tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19144331928781045742024-02-22T00:55:26.418+07:00Reflections on the New ParadigmWritten and designed by Britain's foremost 21st century comic writer-realist; it's a joyous escapade into subjective reality. Stephen will take you on a wild ride into a relativity which has been formally coined, Reflections on the New Paradigm.Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comBlogger128125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-76275044178155919112016-10-21T18:09:00.000+07:002016-10-21T18:09:44.575+07:00Reflections: Urban Exploration Thailand<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAFEgAl43rQ9NX4eZXhOLZgkhxqsyDldDP0M1BSyYx9uV8UD35mTu0DL6QKh2Rr9fWj2SXJjv2bRt0J6B3HFmAaeYVHVHTYDM6Ojr0V_2JuVK-bhpz3LhbVv-5NtI540nNImfA1DtZfKEG/s1600/abandoned-thailand.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><br /><i>The photograph (above) was taken at an abandoned resort style development in Rayong Province, Thailand. It's a good example of what can be found in regional areas of Thailand, where rapid development fails.</i> <br /><br />For the large majority of people Thailand is a holiday destination. It has a warm tropical climate and short monsoon season. Tourism is localized in regions that border the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, with inland mountainous destinations such as Changmai often more appealing to tourism over areas like the central plains and Khorat Plateau. Nevertheless, large areas of Thailand are still worth exploring. With a predominantly Buddhist population, Thailand offers an abundance of temples and religious sites, as well as industrial and agricultural centres with little or no western tourism. <br /><br />My current project gives me a first-hand look at these areas; A first person account of some of the more interesting places encountered in regional Thailand. By putting aside the glossy travel brochures and venturing into the often lost and forgotten regions, one is able to build a better picture of Thailand and its socio-political and economic landscape. <br /><br />When I returned to Thailand in 2013, it became apparent that the best way to explore the country was by motorcycle. My objective: to document and photograph the abundance of temples in the region. While also exploring other sites of interest as they arise; a road map to exploring the greater geographical network of cities, towns and villages was born. This has lead to the discovery of some extremely interesting locations. Often abandoned, and in various states of use and decay. Thailand is in a state of perpetual death and rebirth. Communities seem to under go sporadic commercial development. Often leading to half completed projects. These projects can lay dormant for years without further investment. The same is true for all forms of development in regional Thailand, whether commercial, industrial or residential. The inhabitants do their best to live in and among these structure. Nevertheless, it becomes quite clear that the environment plays second fiddle to such ventures. This said, I have photographed and documented some examples of these urban areas and will continue to update this post with images as they come. <a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2014/09/reflections-hdr-travel-photography.html#.VDEcs_mSz3o">Read More...</a> <br /><br /><b>Questions?</b> If you have any further questions about this article or would like more information on urban tours of Thailand by motorcycle, please feel free to contact me using the details provided. <br /><br /><hr noshade="noshade" /><div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157626683313135%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157626683313135%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157626683313135" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157626683313135%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157626683313135%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157626683313135" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-57736569460319596832016-05-21T19:53:00.001+07:002016-10-21T17:15:35.882+07:00Reflections: Digital Portraits<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTaKw39zvBr5TuZ8KRYhkyNyYnx0teWYYvQIG9-6u_1_EUmNheRPLpS5wd-0L8jZoyLwiaEAgy-RypXX6EB8VvZ3EcAmeko3PiNgZVg0f-rF5-9UNEcHpHVdATPnMPm6ExVbvFpzDraZXC/s1600/Jasonfreeny.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
The following set of portraits were created on an old outdated Windows laptop using Photoshop Elements 8. They are examples of what can be achieved using skills alone, without the use of a library of brushes and aftermarket plugins. The portraits themselves are of artists who work in all forms of digital and traditional media, with an emphasis on contemporary surrealism. Each portrait is created using a different skill-set. Some are more "vector" style specific and others blend brush work with a variety of simple techniques by way of layering. Each portrait was created from a small 72dpi web standard picture and enlarged to a 300dpi photo-quality .jpeg @ 20 - 25 megapixels.
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Story: I vaguely recall sitting in a job interview about twenty years ago, for the position of graphic designer with a software development company in Australia. One of the directors interviewing me put to me a question: He asked me, "Can you be crap?" I could be, and was for 2.5 years (I laugh now). Although, the position did give me some time to hone my vector illustration skills using Adobe FLASH/Illustrator and a variety of other graphic design software. Furthermore, my work was never used commercially by that company in any of their products, and as far as I could ascertain, none of the thirty or so others that worked there contributed much, if anything lasting to a single software product either. I mentioned this for several reasons here. Firstly, some of those skills that I acquired almost twenty years ago were used in the creation of these portrait illustrations. Secondly, I don't consider them "crap" at all. Although, I must add, they were created with the most basic graphic software on an old lap-top, unlike my expensive range of tools available to me at that company. This brings me to my last point of reference: With the most basic skills at hand one can create good work with old hardware and software. Learn how to do this and the next time you manage to work with the best equipment possible you will produce some fantastic work. Lastly, when you're self employed there is no need to be crap. Set your own standards and work with those on the same level, that strive to be better. The current problem facing those who work in digital media is the fact we use the highest skill-set found in most work places, especially those working in 3D. Often digital artists and creatives come with exceptional IT literacy. Nevertheless, those creatives are somewhat underestimated and poorly underpaid, regardless of gender or ethnic background.
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If you enjoyed this series of artwork please feel free to checkout my web-store at Society6. Urbex :: Siam can be found by following the link provided below. Furthermore, I can be contacted using a number of social media addresses and traditional email by following the links at the top of the page.
