Products & Shopping Press releases and articles about products and shopping!

Do you want a camera that’s handy yet has powerful features? The Canon SD1200IS is definitely the best camera for beginners! Yet for the pros, they can make use of another unit like this one because it’s as good as their sophisticated professional photography gadget.

Give it to your kids to take wherever they have games or parties, or out-of-town trips. It will bring more excitement as moments are captured by the SD1200. It has several shootings modes that will allow you to set the preferred layout like portrait, indoor, night snapshot, kids and pets and the indoor settings. It’s basically what the newbie would want to take, because the features are very user friendly and it lets the shooter take professional looking pictures in high quality. It can also be set to single shot or to continuous shot, which makes it a good buddy to tuck into the pocket or the purse because it’s very small.

Its Smart Auto mode can be set when you don’t want to fiddle with the menu settings yet, and it selects the best settings for a certain shooting condition. So even in low-light, you can still take good shots with the Canon PowerShot SD1200IS. Make the Canon SD1200 yours today!

Filed under: Accessories, Cameras, Collectibles, Digital Cameras, General, Gifts, Hobbies, Photography, Reviews
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Finding 18 inch doll clothes patterns has really become simple when searching the internet.

Among doll collectors, the 18 inch size is well-liked. Whether you are just starting a collection or a long time fan, the realism thses dolls portray is well known.

Since most of the 18in. dolls are made from hard materials, they are durable and can withstand most rough play, but for collectors the availabilty of a wide range of clothes and accessories is a major draw. Adding to this draw is the many patterns for making doll clothes that fit this size doll.

While the American Girl series of dolls is usually recognized for the historic themes and eras they represent, there are many other companies offering dolls that come with wardrobes and books to fuel both children and adult imaginations. Madame Alexander is another popular doll company and can be a great addition to any collection.

If you are into sewing there are 18 inch doll clothes patterns in almost any design imaginable. Since patterns allow a great deal of choice when it comes to fabric and colors, customizing your dolls outfits can be a simple process. Even the accessories have great patterns for outerwear, handbags and the latest styles of boots and shoes to keep up with fashion shifts. With a little research, you should also be able to find 18 inch dolls for any budget. Clothing is usually sold with each doll, but sites like Ebay and Amazon can be excellent sources of clothing and furniture for an 18 inch collection.

18 inch dolls give you and enjoyable way to begin doll collecting, and is one hobby that will bring joy to many different age groups.

Be sure to visit 18InchDollClothesPatterns.com for more information.

Filed under: Hobbies, Toys
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It was in the middle of the sixteenth century that the very earliest recorded replica of a dolls house was first commissioned by Albert V, Duke of Bavaria. A duplicate of their own house it was possibly meant for his little girl yet grew to become such a magnificent undertaking that visiting aristocrats quickly spotted the opportunity and started commissioning craftsman to create their unique replica houses. Most of these were no playthings, instead more like scale models, and were used in order to reflect their particular owner’s prosperity as well as social position.

The fashion carried on over the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and at last the doll house became a training guide for young Victorian ladies learning the basics of household administration. It had been the Victorians that really started mass producing dolls houses so when they became affordable more families would own one. Their popularity as children’s toys had finally arrived. At the same time Germany, where it had all begun, were focusing on creating miniature products such as doll house furniture and dolls house dolls.

Now that the dollhouse had developed into a children’s plaything the road forked in to two specific routes. Mass manufacturing led to a lot of different doll houses and accessories being produced just about all around the globe, several of somewhat dubious value it has to be said. Ideal for children of all ages could there be anyone in the traditional western world that has not had use of one of these brilliant dolls houses at sometime throughout their childhood. However adults have never lost their own curiosity as well as passion with regard to these miniature treasures and a new market place started to open with regards to bespoke dollhouses, doll house kits and dolls house dolls.

For more information drop by www.dollshousedolls.org

Filed under: Children, General, Hobbies, Online, Toys
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It’s not hard to brew a decent pint of beer at home.

You actually only need a handful of ingredients, but you have to be able to carry out the Beer Making process flawlessly so that you can accomplish the very best results. The good news is that it is entirely possible to create a great-tasting beer.

Beer makers blend barley and water to make a sweet liquid, known as wort. They ultimately flavour this wort with hops, and eventually ferment it together with yeast. The Three most significant stages of the total process are malting, brewing, and fermentation. In addition, you will eventually want the beer to fully mature so that you can enjoy it.

Malting, is the 1st step in the process, and basically consists of you preparing the barley for brewing. The grain is steeped in water, and permitted to dry out so that germination occurs. Germination leads to the creation of sugars.

