Influenced Boomer

Cameras for Beginners

april — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 01:47:50 +0000

As more and more people seek to establish an online presence to promote their personal and/or professional brand, the demand for high quality cameras has grown. As a beginner, I found buying a camera took way more time and energy than I expected. Here are some tips that you may find helpful.

WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU BUY

When i decided to get a camera, I only thought about the price and functionality. However, functionality to me meant “a camera with better photo and video output quality better than my iPhone”.

But, there are many questions to consider when buying a camera. Amongst them are:

1. Why do you need a camera and how will you use it?
Type of Photography: Determine if you need the camera for landscapes, portraits, sports, wildlife, street photography, or vlogging.
Skill Level: Are you a beginner, intermediate, or professional photographer?

2. What are the key attributes of your ideal camera?
Resolution (Megapixels): Higher resolution means more detail, but it’s not the only factor in image quality.
Sensor Size: Larger sensors typically offer better image quality, low light performance, and depth of field control. Common sizes include Full Frame, APS-C, and Micro Four Thirds.
Lens Options: Consider the availability and cost of lenses if you’re going for an interchangeable lens camera.
ISO Range: A wider ISO range provides better performance in low light conditions.
Autofocus System: Fast and accurate autofocus is crucial for action or low-light photography.
Video Capabilities: Look at resolution (e.g., 4K), frame rates, and additional features like slow-motion or in-body stabilization.
Image Stabilization: Helps reduce blur from camera shake, especially useful in low light or for handheld shooting.

3. Is it a camera that you can easily carry around and will it be comfortable to hold while using?
Size and Weight: Ensure the camera feels comfortable to hold and carry, especially for long periods.
Build Quality: Look for weather sealing if you plan to shoot in harsh conditions.

4. Do I care about the user interface and if so what is the ideal user interface for you?
Menu System: Easy-to-navigate menus can make a big difference in usability.
Physical Controls: Consider the number and placement of buttons, dials, and customizable controls.

5. What are the connectivity limits, if any?
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/NFC: For easy sharing and remote control.
GPS: Useful for geotagging your photos.

6. What is the ideal battery life?
Consider how many shots you can take per charge, especially if you plan on long shooting sessions or travel.

7. How much can you spend?
Initial Cost: Factor in the cost of the camera body and any essential accessories (lenses, memory cards, tripod, etc.).
Long-term Investment: Consider future costs for additional lenses, batteries, or other accessories.

8. Do you have a brand favorite?
Brand Loyalty: If you already have lenses or accessories from a particular brand, it might make sense to stay within that ecosystem.
Support and Community: Availability of customer support, repair services, and an active community for tips and advice.

9. Consider reviews and recommendations.
Professional Reviews: Look for in-depth reviews from trusted photography websites and YouTube channels.
User Reviews: Check user feedback on sites like Amazon, B&H, or Adorama.
Hands-on Testing: If possible, visit a camera store to try out different models and see how they feel.

10. Do I need a warranty and what is the return policy?
Warranty: Consider the warranty period and what it covers.
Service Centers: Ensure there are service centers or repair options available in your area.

While these are important things to consider when evaluating which camera to buy, most of the above items I either did not consider or I did not place a lot of weight on. I was mostly worried about cost and the quality of the camera outputs. A lot of the above considerations are technical and were not on my radar. Now that I have purchased two cameras, I would absolutely consider all of the above for my next purchase. It would also be important to me to know that I had a true upgrade compared to what I already own. I would not just assume that something more expensive was an upgrade.

MY CAMERA PURCHASE JOURNEY

I decided to buy a camera because I wanted to not only blog but I also wanted to create content for YouTube and other social media platforms. I did not want anything too expensive but I wanted a second camera (i.e., in addition to my iPhone) so that I would have the ability to record myself at two different angles without having to stop filming. I thought that if I did not buy a camera that was too expensive, I would end up with something with output quality comparable to my iPhone so that my videos didn’t clearly show that I had used two different cameras.

