On seeing the Mona Lisa in the flesh, many people complain of their disappointment at the painting’s size. There is a theory that the canvas was once much larger than its present dimensions. What appears to be a balcony behind Lisa del Giocondo is said to be recognizable as part of a window in a stone building, with various objects around to suggest that it is in fact an early lighthouse: navigational aids, nautical equipment, olive oil (to fuel the lantern) and a painting of an actual lighthouse.

While the landscape in the background is clearly imaginary, the building is believed to be based on a construction in the real world. It is most likely the Torre della Lanterna of Genoa (built in 1128) since it is alleged that the Genoese coat of arms is also visible in the original Mona Lisa. Why Da Vinci chose this lighthouse as the painting’s setting is unknown, but it could have something to do with one of its keepers at the time: Antonio Colombo, uncle of Christopher Columbus. The famous explorer and Da Vinci were born within a year of each other in Northern Italy and, although it remains to be proven that they had any personal contact, it is certain they knew of one another’s work. Christopher Columbus could be the key to unlocking Leonardo’s interest in “La Lanterna”.

It’s unknown why Da Vinci chose to depict the lighthouse, but even more mysterious is why anyone would wish to erase this fact from history. It has been alleged that when Vincenzo Peruggia stole the Mona Lisa in 1911 the canvas was tampered with, but photographs predating the theft clearly show the painting to be the same size it is today. No photographic evidence exists to corroborate the theory of the larger Mona Lisa, so it can only be assumed that, if it is true, the canvas must have been cropped before the advent of photography. Sketches by Leonardo exist which show a sitting figure with the unmistakable smile of Lisa del Giocondo, in a spacious room filled with objects similar to those mentioned above, but even if it were proven that these were first attempts at the Mona Lisa it does not mean that the finished piece looked the same.

It is not known why anyone would benefit from concealing historical facts in this way, but the chilling evidence that someone did indeed wish to hide the additional parts of the Mona Lisa (or at least the idea of them) came in 2002 when Professor Donaldson of Cambridge University was murdered. The previous year he had provisionally outlined the above theories to the world, adding that he would bring together his years of research in a revelatory book on the subject, called ‘Mona’s Missing Parts’. Unfortunately the book was never released, and most of the alleged evidence for his assertions remains hidden. Professor Donaldson was an admired academic in his sixties who lived in rural Cambridgeshire with his four dogs. The only theory offered to explain his killing is that someone saw the release of his book as an event that had to be prevented at all costs.

I am now researching this subject with a view to understanding whether there is any truth in Professor Donaldson’s theories and why, regardless of their validity, the fact that they were going to be made public resulted in cold-blooded murder. I have only accounts of conversations he had with others about his ideas, rather than Donaldson’s own writings, and there is barely any other information about his Mona Lisa project except for reports of his death that mention it in passing (the only extended coverage was on BBC News 24, which first alerted me to this whole matter).

If anyone has any information on this matter, please email me: tamsinwest24@googlemail.com

In the jungle that is the saturated gadget market it is all too easy get completely lost. This article offers impartial reviews of the three cutting-edge digital cameras out there today. Considerations such as price, efficiency and technology offer an objective guide through the wilderness of the digital cameras market.

First up is the Canon EOS 1000D DSLR. The good news is that with live view digital technology and SD card compatibility there are great quality images combined with excellent colour and focussing capabilities. The bad news is that the live view feature tends to have a relatively slow response time and the camera is very expensive when compared to other models of a similar specification. As far as cutting-edge digital cameras go this one is easy to use with comprehensive instructions for use and downloading, however for about 500GBP it is very pricy where other models offer similar features for much less.

