Saturday, April 26, 2014

Degas Paintings Are Fine Examples Of The Use Of Vibrant Color And Broken Brush Strokes


Possibly best known for his oils of ballet dancers Edgar Degas, the French impressionist who considered himself a realist was a prolific and exceptional artist. His works show free flowing brushstrokes, movement and are filled with emotion. Together with Degas paintings numerous pieces of sculpture, prints and sketches were produced in his lifetime.

Degas showed an early preference to painting although his father wanted him to study law. On a visit to Naples to see his aunt he started preliminary sketches for the well known work The Bellelli Family which depicted his family.

During a visit to New Orleans he painted an oil of an office with people dealing in cotton set in New Orleans. This is the only work that was purchased by a museum during his lifetime. On his return to Paris he started painting in earnest. He was a difficult man who during his life managed to alienate all his friends resulting in a lonely life and he died in 1917 alone.

The Dance Class is possibly one of his works that has been reproduced the most. Overall he did well over 1500 oils and sketches with a ballet theme. Even in his sculpting phases he did figures of dancers. These pieces are all filled with raw emotions, the stress of training clearly seen on the faces and in the body movements.

Degas drawings and paintings of people and horses are precise in detail and every muscle and line is perfectly executed. When he discovered photography he immediately embraced it and used it extensively. Some of his oils painted at that time reflect the subdued colors reproduced in photographs. Two famous paintings done in 1874 and 1876 of a ballet teacher and one of a class in rehearsal are painted photographic color tones.

The oil painting The Place de la Concorde has an almost photographic feel as the subjects appear to have been captured in motion. These works all have a quality that draws a viewer into the scene and leaves them with a feeling that both people and horses will soon move one. Many of his oils are painted as seen by an audience member looking towards dancers on stage. This is clearly seen in the delightful oil of musicians in an orchestra pit with the dancers in the background.

His nudes were mostly of woman preparing their toilette and doing their hair. One of the more famous ones is owned by Moscow's Pushkin Museum and is done on paper with pastels. The background is less busy and the body colors are soft and life-like.

He was not fond of working outdoors like painters of his time and preferred working in a studio. He used sketches, photos and his memory to create the scenes. His work is full of lighting and movement of the everyday lifestyle.

Recognized in his lifetime as a master the Degas paintings are classic examples of color, broken brushstrokes and movement. He created scenes that were timeless and would be enjoyed forever. His work is displayed throughout the world in museums and galleries.

How to Make Money From Photography and Turn Your Passion Into a Home Business


If you wish to make money from photography in large amounts, knowing what it takes to make the highest amount possible is important. You need to consider some very important information in this article and consequently proceed to succeed in this venture and get paid for pictures.

If you are passionate about photography then you are on the right track to get started posting your photos on the Internet. There is the long way and the short way towards success in any venture and you will soon find out how to make your dreams comes true using the short way.

There have been many wasted opportunities when achieving a goal was just around the corner. Ending up empty handed is not the position to be in but taking your best photographs and learning how to market them online has never been more lucrative in this new age of the Internet.

This is one venture that merely requires a desire to take a photo that you believe to be interesting. It does not matter what the subject of your image is, there is someone out there who has the same desire and would love to buy your photos and pay you well.

Many people spend a lot of money to get those special moments, people and places that you may have at one time captured. The techniques to market photos are becoming very sophisticated these days but the concept is the same. How much would it cost you to go down to the park and snap a hundred photos?

Thousands of people are constantly looking for information related to generating funds with an online business. Photography websites and offline publications are always in need of new and unique photographs. There is no doubt you will find buyers once you get a feel for the market.

One contributing factor to your success in this business is how much passion you have. Obviously if you are reading this article you have some desire to go to the next level. Your creativity is another advantage to taking great photos. the more original you are the more success will come knocking at your door.

The different types of photographs that are sold is infinite. No longer is there just a need for specific types of photographs. Computers have changed this world that we live in so consequently the categories of photographs that are needed has grown immensely. If you choose, you can concentrate on one particular field of photography or dabble in all sorts of different categories.

It is totally up to you what area you want to pursue. You may have better luck sticking to one subject matter and find that you produce a higher quality photo set. On the other hand you may like to wander the park on a Sunday and look for opportunities to capture a candid shot that takes your breath away.

It is not necessary to have tons of high tech equipment for taking photographs. The shot is what counts and all you need to make money from photography is to get that great shot that came naturally. The unplanned sudden snapshots are always the best and always come along when you least expect it.

Trying to imagine which of your pictures would do best is virtually impossible. It all depends on the demand in the particular niche you have chosen. It is also important that you make an effort to acquire a lot of buyers who are in a position to pay for your photos.

One thing to be aware of is there are sites out there that pay very little for original photos. Many times over certain photo hosting websites will buy your photographs for pennies then flip it for 10 dollars or more. They have their own list of high end buyers willing to pay that kind of money.

Once you learn how to get to these buyers directly, the sky is the limit. You deserve to make money from photography and earn the residual income that is fair to you. There are many reputable websites that have high integrity and want their contributing photographers to make a great income and stick around so they remain loyal contributing photos on a regular basis.

Although you may think you have the perfect photograph, it is more important to submit them to the right venue. This is the key to success, knowing insider secrets that will prevent you from experiencing a dismal failure. It would be a huge heart break if you gave up on something you were truly passionate about.

There is no doubt your passion and your talent can make money from photography. You can do it the right way with the proper guidance and consequently reach your desired goals. Once you get paid for pictures and see how the system works you can choose to turn photography into a full time income.

How to Organize a Stellar Film Festival


The Campus MovieFest is the largest student film festival in the world. More than 30 colleges and universities play host to this event and the participants are provided with free equipment for a week to create a five-minute short film. The equipment includes an Apple computer, Final Cut Pro software and a video camera. However, every student film festival is not established for the same purpose.

Organizing a Student Film Festival: The Good News

If you are organizing a student film festival, the good news is that its success is judged according to the extent to which it fulfills its goals. Thus, the planning of the event starts with you and your idea. You need a concrete plan for engaging guest speakers, building public relations, researching, programming and preparing films.

Organizing a Student Film Festival: Vital Tips

Here are some tips that can help you in the process of organizing your film festival.

1. Secure the venue at least six months in advance. This is because the PR work that would be conducted and invitations that would go out should specify the venue for your film fest to be deemed credible.

2. Focus on the idea behind your event when planning. Depending upon the genre or the film maker or the issue that you want to pursue in your event, various parameters will change radically.

3. Budgeting is one of the most important factors that govern the working of your festival. Make specific monetary allocations for the various elements that you plan to spend your funds on. While soliciting sponsors it is helpful to keep in mind that some of the essentials, such as food, stationary, poster printing and beverages, can be arranged as gifts from a corporate.

4. Arrange for at least one extra copy of the films to be screened, should there be any physical damage to the prints.

5. Keep a tab on the timing of your event and ensure that it does not clash with other events that could impact the attendance of the audience you are expecting.

6. Make proper arrangements for receiving the VIPs you invite. Showcase the involvement of the people to attract the right kind of audience as well as sponsorship.

7. Build a reliable team of volunteers and organize them in a way that your group leads can communicate and keep in touch throughout the event.

Why Start a New Portrait Photography Business?


Firstly - I'm a parent, and there are certain pictures of the children that take center stage, and that's well done portrait photographs. I can stare at them for ages. My mother had little portrait shots covering every available space on her dining room cabinet of friends, children and pets too. Everybody will buy a good portrait photo if if captures a special memory.

Ollie, a good friend of mine, has always loved taking all types of pictures, the walls of his cottage have beautiful prints of shots Ollie and his wife favor mostly, their children - 4yr old beautiful twin girls. As you can imagine there are quite a few pictures of the girls all around. He has a canny way of 'capturing the natural' in his photography. in-fact on first looking at his photographs I thought they were professional prints!

Anyway, Ollie's hobby took center stage. The twins often had friends over to play, and when the parents came to collect their children they saw all the photography. Like myself they assumed they were professional portrait pictures. So when finding out that Ollie took them they would often ask if he would take portraits photographs of their kids. Soon enough he was taking bookings for portraits, christenings even weddings. He was getting very busy just by word of mouth.

I got a call from Ollie one morning, quite out of the blue. He said that he was considering starting a new portrait photography business; to be completely honest I knew he was good but I wasn't sure he could make a living out of it... Until he explained to me, that even I pay $70 for a single portrait picture of my kids. I thought about it for a second and then smiled to myself as I knew that of course it's possible.

So there you have it starting a new portrait photography business can be done quite easily if you have a good camera and a passion for taking pictures. I for one can't resist buying pictures of the people and the animals I love ... Who can?

Digital Photography Courses - Home Study Or Classroom Training?


There is an increasing amount of people who want to improve their photography skills. Either for career reasons or just to improve their personal skills. There are a lot of people who start up their own photography business but don't have skills or qualifications to take it further and really progress in the world of photography. Or as most of us have a digital camera now and we like to take snaps when we're on our holidays and just about anywhere we go. So it's no surprise many people would like to know how to take quality pictures and improve their photography skills.

So what options do you have? Well you could always go to a local college or training centre. These are good teaching methods but drawbacks being you have to commit to time schedules and you may miss important parts of the course if you miss a class. Also classroom training can be quite expensive and potential students can be put off as they can't be 100% sure they will make every class.

Another and very popular way is home study. This gives the student great flexibility as they study in their own time from home. The course can be worked around your work, social and family life. These courses are a lot more affordable than classroom training and can lead to the same qualifications. These are especially appealing to people who just want to improve their personal skills and do not want to pay a lot of money for something they are not going to use as a job or career.

