will be blogging while we are on the road so stay tuned. I will post pictures on my Facebook page. We plan to visit our Grandson in North Dakota, then on to Montana to meet some friends and go to a Music Festival. From there we are planning to visit some other friends in Edmonton, Canada and then on to Banf & Lake Louise. On the way back we will stop in Slocan, British Columbia to visit my Cousin and then stop in Pleasanton, CA for a car show on our way home.
Lake Havasu City, AZ is one of my favorite places, as many of you know. The Go Lake Havasu website has a new page featuring tours that you can book on vacation. There are lots of fun things to see and do and some cool Photo Ops as well!
http://www.golakehavasu.com/tours/
Here is an article I found on one of my favorite Photography websites, Digital Photography School. This one talks portraits and paying attention to where your subject is looking. If they are facing to one side of the shot leave a little room on that side or even show what they are looking at.
http://digital-photography-school.com/where-is-your-subject-looking-and-why-does-it-matter
"I can be changed by what happens to me. I refuse to be reduced by it." Maya Angelou
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Friday, June 15, 2012
Beautiful June Day
TGIF everyone. We made it through another week. After a very stormy Thursday, it is a nice day today. I talked to a friend of ours today who lives in Cannon Falls, MN and she said they got 9 inches of rain yesterday. They are asking the residents along the Cannon River to evacuate. They are forcasting more rain for tomorrow. Yikes, it is scary. If you should come across a flooded road, do not try to drive through the water. Just 6 inches of water can make a car float. Be safe out there.
This one really touched me. It is written by a 20 year old College Student who had to give up her dream of being a professional Violinist. She was given a camera as a gift and it has helped her to fill the void that not playing the violin left and helped her work through her depression. For me, going out and shooting always helps me get through what ever challenges I am facing in other areas of my life. Photography gives me joy.
http://digital-photography-school.com/why-my-camera-is-my-best-friend?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DigitalPhotographySchool+%28Digital+Photography+School%29
Speaking of Art here are some really cool creations made out strips of paper. It is called Quilling. I really admire people who have the talent and patience to do this. Really cool. Thank you to Stumble Upon for sharing this one.
http://travelphotogoddess.blogspot.com/2012/06/rainy-day-blog.html Yesterday's Blog.
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/group-photo-ideas-and-tips/ Group Photography Tips.
Here is a recipe from one of my favorite TV personalities, Ty Pennington for Beer Brats. Brats are not my favorite food but most guys love them. It would be a nice thing to make for Father's Day.
http://www.typennington.com/post/last-taste-beer-brats-ty-pennington-recipe-for-fathers-day
Todays Thought For The Day:
Trust takes years to build, but seconds to break and forever to repair." from the My Atitude-My Life-My Rules website.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
This one really touched me. It is written by a 20 year old College Student who had to give up her dream of being a professional Violinist. She was given a camera as a gift and it has helped her to fill the void that not playing the violin left and helped her work through her depression. For me, going out and shooting always helps me get through what ever challenges I am facing in other areas of my life. Photography gives me joy.
http://digital-photography-school.com/why-my-camera-is-my-best-friend?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DigitalPhotographySchool+%28Digital+Photography+School%29
Speaking of Art here are some really cool creations made out strips of paper. It is called Quilling. I really admire people who have the talent and patience to do this. Really cool. Thank you to Stumble Upon for sharing this one.
Today's How I Shot It Photo was one I took when I was bored. I had some old 45's my sister had given me so I spread them out on the floor in front of a window with a reflector to bounce the window light back on the records and started shooting. I used my Olympus E510 SLR Camera, Manual Mode, F4, 1/60th of a second, ISO 100, hand held. In post processing with my Corel PaintShop Pro 4X software, I converted it to Black and White.
With Father's Day coming up, I am sure a lot of us will be shooting family group shots this weekend. Here is an article that will give you some tips. If your shots have some people with their eyes closed see yesterday's Blog about Photo Merging.http://travelphotogoddess.blogspot.com/2012/06/rainy-day-blog.html Yesterday's Blog.
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/group-photo-ideas-and-tips/ Group Photography Tips.