The next digital camera up for review is the Olympus E-520 DSLR. This camera comes with 10 mega-pixel resolution and is packed with mouth watering kit such as anti dust system, image stabilisation, four thirds system and a competitive price for the specification. The large LCD live view display allows 100 percent field however this is counteracted by the small view finder which only allows around 95 percent. There is a modest 3-point AF set-up and potentially some white balance issues however it is an improvement on the previous flagship digital SLR, E-510 and for 500GBP is fantastic value for money.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 digital camera is brand spanking new, so much that it has not even been priced yet. After a sneak preview of the preproduction model the verdict looks good. It is a beautifully compact digital camera that maintains the 10 mega-pixel resolution, not responding to other manufacturers race for higher resolutions. The handling, design, image, lens and manual control are all outstanding however it does posses some pre-production teething problems such as image softness, however this will be corrected before it goes into production. With a predicted price of around 350GBP it is the cutting-edge in compact digital cameras.

These three models of digital cameras represent the latest models from some of the main players in the market. They are a cross section of different specifications and models and all the information is provider from an impartial as objective assessment of the pros and cons of each model.

GORDON RAMSAY Cooking for Friends will be published by HarperNonFiction on 15th September (priced £25). The book bridges the gap between Gordon Ramsay’s working kitchen and his table at home with wife Tana and their four young children. The book reveals the celebrated chef’s guide to cooking seasonal, simple and modern British recipes, which are perfect for entertaining friends and family.

Gordon lives life in the fast lane, travelling the world to oversee his global restaurant business. Nevertheless, despite the pressures of such a busy work life, Gordon has always believed in the importance of families and friends taking the time to sit and eat together as often as possible, and in this book Gordon shares and in this book, Gordon shares the dishes which he loves to cook (and eat) when he is off duty such as Chorizo, broad bean and mint couscous; Scallop brochettes with coriander and chilli butter; Smoked salmon and horseradish cream tarts and Toffee and chocolate steamed pudding.

Cooking for Friends features over 100 inspiring recipes which both novice and more experienced cooks alike will be able to enjoy cooking for their friends and family. With chapter covering Hot and Cold Soups; Pasta and Grains; Fish and Shellfish; Meat and Poultry; Pies and Tarts; Vegetables and Salads; Puddings and Ices and Coffee and Chocolate, each recipe features an introduction to the dish and tips on how to re-create it perfectly. With emphasis on simplicity for stunning results, the majority of the recipes are concise and easy to cook.

With photography by Ditte Isager, the book is beautifully illustrated with images of the finished dishes and many of Gordon and his family.

For more news and articles visit http://www.hospitalityjobsireland.com

We live on memories – memories of myriad events! And what can be the best way to capture all those events forever than using a decent digital camera? Digital cameras are being manufactured by a number of camera makers under different categories. But getting the best digital camera that your photographic requirements and budget can meet can be a painstaking experience as there is a large number of digicams available out there in the market.

Before buying a digital camera, you need to consider a number of aspects. The first and foremost question to ask is, ‘why you are buying the camera’, i.e., for what purpose (beginners, advanced, professional) you are going to buy it. Secondly, does your camera meet all the features that you have always been looking for to realize your photographic dream.

With the advent of the Internet things have become easy now to get end-to-end information about your desired digital camera. What’s more, digital camera reviews from experts and users can help you know the displayed products better before you making any commitment. Let’s see the popular digital camera trends that consumers follow while they shop for digital cameras.

Megapixels: The number of megapixels is a crucial factor as it ascertains the enlargement factor of the shots taken by the cam. 7 to 10 megapixels are good enough for home uses. For professional, 12-15 megapixel cameras work fine.

Optical Zoom: Optical zoom is one of the most crucial factors camera lovers look for in their desired product. 4 x optical zoom has been established standard for beginners, while 10 x + optical zoom feature is necessary for professionals.

Weight: People also consider the weigh of the camera while they go to buy the digicams. A light weight camera can be easily carried and it fits everywhere – be it in your hand or pocket.

Battery Life: As a trend people do consider this factor as well. Sufficient battery back-up can make lot difference in the selling proposition of the product.

Low Light Photography: This is another aspect where camera lovers think a lot before buying one for them.