We can provide home study photography courses to an OCN level 3 award. You have a dedicated tutor to help if you need and access to the community forum. There is a mixture of practical and written assignments which need to be sent in for marking and this will test you to see if you're understanding the course and techniques. We provide everything you need to get you qualified and skilled in digital photography and the course can be paid using a monthly payment scheme.

Ideas and Tips for a Perfect Cambridge Wedding


Dating back to 1209 Cambridge is the second oldest university town in England. This historic seat of learning is a fitting location for a wedding venue when you bear in mind that marriage is nothing if not an education!

Wedding Ceremony Venues in Cambridge
If you are looking for a suitable venue in Cambridge in which to hold your wedding ceremony then the city's numerous historic colleges is the obvious starting point. Whilst a number of Cambridge colleges hold wedding licenses only the following ones are available to non college members: Corpus Christi, Jesus, Downing, Magdalene, Newnham and Trinity Hall. It's worth remembering that many of the Cambridge colleges are not available for weddings during term time. With limited vacation dates available it is best to book your wedding in Cambridge as early as possible. It is only possible to hold your wedding ceremony in one of the Cambridge college chapels if you are a college member.

Wedding Reception Venues in Cambridge
If you are considering one of the Cambridge colleges for your wedding reception venue then you might find the Conference Cambridge website a useful source of information. Don't be put off by the 'conference' implication - the site lists all the Cambridge colleges whose facilities are available for weddings and also guides you through the various restrictions. All the colleges offer beautiful historic settings, which provide a quintessentially English backdrop for your wedding. Corpus Christi College, which dates back to 1352, has a magnificent panelled hall, which provides a ceremonial setting for a grand wedding breakfast. Another suggestion would be Trinity Hall, another of Cambridge's oldest colleges, which has beautiful grounds and a riverside terrace. Some of the Cambridge colleges offer accommodation outside of term time if you have wedding guests who need to say overnight.

Themes for a Cambridge Wedding
Why not incorporate the colour blue in to your wedding scheme? A 'Blue' is the term for a university sports award and the tradition of awarding 'Blues' began at Oxford and Cambridge. You could have blue wedding stationery, wedding flowers in various shades of blue, blue tie backs and bows on your wedding receptions chairs, and even a blue garter! Another idea would be to name each table after a different Cambridge college or famous Cambridge alumni. During the 'lull' between your wedding ceremony and wedding reception you could treat your guests to a punting trip down the 'Backs' (the idyllic and scenic backs of the colleges). A champagne picnic punt would be nicer still.

Alternative Wedding Venues in Cambridge
If one of Cambridge's ancient seats of learning is not for you then there are some truly stunning wedding venues in Cambridgeshire and the neighbouring county of Suffolk. In Cambridge itself you have the Hotel Felix. This contemporary country house hotel has beautiful grounds and a picturesque fa癟ade, which offers a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos. If you are wanting to hold your wedding in an usual setting have you taken a look at Duxford Air Museum yet? Within 45 minutes drive of Cambridge you have three exceptional and wholly unique wedding venues which are worth looking at. Hengrave Hall near Bury has one of the best bridal suites in the country; The Rotunda at Ickworth House will ensure that your wedding photographs are unforgettable, and the Jockey Club Rooms in Newmarket provide a magnificent setting at the very heart of British horseracing history.

Recommended Wedding Suppliers in Cambridge
There are many excellent wedding suppliers in the Cambridge area - a few of which are particularly worthy of a mention. Firstly, have you ever come across Bespoke Design? They produce the most amazing wedding stationery - brilliantly and uniquely themed for each wedding couple. They create stunning table plans and place settings, which will become treasured souvenirs. On the wedding photography front there are many to choose from in Cambridge, however, we would recommend giving Gary Rowsel, Mark Ashworth and Lightworks Photography a closer look. Hiring the services of a personal wedding dresser is becoming more and more popular. Linda Mclaren comes highly recommended and her charges are very reasonable. Our final recommendation is for Biscotti di Debora who offer a magical array of continental style wedding confectionary that will wow your guests and give them plenty to talk about. They can also create a Croc'embouche, a continental wedding cake made out of a tower of profiteroles and Chantilly cream, which cannot fail to make an impressive statement.

Friday, April 25, 2014

What Do I Need to Start a Photography Business? 7 Great Tips


It is easier than ever before to start up a photography business. Years ago, so much equipment was needed for taking your shots and then processing them, as well as the need good size rooms for a light room, and perhaps a studio. Then an office was needed to run things from, so there's two or three rooms required to start with plus thousands in equipment. Thanks to technology, it is possible to run everything from just one or two rooms, and also perhaps using equipment you already have, so even starting a photography business from home is truly a viable option. So what do you need to start a photography business?

Here are several essentials you need to look at for starting up your photography business.

1. Decide how many rooms you need. If it's just an office, then this is much easier. If you need a studio, then perhaps you could consider converting the garage into one if you want to work from home. Be sure to check relevant council or authority regulations if you have customers coming to your home. Otherwise, it might be an idea to look at renting premises.

2. To start off with, all you really need is a good quality DSLR, lenses and flash. Any other equipment you need depending on the job you do, can easily be hired as and when.

3. A reliable powerful computer. If you are reading this, it is likely you already have one, so use it until you make some money and then invest in a dedicated computer for your business.

4. Software. Photoshop is of course the industry standard, but it isn't essential you use this software. Other software like Corel Draw, Photoshop Elements, even the free Gimp are perfectly acceptable alternatives.

5. Get yourself a website, and promote your work on it. Put your portfolio up to give people a taste of what you're about. Don't forget to put your contact details on!

6. Be sure to find out about the legal side of things, eg taxation, insurance, and so forth.

7. Passion, desire and a creative eye. But you already have these, don't you?

These are just simple tips for just getting a rudimentary business up and running, and to start bringing in some money. It is advisable that you seek professional guidance in setting your business up and there are many ways you can do this, research, reading, and your local authority may also have some start up business help and assistance scheme too.

How A Trivial Pursuit Led To Riches


How do you recognise a gift horse? How can you pick a less-than-obvious winner rather than a pathetic loser?

Some people have a surprising ability, almost a sixth sense, when it comes to making vital decisions. Others... oh, dear.

Take this striking case.

Two fun-loving young Canadians circulated around the bars of a European coastal resort with an offer that was easy to refuse. "Invest a thousand bucks in our project and you could make a million," they suggested, in between downing considerable amounts of beer.

Everybody laughed and called for another round. Everybody - except one bar-owner. "Why not?" he said and bought a share.

Today he's a millionaire, for the project he invested in was Trivial Pursuit, possibly the most successful board game of all time - more than 100 million copies of the game have been sold in 26 countries and in at least 20 languages. Estimated return: well over $1 billion.

This is one of the classic rags-to-riches stories. And it demonstrates that opportunities lie around every corner. It's just a question of recognising them - and having faith in your own judgment.

The originators of Trivial Pursuit were journalists Chris Haney and Scott Abbott. Back in 1969 they were playing Scrabble on a kitchen table when the idea occurred to them that they could invent a game as good.

They took a break from their jobs in Montreal and wintered on Spain's Costa del Sol while devising their game. They toiled to figure out details and think up thousands of questions, the trivial the better.

Such as: What do you call a female hedgehog? Who shot Abraham Lincoln? What part of an elephant has 100,000 muscles?

They started offering five shares in their project for 1,000 dollars. The usual reaction? Invest in some unheard-of board game? Get serious!

Only one resident of the town of Nerja, near Malaga, where they were sampling the beer and sunshine, took up the offer, a fellow Canadian.

Their savings were vanishing and they were desperate for cash. And when they tried to market their game, with its 6,000 questions about inconsequential matters printed on 1,000 cards, it raised little interest. They lost money on every game they sold.

But then, miraculously, sales began to climb. It turned out that people loved Trivial Pursuit. Soon it was selling by the million.

Within two years cheques began pouring into the bank accounts of the 30 or so initial shareholders, including that of the Nerja bar-owner.

Haney and Abbott became multi-millionaires. Haney, an unpretentious type, liked to joke: "I quit school in Grade 12. It was the biggest mistake I ever made - I should have done it in Grade 10."

And he laughed all the way to the bank.

Decorating With Snow That Does Not Melt


That was the surprising answer given to me by the manufacturer of instant fake snow powder 10 years ago. He had asked me if some of the plants I sold would "grow in snow", and I had responded, "I guess so, since snow melts and turns into water". His response was "My snow doesn't melt".

When I looked skeptical after his answer, he asked me to wait a minute while he went out to his car. He returned and asked me if I had a bowl and a glass of water, which I put on our checkout counter. He took out a foil packet and opened it and poured about a tablespoon of white powder into the bowl, and then asked me to pour the water on it. I did, and to my amazement and that of the small group of customers nearby, the powder instantly erupted into a small mountain of perfect looking white fake snow that was cool to the touch and had us all shaking our heads.

A few months later, this powder reached the US market for artificial snow for the first time, and the result in the market was a virtual snowstorm. As I had learned, this polymer based fake snow was developed in Japan for a series of huge indoor Snowboard parks that had been popular there for about 10 years. Refrigerated above and below the snow, this amazing product was perfect for snowboarding and ski jumping, though in the long run the parks were too expensive to build and maintain.

The Japanese manufacturer was trying to find financing for a snowboard park in Las Vegas, but that never happened due to the high costs involved. But in the 10 years since then, the fake instant snow powder he brought to America has become the quality standard for professional photographers and film makers, holiday decoration, winter themed events of all types including weddings, nightclubs, school, camp and church programs, and is now used in thousands of schools for science lessons and classroom fun. After instant snow hit the market, artificial snow would never be the same.