Filed under: Business, Education, Food, General, Hobbies
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For over a thousand years, people have engaged in candle making crafts. Today, it has become one of the popular hobbies as evidenced by the many candle making classes conducted around the globe. Candle making crafts is a good learning experience for older children and adults alike. Home made candles can make great gifts and is also a good home based business.

This is the new article I have posted in my candle making web site.

The article has information on how to make your own candles.

To learn how to make your own candle, please visit my site and read the article.

(more…)

Filed under: For Women, General, Gifts, Hobbies
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Are you having trouble sometimes choosing a Christmas gift for a man? It seems that most women will encounter this problem often times when Christmas roles around. Most of the time when a woman ask a man what he wants for Christmas, he normally says that he really does not need anything special. This then becomes a little more difficult for the woman to decide on a Christmas gift. Well, before you pick a neck tie or shaving cream, read a few of these suggestions. I think they might help you with choosing a Christmas gift for a man.

First off, as you think about a Christmas gift for a man, think about something that he is interested in. Is he into barbecuing outdoors? If so, then you could get him a nice gift basket of hot sauces and exotic marinades. You can also find all kinds of nice barbeque accessories that he can use to help him cook.

Secondly, if he happens to be an artist, then are always in need of more art supplies like paint, brushes and canvases. Just go down to you local art and crafts store and ask the store clerk for all kinds of suggestions. I am sure they will have plenty ideas that they can give you that will make a good Christmas gift for a man.

Thirdly, if he likes reading books, then head on over to the bookstore and look around for the topics that interest him. Chances are you will find all sorts of books on the subjects that he likes to read about.

Finally, does he like going to the theater? Then go ahead and get him some tickets to a symphony, play, ballet or an opera. He will probably even like a big book of movies. You should be able to find these books at the local video stores or even bookstores. These books will have thousands of movies that will give a complete description of each movie.

Filed under: For Men, General, Gifts, Hobbies
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It really all comes down to whether you want to build it yourself, buy cheap or go big. For many reasons building your own moveable chicken coop is a great way to go and this is due to being able to control all aspects of the coops yourself. A good example is the fact that when building your own coops you can get free material from the local dump! The great news is that what no one else needs is exactly the materials you want!
More Chicken Coop Articles

Filed under: Garden, General, Hobbies
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Family Adventure Travel

When we think of cruises we picture beautiful moonlit skies shining down on the sea and being there with your partner or loved one sharing a romantic holiday together.

This kind of holiday is not just for lovers, any age group can enjoy a cruise and with all the great things these ships have to offer they are ideal for a real family adventure with excellent facilities for young and old alike.

So take a moment or two to read through the articles below and see what they have to offer.

Taking the children on a cruise.

You might be under the impression that the children might get a bit bored on a cruise but this certainly wont be the case.

Filed under: Education, Entertainment, General, Hobbies, Travel
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One of the most common questions asked about fish pond care is how often should you change your pond filters? There are no hard and fast rules as to when you should change your pond filters. Remember that different types of fish ponds require different degrees of care. It is therefore up to you to decide when you should change your pond filters. When you feel that your filters are no longer efficient, then, by all means chance them at once.

Filed under: Garden, General, Hobbies
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As a child, learning a new language comes naturally and is pretty easy. As an adult, learning a new language can be a big challenge. So what are you to do if you want to learn how to speak French as an example?

One of the best ways to learn a foreign language is to take a course. There are many courses to be found online, some more expensive than others. If you dig a little you will probably find free courses that cover the basics, and are more than good enough to start with.

It is even better if you can take a course in the country of the language you are trying to learn. An oversea course in France would give you the benefit of being forced to speak the language for your daily dues, ordering food in a restaurant, asking for directions in the streets.

Combining a course with an abroad stay is not only the best way to learn a language. You also get to immerse yourself in the culture, which will ultimately lead to you also having a better understanding of their language.

Filed under: Education, Hobbies, Internet, Online
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Man has been hunting animals such as deer and buffalo for the purposes of food, clothing and shelter for a very long time. Hunting actually predates the civilized world as we know it today and there are many archaeological discoveries that confirm that hunting history goes back a long ways.

An Asian spearhead has been carbon dated as being over 16,000 years old and there is some evidence that we used larger game as food as much as 2 million years ago. That doesn’t seem likely to me but I suppose it’s not impossible. Archaeologists think it’s the case, tho.