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Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-24308318028717602842016-02-16T17:55:00.000+07:002016-10-21T17:31:32.838+07:00Reflections: Changa<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgogdvcm6yrKs0bRd0SiA4X882YdWCi3r1fWvD1b7CYHeCWmZcFD9X1JvlIJPQbkozxIKpDvpeqolEiftgoM1f1xI1R5MBf1f1is2Q_7GC0p5Z54bRMXVa8Lyc97vNNtLp8dsompFYoLxri/s1600/changa.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
After several interesting trials with both Ayahuasca and smoke-able N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) it seems only natural to want to find a way of optimizing their positive potential while addressing some of the disadvantages one can encounter otherwise. The Ayahuasca brew with its monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) and their dietary requirements can take a week or more of intense dieting to reach the optimal body conditions, those required for a healthy Ayahuasca experience. On the other hand, DMT is a hard hitting short acting substance; one that leaves little time for the mind to make true sense of the experience. Nevertheless, by using what has been coined Changa; a smoke-able mix of Harmala containing plant alkaloids and DMT, one is able to reach a sort of compromise between both parties.
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Changa can be made from a variety of plants that contain the two key ingredients Harmaline (MAOI) and DMT. Both compounds are active when smoked and thus give a variety of options when creating a medicinal blend. Personally, I've found a blend of 10 x B. caapi leaf extract (a MAOI constituent) on dried Passiflora incarnata flowers (another MAOI containing plant), with the addition of Acacia DMT to be the most effective mixture possible. The ingredients are blended and dried together to make an almost black colored smoking mix that is rather harsh, but nevertheless, effective.
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The effects of Changa are similar to that of Ayahuasca; with a more gradual onset than pure DMT alone. The Changa experience gives one time to make sense of the visual landscape. It can give an initial peak - much like a DMT flash. Nevertheless, unlike DMT, it offers a slow and steady duration that lasts some 20 - 40mins.. Changa also takes some time to build-up a compound body tolerance, because of its MAOI constituent. Whereas, pure DMT is a one hit wonder, of sorts. Therefore, a Changa trip can be extended by an additional hit every 30 mins, or so, for about 2-3 hours. Making Changa a much more spiritual experience. One that resembles that of Ayahuasca.
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I currently have a lot more to say with regards to Changa, Ayahuasca and DMT. Plant medicines in general are becoming more mainstream; as the decriminalization of medical Cannabis and recreational Marijuana moves forward in Canada and across the United States. One can only hope that DMT in one form or another might act as a catalysis in helping bridge our mass social disconnection and lack of creative forward thinking towards the natural environment and inherent social issues, it causes. The idea that in the time it takes to drink a coffee, one can open a direct channel to the essence of most spiritual and religious memes, to be bombarded by coherent visual data and be back again with new insight on the world around you; to go about your daily business, is earth shattering...
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157663723785220" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157663723785220" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-59102457603665746472016-02-12T17:02:00.002+07:002016-10-21T17:35:20.812+07:00Reflections: Lysergic Acid Amide (LSA)<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5yx4i_cPK41PD3mjdEX0_H9pbbSH2qDa_bO69nMWOAqPngaBA0Xbp2DM6659NmoVFubietRmnlaNjafgqc8rvEVVO22ZYS50Pof0GmyuqdnLA_DRba0IMbR1O5teoCbn7GD8qPIJR7d5c/s1600/LSA-Morning-Glory.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
After several experiences with the alkaloid Ergine or Lysergic Acid Amide (LSA), I would like to share some of my thoughts and ideas regarding this substance. Ergine is found as a natural occurring compound in several different plant species. Morning Glory (Ipomoea violacea), Rivea corymbosa and Hawaiian Baby Woodrose (Argyreia nervosa) are the most common plants that contain Ergine, and as a result, they are the most widely sort-after cultivars from which the chemical constituent Lysergic Acid Amide is gathered for its exploratory and shamanic properties.
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Morning Glory for example has a long history of shamanic use; The morning glory plant has a rich historical tradition in psychedelic and visionary practices across multiple cultures, including those of the Chontal Indians of Oaxaca, Mexico, the highly evolved Aztecs, and the Zapotec. These seeds, without question, have been utilized throughout time as a means of communicating with the gods. Interestingly, in some areas of Mexico where the seeds are still used, I. violacea seeds are used by men, and Turbina corymbosa seeds, which contain similar alkaloids, are used by women. -- Schuldes 1993 cited in Ratsch 1998
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To outline some of my personal experiences with Morning Glory: Although the seeds of the Morning Glory plant have a psychoactive constituent, one must also be aware of the dangers of consuming both seeds and Ergine as a pure extract. It's widely held that, Lysergic Acid Amides along with other compounds found in the plant cause vasoconstriction and other unwanted side effects. So please do your research.
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<b>LSA Trip Report:</b>
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Method: 250 - 350 micrograms; pure Lysergic Acid Amide in a capsule.
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Duration: 6 - 8 hours.
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Report: I have previously tried unextracted Ergine in the form of Morning Glory seeds. However. eating a dose amount of seeds seemed to caused a wave of unwanted side effects. Such as, vasoconstrictions, muscle pains and a general feeling of unwellness that somewhat over powers any positive feelings that might otherwise be present.
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In extract form, I found a more positive experience. The first sensations became noticeable in just under 40min.. There was a slight alteration in visual clarity, however, this was everso slight. The main characteristics of change were that of body feelings; a dissociation of consciousness; a body state that more resembles that of LSD; a rise in heart rate and blood pressure; a general feeling of dizziness and euphoria. I found a great tendency for analytical thought patterns; problem solving seemed to be the name of the game here. A feeling of ego loss; or more-so, the total absence of depressive thought patterns, those that tend to leave one in a negative frame of mind. I remember thinking what a great anti-depressant this would make, in small doses. Although, there were negative side effects present: mild vasoconstriction and tremmors were noted. These were however, in no way as pronounced as previously experience on unextracted plant material. The experience had a peak at about four hours and was near baseline in eight. Furthermore, the residual effects of the experience could be felt the next day, along with it's unwanted baggage, which lowered mood from normal to rather disconnected and irritable, as found after a night of drinking alcohol.