To this day, nothing beats the excitement of watching a bit of powder erupt into cold, perfect snow that lasts indoors for weeks or months. So, the next time someone answers a question with something that sounds impossible, like "My snow doesn't melt," let your imagination run wild and you may discover something as amazing and creative as instant snow powder.

The Importance Of Camera Lens


The most essential element to a photographer is their camera and the camera lens. The camera plays the roles of processing image, image stabilization and so on. While the lens perform as what are the images that it is capable of capturing hence pass it to the camera to process the images. Many people might think that camera is more important than the lens or other equipment. However professional photography is not such an easy thing to be play around. It requires multiple elements in order to be capable of taking the perfect photograph, you will need a powerful camera, sharp lens and the most important element would be skills. With the best equipment and lens, it doesn't means that you will be able to take photo at the level of professional does.

The camera main function is to enable you to take photo. Lenses are for you to be able to capture sharp and high quality images. To take photo with appropriate timing, angle, lighting and so on are depends on your skills and luck. You will be able to be more skillful as you have more experience and the passion to keep continues in pursuing photography. However if your lens is unable to capture the quality that you desire, you will not feel satisfied of the picture that you have taken. The image that you are capable of taking with your level of skill cannot be accomplished with the lens. This is where you should think of upgrading your camera or lens.

The joy of sharpening your skills and playing with the camera to get stunning photo cannot be achieve through compact digital cameras. Even though the current compact digital camera have powerful processor, image processing and other function, but its limitation would be it lens. Compact cameras don't have the flexibility of changing lens. You should get your lens from reputable manufacturer such as Nikon or Leica. However sometimes you might faced problem such as compatibility issues. You should always do your research before buying. The best way to do research would be browsing for more information online or joining forums and ask questions when you have doubts.

Trick Photography and Special Effects E-Book - Inspirational Or A Waste Of Your Money?


It's Christmas. The kids are home from school, the family is together and our thoughts are on letting go and having fun. It's the silly season as we say in Australia. I wasn't going to review another weight loss solution or online money making program. I wanted to review something that was fun and something I was interested in. Photography for me is relaxing and fun and I hoped others feel that same way too.

How many of you got a camera for Christmas? OK... How many of you love photography? Now, how many are envious of other photographer's work and wish you can create pictures like they can? How many of you aren't very good at Photoshop but love to learn more? And how many, like me, are old school and were taught to do everything in camera not on a computer? I thought so, well if you answered yes to any one of these questions I want to tell you about an e-Book you'll love. It's the Trick Photography and Special Effects e-Book. It teaches, it inspires and it is a lot of fun this Christmas holidays.

What Is Trick Photography and Special Effects?

Trick Photography and Special Effects is a 190 page e-Book. This e-book is made so it's easy to understand whether you are a beginner, advanced or a working professional. It's well thought out with literally hundreds of real examples and real photos taken by photographers for photographers. You can open this book on almost any page and get engrossed in topics that are fun to do and at the same time learn more about what we love doing, which is photography. I love it because even though it's very detailed it also re-ignites your creativity with new ideas and new techniques. There is something in it for everybody who is into photography.

Trick Photography and Special Effects is broken up into 3 categories:

Long Exposure Effects and Light Painting:
• Fundamental lights and techniques
• Light sources
• Light painting techniques
• Lightning
• Motion blur
• Star trails
• Many more fun long exposures

Trick Photography and Special Effects:
• In-Camera illusions
• HDR photography
• Infrared photography
• 360 Degree panoramas
• The Droste Effect
• Time-Displacement photography via scanner
• The Harris Shutter Effect

Photoshop Projects:
• Introduction to layer masks and blending modes
• Multiplicity photography
• Levitation photography
• The invisible man
• Flash manipulation
• Fake tilt-shift photography
• Mixing day with night

This e-Book is inspirational, exciting and a great waste of time over the holiday season. You will have fun and learn something in the process. Best of all it will get you doing something that adds to your enjoyment of life and your enjoyment of photography.

Black Photo Frames


Black photo frames can be found on the walls of nearly every home, office, school and business around the world. The popularity of black photo frames is second to no other colour.

Every year black picture frames are sold in much higher quantities than any other picture frame including light woods, white and silver frames. The reason black photo frames are so popular is because of their simplicity. Black frames will go with almost any decor and is particularly suitable for displaying A4 certificates in the home or office.

Black picture frames are also incredibly good when framing black and white photographs. A black frame with a white mount (or mat) can enhance a monochrome photo so much more than any other colour frame. The high contrast between the black and the white really draws the viewer's eye into the centre of the frame (i.e. the photograph).

As well as photography, black photo frames are used extensively when framing charcoal drawings, pencil drawings or other simple artwork for the same reasons mentioned above.

More and more people have simple monochrome colours at home these days and want something for their walls that looks modern and chic but that will also stand the test of time. Monochrome images and pictures that will complement these interiors has become a big business in it's own right

Many businesses, offices and schools use black frames on their walls. Schools in particular use black frames because they are often changing the artwork inside them and a black frame will complement most colours put inside of it. Many offices use black frames because of the clean, contemporary look it provides.

In years gone by, the black photo frame used to be a very simple affair. Mainly consisting of a thin black wooden moulding (quite often slightly rounded), with the wood grain visible through the black stain. These days due to the popularity of black frames the range of mouldings on offer is astonishing. The simple thin black frame is still popular but there is also a huge demand for more interesting ornate black picture frames.

Many framers now offer a matte finish black photo frame. This matt finish is in keeping with a more contemporary look and is often available in widths of 15mm, 25mm and 40mm giving many opportunities for displaying artwork and photographs in a truly memorable and timeless fashion.

With more and more people taking up photography as a hobby than ever before the popularity of this colour frame is sure to continue long into the future

Long live black photo frames!

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Learn Film Making - Set Etiquette For Event Videographers


Having taught film making at several colleges, schools as well as film and television schools for many years I always include a section on set etiquette. In the motion picture industry, in most areas of North America, a set etiquette course is mandatory before you can enter the trade. Proper set etiquette is the only way that a large group of diverse technicians and artists can work in concert to create a thing as complicated as a feature film.

The main tenets of set etiquette are:

1. Workers on a set always show up on time (or even a bit early) and ready to work.

2. Each person does only his or her work. If you aren't busy and wish to help someone in another department do their work ask them first if you can help. Don?翹t just pitch in. It might seem that you?翹re doing them a favor, but it could go against their work ethic (or the unions).

3. No one, except possibly the D.O.P. and maybe the first A.D., will bother the director with their ideas of how a scene should be staged or how the set should be run. If you feel you have a valid suggestion or complaint take it first to your immediate supervisor or (if you're sure this is appropriate) an assistant director.

4. When the "Quiet!" command is given you immediately fall silent and still (even if you're half way through the punch line to a killer joke).

5. For safety reasons you must be more careful of wires, cables, grip stands and other dangers that lurk in the shadows behind the camera than you would have to be in many other jobs. Because of the constant changes made on a set cables aren't usually dressed safely out of the way and a grip stand set up in a certain configuration can take an eye out if you walk into it.

6. Always try to use standard industry terminology to communicate with other workers on the set.

7. If you have anything bad to say about anyone - DON'T.

8. No bad language or offensive jokes on the set.

9. If in doubt as to what you should do - ask.

10. Do your job willingly and to the best of your ability.

For the videographer - depending on what type of shoot you're on, you might want to adopt points 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 10 particularly.

The event videographer (weddings, conventions, seminars, live performances, etc.) might also wish to follow these suggestions:

1. Try to be as invisible as you can. You are not there to show off your camera or your ability to look cool while running it. Try to blend in with the furniture as much as possible - while still getting the necessary shots, of course. This is especially important for weddings, funerals and other non-entertainment venues.

2. Dress appropriately for the job. If it's a wedding where the women are dressed in dresses and gowns and the men are in suits and ties.. you should be in similar dress (that matches your gender).

3. DO NOT partake of any food or drink that might be offered to guests unless you have been given permission by the people who have hired you or those organizing the event. Most professional wedding videographers, if they are contracted for a very long day, will stipulate that a meal (or at least a meal break) must be provided when the contract is set up - before the event.

4. As an outside, hired service provider you should avoid being drawn into the event on a personal basis. For example, if you are shooting the reception at a wedding and you are invited to dance with someone you probably should politely decline. If, however you cannot decline without seeming rude then perhaps you could have that one dance and then go back to your job. A good excuse to not accept the dance offer would be to politely explain, with good humor, that if you put your camera down you might miss an important moment between the bride and groom and that you really should be prepared if it should happen.

5. Know when it's time to finish your job and leave. No hanging around after your job is done. But, always make sure you have finished and that there really are no more shots to be had. Also, make sure that the event organizer, bride and groom, or whoever is your contact is aware that you feel you're done. They may have just one more thing they want you to capture.

6. After the event is over - within the next day or so - you should contact the person(s) who hired you to let them know that editing is in progress and when they might expect a finished product. If you just shot and turned the tapes over to them at the end of the event at least contact them with a "thank you for the business" message.

It's all common sense. Be polite, try not to stand out during the event (your finished work will make you shine) and do your job with as much professionalism as you would in the big time motion picture industry. You'll get repeat business if you do.

Preparation Tips For Your Senior Portrait Session


Senior portraits have come a long way from the days your parents where high school seniors; they are a far cry from the "tilt your head and smile" poses that where photographed in the school gym or a local portrait studio in town.