The most likely weapons first used were probably rocks thrown to kill small game with hunting spears coming soon after. Easy to sharpen a long piece of wood and make the point. Also a very effective close in weapon that could bring down large animals.

Bear hunting is becoming a controversial sport and this article is what I consider to be a kind of biased view of bear hunting. OTOH going to the local bakery and getting some of yesterdays donuts and pastries to bait bears with isn’t exactly a good image either. Personally I’d like to see that kind of bear baiting banned.

IMO if you’re going to hunt bears for the thrill of it then get all the thrills you can. Don’t sit 50-100 yards away and shoot some bear eating yesterdays donuts. Be a man, go into the bears domain and hunt for him there. Yeah, I know why a lot of people don’t do that but choose to shoot donut bears instead. Fear, plain and simple. They want to brag they killed a bear but they don’t want to be in danger doing it. Sheesh, man up, go hunt Mr. Bear where he lives and take your chances. Some days you eat the bear but one day the bear will eat you. That’s enough to make donut bear shooters out of most guys.

Filed under: Camping, General, Hobbies, Outdoor
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This is pretty much a no brainer but first you need to figure out what you want to do with your boat. Obviously the primary purpose will be fishing but what kind of fishing. Obviously if you are only going to be trolling you need a different setup than if you are going to always be anchoring and sitting. Even fishing boats have dfferent purposes.

If you want to be a tournament fisherman, which can be quite exciting even in small local tournaments, you should consider a boat with a motor no less than 150 HP and probably shorter than 19 feet. For those of you who plan to fish on deeper water regularly you might find that a 200 HP motor and a boat at least 20 feet long or more will be ideal.

If you don’t plan on doing any tournament fishing but instead want to go after fish like bass, walleyes or crappies you’ll want a smaller boat. Perhaps in the 17-18 foot range with a minimum of 115 HP for the motor. With that boat you can enjoy it on lakes or rivers.

Choosing the motor or system to propel your boat is one of the more important things you will do. Motors weigh a lot and the horsepower will have a lot to do with how happy you are with your boat. If you don’t get a big enough motor it will work twice as hard and your boat performance will be poor.

There are a few different types of motors you can buy. First is an outboard which is very popular on smaller boats and fishing boats. These motors while still heavy are the lightest, have tons of power and are very quiet. They are usually mounted on the transom with bolts or brackets.

Outboards will swivel for easy steering as the prop pushes the stern of the boat. They come in many different sizes from 5 HP to 300 HP and the horsepower will affect how much fuel you use. Just like cars, the smaller the motor the better the mileage. and that’s why choosing the right motor for your boat is so important.

Filed under: Boating, Camping, General, Hobbies, Outdoor
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Professional music recording software has become very affordable these last years, with cheap computer offers flooding the market, and the software manufactures lowering their prices and adding new functions to their products. But now you can also get free music recording software, which can be more then enough for a musician on a budget.

Here is a list of free music recording software that can be found on the Internet for immediate download.

Audacity
A free, open source, music recording software for Windows, Mac, Linux and other operating systems. Their web site states that you can use the software to.

Kristal Audio Engine
A free audio recording software, for personal, educational and non-commercial use. It is a powerful multi-track recorder, audio sequencer and mixer, and is great for anyone wanting to get started with digital recording.

Filed under: Audio, Computers, Free, Hobbies, Music
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It is a mistake to start off learning billiards trick shots when you aren’t very good at the game. After all, almost every billiards trick shot there is requires a perfect knowledge of geometry combined with an ability to precisely control where your shot goes. As a matter of fact, the most simple pool trick shots aren’t really trick shots at all. For example, jumping a ball is often considered a trick shot, but it is actually a useful strategy for many pool games. To jump a ball, you have to hit it low down with just the right spin to get it to vault over the balls in front of it and hit what is behind them. You have to precisely calculate the jumps so it lands correctly and continues in a straight path.

In my opinion, this is the first billiards trick shot that you should learn. It isn’t that you can’t learn how to do other trick shots before you learn this one, but you will have more difficulty. The thing is, if you don’t have the precise control over the ball That you need to jump it, you probably won’t be able to do other difficult shots either. Being able to control such elements of the game as backspin, power, and precise placement are absolutely crucial to almost all of the good billiards trick shots.

Filed under: For Men, Games, Hobbies, Sports
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Microscopes for kids are a fantastic means to present your child a chance to explore the regions of our material world that cannot be experienced by any different ways. These microscopes may not be near the equivalent of a professional microscope, but they do allow for children to get up and close to all of the microscopic things that little boys and girls love.