Video Recording: Video recording is another feature that digicams can accomplish. People consider this feature as well while choosing their respective models.

Memory: Memory expansion facility is also considered essential.

Shutter Speed: Decent shutter speed is a vital feature that a digicam must have.

Budget: Budget also plays a big role in deciding the purchasing commitment of a digicam.

Brand name: Going after a brand has been a regular activity for maximum of us. Confronting comparative options at cheaper prices, the same compulsion of us starts to act as one of the greatest driving factors that lead to the state of confusion. Given the choice and comparative features, a brand standing on its reputations should be given the priority.

Since it’s the list of features and pricing that drive a decision in case of many of us, online search can be a very viable option.

These days, all communication technology faces the issue of privacy and identity theft, with Bluetooth being no exception. Almost everyone knows that email services and networks require security. What users of Bluetooth need to realize is that Bluetooth also requires security measures as well.

The good news for Bluetooth users is that the security scares, like most scares, are normally over dramatized and blown entirely out of proportion. The truth being told, these issues are easy to manage, with various measures already in place to provide security for Bluetooth technology.

It’s true that there has been some Bluetooth phones that have been hacked into. Most devices that are hacked into are normally those that don’t have any type of security at all.

According to Bluetooth specialists, in order to hack into a Bluetooth device, the hacker must:

1. Force two paired devices to break their connection.

2. Steal the packets that are used to resend the pin.

3. Decode the pin.

Of course, the hacker must also be within range of the device, and using very expensive developer type equipment. Most specialists recommend that you have a longer pin, with 8 digits being recommended.

Fundamentals of security

The “pairing process” is one of the most basic levels of security for Bluetooth devices. Pairing, is two or more Bluetooth devices that recognize each other by the profiles they share – in most cases they both must enter the same pin.

The core specifications for Bluetooth use an encryption algorithm, which is completely and entirely secure. Once the devices pair with each other, they too become entirely secure.

Until they have successfully paired, the Bluetooth devices won’t communicate with each other. Due to this pairing process and the fact that it is short range – Bluetooth technology is considered to be secure.

As the news has indicated, experienced hackers have developed ways to get around this level of basic security. There are ways to get around this threat, as you can install software to prevent hackers from getting in.

With Bluetooth becoming more and more popular, it’s really no wonder that security is always in question. As Bluetooth gets bigger and better, security will always be something that no one really takes lightly.

If you’ve been concerned about Bluetooth security in the past, rest assured that newer devices will offer bigger and better security. Preventing hackers from getting in is something every owner is concerned about – and the manufacturer’s are very aware.

Those who love to capture the moments of life in a crisp, sharp detail, for them there can nothing be better than owning a digital camera. A digital camera never runs out on performance as they don’t have any ‘negative’. But before buying one, you need to consider a number of things as it will surely be a lifetime possession. Are you looking for the right place to get one for you? If yes, let’s start the journey…

When you plan to get a digicam for you, you need to know for what purpose you are going to buy it. It means, you need to understand what your photographic requirements are. For normal users a point-and-shoot dicam works fine while for professionals, high-end SLRs do the trick. Depending on the mode of usage, digital camera makers have also segregated the digital camera making procedures and promotion.

If you search online for any digital camera review site, you will find hundreds of them. These digital camera review sites offer valuable tips on how to choose a digital camera. But considering the fact of the availability of so many digital cameras (with new ones being introduced every month), it has obviously become a tough job for any to pick one from the lot. In choosing a digicam, while some talk about technical approach considering resolution, sensors etc. some talk more about design and ease of use. The rest goes for usability and features. Therefore, there is simply no one way of choosing a camera. Nevertheless, we can fix some basic points that can be really helpful in choosing one.