High school seniors today are more demanding and have a lot more activities going on in their daily lives than their counter parts of the past and thereby require a more unique, and creative approach to their senior portraits. These seniors require an approach that captures their true personality; their likes, hobbies, personality, and extracurricular activities.

While a tremendous amount of responsibility is placed on the photographer to capture these unique photos, the senior student doesn't escape any responsibility on their part. Below is a list by California portrait photographer, Alyn Stafford that outlines senior portrait preparation tips that should be considered by the senior prior to their photo shoot. Following the list can almost guarantee a very productive and successful photo session.


  1. Be Flexible - Your days events and planning can change. The photographer can be inspired by many things and change the plan. Flexibility in mood and timing can help you stay focused and mentally prepared for a great senior portrait session.

  2. Get a Good nights Rest - Being tired the next day for your photo shoot can be harmful to your photos. Tired eyes and a "dragging" body don't make for a good photo session.

  3. Take Several Outfits - It's a good idea to have several outfits of clothing that reflect your personal style. You should first consult with your photographer about the types of photos you would like so that the photographer can advise you of the wardrobe to bring. Remember to make sure they are stain and wrinkle free for the shoot. In addition, don't forget to ask about what colors to wear. Your photographer will advise you on this issue as well.

  4. Hair and Makeup - Stick with a proven hairstyle for your shoot. As for make-up keep it simple and avoid bright red lipstick for girls. You want to look as natural as possible. If you want to have a makeup artists present, either hire one for the shoot or ask your photographer if they offer a make-up artist service.

  5. Blemishes and Braces - Don't stress over them. Make sure your photographer can remove them for you if you desire. Most photographers offer this service either for free or for a fee.

  6. Be yourself - Remember, Your senior portraits reflect who you are. Be yourself during the shoot. Most photographers will do a warm-up session for about 10 to 15 minutes to get you use to the camera and their working style.

  7. Bring a Friend or Parent - It's a good idea to bring someone with you when doing the photo shoot. But remember, you don't want an audience either. Too many people can make you tense as well as interfere with the photographer.

  8. Arrive a Few Minutes Early - Arriving early to your photo shoot allows you and the photographer to go over last minute details, and changes in the plan, and to prepare for the shoot.

  9. Have Fun - Taking senior portraits should not be work, it should be fun. The photos are all about you, so make the most of it. Have fun with the session.

A Brief Overview Of Fashion Industry Magazines


Here is the list of all familiar fashion industry magazines around the world. This list comprises several types of business journals, magazines and periodicals. The information below also comprises brief overview, name of magazine etc.

The apparel strategist

This is the leading Canadian monthly magazine related to textile and fashion business. For the last eighteen yrs this journal is serving up the requirements of investors and professionals engaged in textile and apparel industry. This publication gives news reports about the latest trends, predictions on the subsequent development of industry, important statistics and graphical representations of textile and apparel industry trade cycles.

Images business of fashion

This popular business publication has all over million subscribers in mid east and Indian subcontinent. This publication emphasizes on retailing, marketing, branding and trading in apparel industry. Other vital topics covered in this publication are lifestyle, apparel, garments and awards related to beauty and fashion industry. This publication is printed every month. The publication is making a rule in United States and European markets.

Impressions

This publication is the web-based magazine issued thirteen times every yr. This publication is the most extraordinary source of info for technical and business information related to cosmetic business. This publication as well gives instructions about the package and some other things needed for operating the market digitally for adorned apparel such as screen-printing, embroidery, fancywork, digital adorning and heat-applied graphics.

Sportswear International

This magazine is the German publication, which is released six times a year, both in German and English language. This publication was launched in the yr 1975 and provides clear and effective info about sportswear, denims wear, outerwear, active wear, casual wear, latest menswear, modern dresses, footwear, young fashion designers, and fabric market. This publication reports on the latest brands, new trends and issues related to apparel industry. The extraordinary feature of their publication is their award-winning photography section and fashion shoot.

Fashion Market

This publication is the United States monthly magazine and one of the best-selling fashion industry magazines in US, which gives all the vital report about the fashion business. This publication generally provides the needs of corporate executives and women involved in fashion industry. It provides updated and latest news about fashion, style and businessmen.

Wearable business publication

This is the US based publication issued eleven times a year. This publication provides the needs of marketing agencies and promotional clothing products distributors. This publication caters the readers' new trends, latest news, commercializing and sales basics and tips about latest growths in accessories and apparel industry.

Glamour Magazine

This is a UK based magazine and top selling women's publication in Britain. It gives detailed info on beauty, style, and health. This publication as well features special section on horoscopes and contents on celebrities.

Pursuit

This is the most best-selling magazine in South Africa's fashion industry network. This publication is released onetime in every 2 months and is dedicated to textiles, apparel and some other related industries. This publication provides their readers with marketing techniques, new trends, interviews with a famous persons and reports.

Online Photography Courses - A Simple Reflector Method


Want to make your outdoor photographs more dramatic? Modifying the sunlight is simple to do and can alter the mood of your photographs substantially. The good thing about this technique is it is really simple and requires little equipment for low or no cost.

All you need for this technique is good sunlight, a model or any subject and one reflector. You can buy a reflector for low cost or you can make one from scrap. This can be large card, Styrofoam sheeting, a poster board, a mirror, or anything that will reflect light. If you choose board you need to paint one side so that it reflects well. White and silver are the most common colors to paint the surface; these will be the most reflective. Also, the bigger the reflector the better; this is especially desirable if you are photographing people.

Mid afternoon sunlight provides great saturated colors for photography and is ideal for reflecting light back to one side of your subject. Unlike a studio light, you can't change the angle of the sun to suit your lighting requirements. But you can use reflectors to help you.

Using a reflector is easy; just position so the sun hits the reflector and bounces back onto the subject. Since you cannot control the sun, you will need to manipulate the placement and angle of the reflector and subject so you get the directional light you want.

Photographers usually use a reflector to fill harsh shadows created by direct sunlight. The sun serves as your main or key light and the reflector serves as your fill light. Use the reflector to fill in the shadow area of your subject. The amount of fill is determined by you, but is conditional on the size of the reflector, the reflection capacity, closeness to the subject and the strength of the sunlight.

Reflectors are a simple method for throwing additional light to subject areas that need more light. Pack one in your kit next time you make some portraits in the outdoors. Reference to a suitable online photography course would open up further techniques in lighting, reflectors and other lighting devices for your photography.

Nikon D90 - How Good is It Really?


First off, I have a confession. Yours truly is a Canon user.

"OK," you might ask, "what's up with the article about a Nikon D90?"

"Excellent question," I might respond. It's actually about an admiration I have for Nikon and Canon in general.

The fact is, both Canon and Nikon are great digital SLR camera manufacturers, and no matter which one you have, it is probably a fantastic unit. Both companies are heavily into improving technology and providing photographers with a first class experience.

Competition is wonderful, especially when the results are as obvious as they are in the recent improvements in DSLR equipment.

So, enough with the double-speak. Most photographers are true to their brand. If they own one major brand, they will uphold the virtues of that brand and many times degrade the other. Not so for me. I like 'em both, and I have used 'em both.

Here's my question of the day: "What makes a good camera great? In particular, what makes a Nikon D90 great?"

I will give you my best answer below, but first a little insight into why I think the way I do about this subject.

I am a high school yearbook adviser for a small private school. This is my first year doing this gig, and I am learning as I go. One of the major hurdles that I am becoming painfully aware of is that there are not enough "picture takers" at my school. I have struggled getting photos of events.. no, not true.. I have struggled getting photos that are "good enough" to print in the yearbook.

I can't go to every event myself, so I have asked many students, parents, and staff members to help out. The results are disappointing. Mostly there is no photo coverage because the people are just not interested in getting them. And when they do take pictures they are not of good enough quality.

That is until this week. I encountered a student in the hall who said, "Hey, I have some pictures of the track meet. Do you want to use some of them?"

Obviously, I said I did. However, I was not all that enthusiastic about getting them considering what I had seen in the past from students and parents.

Boy, was I surprised when I uploaded those 210 photos to my computer. They were excellent! And some were just downright amazing.

So I went to find this budding young photographer to find out how she did this. "Oh, I really like taking pictures with my Digital SLR," she told me. "I have a Nikon D90, and I have been getting a lot of really cool pictures with it. The more I use it the more I'm getting to like photography. I love this camera."

I was so impressed with her that I enlisted her as a "Certified Yearbook Photographer."

She was thrilled, but not as much as I am.

Now, the answer to the burning question of the day: What makes the Nikon D90 a great camera? It's user enthusiasm. Pretty simple, huh?

If that student leaves her camera at home, it's not worth anything. But, armed with her beloved DSLR and a passion for the results she knows are sure to come when she views her photos on the computer, she IS a Certified Yearbook Photographer.

Here's a quick rundown of some of the features that most photographers are impressed with in the Nikon D90

  • 12.9 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor (effective pixels: 12.3 million)

  • 3.0-inch 920,000 pixel (VGA x 3 colors) TFT-LCD (same as D3 and D300)

  • Live View with contrast-detect AF, face detection

  • Image sensor cleaning (sensor shake)

  • Illuminated focus points

  • Movie capture at up to 1280 x 720 (720p) 24 fps with mono sound

  • IS0 200-3200 range (100-6400 expanded)

  • 4.5 frames per second continuous shooting

  • Expeed image processing engine

  • 3D tracking Auto Focus (11 point)

  • Short startup time, viewfinder blackout and shutter lag

  • Extensive in-camera retouching including raw development and straightening

Just a little note about the movie mode. The D90 was the first camera to have it, but now several others have added this handy feature with improved technology. But the terrific thing about this mid-level DSLR is its awesome image quality.