If your child is expressing an interest in biology and wants to see what is in that drop of water or wishes to view what the legs of a spider look like up close and personal then this is the greatest means to grant them the joy of doing so.

Filed under: Children, Education, Entertainment, General, Hobbies
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The Fuji Finepix J250 is a 10 megapixel digital camera with a 5x wide angle lens. I found this camera easy to use and it also felt good in the hand. It is a little bigger and heavier than the smallest digital cameras, but it will still fit into a reasonably sized pocket. Looking at the price tag the Finepix J250 falls into the lower price bracket when compared with most smaller compacts.

As you would expect the Finepix J250 is not packed with features. I think Fuji has chosen wisely though when it comes to the features they have included. For example there is a 3 inch LCD screen. You will also find image stabilisation available. The upsides of a relatively small set of features include ease of use, plus the fact you are not paying for a string of features you will never use.

Another camera I like that falls into roughly the same price bracket is the Panasonic Lumix DMC FS62. It has a slight edge over the Finepix J250 when it comes to picture quality, but this Fuji camera fights back with its larger LCD screen. There is not a lot to choose between these two cameras.

Rating: Above Average

Taking the price tag of the Fuji Finepix J250 into account I have been pleasantly surprised by the quality of this camera. It is easy to use, can take a decent snap shot and it has a good solid feel in the hand. It is one of the better cheaper digital cameras.

Summary: For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Fuji Finepix J250 review and ratings

Filed under: Cameras, Consumer Electronics, Digital Cameras, Hobbies, Photography
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The Nikon Coolpix S70 gives you full access to the camera settings through a large three and a half inch LCD screen. Nikon has certainly gone the whole hog and it is only cameras in this range that I have tested that offers zoom control via the screen. If you want to you can even set up the Coolpix S70 so that you can take a photo by touch the screen rather than pressing the shutter button on top of the camera.

Does the touch screen make using the Coolpix S70 easier than a more standard digital camera with buttons giving you access to a text based menu system? It is certainly a plus point that you can access all the main features just by tapping a screen icon. The big question is whether or not you feel comfortable using the icons or if you would prefer to use a more standard menu.

Another feature of interest is that you can charge the Coolpix S70 via a USB socket on a computer.

General features include 12 megapixels and a 5x optical zoom lens. Also available are High Definition movies and image stabilisation.

The big rival to the Coolpix S70 is the
Sony Cybershot DSC TX1. The Cybershot DSC TX1 also allows you to set the vast majority of controls through the touch screen. The TX1 offers some extra features too.

Rating: Above Average

Summary: Picture quality was fine when I was close to the subject, but I found focusing could fall off as soon as there was distance between the Nikon Coolpix S70 and the subject. The camera can handle snapshot size prints and is likely to appeal to the gadget conscious.

For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Nikon Coolpix S70 review and ratings

Filed under: Cameras, Consumer Electronics, Digital Cameras, Hobbies, Photography
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The Canon Powershot SX20 IS is a 12 megapixel super zoom digital camera. It has a 20x optical zoom lens. The lens has wide angle capabilities. When you combine this with the more obviously telephoto qualities you can see you have a lens that offers a great deal of flexibility. This flexibility is further enhanced by the fact Canon has incorporated a macro mode that allows the Powershot SX20 IS to focus from right in front of the lens.

As well as the lens power this camera has a wide range of features that are likely to appeal to someone who sees photography as a serious hobby. To start with there are a set of manual exposure modes, including aperture priority and shutter priority. These will give you a high degree of control over the way your photos will look.

One feature you do not see often that Canon has included with the Powershot SX20 IS is a pull out and twist LCD screen. This can be a big help if you are shooting at an awkward angle. It can also come in handy if you are having a problem with the sun falling directly on the LCD screen.

This is one of the few compact digital cameras to have a hotshoe. There is a pop up flash unit on the top of the Powershot SX20 IS, but the hotshoe provides compatibility with a range of Canon speedlites and gives an extra boost to your flash options.

Another area giving you up to date options is the movie mode. The Powershot SX20 IS is able to take High Definition movies. Zoom can be used while recording and this is one of the few cameras to offer stereo sound.

A further option is the
Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ38. This camera has a similar set of features to the Powershot SX20 IS.

Rating: Above Average

Summary: I like this camera a lot. I did have a problem with purple fringing when the lens was fully zoomed out, but otherwise I found the picture quality offered by the Canon Powershot SX20 IS to be very good.