Firstly, you need to consider your photographic needs and then fix your budget. Secondly, the number of megapixels that the camera houses. It’s very essential in today’s context as all want to make photo-prints sooner or later. Thirdly, optical zoom of the camera plays a major role in giving optimum result in distant photography. Find a camera with powerful optical zoom, certainly at least 3x. Fourthly, try to get relevant information on shutter-speed of the camera. Always try to buy one that doesn’t let you down in capturing immediate action. Fifthly, go for one that offers you memory expansion facility. Last but not the least, try to collect as many as information before resorting on any. And once you are through with your research, you can buy whatever attracts you.

Every now and then, the global world of photojournalism goes into self-oscillation. It happens when a photojournalist is caught manipulating a photo. News photojournalism is the most sensitive in this respect. We want to trust that what we see in a newspaper, particularly when the photos are used as accurate and trustworthy accounts of significant events, that they are accurate representations of the truth. And when a photojournalist crosses the line, a tidal wave of photojournalists starts wondering and discussing where the line is. What’s allowed and what’s not allowed in photojournalism? It’s a can of worms, but all the more important to understand. For photojournalists and their audience alike.

The basic rules that most photojournalists agree to is that news photojournalists are not allowed to add, move or delete anything in the photo. They are not allowed to stage a situation or instruct people to reenact an event for the camera (except when making a portrait). And they are not allowed to use “excessive” photoshopping, tone mapping, color manipulation etc.

But where exactly the line is between reasonably “enhancing” the photo for visual appeal, and distorting the photo beyond what is a faithful depiction of a situation is not always easy to say. If it was easy to draw the line, it would probably already have been done and agreed upon. The line is especially fuzzy when the subject comes to changing the colors and contrast of a photo.

It would be simple to say that colors simply shouldn’t be changed at all. The photo, as it comes out of the camera, should be used directly. The camera never lies, right? Well, not exactly! Different cameras and lenses actually “see” colors in slightly different ways. Not to talk about the good, old roles of film, each with their own characteristics. And when a photo is printed in different magazines or newspapers, they’ll come out slightly different. And even when viewed on two different computer screens, colors will appear slightly different.

And it’s not just limited to the camera. Take a photo on a cloudless day, just after sunset, and the true colors will in fact be quite blue. Take a photo of subjects lit by a bond-fire and the colors will be quite red. But in those situations, our eyes don’t see them as overly blue and red. Our brain compensates for the color cast from the blue sky and red flame. If such an overly blue or red photo was printed in a newspaper, the colors would appear to be too blue or too red!

So which one is the right representation of the true colors?

As I said, the line can be fuzzy. An argument often heard is that, if black-and-white photos are accepted in photojournalism, which they are, then why not also accept photos where the colors have been made stronger, in stead of weaker?

Technically speaking it’s the same category of adjustment: Color saturation.

But there is more to it than the technical aspect. And it has to do with whether the photo can be seen as an attempt to falsify the representation of reality. When we see a black-and-white photo, we generally know that “this is a black-and-white photo of something that was in color. We don’t know what the colors were, the photo doesn’t tell us that”. On the other hand, when we see a photo of something with excessive colors, we might just think that “wow, that subject must have been very colorful!”. And that is where we might be deceived! If the true colors were actually quite bland, but enhanced digitally in post-processing to look stronger, the viewer might wrongly get the impression that the colors were in fact strong. With black-and-white photos, that is simply not the case and that is why b/w is generally accepted in photojournalism. It declares itself as what it is. A photo with excessive colors doesn’t necessarily do so!

So where is the line when it comes to excessive colors? We are getting closer now. Let’s look at a real-world example:

In the global photojournalism organization, Reuters, the guidelines for photojournalists are firmly written down, allowing “basic color correction” as long as it doesn’t “dramatically change the [perceived] original lighting conditions”. They further specify that generally, “[color] saturation should not be used”.