Adams V Arbus


The iconic photographs of Ansel Adams have become synonymous with the preservation of the American West. Adam's photography, along with his exceptional writing skills, made an invaluable contribution to the expansion of the National Park System. If Adam's photography served to elevate the collective consciousness, the work of Diane Arbus delivered a cold slap in the face. Arbus had no majestic landscapes. Arbus sought out the strange, the unconventional and the down right weird. In her own words, Arbus photographed freaks.

Although Adams was older than Arbus by twenty-one years; he survived her by thirteen years thus, making them contemporaries of a sort. They had a number of things in common including, being born into upper class families. Adams' grandfather founded a successful timber business. Arbus' grandfather founded a successful New York City fur store. In neither case did family money make it down to them. They were both totally devoted to their craft. They each produced their best work in black and white. They both became major forces, not just in photographic circles, but on the American art scene as a whole.

Adams was born in San Francisco in 1902. One of the more notable childhood events involved his being thrown into a wall by an aftershock of the San Francisco earthquake of 1906, and receiving a broken nose in the process. His doctor recommended the nose be reset when Adams reached maturity, but this was never to happen, and he went through life with his nose distinctly bent. Adams was a highly intelligent, lively, inquisitive, but unruly child. His inability to concentrate resulted in his dismissal from a number of private schools. His father, recognizing his son's inherent gifts, removed young Ansel from school at the age of twelve and assumed personal responsibility for the boy's education. Charles Adams, his aunt Mary Adams, and private tutors provided the bulk of Ansel Adams education. A less perceptive father might have very well set him on a very different path in life.

Diane Arbus, born Diane Nemerov in 1923, grew up in a large apartment on Central Park West in New York City. Her father managed the fur store founded by her maternal grandfather, expanding it into a successful Fifth Avenue department store. David Nemerov was often away on business and Diane's mother, Gertrude, suffered recurring bouts of depression. These factors, combined with the family's wealth, added to her sense of being insulated from the larger world. Diane showed early promise as a painter yet, after being praised for her work, put down her brushes never to paint again. Diane Nemerov did not consider anything that was easy, to be worth doing. At the age of thirteen she met Allan Arbus, an employee in the advertising department of her father's store. From that moment the life of Diane Nemerov was focused on marrying Allen Arbus. Diane resisted her parent's pleas that she pursue higher education and, with their reluctant consent, married Allan Arbus when she turned eighteen.

At the age of twelve, Ansel Adams began to teach himself to read music and play the piano. He became so adept, his father saw to it that he receive the best tutoring available. His photographic memory and ferocious drive seemed to have set him on a musical course. However, a family vacation to Yosemite National Park in 1916 was to have a profound impact on the young Adams' choice of career. His father had given him a Kodak Brownie box camera for the trip and it proved to be a life changing event. Adams returned to Yosemite the following year with a better camera and a tripod. He joined the Sierra Club at the age of seventeen and would remain a member for the rest of his life, serving as a board member for thirty-seven years. Adams began learning the dark room skills that would make him world famous by working part time for a San Francisco photo finisher. Teaming with a retired geologist, named Frank Holman, Adams spent summers hiking in the high Sierras. These extended hikes with Homan helped Adams develop the strength and stamina that would prove so valuable in the great work to come.

With the outbreak of World War II, Allan Arbus entered the U.S. Army Signal Corp and trained as a photographer. The Arbuses utilized these skills to found a highly successful fashion photography business after the war Diane's father was as a major client. Throughout the early 1950's Allan and Diane Arbus did work for all the leading fashion publications of the day. This continued until 1956 when Diane decided she could no longer do fashion photography. She was supported in this decision by her husband. Their marriage would outlive their business relationship by just three years. By this time Diane was taking photography classes at The New School, and had begun her collaboration with Lisette Model. Model played an important role in helping Arbus overcome her insecurities and find her own artistic vision.

The foundation had thus been laid for two remarkable artists to pursue their respective visions. Adams was to divide his time between traveling the American west and New York City, where Alfred Stieglitz displayed Adams' photographs in his gallery. Stieglitz, the reigning master of American photography, gave Adams's work invaluable exposure. Additionally, through Stieglitz Adams made the acquaintance of many prominent figures in the American art community, including Stieglitz's wife, Georgia O'Keeffe. His exuberant personality, and ability as a pianist, won Adams many friends. Arbus, meanwhile, with the urging of Lisette Model, began seeking out her own subject matter. Arbus was drawn to society's oddest people. Arbus said, "Most people go through life dreading they'll have a traumatic experience. Freaks were born with their trauma, and they've already passed their test in life. They're aristocrats." Norman Mailer was quoted as saying, 'Giving a camera to Diane Arbus is like giving a hand grenade to a baby."

Throughout their respective careers, both Adams and Arbus did commercial work to make ends meet. Adams accepted commissions form The Sierra Club and the National Park Service among others and, in addition, wrote extensively for several photographic publications. Arbus produced many commercial portraits for Harpers Bazaar, Esquire and other magazines, and by the mid 1960's her work had begun taking on the distinctive look that would mark her as an artist. They both viewed commercial work as a distraction from their true artistic vision. Adams was known to complain that his contractual obligations left him little time for anything else.

That Ansel Adams created magnificent images is undeniable, but it was the incredible difficulty involved in getting them, that sets his work apart. A full day of hiking, with his heavy, large format camera, might yield no more than five photographs. Taking the pictures was only the beginning. Adams developed his own negatives and made his own prints, often printing images over and over to get the desired result. Not until late in his career did Adams delegate the printing of his images to an assistant and, even then, he personally signed off on each copy. Diane Arbus had her own set of difficulties. Arbus visited sleazy hotels, carnivals, asylums and nudist camps. In addition to the riveting images she created, Diane Arbus had an amazing ability to win the trust of her subjects, often maintaining contact with them for years. I cannot imagine either artist doing what the other accomplished. Can anyone imagine Ansel Adams in a nudist camp?

Diane Arbus died by her own hand in 1971 at the age of forty-eight. Ansel Adams died in 1984 at the age of eighty-two. As so often happens, their works have soared in value following their passing. They have each come in for the predictable criticism. Arbus was accused of 'voyeurism', and using shock simply for the sake of shock. Adams was accused of having a lack of imagination. Personally, I view this criticism of Adams as being in the same vein as art critics who criticize people who can actually draw. If the images of Diane Arbus were merely voyeuristic and shocking they would have, long since, faded into obscurity. However, nearly forty years after her passing, the images of Diane Arbus continue to captivate. If Adams created works of self evident truth, the central message I take away from the work of Diane Arbus is; 'This too is reality'.

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Top 1% of THREE MLM Companies! The Daniel K. Song Interview


Advancing to the top 1% of any MLM opportunity is quite a challenge, choosing to start all over with a new company and doing it again is absolutely astounding.

After taking a break from Network Marketing for almost a year... What Daniel K. Song plans to do next may be his toughest challenge; not only does he plan to do it again with a new, rather large company, he is going to do while working a full-time job! Why? To prove to you that it CAN be done.

It is said that in order to have success in network marketing you need to truly master one skill. Whether it is presenting, closing, encouragement, or (for the internet world) copywriting, SEO or social networking, it's incredibly important to identify your talent and "run" with it.

Daniel K. Song has mastered the incredibly lucrative art of Team-Building: The branding of a culture and system of duplicating distributors that completely trust his leadership. He is an example of the power traditional network marketing methods have on those that can obtain this skill.

During this incredibly hectic time, I had a chance to meet up with him and I want to invite you to take a look at our conversation in hopes that you may gain some value from a true MLM guru.

* Disclaimer: Soomin-Kim.com does not encourage "opportunity jumping," however the story of Daniel K. Song is a testimony to the power of the network marketing opportunity and reiterates our belief that people choose leaders before choosing a company. In other words, we believe that in the beginning, people are buying YOU; not your products nor compensation plan.

sK: I'm just going to start with the basics...how long have you been involved in Network Marketing?

Daniel: I've been a part of the Network Marketing Industry now for almost 7 years. The majority of which has been full time...I started back in May of 2003 as I was preparing to graduate from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. I've been part of The Health and Wellness Industry for all of the 7 years I've marketed. It wasn't until this past year that I decided to take on two separate career paths; one as a designer & marketing manager, and the other as a network marketer (again).

sK: So what's your age at the moment... you still seem like a kid to me.

Daniel: I'm 29, look 20, and probably act more like I'm 12... I enjoy being a "kid," life was much more enjoyable when you were a kid. I envy the innocence, simplicity and pureness of a child's actions, choices, and thoughts... although getting carded for 'R' rated movies at almost 30 is a bit annoying.

sK: I hear you brotha, I'm 31 and I get carded everywhere too! I'm guessing it's an Asian thing. Prior to more serious matters...anyone that knows you, knows that you love cars... how many different cars have you owned?

Daniel: Umm... to date? I've owned (9) cars in the past (8) years... I started in network marketing with a Honda Civic that I bought in high school. The first car I bought "through" network marketing was a 1993 Acura NSX (which was my dream car growing up as a kid)... That NSX was then followed up with a: 2002 BMW 325i, 2004 Infiniti G35 coupe, 2005 Lotus Elise, 1997 Acura NSX-T, 2008 Honda Element SC, 2008 Lexus GS350, 2004 Honda s2000, and now a 2010 BMW 335i... I think that's it... I really enjoy cars.

sK:...uhh yea you think?