Here is a recipe from one of my favorite TV personalities, Ty Pennington for Beer Brats. Brats are not my favorite food but most guys love them. It would be a nice thing to make for Father's Day.
http://www.typennington.com/post/last-taste-beer-brats-ty-pennington-recipe-for-fathers-day
Todays Thought For The Day:
Trust takes years to build, but seconds to break and forever to repair." from the My Atitude-My Life-My Rules website.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Rainy Day Blog
Sadly our Great Grill Out Event for tonight has been canceled due to thunder storms. It will be rescheduled so I will let you know when I get the new date.
I tend to like unique objects and try to find them whenever I need to give a gift. The folks at Stumble Upon have put together a bunch of really fun gift ideas.
http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/1sBxmt
Yesterday was the first Farmer's Market in Downtown Lakeville. We had great weather for it. We had over 90 customers come in to the candy store. Thanks to all of you who made it such a great day.
This article gives you some tips for taking great pictures on your next trip to the beach. The best time to take your shots is early in the morning or in the early evening. I am not a morning person so mine are almost all later in the day. Try to avoid the noon hour unless you have some cloud cover.
http://blog.sigmaphoto.com/2012/beachscapes/?link=june_t_2
Today's Thought For The Day is by Helen Keller:
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
I tend to like unique objects and try to find them whenever I need to give a gift. The folks at Stumble Upon have put together a bunch of really fun gift ideas.
http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/1sBxmt
Yesterday was the first Farmer's Market in Downtown Lakeville. We had great weather for it. We had over 90 customers come in to the candy store. Thanks to all of you who made it such a great day.
This article gives you some tips for taking great pictures on your next trip to the beach. The best time to take your shots is early in the morning or in the early evening. I am not a morning person so mine are almost all later in the day. Try to avoid the noon hour unless you have some cloud cover.
http://blog.sigmaphoto.com/2012/beachscapes/?link=june_t_2
Today's How I Took It Photo was one I took along the way when we drove from Brisbane to Great Barrier Reef in Australia. It was such a great adventure. I took this with my Olympus FE240 Point & Shoot Camera, F4.2, 1/640th of a second, ISO 50 and Auto White Balance. I was probably had turned the dial to the little Mountain Icon on the dial.
If you do not have the luxury of taking your pictures at just the right time this article is for you. I know I am often at events or family gatherings taking pictures and the light is not always ideal so you need to learn how to cope with that. I try to find some shade or at least make sure they are not looking into the sun so your subjects are not squinting. I know this sounds counter intuitive but using your flash can help to eliminate shadows that your subject might have on their face due to the bright sunlight.
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/photography-at-noon-in-harsh-sunlight/Today's Thought For The Day is by Helen Keller:
"It is hard to interest those who have everything in those who have nothing."
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Midweek Blog
The first Farmer's Market started today in Lakeville, MN. Wow, are we ever busy in the candy store today. It really makes the day fly by but it is a struggle to get my Blogging done. I am going to have to type fast!
Here is a UTube video showing how to do a Photo Merge. This can really save the day when you are shooting groups of people and one person has their eyes closed. You actually switch out the head from another shot. I have not tried this yet but I really need to give it a whirl. Corel PaintShop Pro 4X has this feature in their software which I think is easier than doing it in PhotoShop. If you get really skilled at this you can even change switch out the eyeballs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrQU6-s7tUQ&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=Head+Swapping&utm_campaign=Jun+13+email&utm_medium=email
This article is about photographing water including waterfalls. I was so happy when I learned how to do the Angel Hair technique for waterfalls. You get such a dreamy effect. You will need a tripod for sure, a polarizer and a cloudy day works best.
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/photography-tips-for-waves-waterscapes-and-waterfalls/
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
Here is a UTube video showing how to do a Photo Merge. This can really save the day when you are shooting groups of people and one person has their eyes closed. You actually switch out the head from another shot. I have not tried this yet but I really need to give it a whirl. Corel PaintShop Pro 4X has this feature in their software which I think is easier than doing it in PhotoShop. If you get really skilled at this you can even change switch out the eyeballs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrQU6-s7tUQ&feature=youtu.be&utm_source=Head+Swapping&utm_campaign=Jun+13+email&utm_medium=email
This article is about photographing water including waterfalls. I was so happy when I learned how to do the Angel Hair technique for waterfalls. You get such a dreamy effect. You will need a tripod for sure, a polarizer and a cloudy day works best.