These are very strict rules set up to preserve the integrity of the organization operating in multiple fields and for multiple outlets. They have to be strict with such general guidelines. On the other hand though, photojournalism is a creative profession. Not to say that photojournalists are “creating” reality, but they are creating depictions of it. So a more lenient line, allowing the photojournalist to use his creative talents a bit more, would be to say that it comes down to the intent of the photojournalist: Is the purpose of the photojournalist’s alterations to “enhance the look” of the photo or to “falsify, exaggerate or overly dramatize” the photo?

I guess this is where the line becomes fuzzy again. In some cases it will be very subjective to judge if the photojournalist’s intention were to beautify or falsify.

If you or your company are donating money to help non-profit organizations… and photo opportunities are an afterthought, you could be missing fabulous opportunities for publicity.

A good-quality, unusual photo is often the first thing that attracts a reader’s attention. It serves as an anchor on the page. And often, a photo can tell its own story, without being accompanied by an article. Big checks are still unusual enough that they will make the paper or the news.

Journalists say a good photo or an unusual photo can move your article from the back of a magazine or newspaper to the front. Photos can be the deciding factor when you’re pitching a story idea. An editor who knows that you can provide photos, or that their own photographer can take photos of something interesting, might be encouraged to say “yes” to your story idea. And while you are not donating the money for your gain…..why don’t let the community know of your good deed?

Here are 12 tips for using photos and big checks for publicity:

1. Make sure you have good-quality, above-the-shoulders photos of all your experts who are likely to be interviewed by the media….have these folks in the big check picture if possible

2. Consider asking your photographer to shoot “environmental portraits” of your experts. An architect, for example, might be shown holding several rolled up architect’s renderings under her arm. A construction executive can be shown holding a hard hat or other tools of his trade. Weekly newspapers that don’t have big photo staffs would probably welcome these photos. Have these props available in the big check photo.

3. Have interior and exterior shots of your company available for the media. The interior shots can show people at work.

4. Submit big check photos with news releases about the donation.

5. Pie charts, bar charts and other graphics can often help readers understand complicated issues such as budgets. Offer to supply information to media outlets so they can create their own graphics to accompany the article they’re writing about.

6. If you’re sponsoring an event that doesn’t necessarily warrant a story, call the photo desk at your local newspaper and let photographers know what’s happening. Let them know that a big check will be involved…..they are still unusual and help get your photo published.

7. If a photographer from a newspaper or magazine takes photos at your company, never demand to see the negatives, or dictate what photo they should use with the article, or ask for free copies of prints. The negatives are the property of the media outlet, and the media maintains full control over their use. If you want prints, expect to pay for them. Try to ensure that the photographer gets a photo of the big check exchange.

8. When sending prints to the media, be sure correct identification is on a sticker on the back of each photo. When sending several photos, slip a piece of paper between each one so the ink from the back of one photo doesn’t bleed onto the front of the photo behind it.

9. Avoid using big clunky photos at your website because they slow down the time it takes a page to load….big check photos on your website show that you care and are active in the community.

10. In addition to the check passing photo, take a photo that illustrates what the money will be used for.

11. Make sure you offer all your images as digital photos that the media can access at your website, perhaps in a password protected area that the public can’t access.

12. If you’re sponsoring an annual event, take lots of photos yourself and offer them to the media the following year to be used for pre-event publicity. The big check photo can be used for many years.

Are you starting to get the picture? Photos and graphics can be a powerful publicity tool-but only if you use them. You are doing a good thing with your donation…..let your clients and the community know what is going on…..it tells them a lot about you and your business.

Photography is a process or an art of creating moving or still pictures with the help of record radiations on some sensitive or resposive medium. This sensitive medium is called film or photographic film.the device used for photography is known as camera. Photography is an amzing art that has numerous uses for pleasure, business and science.

The word photography is actually derived from greek words, ‘phos’ which means light and ‘graphic’ means style or paint. so, when we combine two, we will get the definition of photography as a drawing created with the help of light. The output we get from photography is called photographs and negatives. Commonly this is shortened as photos.