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<b>Conclusion:</b>
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When we think of entheogens or psycoactive compounds it is with a tendency we grasp at those which have the greatest hallucinogenic properties, like Psilocybin, DMT or LSD. However, Ergine tends to fall short in terms of a hallucinogen. The effects of LSA are much like that of LSD, without its visual psychoactive properties. The compound can also cause some discomfort. Nevertheless, LSA is indeed an entheogen. It gives the user a sense of oneness, a heightened sense of awareness, euphoria and I believe, a good tool for boosting ones analytical problem solving skills. An Alexander "Sasha" Shulgin +2.5
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157663723785220" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157663723785220" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-83008508478336427592016-01-25T21:31:00.001+07:002016-10-21T17:36:44.218+07:00Reflections: The DMT Experience<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXE85IVdujP2NITzSlixVM6BAYK-Emxv3WXzM82sDGpo4fRf821fab0SzyJr2-AXhSbEoEmFUEPQlG37Od7WQ0IuVxK1zmVu9-rRCIqD4z4Or8D_achzB7Or7ntaxfPF9ydLH2xFatPCpB/s1600/dmt.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
Having a fascination with life and existence beats at the core of humanity. From the depths of human insight spring cultural and religious ideologies, myths and legends. Our drive to understand the world around us has brought forth great technological innovations, scientific exploration and works of great art. Our own points of view often live in a state of flux between these values. Nevertheless, at our foundations we share a kind of universal synchronicity.
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My personal fascination with entheogens, and specifically the tryptamine family of compounds, stem back to my teenage years. Psilocybe semilanceata, the Liberty Cap mushroom, was a seasonal visitor to the fields of Southwest England, where I grew up. They offered a free look into a strange but fascinating dimension, a stones throw from my front door. The experience itself seemed tuned to that of the frequencies which emanate from the natural environment around us, reminiscent of mythic folk-law. Until recently I haven't ventured down the tryptamine path for quite some time; a hiatus of almost twenty years. Nevertheless, a strong urge to revisit those creative realms was present again and waiting for the right moment to surface. When chance would bring the opportunity, I was ready.
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Having spent the last ten years living in Southeast Asia, it seemed almost impossible to locate the experience again. Although, by chance, I was able to find a few differing avenues of exploration: The first resulted in several experiences with the entheogen Mescaline, a phenethylamine from the Lophophora williamsii cactus (the Peyote button). Later, a brush with the equally interesting Blue Meanie Mushroom (Panaeolus cyanescens), gaving me a taste of that which I had been missing for all those years. The exploration of these two entheogens reinforced my desire to find and try the ever more exotic compound N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT).
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<b>The DMT Experience:</b>
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Firstly, I would like to elaborate on some of the research behind DMT. DMT is in fact a compound found throughout nature. It is thought to be responsible for dream states in human beings and further the chemical responsible for near death experiences. It is a simple molecule, similar in structure to serotonin, with an LD50 of 110 mg/kg. The compound is extremely safe, due to its presence naturally in the human body, and further, our ability to metabolize it within a matter of minutes after a standard dose makes it less dangerous than salt. I would recommend that those with further interest view, "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtT6Xkk-kzk">DMT: The Spirit Molecule (2010)</a>" a documentary that takes a closer look at N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and its effects on the human body.
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<b>DMT Trip Report:</b>
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Experience One:
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Method: Smoking 15-20mg Freebase N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT);
DMT freebase saturated on rolling tobacco papers.
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Duration: 5 mins..
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Report: The first attempt, like most, was unsuccessful. Although, I was able to ascertain that it was active with a feeling of falling and mild changes in perception; a strange visual distortion, like ones visual field was melting. However, that seemed to be the peak of the experience at about 2 mins., which rapidly returned to baseline.
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Experience Two:
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Method: Smoking 30-40mg Freebase N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT);
DMT freebase saturated on rolling tobacco papers.
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Duration: 7 mins..
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Report: The second attempt was successful in creating what has been described as a breakthrough experience. This time the DMT was concentrated towards the tip of the papers to equal three large pulls. The rapid onset of the chemical is almost overpowering. By the end of the second pull it was hard to ascertain my surroundings, with only a minimal amount of dexterity left to smoke any further. The body and spirit seemed to undergo a kind of separation which climaxed in an upload of all past memories into a split second of time. This feeling was accompanied by a deep humming noise, one that sounded distant and better described as a universal growning. My visual surroundings become somewhat overshadowed by that of a geometric formation, otherwise described as a mandala type object. This object hovers central to my field of view before giving way and/or melting away. The body now feels at a distance. The geometric visualization of the mandala is broken appart and replaced by an illumination of objects around a fixed stationary portal/void structure made of intricate geometry. The contents of which is brilliant in nature, geometric patters, symbols and for want of a better word language. This remains stationary in my field of view along an x,y axes and is the point at which you are drawn in. Now feeling completely disconnected from body I sense a pulling towards the portal with a deep feeling of movement. The objects clarity and visual architecture is stunning, both in precision of detail and colour. Objects form within it and emerge dancing out of it, emitting a language that is visually symbolic in nature. After entering the void for several moments I felt myself with-draw and slowly attain a feeling of body consciousness once again. The patterns and objects however remained with total clarity for several minutes after, before fading to a level much more reminiscent of the visual patterns seen while under the influence of psilocybin. There was a feeling that baseline was not reached for around one hour after the initial 7 min. trip.