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/photography-tips-for-waves-waterscapes-and-waterfalls/
Today's How I Took It Photo is one from my Photo Shoot at Minneopa State Park in Mankato, MN. I took this with my Olympus E510 SLR, Manual Mode, F22, 1.3 second exposure, ISO 100. It was a cloudy day. I had a Polarizer & a Neutral Density filter on my Olympus 70-300 lens. I used a tripod and my camera's timer to make sure there was no movement.
Here is a list of the best food related apps for your smart phone according to Travel & Leisure Magazine.
This is a list of products that can help you save money and extend the life of your clothes. The one thing that is really hard on clothes is the dryer. With most of my clothes I turn them inside out and wash them on the Gentle Cycle for the minimum amount of agitation time and then I put them in the dryer just to get the wrinkles out and hang them to dry. I know it is more work but it really is worth it and it saves money as well. Bonus!
Today's Thought For The Day
"If you are lucky enough to be different, don't ever change." Julia Balfour
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Mid June Blog
After our steamy weekend today it is sunny but cool. It was quite a shock when I left the house this morning. I had to go back and get a jacket. It is supposed to warm up for the weekend.
Here is an article discussing Architectural Photography. I have done a little bit of this but I am no expert. There are Photographers who specialize in this for real estate adds and magazine articles. I did a Photo Shoot photographing different jobs that my husband's plumbing company had completed. He used the pictures for his brochure and his website.
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/architectural-photography-the-key-elements/
Here are a series of awesome pictures of Yosemite National Park. I have not been to this park yet but it is on my Bucket List. These shots might tempt you into taking a trip there yourself.
http://www.photographyblogger.net/the-best-photos-of-yosemite-national-park/
Here is an article discussing Architectural Photography. I have done a little bit of this but I am no expert. There are Photographers who specialize in this for real estate adds and magazine articles. I did a Photo Shoot photographing different jobs that my husband's plumbing company had completed. He used the pictures for his brochure and his website.
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/architectural-photography-the-key-elements/
Here are a series of awesome pictures of Yosemite National Park. I have not been to this park yet but it is on my Bucket List. These shots might tempt you into taking a trip there yourself.
http://www.photographyblogger.net/the-best-photos-of-yosemite-national-park/
Today's How I Took It Photograph is one from the Photo Shoot at Hot Sam's Antiques last week. It was taken with my Olympus E510 SLR, Manual Mode, F4.0, 1/640th of a second, ISO 100, Handheld. It came out a little dark so I lightend it up in post processing and gave the colors a boost as well. If you have never visited this place, it is worth the trip. It has a ton of quirky things that are fun to shoot. Here is a link to their Facebook Page.
Our friends at Borrow Lens are celebrating their 5th Anniversary. To mark they occasion they are doing a drawing for a Cannon 5 D Mark III camera. Click on the link below to enter.
I have always maintained that it is harder to keep the pounds off in the summer versus the winter. We go more places and eat more bad food during the summer at picnics, carnivals, car shows, fairs, etc. Way more temptations. We, also, grill out more often which can be bad too depending on your choices. Here is an article Joy Manning of Prevention magazine on how to make better choices for your next backyard Barbeque.
Today's Thought For The Day is by Abigal Adams:
"To be good and to do good is the whole duty of a man comprised in a few words."
Thank you for reading my Blog today!
Becky McGuire,CTC,MCC
All Inclusive Vacation Consultant
612-490-0359
Monday, June 11, 2012
Monday Blog
Here we are at the start of another work week. After a stormy night, it is a beautiful summer day. I hope you get a chance to get out and enjoy some of this nice weather.
This one is just for fun. It is photos of dogs with their heads out the window of a moving vehicle. I am not sure why dogs do this but it is good for a chuckle.
http://digital-photography-school.com/29-shots-of-dogs-sticking-their-heads-out-of-car-windows-humor
Here are five tips to get sharper pictures that I saw on the Photography Blogger website. I am going to have to read my manual to figure out how to do the mirror lock one.
http://www.photographyblogger.net/5-simple-steps-to-sharper-photos/
Today's How I Took It Photo is one from our Photo Shoot on Friday at Hot Sam's Antiques in Lakeville, MN. I shot this with my Olympus E510 SLR camera, F4.5, 1/250th of a second, ISO 100 in Manual Mode, hand held. In post processing I bumped up the color and contrast to get this look using Corel PaintShop Pro x4 software. Check out some of my other shots on the Red Bubble below.