For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Canon Powershot SX20 IS review and ratings

Filed under: Cameras, Consumer Electronics, Digital Cameras, Hobbies, Photography
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Cricut personal electronic cutters are really interesting gadgets to own. All knowledgeable scrapbookers seem to own one or are planning to buy one. You can cut just about anything with these intelligent cutters.

However, special Cricut paper is necessary to ensure the quality of your cut outs. Colored and patterned paper may be bought from the Cricut website and other online sellers. The price is very much the same. Each pack of 6 by 12 special paper pads would cost you $5.99.

You can also try other kinds of specialty paper from bookstores or scrapbook shops. It is nice to experiment with different colors, patterns and even textures. But since some of these papers are quite expensive, it would help to know which ones can be cut by the machine.

Filed under: Accessories, Consumer Electronics, Design, For Women, Hobbies
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So you are just about to start your journey into the wonderful world of art and are thinking about taking a painting course? Like most new skills, it can be a little daunting at first knowing where and how to start, particularly if you don’t have someone to help guide you through the initial stages]. This article will hopefully provide you with a few tips and ideas to get you started.

Painting Brushes
As with paint colours, choosing your paint brush is purely a matter of personal choice. I have experimented over the years with numerous different brush types and mainly opt to use flats and filberts of varying sizes. My paint brush selection mainly consists of No.2, No.5, and No.10 Filberts and No2, No5, and No10 Flats, which are all made from hog hair, which is extremly strong, flexible and great to use with oil paints.

Organizing Your Art Studio
When you first begin to learn to paint, you will probably not have the use of a professional art studio, however you should try and create a productive environment around you where you can concentrate on the job in hand and relax! Most importantly, try and find a space in your home that is free from noise and distraction. That’s not always easy I know! At least set up your art studio where you will not be constantly disturbed.

Basic Lighting
Where possible, find a room in your home that has some space and plenty of natural sunlight. A Conservatory is a great place to start, or a room that has lots of large windows. If you can’t find any natural sunlight, you will have to use artificial light. There are special lights called “Full Spectrum”, that are made to emulate natural sunlight. They do a adequate in providing the correct lighting, but nothing compares to natural sunlight.

Artist Palette
You will see every artist using one of these if you are not familiar with the term! The paint palette is basically the surface that you will use to layout and mix all your colors on. There are a variety of different artist’s palettes available. They can be made from glass, wood or plastic and come in a variety of shapes. I usually use a palette made from wood, however you will need to seal it first as the wood is porous. This is extremely easy to do. All you need is some linsead oil or mineral oil and then wipe the surface of your palette to coat the surface. Wipe off any excess oil and you’re ready to get started!

You can find more information on art courses and tips for beginners here.

For more arts and painting resources and information on the best painting lessons on DVD visit our website.

Filed under: Hobbies, Reviews
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If you’re not a gardener, you probably find it frustrating to buy gardening gifts. So let me make it easy for you. Check out my article about this unique metal plant stand – my #1 pick for gardening gifts this year.

Not only is it great for growing flowers and herbs in small spaces, it’s special design makes the pots look like they’re floating! I bought mine at a local garden show several years ago but now I’ve finally found them for sale online. This plant stand is always the center of attention whenever anyone visits my summer garden and now you’ll get the attention when you give this unique gift to the gardeners on your list.

Before you buy any other gardening gifts, come by and learn more about this fun metal plant stand. You’ll also want to check out the rest of my recommendations for great gardening gifts.

Filed under: Garden, Gifts, Hobbies
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Many like to get one thing that works for both when getting a Christmas gift for grandparents. That always works well too. These things are usually decorative touches like a clock or perhaps a wreath. Just keep their style and their interests in mind as you shop, and you should have no problem finding something they can enjoy. Instead, do a search for gifts by what they are interested in, and see what comes up online. There are great ideas out there, and the perfect gift is waiting.All you have to do is think about what they like to do to get ideas for Christmas gift for grandparents.

Filed under: For Men, For Women, General, Gifts, Hobbies
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So often, children find themselves forbidden to touch the various Christmas decorations that are placed around their homes. They want to be involved in the holiday decorations, but aren’t allowed to do anything.

This year, you can easily involve your children by getting Christmas craft kits that they can do without fear of doing damage. There are many wonderful kits that you can purchase. Kits include foam craft kits for making Christmas houses, castle, and other buildings, Christmas stocking kits, and snowman kits.

Perhaps one of the best aspect of letting your children make decorations is that they will feel great pride as you display their finished products. They may become cherished decorations that you look forward to putting out year after year, long after your children have grown and left your home.

