Thursday, December 11, 2008

Corel draw tip Cut line

I found this valuable tip on line today and had to share it with you. I have been using corel in my sign business and had an awefull time getting a cut line around graphics. well here it is.

First, select all of the vector objects and press the Boundary button on the Property Bar. Note that this button first appeared in CorelDRAW X3 so if you have an older version, now you know a good reason to upgrade. This gives you a line around the outside boundary of your objects. If there are inside areas you also need to cut, use the Smart Fill tool and click on each of those areas. Again, Smart Fill debuted in CorelDRAW X3 giving users of older versions yet another reason to upgrade. If you needed to use Smart Fill, select the outer boundary and all of the objects created with Smart Fill. Combine those objects and you have a cutline. Simply assign the color your device recognizes as a cut color and you're all set.

To create a boundary around selected objects

1.Select the objects that you want to surround with a boundary.

2.Click Effects clip_image001Create boundary.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

New Web Site

I have been trying to get a new web page designed recently. My current site is www.tint-it.ca and I would like a new site for Mike McVittie Photography or "MMPhoto.ca". Anyone have a preference?

It has turned out to be a very large time consuming endeavour. First thing I had to get some software. Ended up with Dreamweaver, but it didn't end there. Next I had to learn how Dreamweaver worked!! So I signed up with www.linda.com and I have learned enough to get me going. The complicated stuff I will just have to do without for now. I just don't have the time to tackle it now, but it is on my list for future evenings.

I am on my third attempt and I am getting satisfied with the result. Logos,layouts and content it is getting there.

wwwtint-itca

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Maine Photo Workshop

This past October My family and I took a trip in our new 5th wheel RV to Bar Harbour Maine. I had signed up for a photography workshop with Neil and Susan Silverman and Matt Kloskowski.

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We had a great trip and I got some great shots. We had some classroom time that turned out to be a fun and informative.

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We spent most of our time shooting. Including getting up at 5am every morning until after sunset. There was not much family time other than traveling.

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I came away with alot more confidence and many more ideas thanks to the teachers and the other participants.

I am also considering trying to sell some images on line and looking strongly at Photoshelter. If anyone has any opinions about on line sales, drop me a note.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Lake Superior Photo Trip

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We packed up the trailer and headed out to Northern Ontario In search of adventure. Never being to Lake Superior Park before, I did not know what to expect. The landscape is vast and unpopulated for the most part. I was hoping for a dramatic storm to photograph. We were treated to calm summer weather for our mini vacation. We spent our time traveling to creeks,mountains and notable spots to view and photo.

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We were told of a mountain with incredible views. After a long drive and a very difficult hike up and up we could not find the peek! I will never leave the gps at home again. It turned out to be good exercise and a fun adventure. We ended our days by the campfire playing family Monopoly.

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I hope to return some day soon to capture a cold November storm or perhaps in the winter.

Friday, August 8, 2008

Laganza photo shoot










Finally!
After many months of waiting for a local band to get organized for a photo shoot, It happened. It was a great deal for both of us. I did not charge them for the shoot and in turn I am able to use the images in my portfolio. we did some shots in my studio and went outside to an old barn and the local historical train station. Then I had a great shoot at there CD release concert at the new
Alonquin Theatre



My Review of Photoflex Transpac Multi Light Kit Case, for up to 3 Lighting Kits, 47.5" x 11 x 6".

Originally submitted at Adorama

Photoflex Transpac Multi Light Kit Case, for up to 3 Lighting Kits, 47.5" x 11 x 6".


Huge well made case

By scout57 from huntsville,ontario on 8/8/2008

 

4out of 5

Pros: Good Protection, Lots Of Pockets And Features

Best Uses: Daily Transport

Describe Yourself: Professional

This case is VERY large and can hold almost everything I need. I know my gear will be protected well. It is large and heavy but that is exactly what I want and need. the wheels and handles are awesome. the only issue I have is the zipper holding the two halves together is not a great idea...in fact it sucks. but I will be able to attach straps to hold it together instead.

(legalese)

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

My Review of Sigma 100-300mm f/4 EX DG IF AutoFocus Telephoto Zoom Lens for Pentax AF Cameras

Originally submitted at Adorama

Sigma 100-300mm f/4 EX DG IF AutoFocus Telephoto Zoom Lens for Pentax AF Cameras


Very impresive!

By Biker Mike from Muskoka Canada on 7/29/2008

 

5out of 5

Pros: Durable, Consistent Output, Strong Construction, Sharp Focus

Cons: Slow Focus

Best Uses: Special Effects, Sports/Action, Wildlife, General Use

Describe Yourself: Professional

After working with a cheeper zoom I was getting very frustrated with my images and with available zoom lenses for the Pentax 20D. I am very pleased with this lens! It is very sharp and now I can shoot with confidence my images are going to be of good quality. I also bought the sigma 2x converter and it works amazing too. Now I have a 100-600 quality lens. Nothing much wrong with it.

(legalese)

My Review of Photoflex StarFlash 650 Mercury LiteDome Kit with One StarFlash 650ws Monolight, Medium LiteDome, Connector and 8'2" LiteStand

Originally submitted at Adorama

Photoflex StarFlash 650 Mercury LiteDome Kit with One StarFlash 650ws Monolight, Medium LiteDome, Connector and 8'2" LiteStand


Quality is very good

By Biker Mike from Muskoka Canada on 7/29/2008

 

5out of 5

Pros: Durable, Powerful, Good Color Value, Attach Securely

Cons: Long recycle time

Best Uses: Studio, Night Time, Outdoors, Indoors, Low Light, General Use

Describe Yourself: Professional

I bought this product mainly on price and the company reputation and Photoflex did not let me down. Great price with a very good quality fit and finish. Nothing in this kit is of poor quality. Buy with confidence. The recycle time is a little lagging but it forces you to think about your shot rather than just rattling off a bunch. It is just a matter of getting used to. everything else is on the up side

(legalese)