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<b>Conclusion:</b>
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Personally, my experience of DMT was similar to what might be described as a near death experience, however more mechanical in nature. The strength of the visuals were extraordinary. They conveyed a kind of intelligence and/or universal synchronicity that doesn't seem present on other hallucenigions. This could possibly be the most profound experiences I have had on such a compound due to the disembodiment of consciousness and clarity of visual data received. I believe some of the issues I found initially with this experiment were related to the method of administration, a note for future reference. An Alexander "Sasha" Shulgin +4.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" hand="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157663723785220" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157663723785220" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-22433024202748512252015-07-26T17:28:00.001+07:002016-10-21T17:40:27.530+07:00Reflections: Strange Machines<a ><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBMlmOF8Z-__0praiPGlAuThBkdvtwDXiEFYfpGpdAQQEjKqJ_KViPDe0SFaD3z27iph7sRLWHyGP0Tc71E-7pZimzL2lQVEfQ_NiJEJj_Y2XZ9gyzY32WmiSdW7V4I_Kq5u_f6ZAsO3f/s1600/20150831_46589242fc371c1f23abcc05.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" hand="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
Google recently release a series of images created by its artificial intelligence networks, those used by Google as image recognition engines. They analyze stacked layers of artificial neurons against a source image. The network will look for more complicated structures within the initial image, including those present in digital noise, then cross reference the results using Google's AI network until the layer output is rendered in the final picture. The resulting images are particularly stunning, and sparked my interest again in the idea of fractals, and what many would call psychedelic artwork. Building on my recent portfolio of projects and ideas, those that primarily focus on HDR (High Dynamic Range) photography, I have managed to breathe new life into some of my vast catalog of landscapes by illustrating a series of artwork using simple photo editing techniques as the basis of new work exploring the Fractal illusion. Layering and reflections are key to producing these works, which also combine photo distortion filters such as Polar Coordinates. A process that has produced a series of inspired images containing intricate yet simple optical illusions with an organic machine like quality.
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The following set of images have been processed using High Dynamic Range & Tone Mapping (HDR) and Photoshop. HDR is a relatively new style of editing photographic images. For more information on this process please visit my post, "<a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2013/07/creating-high-dynamic-range.html#.UqQahvQW1q8">Creating High Dynamic Range</a>". Furthermore, If you are interested in purchasing a signed and certified print(s) please feel free to contact me.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" hand="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157656346615762%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157656346615762%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157656346615762" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157656346615762%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157656346615762%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157656346615762" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-11808454884353742542015-07-22T18:11:00.000+07:002016-10-21T17:42:39.557+07:00Reflections: Aston Martin<a ><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfSAXD_ftt1bv579dG10mooUXwcJsyU4Ws6ibLlH2Xouogq4r6DCkv3W3z4q7xZyd-21bEk59UNaiNbo0VF5eTkXpP-FCNOgAJdsJEPnantoKJ7yDWvTXihl-5IeUoIetZUExDA3mbageT/s1600/Aston-martin-vantage-v12-s.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" hand="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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As a photographer you're always looking for the new, interesting and exciting. I was lucky enough to find all three at the Aston Martin press day, BIRA Circuit Raceway, Thailand. BIRA holds various unique Motorsport events for car enthusiasts throughout the year. Aston Martin was one such event, aimed at press coverage for the new release of their 2015 luxury car and coupe models. And, a chance for press and buyers alike to experience Aston's cars first hand. Aston Martin is best know for its prestige name and quality British engineering; crafting, arguably, some of histories best looking motor vehicles. Aston martin cars have appeared in many films, with its most well known of these a cameo appearance by the Aston Martin DB5, driven by James Bond in the movie Goldfinger, where Aston Martin's name became rooted firmly in the archives of popular culture. The head of this years line-up was the Vantage V12 S and the new Aston Martin DB9 series. Also on show, a 2015 Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II, Wraith and Phantom.
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The following set of images have been processed using High Dynamic Range & Tone Mapping (HDR) and Photoshop. HDR is a relatively new style of editing photographic images. For more information on this process please visit my post, "<a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2013/07/creating-high-dynamic-range.html#.UqQahvQW1q8">Creating High Dynamic Range</a>". Furthermore, If you are interested in purchasing a signed and certified print(s) please feel free to contact me.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" hand="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157656205748841%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157656205748841%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157656205748841" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157656205748841%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157656205748841%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157656205748841" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-5755823675650657442015-07-20T19:55:00.001+07:002016-01-25T17:49:59.008+07:00Reflections: The Peyote Experience<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-IG9tyW6ZGbHkdxfou13ehy5mlHaQPy71yz_jMjA78twEEs8s2_JPihD0vV8QHDX6e1ssiqvg8sWHP4U6AoiRsPHeurs9OkGh373wn-M7e5AgS7MhhUUCumJfGUXr6C3q1uui7lVmFtd/s1600/Section+C.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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Interesting: So, I sacrificed four of my eight Peyote cactus for a trip on Friday night. I took 4 x five inch Peyote buttons washed down with a large sweet black coffee over a period of a few hours. Included in the coffee was a table spoon of ground Nutmeg, sourced from McDonalds coffee bar (Nutmeg containing the precursor to MDMA, and said to help with the trip). Being that I don't drink alcohol or smoke pot made the adventure clean and uninterrupted. Unlike many of the LSD and mushroom trips of my youth.
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There seems to be a misconception that Peyote (Mescaline), Mushrooms (Psilocybin) and LSD produce a very similar type of trip, or intoxication. This conclusion couldn't be further from the truth: I took the native American Indian approach to Payote, and simply consumed as much as I could over a few hours, in its raw form, directly from the plant. It seemed relatively slow to take hold, at around two hours after consuming plant number one. The first feelings I encountered were of heaviness of limbs, swollen mouth, a numbness, accompanied by a mild metallic taste. Symptoms that I would describe as closely related to a Mushroom intoxication, with a similar feeling of nausea. Nevertheless, the sickness was quite manageable, with no need to vomit.