Here is yummy recipe for fish. It is easy to make and good for you as well. I am trying to eat more fish and cut down on the red meat. I have been told that eating more fish will keep the dear ticks away. I am not sure if that is true or not. Enjoy!
http://www.americanfamily.com/recipes/almond-crusted-tilapia/38314?tcode=AF-DRE-9000009052&fid=102696083297
Here are some great ideas for all those pennies we all have sitting around the house. Thank you to my friend, Natalie, who shared this with me and to Pinterest who had even more ideas. Very cool!
http://pinterest.com/heartsabound/diy-copper-pennies/
Today's Thought For The Day is by Dr. Suess:
"We're all a little weird, and life's a little weird. And when we find someone who's weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall into mutual weirdness and call it love."
Thank you for reading my Blog!
This one is just for fun. It is photos of dogs with their heads out the window of a moving vehicle. I am not sure why dogs do this but it is good for a chuckle.
http://digital-photography-school.com/29-shots-of-dogs-sticking-their-heads-out-of-car-windows-humor
Here are five tips to get sharper pictures that I saw on the Photography Blogger website. I am going to have to read my manual to figure out how to do the mirror lock one.
http://www.photographyblogger.net/5-simple-steps-to-sharper-photos/
Today's How I Took It Photo is one from our Photo Shoot on Friday at Hot Sam's Antiques in Lakeville, MN. I shot this with my Olympus E510 SLR camera, F4.5, 1/250th of a second, ISO 100 in Manual Mode, hand held. In post processing I bumped up the color and contrast to get this look using Corel PaintShop Pro x4 software. Check out some of my other shots on the Red Bubble below.
Here is yummy recipe for fish. It is easy to make and good for you as well. I am trying to eat more fish and cut down on the red meat. I have been told that eating more fish will keep the dear ticks away. I am not sure if that is true or not. Enjoy!
http://www.americanfamily.com/recipes/almond-crusted-tilapia/38314?tcode=AF-DRE-9000009052&fid=102696083297
Here are some great ideas for all those pennies we all have sitting around the house. Thank you to my friend, Natalie, who shared this with me and to Pinterest who had even more ideas. Very cool!
http://pinterest.com/heartsabound/diy-copper-pennies/
Today's Thought For The Day is by Dr. Suess:
"We're all a little weird, and life's a little weird. And when we find someone who's weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall into mutual weirdness and call it love."
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire, CTC, MCC
Vacation Travel Specialist
Vacation Travel Specialist
612-490-0359
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Summer Weekend Blog
I hope you are having an awesome weekend. The kids are out of school, the weather is warm, the beaches are open and everyone is in a good mood. No one appreciates summer more than Minnesotans.
I saw this recipe on American Family website. It came from the Cooking Light Magazine so it is low calorie which always helps the waistline.
http://www.americanfamily.com/recipes/summer-pappardelle-with-tomatoes-arugula-and-parmesan/42995?tcode=AF-DRE-9000008987&fid=102675881293
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
I saw this recipe on American Family website. It came from the Cooking Light Magazine so it is low calorie which always helps the waistline.
http://www.americanfamily.com/recipes/summer-pappardelle-with-tomatoes-arugula-and-parmesan/42995?tcode=AF-DRE-9000008987&fid=102675881293
Today's How I Took It Photo is one I took at after my Granddaughter's Graduation Ceremony. It was taken with my Olympus E510 SLR camera, F4.0, 1/500 second exposure, Auto White Balance, ISO 400. I wanted to have just her in focus so I used the Selective Focus Filter in Corel PaintShop Pro 4X to blur out the background.
Here is a list of 25 Best Places To Photograph according to the Photographers who read Photo Pop Magazine. Most of these are off the beaten path and expensive to get to as well. A few that I love and are more affordable to get to are: The Grand Canyon; Sedona, AZ; Crater Lake, OR; The Minnesota North Shore, New York City, Washington, DC and Lake Tahoe, CA.
This one is really cool. This is a wall mural made up of 88,000 individual pictures of the sky. Someone put a lot of work into this project.
If you missed the Venus Transit the other day like me, click on the link below to see it in High Definition. Very cool to watch!
If you are thinking on making a large purchase and want to be assured of getting the best prices, check out this website called Price Protectr. It tracks the price of your desired item and so you can know when is the best time to buy.