And then there are the types of cameras that to consider:

DSLR: Good for versatility and image quality, often preferred by professionals.

Mirrorless: Compact, lightweight, and often have advanced features; a growing favorite among many photographers.

Point-and-Shoot: Easy to use, portable, and great for casual photography.
Action Cameras: Durable, waterproof, and designed for capturing action and adventure.

Smartphone Cameras: Convenient and increasingly high-quality for everyday use.

I did some light research and read some reviews and ended up with the Kimire HD Digital Video Camera (DVC) for $65.

This camera is typically known for being affordable and user-friendly. Specs for the Kimire DVC are as follows:

Full HD 1080p video recording
Flip screen for easy vlogging and selfies
External microphone support
Anti-shake functionality
Various shooting modes
Lightweight and portable design
Rechargeable batteries

I found this camera easy to set up, easy to use, and the controls and menus are straightforward and perfect for me as a beginner. But after just a little use, I wanted something even better with longer filming capability and even better output quality.

After more YouTube videos and other research, I settled on the Sony ZV E10.

As someone with some camera experience after the purchase of the Kimire DVC, I knew that I would need accessories so I purchased the camera bundle package which included memory cards, an additional lens, lens covers, adaptor cords, etc. After taxes and shipping, it was was little over $800. It was well worth it!

The Sony ZV-E10 is a mirrorless camera designed for vlogging and content creation. Here are its key specifications:

General

Model: Sony ZV-E10
Type: Mirrorless interchangeable lens camera
Announcement Date: July 27, 2021

Sensor

Sensor Type: APS-C CMOS
Sensor Size: 23.5 x 15.6 mm
Effective Pixels: 24.2 megapixels
ISO Range: 100-32,000 (expandable to 51,200)

Image Processor

Processor: BIONZ X

Lens

Mount: Sony E-mount
Lens Compatibility: Sony E-mount lenses

Image Stabilization

Stabilization Type: Electronic (in-body stabilization for video)

Autofocus

AF System: Fast Hybrid AF (phase-detection and contrast-detection)
Focus Points: 425 phase-detection and 425 contrast-detection points
Focus Features: Real-time Eye AF, Real-time Tracking

Display

Type: Articulating touchscreen LCD
Size: 3.0 inches
Resolution: 921,600 dots

Viewfinder

Type: None (rely on the LCD screen for framing)

Video

4K Recording: Up to 30p
Full HD Recording: Up to 120p
Video Formats: XAVC S, AVCHD
Bitrate: Up to 100 Mbps
Special Features: Background Defocus, Product Showcase Setting, Face Priority

Audio

Microphone: Built-in stereo microphone with a directional 3-capsule mic
Audio Input: 3.5mm microphone jack
Audio Output: 3.5mm headphone jack

Connectivity

Wireless: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Ports: USB Type-C, micro HDMI, Multi/Micro USB, 3.5mm mic and headphone jacks

Battery

Battery Type: NP-FW50
Battery Life: Approx. 440 shots (CIPA standard)

Dimensions and Weight

Dimensions: 115.2 x 64.2 x 44.8 mm
Weight: Approx. 343 g (including battery and memory card)

Other Features

Customizable Buttons: Yes
Interval Shooting: Yes (for time-lapse creation)
Image Transfer: USB streaming, smartphone connectivity via app

This camera is tailored for vloggers and content creators, and it is easy to use and the video outputs are high-quality.

This camera had a more involved set up but – again – the output quality and ease of use is great. It is larger and heavier than the Kimire DVC but not by much.

I am able to connect it to my computer for use as a webcam and I am also able to manage some of the settings from my computer. There are many YouTube videos on how to set up the camera as well as detailed tutorials for beginners – and – additional reviews. Click here for examples.

The Sony ZV E10 is also great for photos. See sample photo gallery here.

I am super happy with both of my purchase choices. Whatever you decide, be sure to be clear on what you need from a camera before you buy. There are many choices but always make the best choice for you!!