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About three hours in, I began to become overwhelmed by a feeling of euphoria, reminiscent of the drug MDMA - without its rushing hot flushes. To be honest, there was no great rushing sensation throughout the trip, other than some minor hot flushes that came up initially in hour two. More-so an overwhelming clarity and euphoria began to take hold. Those who have had an LSD, or mushroom experience - at about hour three - would be familiar with the term "tripping balls" or high volume visual geometric distortions. Peyote is much much more subtle. There's a surprising absence of colorful visuals earlier on. However, there is a tremendous feeling of distorted spatial awareness that takes hold. A feeling that one might be looking through a wide-angle camera lens, focusing on details like, shadows, shapes, reflections and light; their relationship to other objects in and out of context becomes distorted yet strangely interesting. Different locations also seem to shift your dimensional perception; one room has a different feeling and/or aesthetic to that of a another. There's also a sense of shrinking and expanding perception - very Alice in Wonderland.
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At hour 4 - 5: Limbs and muscle use becomes near impossible, with one enveloped in a tremendous feeling of euphoria. Visually, a mist-like haze clouds your already distorted view of the world, spatial distortion becomes most prominent, giving rise to a dream-like state. The mind now wonders to observational topics, such as, surface textures, spatial awareness, light and their disconnection from general reality. Still much absent, the over emphasized geometrical patterns found on LSD for instance. Bright lights become painful to the eyes, even the most dim and distant. One is now fully immersed in the experience,
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At hour 5 - 6: Walking had become very difficult. The trip would begin to peek and lull in intensity at 10-15min intervals, over a period of one hour. At one peek my whole body seemed to be buzzing - which should have been a moment for concern. Instead, life, death and time seemed to be most irrelevant given my state of euphoria. Euphoria and spatial distortion are far more a part of the Peyote dynamic than those of visual hallucinations - there are no nasty surprises here. I've encountered hell and high water on mushrooms and LSD, but this was far from that type of experience. Time passed peacefully without confrontation and feelings of confusion. I would like to note there's a strange sensation of being in a void, a feeling of distance, but this is not at all uncomfortable.
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At hour 6 - 7: The light mist-like haze seems to over shadow everything, Although only visible in darkness, the haze is comprised of a multitude of colors and patterns, that seem to dance under ones control. A state similarly produced by other hallucinogens. Terrence Mckenna refers to it as, "Vegetable Television." However, in the case of Peyote the visualizations were not blasted at you like a rock concert. More they would suggest themselves, and reward you by concentration; projecting the intent of an idea, one might stretch and mold images into form. Though still weak in appearance, it was a source of entertainment and wonder for an hour or so.
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Hour 7 - 8: With my eyes closed, enveloped in a feeling of high euphoria, tuned into Peyote TV and listening to, "Carbon Based Life Forms - Interloper." The music acted as a good medium. But, there was no feeling that music was needed, as the intense euphoria and mild hallucinations were sufficient in themselves. I would assume Indian Shaman refer to this stage of the trip as the point at which they make contact with their ancestors. I was able to meditate on questions and provoke answers much more freely at this time - more than any other. Nevertheless, the only thing I could get back to was that life is full of background noise, and one should keep true to forming ones own path out of it. There was no negativity to be found in this trip, just food for the soul. It came as a surprise, as both mushrooms and LSD generally take you on a wild emotional ride, with my only other cactus trip being a weaker dose of Trichocereus peruvianus to compare.
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It was at least an insightful affirmation of past ideas. Not a deliverance from the Gods, ancestors or entity(s), so described of in similar DMT experiences. Sleep by this point was much needed, but hard to find; intense yawning. I also felt very hungry and made light work of a Snickers bar and bag of crisps before managing to fall to sleep at six o'clock in the early hours. I woke-up at eleven with a residual feeling of euphoria which lasted into the latter part of the weekend, full of energy and clarity. It seemed that there was little come-down to be had. Due, in part, to the lack of rushing one associates with MDMA and Ecstasy. This tends to manifest as a negative down ward spiral as one withdrawals. As they say, there are no rough edges with Peyote. Alexander "Sasha" Shulgin active level of +3 reached.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a> Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-72145196461673145882015-06-25T20:17:00.001+07:002016-10-21T17:46:36.190+07:00Reflections: The Mini<a ><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccwVbmPXoDaCcEC-CELJo_nEpyHFJ-lWh3IhIjpDpIsGdRjGr03Ab2ITUok10VEhm308BnuTdNg-PsINIGDWh9nPTMkGczkzEj9MnSawYCLtP3ufZ73_oUf-A4GMKWqDLtnMosUH9ja_-/s1600/Mini.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" hand="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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There's something about the nature of simplicity in good car design that encapsulates a feeling of timelessness, nostalgia and excitement. The Mini and its development is no exception to the rule. To quote designer James Dyson; "One of the most fun inventions of my lifetime is the Mini." Although, no longer produced by the British Motor Corporation as a solution to low-cost and fuel efficient transportation, its heritage is very much alive, thanks to the good people at BMW. New models are developed initially to conform to the, " Mini-lifestyle" aesthetic, while incorporating innovation and trend setting technology as key market factors. Mini, much like the Volkswagen Beetle and Porsche 911 series have attained near cult status, the result of staying true to their original design form. The Mini phenomenon is best represented by those enthusiasts that buy, restore and take pride in their cars world wide, whether old or new. This series of images uses photography and graphic design techniques to produce artistic renderings that pay homage to the Mini as a motoring icon.
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<i>"We have to change our culture so you can create wealth from making things and don't just try to make money out of money."</i> --
James Dyson
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" hand="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157654635516728%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157654635516728%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157654635516728" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157654635516728%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157654635516728%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157654635516728" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-14815211087687828682015-03-15T22:53:00.000+07:002015-03-16T02:19:09.403+07:00Reflections: Marketing on Tumblr<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl6Ak3EM12jbdd6CqFcbNuQ2SuHcpmLhrGNr_5YTIynBem3WE3c2h85EfTTaJ7TXDPU9Poqwmm2p5TzFaH8Q5nqDwLC_X9YQObw5pNo6K-AQ8ZONnHrmwGVCS96a-N6dqrbaWe_SS2wijb/s1600/tumblr.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
Tumblr, is of cause one of the premier microblogging platforms run and operated by Yahoo, since 2013. For the web-novice it offers a simple user interface (UI) with blog template options that allow you to configure your blogs "look and feel" in a way that fits into the Tumblr format easily, while retaining some elements of individuality, like, header graphics, layout and font styles, etc. For the more advanced users, one is able to utilize an external domain name, to help integrate a Tumblr feed. In this post I'll give you a little more insight into Tumblr and it's push towards becoming a marketing platform for online marketers.