Today's Thought For The Day is from My Attitude-My Life-My Rules website:
"To be kind is more important that to right. Many times what people need is not a brilliant mind that speaks but a special heart that listens." author unkown.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire,CTC,MCC
All Inclusive Vacation Consultant
612-490-0359
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Thursday Thread
Happy Thursday everyone. Only one more until the weekend. It is the last day of school for the Lakeville and Burnsville School districts. Summer fun is about to begin!
Here is a list of the Best Small Towns in the USA according to people who voted on the Rand McNally Best Of The Road website. Here are a few of my favorite small towns:
Mantorville, Minnesota; Bayfield, Wisconsin; Jerome, Arizona; Cripple Creek, Colorado and of course Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Let me know what your favorite small towns are and I will pass them along to my readers.
http://www.bestoftheroad.com/competition.do?cid=200
If you are heading out for a fishing trip this weekend this article is for you. It will give you tips on capturing your fishing adventure and telling a story as well. Fishing is not my idea of fun but I know many people really enjoy it.
http://www.tamron-usa.com/enews/archives/2012/jun12_mainhart.php
Here is a video by my Facebook friend, Gary Fong, about how to read a Histogram. This video is a good introduction to using the Histogram. I always forget to do this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmgtx5ZR8tE&feature=youtu.be
Here is an article I just love. It is called Your Camera Doesn't Matter by Ken Rockwell. What he is telling you that you do not have to go out and spend a ton of money to get good shots. You need to be able look at something and see it as a photo. It is called the Phtographer's Eye. I always carry a Point & Shoot camera in my purse in case I come upon a Photo Op. So, pick up what ever camera you own and get out and shoot!
http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/notcamera.htm
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
Here is a list of the Best Small Towns in the USA according to people who voted on the Rand McNally Best Of The Road website. Here are a few of my favorite small towns:
Mantorville, Minnesota; Bayfield, Wisconsin; Jerome, Arizona; Cripple Creek, Colorado and of course Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Let me know what your favorite small towns are and I will pass them along to my readers.
http://www.bestoftheroad.com/competition.do?cid=200
If you are heading out for a fishing trip this weekend this article is for you. It will give you tips on capturing your fishing adventure and telling a story as well. Fishing is not my idea of fun but I know many people really enjoy it.
http://www.tamron-usa.com/enews/archives/2012/jun12_mainhart.php
Here is a video by my Facebook friend, Gary Fong, about how to read a Histogram. This video is a good introduction to using the Histogram. I always forget to do this.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmgtx5ZR8tE&feature=youtu.be
Here is an article I just love. It is called Your Camera Doesn't Matter by Ken Rockwell. What he is telling you that you do not have to go out and spend a ton of money to get good shots. You need to be able look at something and see it as a photo. It is called the Phtographer's Eye. I always carry a Point & Shoot camera in my purse in case I come upon a Photo Op. So, pick up what ever camera you own and get out and shoot!
http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/notcamera.htm
The How I Took It Photo today is one I took with a Point & Shoot camera while we were on our last trip to Australia. I shot this with my Olympus FE 240, F4.0, 1/500th of a second. I am sure I had the camera set to the Mountain Icon on the dial that is for scenery.
Here is a way to turn your photos into art for your home or for a gift from my hero, Ty Pennington. If it is good enough for Ty, it is good enough for me.
https://webmail.suddenlink.net/do/redirect?url=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.typennington.com%252Fpost%252Ftransform-your-photos-into-art-bumblejax&hmac=cb08c8abdec8a3c7210acf7d6db68555
Today's Thought For The Day:
"Zeal is the faculty igniting the other mind powers into the full flame of activity." by Sylvia Stitt Edwards.
Here is a way to turn your photos into art for your home or for a gift from my hero, Ty Pennington. If it is good enough for Ty, it is good enough for me.
https://webmail.suddenlink.net/do/redirect?url=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.typennington.com%252Fpost%252Ftransform-your-photos-into-art-bumblejax&hmac=cb08c8abdec8a3c7210acf7d6db68555
Today's Thought For The Day:
"Zeal is the faculty igniting the other mind powers into the full flame of activity." by Sylvia Stitt Edwards.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire
612-490-0359
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Wednesday Wonderings
Happy Wednesday everyone. Half way through the work week already. It is down hill to the weekend now. Today is a beautiful day here in Minnesota. I just love this time of year.