Filed under: Children, General, Hobbies
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The Panasonic Lumix DMC FS62 is an excellent little camera. It is one of the cheapest pocket cameras on the market at the time of writing this review. Yet despite its low price it is able to give many a more expensive digital camera a run for their money. To start with I like the way the Lumix DMC FS62 looks. There is a simplicity about its design and in this instance I think it is a case of less is more. There are five different colour versions so you should be able to find one that suits your taste. The colours are black, silver, blue, pink and red.

As with other Panasonic digital cameras I found the Lumix DMC FS62 very easy to use. The menu system is straightforward and there is also a quick menu option that gives you fast access to key settings you may wish to fine tune.

The only real compromise is when it comes to shutter delay. Alas this is an area that is likely to be of critical importance to many people. This camera is noticeably slower to respond than a lot of more expensive digital cameras. At this price something has to give somewhere. The LCD screen is also slightly smaller than standard at 2.5 inches.

One area where no compromises have been made is when it comes to picture quality. My test photos were sharper than many more expensive digital cameras manage. I also liked the warmth of the colours the Lumix DMC FS62 produced for me.

Rating: Above Average

Summary: Out of all the cheaper cameras I have tested in 2009 the Panasonic Lumix DMC FS62 stands out when it comes to offering good old fashioned value for money. If you are looking for a pocket camera and do not want to overspend, you will be hard pressed to beat this camera.

For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Panasonic Lumix DMC FS62 review and ratings

Filed under: Cameras, Consumer Electronics, Digital Cameras, Hobbies, Photography
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The press release for the Fuji Finepix Z35 makes it abundantly clear who this camera is aimed at. The Finepix Z35 is targeted fairly and squarely at teenagers and twenty somethings. The emphasis has been placed on design and ease of use. Reading through the five colours the camera comes in should give you an idea if this camera is for you or not. The colours are marshmallow white and pink, quartz black and silver, apple green, true blue and deep purple. Fuji suggests the Finepix Z35 is great to take to a party. This is partly because it is one of the smallest cameras I have ever reviewed.

Even though I am neither a teenager or twenty something any more I like the design of the Finepix Z35. The front is slightly sculptured and the lens cover slides open to turn the camera on.

In terms of price it is one of the cheapest cameras you will find from a known brand. It is also one of the easiest to use digital cameras you are likely to find. This is mainly owing to the small number of features this camera has.

There are not too many direct competitors when it comes to design, style or price. In fact this is the only camera of its type I can remember viewing apart from other cameras in this part of the Fuji series. One camera you may wish to consider that is small and compact and is available for a low price is the Olympus FE-5020. It does not have the style of the Finepix Z35, but it is small and relatively cheap.

Rating: Above Average

Picture quality is not a strong point of this camera, but then again if picture quality is a big thing with you then you are unlikely to be attracted to this camera in the first place. The Fuji Finepix Z35 should be judged on its merits as a simple, fun camera and on that basis it works quite well..

Summary: For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Fuji Finepix Z35 review and ratings

Filed under: Cameras, Consumer Electronics, Digital Cameras, Hobbies, Photography
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The Nikon Coolpix S640 is a fairly standard pocket camera. It is one of those digital cameras where although it does not have a flashy design it still manages to look good. It feels good in the hand and gives the impression of having a decent build quality. It is also one of the more lightweight digital cameras. You can choose between models in pink, red, silver and black.

In my opinion the biggest strength of the Coolpix S640 is its ease of use. I have felt for a long time that the menu system that Nikon has adopted is probably the easiest to read and use out of all the digital camera manufacturers. I must admit that in this case ease of use is helped by the fact there are not too many features to get to know. This is truly a point and shoot digital camera.

Looking at cameras with similar features and build quality, but perhaps offering that bit extra all round I have come up with the
Canon IXUS 120 IS.

Picture quality was good, but I felt that if the lighting is tricky the Coolpix S640 can start to struggle. This is not just when the light gets low, but on a cold sunny day I found some of my test pictures took on a very strong blue tint. There was also an issue with portrait shots where hair colours took on a purple tinge.

Rating: Above Average

Summary: The Nikon Coolpix S640 just creeps into my above average category. It is in a very competitive category and there are plenty of smaller compacts to choose from. Although there is nothing that stands out and tells me you should not buy this camera it is also missing a bit of Wow! Factor and it is difficult to say why you should buy this camera over and above other models.