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The first thing you'll notice after creating a blog with Tumblr is the commonalities between a lot of the text posts, pictures and overall content that resides there from other users. I have yet to read a Tumblr stats report on the amount of cat pictures it hosts annually, or attractive girls with nose rings and tattoos. However, these simple points alone give you some indication that something is not quite right. The phenomenon has a simple explanation, and it's called marketing spam. The majority of blogs in the Tumblr-sphere are there to drive traffic to external websites; where their hosts are either rewarded by add-click, promoters points or just wish to give you further insight into their range of products and services - sex sells, and cats do too. The dark-side to this is that it creates a market place for those wishing to push the extremes by creating a multitude of blogs that offer uncensored or malicious content; pornography, violence and self-harm have been widely reported as ongoing content issues at Tumblr. Tumblr is trying to take action on various levels, however, the days of individual home bloggers is sadly becoming a thing of the past. It's not all bad news on the content front. There are some fantastic ideas, concepts and products on offer within the Tumblr market place. And, it's easier to navigate, find and post animated content beyond the static variety found on other platforms, such as, Facebook.
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Although Tumblr is built on the back of major investment it must have found a revenue stream within it's current conundrum. And in recent times Tumblr has partnered with a range of large companies like Etsy and Kickstarter by introducing a ‘Buy,’ ‘Pledge,’ And ‘Get Involved’ button that further integrates the marketing process from the Tumblr platform. This is intended to help those offering online products and services to reach what is left of the Tumblr microblogging community. Overall, Tumblr is a good place to view dynamic content. Nevertheless, it needs to work a little harder at enticing users into the site in order to create a market worth marketing to. Or, it will only suffer evermore of the issues it currently faces. At the end of the day however, Tumblr like most marketing companies are there to help larger accounts reach a wider ordinance, with a secondary focus on smaller markets gaining popularity.<br />
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-79995621063948108822015-03-04T19:00:00.001+07:002015-03-04T19:18:37.171+07:00Reflections: Giclée Prints<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoi8qqS2lNJSjvUk0zhkj3kijijf-nfjfLoXPIdBysTGCNv_dNOXCIvuRJ-BT284girlNV8Dhn9XEI0Jdbc7v_tV7-2u2fnfn6CJwfbVOHJV8e7HZ5RyyIPpNsFeUGi3TqzWDEnBAOcgv/s1600/17686761_2761905-frm801wl04_lz.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
Now having entered the world of print on demand (POD) with my current stock of fine art photography, I thought it might be a good idea to pass on some educational information about the methods used to reproduce my work. In this article, I'll give you some basic insights into Giclée prints for fine art digital print making.
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Giclée is a general term that describes fine art quality digital inkjet printing. With a higher degree of resolution in CMYK color, Giclée often uses multiple color combinations beyond the standard four colors to reach a higher degree of tonal quality. In addition, these inks are often referred to as archival inks. Due to their pigment base they offer fade resistance when coupled with acid free archival paper. Furthermore, with the use of large-format printers it's possible to print high-quality reproductions on a range of different textured surfaces including photo-paper, art-papers and vinyl, etc.
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A Giclée print is of a superior quality when compared to a standard Bubble Jet printer, and often comes at a higher cost. Nevertheless, this premium is reflected in the quality of the print, where the print will have a life expectancy of 100+ years, while retaining its luster and finish. Archival quality prints are as good as art, as they have the ability to take the artists hours of hard work in the digital environment and present them at museum quality, in hard copy.
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If you enjoyed this insight into Giclée prints for digital artists, please visit my online store at <a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson">Urbex :: Siam</a>, where you will find a range of products, quality prints and frames avalaible, with world-wide shipping.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-65186968410281501082015-02-28T20:24:00.000+07:002015-03-01T02:19:37.440+07:00Reflections: Microstock and Ministocking<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsvXHAZkZ9LOeKEMr5UCZKyymb_22ithW5INVo-2Bg8GwKgfiIR4ghGCUv83RV8yujAIH2m0MdJAEuCkQnBEv0jlAb_iAGti2mqDW3ppNC3TcaeHwB3MrLekI1ZSTogFexExfPXa6G9nx4/s1600/microstock.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
It wasn't until recently that my attention turned to microstocking the best of my growing portfolio of stock images with a well known stock photography giant. I've been working with photography for a few years now, although my previous trade experience encompasses vector graphic production, I've built-up a large catalog of photographs that are otherwise just sitting around on digital memory earning me little in the way of income. I thought it might be a good time to put them to work, and this is a rundown on what it takes to get your stock images working for you through a microstock agent.
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Microstocking or ministocking, is currently a hot topic among photographers. It can be a love hate relationship; love the money, hate the corporate machines that dominate the industry. Nevertheless, it boils down to your willingness to work at selling your photographs in a tried and professional manner, using the power of corporate networking and licencing to tap what is a highly vetted industry.
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I have various accounts with companies that offer to sell and distribute my artwork in different formats. One might consider this as an artists portfolio, where microstocking is just one part in a range of avenues that sees your hard work turned into cash. This is fundamental to the way I consider microstocking, it gives me one more platform from which to licence part of my portfolio, with sales only contributing to the bigger picture of my business as a whole.