Here is an article listing five things you can do to get better pictures. One of the most important things is to learn your camera settings so you get off of Auto Mode. One little turn of that dial can make all the difference in how your shots turn out. Take the time to read your camera's instruction manual and practice, practice, practice!
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/5-things-you-can-change-to-take-better-pictures/
Here is an article about my favorite type of Photography, flowers. I can spend hours shooting flower pictures in Macro Mode. If the wind is blowing try using a faster shutter speed or if you are using a Point & Shoot camera turn the dial to the runner icon. Bring some water in a spray bottle to get some cool water droplets shots.
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
Here is an article listing five things you can do to get better pictures. One of the most important things is to learn your camera settings so you get off of Auto Mode. One little turn of that dial can make all the difference in how your shots turn out. Take the time to read your camera's instruction manual and practice, practice, practice!
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/5-things-you-can-change-to-take-better-pictures/
Here is an article about my favorite type of Photography, flowers. I can spend hours shooting flower pictures in Macro Mode. If the wind is blowing try using a faster shutter speed or if you are using a Point & Shoot camera turn the dial to the runner icon. Bring some water in a spray bottle to get some cool water droplets shots.
Today's How I Took It Photo was taken with my Olympus E510 SLR camera, F5, 1/200th of a second, ISO 100, hand held. It was a cloudy day which gives you nice even light.
The folks at Digital Days are coming to town to teach some Photography Classes this summer. The Minneapolis Classes are August 4th & 5th. You can register at the link below.
http://www.digitaldaysphoto.com/locations
Here is today's Thought For The Day:
"True friendship isn't about being inseparable., it's being separated & nothing changes." author unkown, from My Attitude-My Life-My Rules website.
Here is today's Thought For The Day:
"True friendship isn't about being inseparable., it's being separated & nothing changes." author unkown, from My Attitude-My Life-My Rules website.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire
612-490-0359
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Tuesday Thoughts
Happy Tuesday, I hope your week is going well. We have been working on selling our Candy Store so my husband can retire. He wants to do some traveling in our motorhome so my Blogging will be coming from the road very soon.
Speaking of traveling, here is an article about how to save money on your next driving vacation. That is one good thing about a motorhome or travel trailer you can avoid the high cost of eating out and save a little money on hotel stays. Putting gas in the motorhome is the biggest expense.
http://finances.msn.com/saving-money-tips/250000132
Here is an article about the trolley car service in Duluth, Minnesota. Duluth is great place to vacation in the summer. Lots of things to see and do in the area for kids and adults.
http://duluthtransit.com/feed/detours.aspx?pid=392
This article is about light and lenses. I agree with this author that those two things are much more important than any other aspects of phtotgraphy. The camera body is not the expensive part of your gear. It is the lenses. As I have upgraded my lenses, I have seen a difference in my shots so it was money well spent.
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/lighting-and-lenses/
Today's How I Took It Photo was taken with my Olympus 1020 Point & Shoot Camera, F3.4, 1/100th of a second, Auto White Balance. This was taken a while ago so I am guessing I probably went to Scene Mode and chose the sunset option. This was taken from our backyard of our house in Arizona.
This article is how the camera uses light from the Science Channel. It is a good one of all you Techies out there. I have to admit, I had trouble understanding all this technical stuff.
http://science.discovery.com/videos/deconstructed-shorts-how-do-digital-cameras-use-light.html#mkcpgn=fbsci2
Today's Thought For The Day was posted on Facebook by friend, Julie.
"One small positive thought can change your whole day." author unkown.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Speaking of traveling, here is an article about how to save money on your next driving vacation. That is one good thing about a motorhome or travel trailer you can avoid the high cost of eating out and save a little money on hotel stays. Putting gas in the motorhome is the biggest expense.
http://finances.msn.com/saving-money-tips/250000132
Here is an article about the trolley car service in Duluth, Minnesota. Duluth is great place to vacation in the summer. Lots of things to see and do in the area for kids and adults.
http://duluthtransit.com/feed/detours.aspx?pid=392
This article is about light and lenses. I agree with this author that those two things are much more important than any other aspects of phtotgraphy. The camera body is not the expensive part of your gear. It is the lenses. As I have upgraded my lenses, I have seen a difference in my shots so it was money well spent.