History: The Art Institute of Atlanta has many branches throughout North America. This institution is managed and administered by Education management. It is situated in all important cities. Every year this institute give graduation degree to hundred thousand students. These students are great professionals in their creative fields including fashion, media, design, photography and other arts.

This institute was founded in 1949. firstly diplomas degeree were offered here in basic skills. Later on other arts including fashion and interior were offered.  In 1975, this college was given the staus of Art Institute of Atlanta. The college curriculum was especially designed for applied arts. Then, many other courses were offered time to time with rising demands and modern technologies in Atlanta Commercial photography. Photography is also an art that is offered with innovations day by day. Nowadays, students are mastering the most recent trends available in this field.

Atlanta Commercial photography: The career requirements are not confined to individual creativity but it also requires educational and professional knowledge in Atlanta Commercial photography. This knowledge can be mastered at various institutions.

Atlanta is a land of various photography colleges. They offer different programs and degrees related to photography. Some well knew institutions include Gwinnett Technical College and North Georgia Technical College. Students can complete several diplomas and certificates regarding photography from these colleges.

Atlanta Commercial photography needs some professional and technical skills. For example every subject requires some specific presentation and approach. Right camera is needed to capture true image. In current day world, digital tools are very common that gives a great benefit to enhance images and shoots. Digital cameras and tools help to change and enhance the composition and state of a photograph by methods involving saturation, contrasting and airbrushing. Lightning is also very important in photography. As, photography is the art of capturing lightening and it works with the proper use or capture of light. A professional photographer is the person that makes best use of artificial and natural light to focus the subject. Commercial photography also requires appropriate angles.

In Atlanta Commercial photography, beside natural photographers there are also food photographers that obviously treat food as natural artists treat nature. Commercial food photographers have aim of producing more artistic look and shoot in a way that the object looks more delicious. Their target is to attract the maximum audience.

Types of photography: There are several types of Atlanta Commercial photography.

Advertising: location and studio, product illustrations, people, websites, fashion, catalog etc.

Corporate: executive portraits, award events, meetings, annual reports and public relations etc.

Industrial: urban, general marketing, new construction, building and brochures etc.

Events: charity, parties, ceremonies, awards, weddings, corporate events, receptions, reunions etc.

Architectural: residential, panoramas, commercial, real-estate, tours etc.

Portraits: senior, family, children, group, individual, corporate, head shoots, engagement etc.

Stock: landscapes, industrial, lifestyles, corporate, architectural etc.

Editorial: illustrations, business, magazine, fashion, web, trade publications, news print etc.

If you are looking for an interactive photography course online ‘Proud Photography’ is the ultimate source for you. Proud Photography is an online course that has been written and framed by eminent professional photographers with an aim to teach beginners as well as those who wish to improve their photography skills. It is one of the most promising courses that have been divided into 13 sections to make photography easy and interesting.

Visit Proud Photography for more information

The courses of Proud Photography will enable you to find new dimensions of digital world and capture frames is such a beautiful way that you would soon have skills of a professional photographer. The course certificate of Proud Photography will also enable you get jobs as photographer in required fields like magazines, news agencies, wedding solution companies and similar areas.

Every lesson is followed by a mini test where you need to perform to the standards to move to the next lesson. Such a design enables you to take photography seriously and you learn really well. Proud Photography simply doesn’t give lessons and finish the course, but they ask students to do homework, submit assignments and grade them for improving their skills.

Personal tutors take every care so that students learn better photography at Proud Photography. For any help and aid the designated personal tutor would discuss the matter with you and give tips and solutions to your problem. You get feedback on your work with constructive criticism to improve your work. There can be no other place to learn photography online than Proud Photography. Every aspect of photography is explained with images and photographs taken by expert professionals and such demonstrations help you learn the skills of photography well.

All information in the course is in depth and comprehensive to give clear understanding of photography. You learn all the terms of photography, use of lenses, filters, angles and models of cameras to click better photographs. Proud Photography gives you all opportunities to develop the art of photography that you wish to learn!