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Before you take the plunge into microstocking, here's a rundown on what you can expect to encounter when you join a microstock agent: It's important to be aware of the fact that stock photography is largely used by medium to big business, in various formats, for editorial and commercial purposes. The images that they use under licence are categorized in such a way that they are able to meet, and pass, both legal and quality standards in this environment. That means you're going to have to meet and/or surpass those standards when submitting your images to such an agent. Because of this, it can be a difficult road on which to get started. Emphasis is placed on your fundamental knowledge of the craft of digital photography, not just because... but, you'll need those skills to determine the viability of each photograph you submit and how you submit it. It is more than likely you'll be tested on that knowledge as a means for the agent to determine your status for contribution to their inventory - much like a driving test. Once a member of an adjacency one is required to submit identification, banking and tax obligations to help with payment and registration. It's with this level of transparency that your able to commence uploading your images for licensing with a microstock agency, and the point at which the hard work really begins.
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As previously mentioned, you must manage both the context and criteria under which your photograph is to be licensed before submitting it for approval or rejection. This can be an arduous task master. Due to the high volume of submissions I'm currently running at an average of three approvals per day. If a submission is rejected then my daily approval rate also drops. So, care must be taken to make sure all submissions meet exactly the required criteria on submission, if one is going to build-up an inventory of work that will generate a worthwhile investment in time and resources on your part.
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The question that everyone would like to know is: "How much money can I make?" From my initial research - currently, not from experience - I was able to determine the following: In the event you upload work that is sort-after by a wide range of companies using the service, it is possible to average around $500+ a month from 500 - 1000 images hosted with your agent. This number is a guesstimate from several sources and better viewed from the following perspective: At a rate of three image file approvals each day, you're initially looking at a one year interim period, where you build on inventory. Yes, you will see earnings as your contributions to the site begins to rise, however they will seem more like pocket change, at first. It's a numbers game with quality stock images. And, it's important for you to consider a long-term strategy. You must be prepared to be in it for the long run, to accumulate a portfolio that will work for you.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-11862054265552316482015-02-16T19:01:00.002+07:002015-02-16T19:34:13.258+07:00Reflections: Society6 Tips & Tricks<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEetCi8lfFD7mzkSvqPBeMPrPfAESqkuG2Y0ogH7Qr1jTUFD5KGG1hwuQES5xmkjvzWQGyAwkhgb7PvBf_VmtfPbttjMU-6MNLxKR4lFomxruqescmefGPYGEFRUxzbDKbi7Ny04sgmY6/s1600/s6.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
For the past few weeks I've been optimizing my account at Society6. Society6 is a platform for artists and graphic designers to enter the market place with a range of products that go hand in hand with their creative artworks. In this post I will give you some tips and tricks for presenting your work in a format that suits their product line and how to make best use of their system.
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Society6 (AKA: S6) is a great place to start for those with a passion for graphic design and art in general. It offers a product range that can be customized by the individual and sold on from their personal web-store. S6 requires verification and registration; one must first set-up a PayPal account and register with the company online. Once registered and verified, it's time to upload your artwork and populate your online store with a range of custom designed products. Currently, the products on offer are not vast in number, nevertheless, a great place to start for those wishing to get a taste of life as a retail designer.
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Before you get started it's imperative that you understand a little more about the S6 requirements in regards to artwork submissions. The team at S6 prides its self on producing high quality products from your artwork. And to do this they require you to submit only your best high resolution work for sale. So, before you start uploading your latest batch of iPhone images, be warned, the minimum requirement for product printing, such as, Tote Bags and Pillows is 3500px x 3500px at 300dpi, which is well beyond a standard iPhone image resolution.
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Once you have a product line for sale you will inevitably need to generate sales. S6 has a number of affiliate and partnership programs, but, their system is geared towards you generating the initial sales. Be aware that S6, like any given online system, provides users with a number of exploits, those that allow others to generate income from your sales. This is both positive and negative, however, in the end it might help by driving sales back to you, and that's what you're looking for.
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Sales profits on Society6 are based on small profit margins for the artist - around 15-25%. Remember, your banking on the numbers of items sold, rather than that one big sale. It's also important that you price your items in such a way that helps you gain favor with buyers. So, set your prices accordingly. One should set your items retail price to a round number, such as $20.00, not $19.99.
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Over all, I found the S6 online system a little counterintuitive at first. Nevertheless, it is a good platform for artists to generate sales from their artwork. And, another platform that offers exposure to your creations. Personally, I would need to generate over $200 a month to see any great profit in S6. This is due in most part to bank account transfer charges, etc. So, selling one or two items per week is not going to see me driving that nice new Porsche any time soon. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me. In the meantime, I would love you to visit my online store at: <a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson">Urbex :: Siam | Society6</a> - feel free to shop till you drop!
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-8160053713876979802015-01-26T21:43:00.000+07:002016-10-21T18:04:37.638+07:00Sample: Design Concept Statement<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguONrRuqLde9zlPxQBDaGvTZWARZAcuwrNKgcgGSno0NCOiEkaYBy1eFZqrVFQAGsy4fkZs1YXGZfu-bQJ-L0kwuTLDIjfQZ6StGvguSPupGszHSdZdQ5EPFWQY44YqW22HC08SGoOFEkY/s1600/Samsung-GALAXY-Core4+copysmallskin.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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This project is an on going mobile phone skinning and packaging concept that uses personal artwork to render personalized graphics to a mobile device. The general concept is to create a second skin for leading brand mobiles using tin box manufacturing techniques, printable mobile glass protectors and matching digital wallpapers to produce a mobile theme.
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The idea of wearable, themed and accessorized devices is not a new one. However, in combination with a product that is made to have ephemeral qualities, such as tinplate containers gives the device the ability to take on a "lived-in" aesthetic without compromising its life-cycle and functionality. Such items often have a wider appeal with hobbyists and collectors. And, furthermore, offer protection to the device from everyday usage.