Daniel: I mean, considering that I don't have any other real vices (like drinking, smoking, or partying) this is my only real vice. I just hope my future wife-to-be can still love me for it.

Vice: Daniel's custom Acura NSX - His "dream" car prior to network marketing.
sK: As long as she's driving what she wants... you'll be ok. Where are you currently living now?

Daniel: I currently live in the Newport, California. I used to be in Rowland Heights and Diamond Bar most of my life, but moved out to Orange County about (2) years ago because my brother wanted to be closer to work... and since I work from home, location really didn't matter much to me. It's definitely a nice area.

sK: Before I forget, on a serious note, I appreciate you taking some time out of your schedule to chat, with that being said... let's just get down to it...WHERE THE HECK HAVE YOU BEEN!?

Daniel: Not a problem. Sorry it's taken this long to finally sit down to have this conversation! Where have I been?! Haha.... Let's just say I took about a year off to "reinvent myself" if you will.

sK: Reinvent? Like Madonna? What's there to reinvent?

Daniel: To understand what I did, would mean you'd have to look a little further into my background before network marketing. I've always wanted to be an artist or a designer, this was my primary passion. I mean, I even went to an Art School to pursue this passion... and YOU know that coming from an Asian-American background, most parents want you to be a doctor, lawyer, or anything "prestigious".

sK: Yea, I can understand that...at the very least an engineer right!?

Daniel: Right, so you can imagine the mental heart-attack my parents suffered when I announced that I "wanted to be an artist" and go to an art school! This would NOT make for good family dinner bragging conversations between aunts and uncles.

sK: It's all about bragging rights with them...

Daniel: Ok, fast forward 3-4 years, and I got started in network marketing RIGHT out of college... I found myself in massive (and I DO mean massive) student loan debts, and credit cards graduating.

sK: Approx. how much?

Daniel: I think my student loan balances were in the $145,000 range, not including credit cards. So I was presented with a CHANCE to make some money through network marketing as I prepared to graduate from college.

sK: That's a lot of debt...were you sponsored in MLM from someone that was already a leader?

Daniel: My sponsor was someone who has been very successful with his own network marketing career, and took me under his wings to mentor and teach me the "game"... and for 7 years, I did network marketing FULL-TIME; as the only means of an income source. It was GREAT, but it always weighed on my conscience that I seemed to have neglected my artist passions to pursue marketing.

24k +...not bad for a "BONUS" check! (Notice there is one behind it as well)
sK: Oh got it... you never really had a chance to reevaluate things...never "pulled over on the side of the freeway" if you will?

Daniel: Right...so after walking away from my last opportunity, I decided to take some time off to pursue a career that DIDN'T involve network marketing. This was a huge gamble to walk away from the ONLY thing I knew how to do, and the ONLY thing that paid my bills.

sK: So was it a mistake?

Daniel: Nope...the gamble paid off. I landed an awesome position as a design and creatives member of Leg Avenue Inc, one of the industries largest costume and lingerie manufactures in the US! I quickly took on a lot more responsibilities helping in all facets of the design and creative process there. It felt great to finally have a productive and positive outlet for my creative needs!

sK: They should've tapped into your marketing prowess...

Daniel: That's what they did... they couldn't ignore my past as a marketer. They quickly started to harness my experiences to help with branding projects, and marketing resources and tools. I just got promoted as a marketing manager there.

Daniel utilizing his design and art passion behind a desk for Leg Avenue Inc. Photo: Hank Lee
sK: So you completely forgot about MLM?

Daniel: Well no... with that being said, I also always had one eye back on the industry that helped make EVERYTHING possible for me. I mean this is the industry that truly opened up doors to many more opportunities for me.

sK: So where are we at now?

Daniel: Well, after taking a few months to search for a new home/opportunity to pursue, I decided it was time to jump BACK INTO network marketing. The only difference this time is that I still have a full-time career, but also juggling network marketing.

sK: What makes you think you can do it successfully on a part-time basis? When I say "successfully" I mean success as in "Daniel Song" -type success.

Daniel: There's a lot of skepticism that without going full-time in network marketing, you cannot become successful. I'm here to prove that myth wrong! I strongly believe it's about TIME MANAGEMENT, and the efficient USE of time (meaning: the quality of effort and planning) that leads to success and NOT the AMOUNT or QUANTITY of time.

sK:...keep going, this is valuable stuff...

Daniel:...some people can clock in 40-50 hours into their network marketing business and not make a dime, and there are some of us, who can just make 4-5 phone calls a week, and pull in an annual income of over 6 figures. What's the difference? EFFECTIVE USE OF YOUR TIME! I've always been a multi-tasker.

sK: I think that's important for many people to hear... I feel that so many networkers mistake movement for progress...when it's really a matter of intention and focused enery. So how long has it been, or... how long have you been inactive?

Daniel: Approximately 8 months is the time it's taken to: reevaluate, refocus, and readjust. I can't say that I'm even currently "FULL-TIME" technically based on the definition of most working class...but I can TELL you with confidence that I am BACK in network marketing! I'm not an amateur playing with his hobbies, but a professional planning his business.

sK: Got it... sounds like you're serious...you know from what I know about you, you really are a big proponent (at least in my opinion) of not "loving" Network Marketing, but appreciating its ability to deliver time and freedom in order to pursue what you really do LOVE..... Would you say that is accurate?

Daniel: Uh yes and no... I mean I do LOVE network marketing, but I think what I "LOVE" about network marketing is really it's ability to open new doors and unlock new levels of potential which weren't available to you previously. I mean it's great that you can make money through network marketing, but if that's your end-all goal, then it's quite sad and limiting. Network marketing gave me not only the financial freedom, but the TIME freedom (which is MORE important - as time is NOT replenish-able like money is). The time-freedom gave me the chance to pursue my other passions of: photography, cars, art, and travel. Network marketing for ME, has been the "Vehicle" to me to pursue MY TRUE passions without the restrictions that most jobs would give you.

sK: Now there are people that could only dream of reaching the levels that you have reached in two different companies and spend a lifetime pursuing that... how were you able to do it with (2) different companies?

Daniel: Haha... you think? The problem and answer lies right in the question itself. Most people could only "DREAM" of reaching those levels. You can't just WISH for it, or DREAM of it. You need to MAKE it, and CREATE it. You must attach a clear action plan, and strategy to the goals you want to achieve, and go do it.

sK: You really think it's that simple?

Daniel: Well, I can honestly say that I was very blessed with an awesome team, great leadership group, found the right opportunities (but more so the timing IN those opportunities), and a strong desire to SUCCEED. As cliche as it sounds, "it all starts with STRONG motivators we like to call "YOUR WHY's"... make your "WHY'S" clear and the "HOW's" become very easy. I've been able to build a large downline group in (2) separate opportunities and hit leadership ranks that pay in excess of 6 figures a year, but what people don't see is ALL of the planning, time, energy, and hard work that goes into doing it.

Daniel with yet another solid team at a company function.
sK: How important is timing to success in MLM?

Daniel: It's very important that you find NOT only a GREAT opportunity, but more importantly look at the TIMING within that opportunity. There are so many great companies, which unfortunately the timing has come and gone. Any surfer will tell you, that in order to surf, you need to catch the wave from the front, and not once it's passed, that's how building a successful business is done. So many people are sentimentally attached to their opportunity (which isn't wrong - I still love my first company to death... it's like your first girlfriend, and you will always cherish those memories), but you have to still remember, we are "BUSINESS" people and "BUSINESS" decisions are sometimes best made when you can separate your emotional biases from them.

sK: Alright let's talk a little about actual skills... what would you say is the one or two key skills needed to be able to start over and build large and build a team quickly?

Daniel: Finding a "good" opportunity with "great" timing; rather than a "great" company with a "good" timing...I'm sure most of your readers will understand what I mean by that. Being able to "smell" where the next opportunity is can make you a fortune. Make the wrong choice or decisions once too many, and you lose your ability to influence or convince people of that. The second skillset that can help when starting over and building a new team is to create a solid foundation... a house built on soft sand will inevitably come crashing down, never neglect the foundations and basics. Create a solid, duplicatable, and simple system that NOT only your downlines will follow, but you will follow and just GO TO WORK!

sK: You know that solid network marketing companies do an excellent job promoting motivational paraphernalia like books, CD's, trainers/speakers etc... in your opinion, what is more important to success a solid skillset or a strong mindset?

Daniel: MINDSET!!!! If NASA can teach a monkey to go to space, we can teach you how to do network marketing. Teaching and learning skill sets is simply a choice and a process... nothing too magnificent or magical with that. Having the right mindset, or fertile soil upon which you can plant, is where the "MIRACLE" process begins.

Daniel stands behind personal development above personal skills.
sK: I highly value the importance of personal development, what are your thoughts?

Daniel: I am a BIG believer on personal development... It's changed my life! Having the right mindset will make for a great foundation to learn all your skillsets on. I've seen way too many talented network marketers (those who posses high amounts of skills and abilities) but lack the proper mindset go to the wayside... often times they fail, not because of their talents, but because of their mindsets.

sK: It's so true, even in my own downline... I've seen some of the most talented presenters and trainers... just fall apart with a weak mental frame. Daniel...you've primarily stayed in the Health and Wellness Industry....no water filters, legal services, telecommunications, or anything else.... Why?

Daniel: HAHAHAHAhaha.... the Health and Wellness revolution is here to stay! This isn't just simply a trend...The Wellness Industry is going to be forever perpetual.

sK: What do you mean by "perpetual"?