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/lighting-and-lenses/
This article is how the camera uses light from the Science Channel. It is a good one of all you Techies out there. I have to admit, I had trouble understanding all this technical stuff.
http://science.discovery.com/videos/deconstructed-shorts-how-do-digital-cameras-use-light.html#mkcpgn=fbsci2
Today's Thought For The Day was posted on Facebook by friend, Julie.
"One small positive thought can change your whole day." author unkown.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire
612-490-0359
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
Monday, June 4, 2012
Monday Blog
Happy Monday everyone. I am having to really motivate myself today. It is a lovely summer day today so that is a plus.
Here is an article about Self Portraits and how to help you move up from the Beginner Photographer stage from our friends at Digital Photography School. Thank you to my friend, Jim Bryant, for posting this one on Facebook.
http://digital-photography-school.com/self-portraits-7-tips-for-going-beyond-the-basics
Here is an article about Self Portraits and how to help you move up from the Beginner Photographer stage from our friends at Digital Photography School. Thank you to my friend, Jim Bryant, for posting this one on Facebook.
http://digital-photography-school.com/self-portraits-7-tips-for-going-beyond-the-basics
Today's How I Shot It was taken from Harriet Island with my Olympus E510 SLR, F22, 30 second exposure, ISO100. I converted this to black and white in Corel Paintshop Pro X4.
Here is a great article from our friends at Picture Correct about Tripods and Monopods. I tried using a Monopod and I hated it but I see a lot of Photographers using them on Photo Shoots so maybe it was just me. It does pay to buy the sturdiest Tripod you can afford because any movement will effect your picture quality. If you want to do any night photography, you have to use a Tripod.
This article is courtesy Digital Photography School. It is about Moon Photography. This is one subject that can be tricky because it is moving and it is a light source. I have improved but I have not yet gotten the perfect moon shot. If it ever happens I will be sure to post it here.
Here is new web page one of Photo Buddies started on the best places to photograph and why. You can submit your favorites as well. Pretty cool!
Here is a really cool way to show off your photos. It is like having your own online gallery.
Here is today's Thought For The Day:
"We are making photographs to understand what our lives mean to us." - Ralph Hattersley
A big Thank You to my friend Terry of Terry Mercer Photography for posting this quote on Facebook.
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire
612-490-0359
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Wonderful Weekend Blog
I hope you are all having a great weekend. They weather is really nice here in Minnesota finally. I hope it is nice where you are as well.
Here is a great article from our friends at Digital Photography School about understanding metering modes. It took me a while to wrap my head around this concept. If you are going to shoot in Manual Mode it is important to understand how your in camera light meter works. Most of the time I have my camera set to center metering.
http://digital-photography-school.com/exploring-metering-modes?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DigitalPhotographySchool+%28Digital+Photography+School%29
If you are going to be doing some senior photo shoots here are some tips for you. When I shoot Senior Pictures for my Grandkids, I try to keep the focus on them not the background. The kids seem to think they have to come up with some kind unique background. I do like it when you can incorporate something in the shot that says something about them or their interests.
http://www.adorama.com/ALC/Article.aspx?googleid=0013707&alias=Creative-Senior-Portraits-That-Will-Sell-Sell-Sell&utm_source=ET&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=EmailALC060112
Today's How I Shot It Photo was taken in Venice on a Gondola ride with my Olympus 1010 Point & Shoot Camera, F2.8, 1/250th of a second, ISO 50. Here are some thought provoking photos for you. Some I had seen before but there were a lot of them that were new to me and very moving.
http://www.buzzfeed.com/expresident/most-powerful-photographs-ever-taken
I might have posted this article before but here it is again. It gives you some reasons why you might want to consider using a Travel Agent next time you travel.
http://www.travelagentcentral.com/editors-letter/top-10-reasons-use-a-travel-agent-35490
I had posted a couple ideas for cooking sweet corn in my last Blog post. My friend, Karen, sent me this video that has yet one more way to cook sweet corn.