Disclaimer: As an Amazon affiliate marketer, I earn a small commission for any purchases you may make.

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Know Your Skin Type – Get a Skin Care Routine

april — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 00:30:49 +0000

Busy professionals often skimp on skin care as it takes more time than we often have. Also, there are so many options for skin care – serums, creams, gels, masks, peels, etc. and hundreds of brands as well. But it is super important to take care of your skin the same way you take care of your career.

The best first step in deciding upon a skin care routine that works for you is to determine your skin type and specific areas of concern.

Establish a skin care routine – stick to it – love your face – love what you see!

I am a year old professional with a high pressure job who is very active both socially and professionally. While I benefit from some genetic attributes that have contributed to healthy looking skin, I also know that my commitment to an ongoing and consistent facial skin care regimen has contributed ot hte longevity of my skin appearance and wellbeing. I feel comfortable with or without makeup.

A primary contributor to all highly effective skin care routines for the face is consistency. It is essential that you establish a skin care routine that you perform daily. However, determining what is best for your skin can be daunting. Even after you settle on something, you wonder if it will work, is working and/or worth the time and money. I say, with the right products, yes, yes and absolutely yes.

Start identifying the skin care routine for you by determining your skin type. There are five broadly referenced skin types whose characteristics are as follows:

1. Normal:

A normal skin type tends to be balanced – not too oily or dry, few imperfections, no severe sensitivity, barely visible pores, radiant complexion.

2. Oily:

An oily skin type may present visible pores, a shiny complexion, be prone to acne and blackheads, excess sebum production to protect and moisturize the skin.

3. Dry:

A dry skin type presents a flaky, rough textured surface, dull complexion, visible lines, less elasticity, and can be itchy or frequently irritated.

4. Combination:

A combination skin type presents areas of both oily and dry surfaces with typically an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) with dry or normal cheeks.

5. Sensitive Skin:

Sensitive skin presents with redness, itching, burning, dryness, proneness to reactions and inflammation, and easily irritated by products or environmental factors.

Once you have identified your skin type and/or specific area of concern, you can then start to identify what types of products are best suited for, including your personal routine.

While all skin types share some skin care need, there are those steps that should be included in your skin care routine that will be specific to your skin type.

1. Normal Skin:

Regular cleansing
Regular moisturizing
Sun protection

2. Oily Skin:

Use oil-free and non-comedogenic products, and gentle exfoliation
Use mattifying products to control shine
Regular cleansing

3. Dry Skin:
Use gentle hydrating cleansers
Rich moisturizers
Avoid hot water
Use products with hyaluronic acid or glycerin

4. Combination:

Balance between hydrating and oil-controlling products
Target specific areas with appropriate products
Avoid harsh ingredients

5. Sensitive Skin:

Use gentle, fragrance-free products
Avoid known irritants
Patch test new products before full application
More likely to seek medical professional guidance

Knowing what products to buy can be difficult. Committing to a brand can also be a challenge. Note that it is important that you stick with the same product for at least three months to know whether or not it is working for your skin.

The number of product categories and product preferences available for consumers to consider is overwhelming. Some product categories and/or preferences are:

Anti-aging
Acne treatment
Natural/organic products
Cruelty free

Once you are ready to purchase, have a budget and are ready to commit to a skin care regimen, you have more to think about:

Does it foam?

Cream, gel or serum?

Is it heavy or sheer?

Will it marry well with my other skin care products?

And on an on…….

It’s a lot.

Then there is the Internet, social media, friends and family that all provide advice. And here you are….

In my skin care journey where I have discovered items and brands that I will NEVER buy again, but have also discovered brands that are now my regulars and preferences.

I would describe my skin type as normal. That said, I have seasons and instances of dry skin areas, oily skin areas, and sensitivity to some products. I have used the same cleanser for the past 15 or more years and the same moisturizer/face cream for the past 10 years. The moisturizer I used prior to the one that I use now, I used for 10 or more years.