For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Nikon Coolpix S640 review and ratings

Filed under: Cameras, Consumer Electronics, Digital Cameras, Hobbies, Photography
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The Samsung ST550 is a groundbreaking digital camera. As well as the standard LCD screen placed on the back of the camera, Samsung has added a 1.5 inch screen to the front. This is a big help if you are trying to line up self portrait type shots.

The screen on the back of the camera is touch sensitive and allows you to control just about every setting through touch. Other features include High Definition movies and tilt control. Once you have mastered tilt control you are able to activate options such as deleting photos or starting a slideshow by tilting the camera.

One feature I really like is the recycle bin. Many people have written to me over the years bemoaning the fact they have accidentally deleted treasured photos of their grandchildren, holiday of a lifetime etc. The recycle bin puts an extra step in the deletion process and gives you some added protection.
Picture quality is very good. It is not the very best, but you should not have too many complaints about the quality of the pictures you take with the ST550

The camera that comes nearest to the ST550 in terms of features is the Sony Cybershot DSC TX1. This also offers full touch screen control. It comes in a very stylish body too.

Rating: Above Average

If the number of features on a digital camera is one of the key attractions then the Samsung ST550 is likely to prove attractive. Samsung are probably the most innovative digital camera company and this camera breaks new ground.

Summary: For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Samsung ST550 review and ratings

Filed under: Cameras, Consumer Electronics, Digital Cameras, Hobbies, Photography
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The Panasonic Lumix DMC FX60 is aimed at anyone who is looking for a straightforward pocket camera. It is easy to operate, yet has a good range of features when compared with other cameras jostling in this overcrowded sector of the digital camera market.

It has an unfussy, simple design. The Lumix DMC FX60 comes in four different colours. These are red wine, blue, silver and black. Key features include 12 megapixels and a 5x optical zoom lens. One thing I like about this camera is the fact you can opt to decrease the resolution you are shooting at in order to increase the amount of zoom available. For example if you shoot at 3 megapixels zoom increases to 9.8x.

Picture quality is very good indeed. It is right up there with the best cameras in its class. In fact considering it has such a wide angle lens the sharpness of the pictures it produces is outstanding. There was plenty of colour in my tests shots, without the scenes being overpowered. When I moved in closer for portrait shots my photos had a pleasant, warm glow to them.
If you are looking for a camera to compare the Lumix DMC FX60 against then take a look at another of my top rated pocket cameras the Canon IXUS 120 IS.
Rating: Above Average
Summary: There is plenty of choice when it comes to buying a pocket camera. The Panasonic Lumix DMC FX60 rubs shoulders with the best models from 2009. It is reasonably priced and ticks just about every box.
For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Panasonic Lumix DMC FX60 review and ratings

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To add functionality to the new and more powerful Nikon FX cameras like the Nikon D3x and Nikon D700, Nikon has launched a new flash unit called Nikon SB900. For more demanding professional photography or even for the serious amateur, a separate flash unit is needed and Nikon has it all covered with its lineup of Speedlight-branded units that drastically improve the capability of the camera to handle difficult lighting conditions.

The SB-900 boosts a superior look when you put it right next to the mid-range SB-600. In terms of size, the SB-900 is the largest flash Nikon has produced. The head is a totally new design and size.

Filed under: Consumer Electronics, Digital Cameras, Hobbies, Photography
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The Nikon Coolpix S1000pj is different to other digital cameras. This is because it has a built in projector. This allows you to give an in house slideshow anytime you choose. I can see this being a big hit at parties where you spend part of the evening taking pictures before showing them later as the party progresses. The projector sits in the front of the camera and can be controlled through remote control. It can be set up display single photos or a slideshow.

Away from the projector the Coolpix S1000pj is a 12 megapixel digital camera with a 5x optical zoom lens. It has a 2.7 inch LCD screen as well as image stabilisation. The movie mode offers standard definition movies rather than the increasingly common high definition mode.

As there are no other digital cameras around that come with a projector it is impossible to come up with any direct competition for the Coolpix S1000pj. I tried to come up with a compact camera with a similar price tag, but the problem is the projector adds so much to the price that cameras with similar features aside from the projector are a lot cheaper than this one. A camera you may wish to compare it to is the Sony Cybershot DSC TX1.

Picture quality was a shade disappointing. If you envisage being able to make super sized prints from this 12 megapixel camera then think again. At times I detected a lack of sharpness in the photos and a loss of detail in lighter areas.

Rating: Above Average

Summary: Having the built in projector understandably adds a fair premium to the price of the Nikon Coolpix S1000pj. If this is a feature you are attracted to and with no other digital cameras currently offering this feature (November 2009) then this camera is likely to be attractive to you. If on the other hand you feel you will only use the projector now and again then it is best to look elsewhere.