Daniel: When the baby boomers move on, we (Gen X and Y) will soon replace the adult categories, we may ignore the value of wellness products now, being fairly young, but it will soon become a priority for us as we age, whether we like it or not. Once we move on, our children will become to next adult group. There will be NO end to the demands and needs of wellness-based products. Plus how many other things do you know that you can sell, and make money from, but know that you've made someone's life truly better in the process? I don't get too turned on about saving a few cents on someone's long distance bill, but I DO get turned on about saving someone's life...but that's just me!

sK: We'll put. This is a tough one I think... but if we surveyed each and every one of your personally sponsored downline past and present, what would they say is your greatest strength and what would they say is your greatest weakness?

Daniel: Wow. That would be scary. Not sure exactly what THEY WOULD say...I really don't know. I mean if I had to take a guess, I'd assume they'd think my ability to multitask and organize is one of my major strengths. I've been told that I can get a lot done in such a short amount of time. People have often asked, if I've successfully cloned myself! I really think that time management goes hand in hand with the ability to multitask and organize. I was told by a mentor that I could increase my productivity and results just by simply being more organized.

sK:...and a weakness?

Daniel: As for a weakness, I am very picky and a perfectionist. It drives me nuts when things aren't done to a 110% and done perfectly. These high standards keep me and my teams performing at the best of our abilities but it also sets me up for countless hours of stress and anxiety.

sK: We talked about this privately and earlier you gave me a great analogy of comparing it to breaking up with a first love, could you share that with us....what it's like (for whatever reason) when you decide to leave your first MLM company, especially after so much success with it?

Daniel: Whew... for a second i thought you wanted me to comment on my breakup with my first girlfriend!

sK: No, that's another time...most likely another blog.

Daniel: Haha... well when we join our first MLM company, we tend to get very emotionally invested into the company. Everything is brand new and exciting for us. It's the first time writing new goals, the first time inviting, the first time building a team, etc. Because of all these "FIRST" time experiences, we develop a strong attachment to these memories. These attachments tend to be more based on emotions rather than logical or rational thoughts. When you're young and in your first relationship, it can be sometimes dangerous. You may choose to ignore signs of danger or issues because you want to believe you are truly in love. They say love makes you blind and I believe it's sometimes that emotional attachment that sometimes compromises our logical or rational judgment.

sK:...so you think it's wrong to be emotionally attached to your first company? Isn't that a part of commitment?

Daniel: No, there's NOTHING wrong with having a sentimental value for your company, but it does become an issue when it prevents you from making good business decisions. I'm sure it'd be a no-brainer, but most people wouldn't want to see a CEO of a major company make huge decisions for the company when they are emotionally compromised or have a biased interest in something. The first "breakup" is always going to be the hardest for MOST! I know it was for me. I thought my world was going to be doomed when I first broke up with my "girlfriend". Sooner or later, life will show you that there is more out there. In the same way, you should never blindly turn away an opportunity or overlook it simply because of an emotional or sentimental attachment to something they believe to be true love. Separate the emotional attachment, and look at it as simply a business proposal.

sK: Tell me more about how it was when leaving your first opportunity?

Daniel: When I left my first company, and a large downline organization (after building it for nearly 4 years), it was a very painful and scary process. It felt like stepping out into the dark or into the unknown. After taking a lot of time to research, and study my second company, it was a slow but confident transition into the new company. Sure enough, I don't regret my decision, and as a business move, it was a complete success. Like relationships, after each breakup, you become that much more wise and experienced. You learn what you liked about your significant other, and what you disliked. That information will SERVE YOU WELL when looking for a new girlfriend.

sK: I'm a proponent of analogies... continue!

Daniel:...you already come prepared for what to expect. The same applies for network marketing. I made a ton of mistakes in my first company but I took all the knowledge, experience, and wisdom gained from my first company, and applied it to the second venture. I made sure to steer clear of any of my former mistakes, and improve on the old, it's a refinement process.

Is Daniel ready to take center-stage again?
sK: I feel like that is such a big decision.... what do you personally look for when selecting a primary opportunity?

Daniel: There's really a lot that I consider when searching for an opportunity. There really isn't a formal science behind the process either.

sK: Ok, give me like a 5-6 aspects you consider in a new company.

Daniel: First off, you check for the simple but important basics: 1) is the company legitimate 2) do they have a strong mission statement or vision 3) do they have a marketable and credible product 4) the corporate team and background 5) how is the timing of this company 6) the compensation plan.

sK: Simple enough...

Daniel: These are just some of the check lists I go through when looking for a company. I do a lot of outside research on the companies I am prospecting. Generally speaking, I always choose from a product-based company versus a service based company, and more specifically always in the health and wellness industry.

sK: What about product line?

Daniel: I also now prefer a more condensed and focal product line. Coming from a company that once had 50+ products and a large catalog/price sheet, I realized it would nearly paralyze some of my downlines from ever learning the product line. A condensed or focal product line allows all the members to quickly learn the products but at the same time, get a much more concentrated efforts to market and expose a product. Some of the largest and fastest growing network marketing companies in recent times have been with companies who choose a condensed or focal product line.

sK: I actually disagree somewhat, I feel there are pros and cons of having a larger product line... but you make some valid points...what about the compensation plan?

Daniel: I look for a comp plan that is lucrative, but also fair. I tend to always believe that the BINARY plan is the easiest of the basic types of comp. plans to build. The basic logic is: if you can't build 2 legs, there's no way you can build 3 or 4. Then I really look into the timing and growth cycle of the company. Is this product or company saturated and over exposed? Is this company a startup? Most startups have a higher risk of failure, but a company that's too old may not have any opportunity left in it. That's why it's so important to find a company that has a good balance of stability and newness.

sK:...well since we're on the subject... word on the social networking 'street' is that you're officially "back" in the game. I heard that you just filled out an application for a new opportunity. Talk about a lucky sponsor (whew)! Without getting into the obvious question... what are you most excited about and what is one aspect of this business that you will never be completely comfortable with?

Daniel: Hahaha... I guess word gets out fast. Two weeks ago I began posting very vague Facebook status updates about me looking for opportunities in network marketing. Then a post about "myself" inviting me to a meeting, needless to say, that triggered a ton of post comments, inbox messages, emails, texts, and phone calls.

sK: What were they saying or asking?

Daniel:...people offering deals, incentives, or just pitching me on why I should take a look at their company. Anyways, so yes, after an intensive search process, I can proudly say that I've found a new home to build with. Ironically I also received the blessings of some of the TOP earners in my previous company who would only praise the company I chose...and yes, my sponsor is quite lucky. There's nothing they could say or do to "sell" me on a company. The only thing they can do is present to me the information that I requested. It is up to me to be "sold" or not.

sK: So then you signed?

Daniel: I signed up, and started the process of building a team one more time. The difference now being that I am doing this part time (which I answered earlier).It's also going to prove to so many that you can STILL build a financially rewarding business just from a part-time commitment, as long as you are serious!

sK: How excited are you?

Daniel: I'm just most excited about getting back in the trenches, and building something BIG again. It's exciting to see the excitement that's being generated by just me coming back. I truly have to admit I am the luckiest guy in the world. I have so many supportive, and loyal downlines, that I can't even express with words. Their encouragement and support is probably the biggest reason why I still come back for more. I'm excited to see what we can do with this new vehicle of choice, as I think it's truly the greatest opportunity the industry has seen to date. The growth of this company is second to none.

sK: What about the second part of my question, what part of MLM will you never completely be comfortable with?

Daniel: The one thing I'll never be completely comfortable with is knowing that not ALL my downlines will always be with me. I always miss my old team members and the ones who have no longer chosen to pursue network marketing. I miss the people from the old companies who chose to stay or were just on the sidelines.

sK: Do you ever consider going back to one of the companies that you had done before?

Daniel: Who knows it COULD happen, but honestly, I think it's doubtful. I didn't leave on a irrational or emotional decision. It was a long process in the making. Plus I left partially because I feel strongly that the "opportunity" that once was there was no longer there. It has NO reflection on the quality of the company or its products.

The Numbers: A Candid Look Into Daniel's Blueprint Of Immediate Advancement In His New Opportunity. When Is The Last Time You Were This Detailed In Achieving Your Goal?
sK: As of today, (during this interview)... it's been about a week since you officially started.... how confident are you in getting back to an elite status in this new venture?

Daniel: Umm... my current genealogy shows approximately 800+ downline currently in the system, most of which has been "power-legged" to give maximum support and incentives for my team members. I'm just beginning to build my other leg now and my iPhone has been dying on me mid-day everyday for the last week.

sK: Pshh...800 new downline in about a week? That's alright I guess... (insane sarcasm obviously).

Daniel: I think we're off to a great start! Where I'll ultimately end up in this company, I don't know. I can tell you that it'll be exciting either way!

If history and track record prove true, Daniel will be back on top in this newest of ventures.
sK: How about I check back with you later on this year? Daniel, I know it's been incredibly busy for you these past few days, and I'm certain you haven't gotten much sleep. I appreciate you sharing with me and my readers some incredible insight, value and knowledge.... Best of luck friend on this next chapter.

Daniel: Sure thing Soomin! Let's not be strangers!

Thanks for sharing,

Soomin Kim

Cheap Perfume For People With Expensive Tastes


There is a difference between perfume that is cheap in the sense that it is inexpensive, and perfume that smells 'cheap' in the sense of it being tacky, lacking originality or of poor quality. Cheap perfume can be found without compromising on quality, if the buyer is willing to take some time to wisely shop around.

It can be a case of 'buyer beware' when looking for cheap perfume. Never buy from a random stranger, a car boot, a street corner or from a pub. Unlicensed vendors might be selling an inferior or bootleg product that will only disappoint.