I have both a morning and an evening routine and use different products for each. I have been doing my current morning routine for a little over 7 months with some products having been used for longer periods, and the same evening routing for the past 8 months also using some products in the routine for longer than 8 months.

I am so happy about my routine and the difference I see in my skin, that I had to write about it. It makes me feel good because it took me a very long time to find a routine that I felt good about sticking with every product for long periods. With the exception of my morning cleanser and morning moisturizer/face cream, I have switched up at least one product after 3 to 4 months.

My morning routine consists of the following:

1) Gel undereye masks (at least 20 mins)
2) Cleanse (gel gentle foaming) Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel
3) Apply undereye serum – Epara Eye Serum
4) Apply eyelid cream – Dermalogica Lifting Cream
5) Hydrate (and let dry) Dermalogica Hydrating Toner
6) Apply vitamin C serum – Roc Vitamin C
7) Apply peptides (serum) –
8) Moisturize – Kiehl’s Multi-Corrective Anti-Aging Face Cream
9) Apply sun screen – Elta MD Sheer Sunscreen

In the evening, I

1) Cleanse – Dermalogica Resurfacing Face Wash
2) Apply eyelid cream – Dermalogica Lifting Eye Cream
3) Apply undereye serum (Epara)
4) Apply hyaluronic acid (serum)
5) Apply retinol cream – Dermalogica Retinol Serum
6) Apply niacinamide serum
7) Apply moisturizer – Kiehl’s
8) Apply lip oil

These lists seem like a lot but they don’t feel that way at all. They only make my skin feel and look great!

Over the last four months of the eight months I have been on these morning and evening routines, I have noticed measurable improvements in my pores, skin tone, skin surface shine and smoothness, elasticity, tautness and jawline definition.

I also use a gua sha two to three times a week in the evenings. Gua sha is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) technique that involves using a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape the skin. The name gua sha comes from the Chinese word for scraping. Gua sha is also known as skin scraping, spooning, or coining. Studies show that when done correctly, gua sha can release chemicals that improve blood flow, lessen toxins, reduce pain, and promote healing of the skin. I am a believer and have also seen results from being a gua sha user.

Here are some links to gua sha techniques. When done consistently, you will also notice a change in your skin – but again – consistency is the key.

Other things that have helped my skin health are always using sun block even when the sun is not shining, avoiding alcohol, vitamin E supplements, and drinking lots of water.

You can find the skin care and makeup products and brands that have worked best for me here.

I am also a huge consumer of social media content and follow many influencers and am bombarded with social media ads. This habit has led me to make some purchases that I am very happy about and others that were very disappointing and a waste of money. I will not do any brand bashing here but will recommend that you avoid anything on social media that sounds to good to be true advertising magical results and/or appears to have targeted you because your devices know your search and click habits. You will recognize this when it starts to happen. Finding what you love and what works for you, will require trial and error. It will also require that you stick with a product even if you don’t see immediate results or if you experience some skin irritation. This is especially true when you first begin using products containing retinol. Please do your research and please consult a medical professional if skin concerns go unresolved.

In summary, you should do your research to determine which products are best for you. If you have specific problem areas, consulting a professional is always advisable.

Best of luck on your skin care journey!

(Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)

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Color Contact Lenses – A Must Have Fashion Accessory

april — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 00:24:39 +0000

Changing your eye color has become an essential fashion accessory for many. The decision to purchase color lenses is very simple or some as the Internet provides many purchasing options.

However…….

Contact lenses in general are considered medical devices and are therefore heavily regulated. Regulations apply to both production and distribution and require Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval.