For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Nikon Coolpix S1000pj review and ratings

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The Olympus FE-4000 is a 12 megapixel digital camera with a 4x, wide angle lens. It will fit into a pocket easily. If you are on a budget you will be pleased to know that the FE-4000 is one of the cheaper digital cameras in this class.

In terms of features the FE-4000 is a typical point and shoot camera. Olympus has created a camera that is very easy to use. The design is plain, but unfussy. The front of the camera has a highly reflective sheen.

That is about it when it comes to good news. The delay between pressing the shutter button and the picture being taken is excessive making the FE-4000 one of the slowest cameras on the market. My test shots struggled for focus and shots with high levels of contrast suffered badly from a loss of detail in the lighter areas of the shot.

I did wonder if I had a rogue camera, but I don’t feel this is the case. I think it is more a case of the FE-4000 not being up to the expected standard.

A slightly larger digital camera that I felt takes a better picture is the Canon Powershot A480.

Rating: Below Average

Summary: It is all very well packing an extra wide angle lens into a camera of this size, but there is little point if this causes a compromise when it comes to picture quality. I am sorry to say I found the picture quality produced by the Olympus FE-4000 to be below standard and not up to the standard provided by the majority of its competitors.

For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Olympus FE-4000 review and ratings

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An antique wall clock can introduce elegance to any home. From modern apartment to period mansion, these good-looking clocks can improve your current decor. As well as being a representation of your personality, they also tell the time! But with such a eclectic mixture of styles on the market, just how do you make your mind up which one is appropriate for you? Here are a few points to consider.

You may like to pick an antique wall clock that is in keeping with the style of room in which you are going to display it. Antique French clocks look dramatic in a Provence style kitchen, for example. On the other hand, a mixture of old and new also works well and many varieties of antique wall clock will add a touch of timelessness to a modern room. Size is also important. Antique grandfather clocks are impressive but take up a lot of space and can certainly overpower a small space. (more…)

Filed under: Furniture, Hobbies, Home Improvement
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Computer cable ties are indispensable for my work, why because as my wife puts it, I am a slob. However, I just like to think that I am so busy with building my websites, running my music studio and other fun stuff that I just naturally have cable laying all over the place. Seriously, I really need good cable ties for my computer and my music equipment.

Each of these uses has special cable ties. For my music, computer studio, drum mics etc… I like to use velcro ties.

For the desktop computer I use a couple of different types of ties. I use a chain cable for my high voltage cords and I use your basic nylon ties for my usb and cat 5 cords. I try to keep them at leas 6 inches apart for interference purposes and if they do have to touch, I run them at a 90 degree angle.

Cable ties are varied and cool, check it out on my blog Computer Cable Ties. com

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When planning backyard fish pond, the homeowner should choose the placement of the plants around the pond very carefully. The plants around the pond should be placed in areas that receive ample sunlight to allow the plants to grow properly. If the person would like to place plants in shaded areas near their backyard fish pond, they should make sure that the plants can flourish in areas that do not get direct sunlight or they will die very quickly.

Filed under: Garden, General, Hobbies
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The Casio Exilim EX-Z280 is a standard pocket sized digital camera. It has 12 megapixels and a 4x wide angle zoom lens. It sits in the middle of the pack when it comes to both price and features. You should find the Exilim EX-Z280 fairly straightforward and easy to use. Features include image stabilisation and a High Definition movie mode. The camera can capture movies up to 10 minutes in duration.

A couple of features you will not find on many other digital cameras are a Make Up mode and a Dynamic Photo mode. The make up mode softens skin and reduces the impact of shadows for portrait shots. The Dynamic Photo mode allows you to cut a subject from one image and superimpose it on another.

The Exilim EX-Z280 is up against some pretty stiff opposition. There are many pocket sized digital cameras on the market that offer a few extra features on top. One such camera is the
Sony Cybershot DSC WX1. This camera is well worth considering if you like the idea of a digital camera capable of shooting great panoramic shots and firing off very fast bursts of shots.

Rating: Average

Summary: Based purely on picture quality I feel the Casio Exilim EX-Z280 struggles when compared to other digital cameras with a similar specification and price tag. As with other digital cameras with such a high number of pixels crammed onto a small sensor and the introduction of an extra wide zoom lens I wonder if Casio have pushed the technology limits a little too far.

For a full review, ratings and sample images please visit: Casio Exilim EX-Z280 review and ratings

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