High street retailers and secure online retailers should be your only port of call when searching for new perfume. There are plenty of bargains to be found online, and web retailers often sell designer perfumes at a large discount, by offering unopened demonstration bottles.

The choice of perfumes on the market can be quite bewildering. All kinds of celebrities including models, rappers, singers, actors, reality TV stars, sportspeople -,and even footballers' wives,- have scents available to buy.

It has become one of the business decisions that many celebrities take, when expanding their empire beyond the original talent that made them famous. As with the designer fashion names that grace the shelves, the marketing people use a celeb's name to imply a perfume with glamour, taste and style.

The same fragrance might smell differently, and vary in duration, from one person to the next. This is due to the fact that people all have slightly different skin from each other, due to their unique body chemistry. Skin might be naturally dry or oily, and hormones, medications, diet, stress levels and even the environment can all have an effect. Those with sensitive skin should consider wearing the fragrance on their clothes instead.

Perfumes also change on a person during the time they wear it. This happens because a fragrance evolves across three separate stages, which reveal themselves over a period of time.

To begin with, we have the top note, which reveals the early lighter side to the aroma, and which lasts for around eight to fifteen minutes. Next is the middle note, which emits constantly throughout the fragrance's time on a person, and fully emerges after the top note's duration. Finally, the base note develops and reveals the woody notes, which become more noticeable when the scent has rested on the skin for some time.

There are two methods through which a perfume can be applied: spray or splash. Sprays are considered to be the optimum way of applying a scent, as they can be applied anywhere easily, including directly onto clothes. However, they do have a minimal amount of wastage, as some of the scent is naturally lost into the environment around the sprayer. Eau de toilette and eau de parfum only ever come supplied as a spray.

Splash bottles are a more versatile and economical method, as the perfume can be added to steam-iron water and then impregnated into clothes - and as much or as little as desired can be directly applied to the skin. Splash bottles might not be the best option for the clumsy, or those with curious children.

Many a splash bottle has been disposed of onto a carpet, a bed or down a bathroom sink!

How to Build a Career in Photography


Making a career in photography is very hard since this field is a very competitive one where you need qualities like creativity, imagination and you also have to learn the technical aspects of photography. You have learned about how to manipulate the subjects, the lights, and the environment, to have the desired effect.

There are various professional courses varying from beginners to advanced courses for duration of 6 weeks to 2 months. It is mainly conducted by professionals who are photographers themselves who can teach you the practical aspects of photography and theory too.

After you finish this course, you can then specialize as a wedding photographer, a studio photographer, a magazine photographer or a fine art photographer. These courses help you to use the camera setting once you complete the course. You can safely take the camera "off auto" and control the camera manually.
If you wan tot build up a career in photography, you can start with image photography or image library. The first thing to do when it comes to a career in photography is to start taking pictures. Think of a theme which should be realistic like may be wildlife, or the portrait of a face or green color or so on.

Then you have to think of the location which should be a place which is familiar to you, so that it is easy for you to work. First you can start taking pictures of different trees from different angles and different reflections. Then you can also use mirrors to make use of the reflection and make different images.

Start experimenting with your digital camera and take as many photos as you can from different angles. Look for interesting scenes, try to make the pictures attractive, use different lighting and so on. Advancement in the field of electronics help the photographer to easily edit the images taken.

Computer software is not used when the photographer wants to manipulate any image that he or she has taken. Several colleges and training institutes have course on photography which teaches you creativity and the technical aspect. These courses cover everything which is related to photography like equipment, techniques, and designs and so on.

You should have a good eye sight, coordination, imagination and accuracy and also you must have a lot of patience if you want a career in photography. Side by side you must have the skills to deal with clients, publishing agents and advertisers and so on.

Click Your Way to Success As You Attend Photography Classes


If you have a great eye for striking scenery, you should definitely not waste your talent. Some consider it a natural, innate talent that needs further development. Once you enhance this talent, you won't regret going through the efforts of doing so. You may be able to use it to catch wonderful moments and create glorious memories. Only attending photography classes will help you develop that talent of clicking on memories and making them last. These classes come in many different types that will suit your needs while making sure that you develop your skills as a photographer in the making.

One type of photography class is the online photography course. This class is not the most recommended method of learning all the skills to become a professional photographer, but it is definitely a great way to start. It is not the most complete method of learning but is is not inadequate as well. To make it short, it is only recommended for learning the basics and not learning photography all the way. Once you go online, you can learn about specific things regarding photography such as its history and fundamentals.

The other type is the personal photography classes. This, being the better type among the two, will offer you a greater and better learning experience. This is because not only do you get to learn everything personally, but you also get to learn them alongside other individuals who share similar interests as you have. It will also help you develop your personal self as you get to socialize with them.

Anyone could enroll in any of these classes. You could also choose to take the regular analogue camera type of class or you could also choose the digital camera type of class. Either of these classes tend to offer the same stuff and it only depends on your preference.

Many high-end photography classes are offered at schools found all over the world. In places like New York, Paris or London, these classes are their specialty and they all have the finest instructors to teach you the craft of photography. These high-end photography classes tend to offer a more complex course. They might be including subjects like the history of photography or basic lighting or anything that may seem unnecessary but you should consider this as a great factor since you get to learn more over the others who were unfortunate not to learn these.

So if you have a passion for picturesque sights, this is definitely a great start in the process of going professional.

The History of Photography: A Snapshot


Photography has been around for centuries and it is now one of Britain's best loved pastimes, enabling people to capture a special moment in a single snapshot. How has photography progressed through the years? Let's take a look at some of the key moments in photographic history...

The Defining Moments in Photography
The term 'photography' was first coined by Sir John Herschel who used the term way back in 1830 when the photographic process became public. However, images were being captured much earlier than this.

The first type of photography was seen in ancient times where camera obscuras were used to form images on walls in darkened rooms. A camera obscura is the first image-capturing invention which led to photography as we know it today.

Throughout the 16th and 17th Centuries, the brightness and clarity of camera obscuras improved greatly by enlarging of the hole and through the insertion of a telescope lens. These became frequently used by artists and were made more portable in the form of sedan chairs.

One of the major breakthroughs in the progression of photography was made by Professor J. Schulze who learnt that by combining chalk with nitric acid and silver in a flask, he could see a darkening effect on the side of the flask that was exposed to sunlight. This was essentially an accident, but Schulze effectively created the first photosensitive compound.

Perhaps the most defining moment in photography occurred in 1816 when Nicephore joined the camera obscura with photosensitive paper. From this, he was able to form a permanent image - the first time this had ever been possible in history. Through the years since Nicephore, photography has advanced to incredible levels of detail.

The Important of Art Insurance
Great photography can be a brilliant form of art and a quality photograph can have a defined effect on us and our thoughts and feelings. Some photographic works can be worth a huge amount of money, especially those by famous and renowned photographers. This is why it is important, if you purchase an expensive piece of photography, to invest in art insurance. It is likely that you already have home contents insurance but many companies' policies do not include art. If your art becomes damaged its value will drop considerably, and if it is stolen you may well lose a lot of money indeed. Be wise and cover yourself against losing a lot of money.

Modern Theatre and Stage Supplies


When we talk about theatre supplies or stage equipment, we usually think about curtains, drapes, light systems, acoustics and all the other 'visible' parts and accessories. The fact is there is a lot more to stage supplies that just the ones that we see. There are curtain tracks, riggings, leg brackets, and accessories like ropes, fringes, tassels, thread, grommet, webbing, chains and so on and so forth. Also of importance are the curtain storage systems like curtain bags and canvas hampers, which can help protect the theatrical/stage curtains when not in use. Today, many theatre suppliers and dealers can provide you with theatrical supplies including curtains, fabrics, curtain tracks, drape supports, shot bags, scene boards, webbings, cords and curtain bags. Many institutions like schools auditoriums, community centres, photograph studios, concert halls, nightclubs, exhibition industry, museums and TV studios constantly need such supplies for their Stages.

The fact is most of these systems and equipments have undergone tremendous change in their designs. Technology has made the designs user-friendly and has also facilitated their ease of use. As an example let us consider the changes that modern leg brackets (used for leg curtains) have undergone. We shall also consider the advantages that such leg brackets have over their traditional counterparts.

Today, the most commonly used leg brackets are the swivelling ones. They have several advantages over the conventional bracket mechanisms. They are extremely sturdy and durable. Moreover they are versatile and adjustable as well. The swivelling mechanism allows the leg bracket to have a 360 degree range of motion. The conventional leg systems were fixed and did not allow such versatility.

Safety is another feature offered by the swivelling leg brackets. Since they have adjustable mechanisms at ground level, there is no need for ladders and scaffolds. One can adjust the angle of the leg curtain and grasp the sides of the curtain. A little pressure is then enough to rotate the curtain to desired position.

Many swivelling leg brackets also come spring loaded. This help to hold the curtain firmly by exerting the desired amount of pressure at the top plate. The simple spring mechanism does not call for additional tools and it is easy to make minor adjustments.

Let us summarize the features of modern leg brackets:
• They are designed for heavy duty applications
• They have black anodized finish for durability
• They are suitable for curtain dimensions up to 2.5m
• They are made with Solid steel plate design for maximum strength

Today, curtains are also stored in special bags to avoid wrinkles, especially when not in use. Plastic bags used in the past, often gave rise to condensation and moisture problems which damaged the delicate curtains. Today, theatrical canvas curtain bags and drawstring canvas storage hampers are being used for storing theatrical curtains when not in use. These keep the curtains safe from moisture, dust, rodents, bugs etc, thereby extending their life.