Non-FDA approved colored contact lenses can pose significant health risks due to the lack of regulatory oversight. Here are some key points and recommendations to consider:

Health Risks: Non-FDA approved lenses can contain unsafe materials and may not fit properly, leading to issues such as corneal scratches, conjunctivitis (pink eye), corneal infections, and even potential vision loss.
Legal Requirements: In the U.S., all contact lenses, including non-prescription colored contacts, require a valid prescription from an eye care professional. This rule ensures that lenses are properly fitted and safe for individual use.
Safe Alternatives: There are FDA-approved brands like Solotica and Air Optix that offer a variety of colored contacts. These brands meet strict safety standards and are widely available through reputable retailers and require a prescription for purchase.
Where to Buy: It’s crucial to purchase colored contact lenses from trusted sources that require a prescription. Avoid buying from beauty supply stores, convenience stores, or unverified online retailers.

So what should you expect if you intend to purchase color lenses?

I purchased color lenses earlier this year and it was a time consuming and – in my opinion – an expensive endeavor.

I would never purchase lenses online or use eye color changing drops. These items are all over social media and so tempting because the price is right and the products are easily accessible. But, no matter how impressionable I am, I am very careful about what I put in my body, including my eyes.

I was not prepared for the upfront costs. If you have vision insurance, I think it will help but may not help if you are like me and did not need corrective lenses and were only making the purchase for aesthetics along. If you do opt for corrective lenses, insurance will coverage will help.

Once I finally decided that I was going to color lenses, I made an appointment with an eye doctor (Ophthalmologist) through my HMO that I was not able to get for three weeks from the date I made the appointment. I do not have vision insurance under my plan so all costs were out of pocket. The visit took about 30 minutes – including wait time and the exam and cost me $180. At the end of the exam, the doctor said that I did not require corrective lenses. The doctor also instructed me to schedule a contact lens fitting appointment with an Optician.

I was able to get a fitting appointment the same day because I agreed to wait up to 2 hours if needed. After a less than 1 hour wait, I was seen. This appointment also lasted about 30 minutes (excluding wait time) and cost me another $180.

Not surprising, but I was only able to see sample color lenses but not try any on during the appointment.

The Optician was clearly in sales mode and tried to sell me corrective lenses (at an added cost) that I would need to wait up to 4 weeks to receive and that would cost me up to $200 per lens. These lenses had a longer life but had a limited color selection. These lenses were also presented to me as if they were my only option. However, after asking a lot of questions, I was made aware of another option.

The second option I was offered was by Air Optix Colors with a much larger color selection. The price I was given was $95 for three pairs but a much shorter usage period – 2 months each pair. I selected three colors (sterling silver, brown and brilliant blue) and was told that the order would be available for pick up at the Optician’s office within 2 weeks. This lenses cost me more than $300 including sales tax.

I was curious and asked why the lenses could not be sent directly to my home and was told that the Optician needed to ensure that the lenses fit my eyes property. This was all good with me as it added another layer of assurance.

The lenses arrived with a week and I went to pick them up and was so happy with what I received.

My favorite (above) ar the sterling silver (now called sterling grey by Air Optix Colors).

I was so happy with my lenses that i wanted more. I went online to the sites that i had vised previously that required a prescription to see what other colors were available and found that I could purchase lenses for one half the price per box that I paid through the Optician’s office. Yikes! I uploaded my prescription and provided my doctor’s contact information and quickly purchased two boxes. The lenses arrived in less than a week.

I now purchase lenses at will on lens.com.

I have also learned that there is a lot of gear (e.g., lens cases, lens applicators, lens cleaning solution, etc.) that goes along with using contact lenses. It is very important to keep your lenses clean so buying a lens solution that you like is essential. You will also need storage containers for your lenses. Some people like to use lens applicators, but I prefer using clean hands and inserting and removing my lenses with my fingers. Whatever you decide is best for you, you can find some helpful product ideas here.

I highly recommend adding color contacts to your makeup and fashion toolkits. But, be sure to take the necessary step to ensure that you purchase a product that is safe and reliable.

I hope you will decide to experience the fun in wearing color contact lenses for yourself!

Disclosure: I earn a small commission on Amazon for qualified purchases.

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