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=YnBF6bv4Oe4&feature=youtu.be
Here is an article with some tips for coping with those "Why Me" moments in your life. I believe things happen for a reason but when I am in the middle of a bad time, I can't make sense of it.
http://www.positivelypositive.com/2012/05/26/4-tips-for-when-youre-having-one-of-those-why-me-moments/
Here is today's Thought For The Day:
"Treat your friends as you do your pictures, and place them in their best light." by Jennie Jerome Churchill
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Here is a great article from our friends at Digital Photography School about understanding metering modes. It took me a while to wrap my head around this concept. If you are going to shoot in Manual Mode it is important to understand how your in camera light meter works. Most of the time I have my camera set to center metering.
http://digital-photography-school.com/exploring-metering-modes?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DigitalPhotographySchool+%28Digital+Photography+School%29
If you are going to be doing some senior photo shoots here are some tips for you. When I shoot Senior Pictures for my Grandkids, I try to keep the focus on them not the background. The kids seem to think they have to come up with some kind unique background. I do like it when you can incorporate something in the shot that says something about them or their interests.
http://www.adorama.com/ALC/Article.aspx?googleid=0013707&alias=Creative-Senior-Portraits-That-Will-Sell-Sell-Sell&utm_source=ET&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=EmailALC060112
http://www.buzzfeed.com/expresident/most-powerful-photographs-ever-taken
I might have posted this article before but here it is again. It gives you some reasons why you might want to consider using a Travel Agent next time you travel.
http://www.travelagentcentral.com/editors-letter/top-10-reasons-use-a-travel-agent-35490
I had posted a couple ideas for cooking sweet corn in my last Blog post. My friend, Karen, sent me this video that has yet one more way to cook sweet corn.
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=YnBF6bv4Oe4&feature=youtu.be
Here is an article with some tips for coping with those "Why Me" moments in your life. I believe things happen for a reason but when I am in the middle of a bad time, I can't make sense of it.
http://www.positivelypositive.com/2012/05/26/4-tips-for-when-youre-having-one-of-those-why-me-moments/
Here is today's Thought For The Day:
"Treat your friends as you do your pictures, and place them in their best light." by Jennie Jerome Churchill
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire
612-490-0359
http://www.facebook.com/tvlgoddess
Friday, June 1, 2012
Finally Friday Blog
It is Friday! I hope you have something fun planned for this weekend. The weather forecast looks good. Let's hope that does not change. The sun is shining today which always makes my day.
Funjet Vacations is running a sale on the Disney World Resorts. You can save up to 30% on your stay. You must book by 8/14/12 and travel 8/15/12 through 9/29/12. Call me if you have any questions.
“To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of becoming, is the only end of life.”
Funjet Vacations is running a sale on the Disney World Resorts. You can save up to 30% on your stay. You must book by 8/14/12 and travel 8/15/12 through 9/29/12. Call me if you have any questions.
I went out shooting with some of my friends from the Minnesota Valley Photography Club. We practiced outdoor Portrait Photography using natural light and a reflector. This was the first time I have shot with a reflector outside. It was pretty cool. Some of us did some shots of the water features at the Heart Of The City Park in Burnsville,MN. I will post some shots when I get a chance.
If you have been following my Blog posts, you know I really stress the importance of practicing in Photography. Here is an article that is all about that. I have really been making a point to get out an shoot more often and it has helped me a lot. I am a lot more confident and there is less fumbling around trying to figure out what I should do next.
If you have been following my Blog posts, you know I really stress the importance of practicing in Photography. Here is an article that is all about that. I have really been making a point to get out an shoot more often and it has helped me a lot. I am a lot more confident and there is less fumbling around trying to figure out what I should do next.
Here is today's How I Shot It photo. This was taken from the backyard of our house in Lake Havasu City, AZ. It was taken with my Olympus E510 SLR, F4.2, ISO 100, 1/25th second exposure
National Camera Exchange is having a big sale on cameras. You can save up to $200.00 on a new camera. They, also, are offering some Photography Classes. I have attended the one at the Arboretum and it is pretty good and you can go out and practice after the class.
Here is an article from our friends at Learn Vest about saving money on skin & hair care products. Who doesn't want to save money?
Here is a new way to cook sweet corn that I saw on Pinterest. We leave it in the husk and soak it in water and throw it on the grill for about a half hour and it comes out perfect. This one would be a good way to cook it when the grill is not an option.
I saw this recipe for Herb Crusted Salmon on the American Family website. It sounds wonderful and you could cook it on the grill instead of the oven. We buy our salmon at Sam's Club and it is wonderful and good for you too. Bonus!
Today's Thought For The Day is courtesy of The Happiness Project:
“To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of becoming, is the only end of life.”
-Robert Louis Stevenson
Thank you for reading my Blog!
Becky McGuire
612-490-0359
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