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I believe that personalized mobile technology is a key factor in the humanization of consumer mobile devices in what is rapidly becoming a brand dominated society; where product technology must be ergonomic and suit the needs of a variety of demographics, exterior design and detailing is often met with the use of a limited color palette and branding. The ability to personalize is then the domain of the individual. This product range would offer the consumer a platform to customize their mobile device in a way that gives them control over its outward appearance (look and feel), while also enhancing its rigidity at low cost using existing technologies.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157650070163929%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157650070163929%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157650070163929" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157650070163929%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157650070163929%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157650070163929" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-89173044331221121472015-01-11T20:41:00.000+07:002016-10-21T17:50:18.966+07:00Reflections on Vientiane, Laos<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7fTVlxLSvlldARYlfoptyGVazyINxuGNhnRdc-bOad1LfcKfZkGE4hqHsZv_HzFcO2-3g-YPjJo80I3v5ETOw5BsRDkfgrMyaRmBe106HW8IiCq4hKneywbxZQDUPABPwMQzUYtPAMuB/s1600/23966705485_bb712c642f_c.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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For the majority of people Laos is best known for it's association with the Mekong River, ethnic jungle villages and the "Land of a Million Elephants." Previously, the Kingdom of Laos, it is now referred to as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, and better known as the rallying point for expats hunting down a new long-term Thai entry visa. I recently returned from one such trip to its capital Vientiane, and managed to gather enough imagery and info to warrant this short blog post.
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After my first trip to Vientiane back in 2009 I was struck by the present scale of economic development in the city and its suburbs. Vientiane is in the midst of transformation from what was a small sleepy border town neighboring Thailand, to a large city of commerce and development. The transformation of Vientiane is on a scale that parallels, in some ways, that of its Chinese neighbor to the north, with building and infrastructural development being at its heart. This is partly a result of Chinese investment capital entering the country to secure access to natural resources and agricultural development rights in Laos northern provinces. With other sectors such as Foreign NGOs and big business tapping into social economic change and seeking a foot hold in the emerging economy.
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Vientiane is home to a large number of western entities with an emphasis on "Economic Aid" through organisations like the United Nations Development Fund and WWF. To note: I managed to spend some of the little time I had visiting WWF and UNDF offices in search of NGO positions for foreign workers. This also lead to a publication called 108 Magazine that advertises industry positions for locals and foreign workers - international companies such as ANZ Banking Group, Ford Motor Company and Red Cross. The majority of adverts for recruiting foreign and domestic workers in Laos are found in the mining sector, education, translation and IT. With the larger recruiter SNAP for Data Analysts and IT. Large corporate ventures are now located in Vientiane, although they seem to be gathering capital and investment from China beyond intellectual property (IP) in Tech based companies and UN funding projects.
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With regards to my photographic work in Vientiane: I managed to visit the Royal Palace and several Buddhist compounds that were situated a short walk from my hotel on and around the main avenue of the city. Generally, the city is a hive of activity during daylight hours which petered out by nine o'clock and feels much like the implementation of a general curfew by midnight. This reminded me of Hanoi, Vietnam where the population shares a similar social trait. Nevertheless, development is everywhere and although I ran out of time to visit some of Vientiane's better landmarks there are an abundance of new temple complexes that have been developed and rejuvenated in recent years. These seem to be on a scale that mirrors the current economic climate.
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The following set of images where taken at sites around the city and are high resolution artworks available for purchase or licencing. If you have any further questions please feel free to contact me using the information provided.
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157650229153801%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157650229153801%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157650229153801" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157650229153801%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157650229153801%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157650229153801" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-89471246112230240332014-11-16T17:06:00.001+07:002016-10-21T17:56:42.592+07:00Notes: Publishing "Temples of Thailand"<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9BNtRO-8PWbpzbNEweMmqpBMX7Odk1y4COL9MhUf8rRP-E1Rqu5cPrJwA3Rd4MWDNnBYhFPNg_-cb7EBrXagULS5W2X5b6C1CI7IXJdbYliczDjw3O-13IRRLfgwBr7aM29GiJvbToXS/s1600/templesofthailand.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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Over the past few months I've been working hard to finish a collection of photographic images on Buddhism and the vast number of temples that make Thailand a mosaic of Buddhist culture. The book is called, "Temples Of Thailand" and together with content on temple shrines "<a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2014/08/reflections-circle-series.html#.VGh7KvmUf3o">The Circle Series</a>", I find myself ready to publish my photo-book project. It hasn't been until recently that I've started to approach editors at various well-known art book publishing houses, both in the UK and US, including several university offices. The response that I have received has been extremely positive. These have lead to a number of formal correspondences, with help and advice. I would like to share some of the knowledge that has been passed on.
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The con-censors seems to be that the proposal is valid, and the body of work is fitting enough for a full publication. I get the feeling that it's currently at a tipping point around the boardroom table - from a professional stand-point. The areas of most interest have been the depth of visual content, print ability and cohesiveness, with respects to visual narrative. These seem to be key points. The work in essence has been completed to a level and standard that stands on its own. It is simply past the stage of an idea. Because of this, I was able to attain a quick and professional response from key editorial staff.
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The downside: It seems that the proposal has several issues. Logistically, the publishing houses that I have contacted only have a few connections in Asia. Although, in essences, it's an art publication. It suits more the Asian demographic, under religious context. Furthermore, most of the titles are now filtered by means of agent referrals, conference affiliates and those publishing academic portfolios, with self publishing and self funding projects swamping the market. This is not all bad news. Amazon and other companies such as CreateSpace offer resources for self published work. On several occasions I have been informed that what is proposed is contractible, and it is just a matter of finding the right publishing house to take on the project. It is, again, the uniqueness and depth of content which has sparked interest.
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I've also looked into project funding for self publication, with the Australian Arts Council. Nevertheless, funding is limited to those projects outside of performance arts. Arts Council grants are proposed under differing criteria throughout the year, and often do not fit individual projects. Therefore, one must wait for a more flexible grant that might fit a proposal. After all my current communications, I get the feeling that America is the place to be for art. There is a pathway in place that helps artists both promote and self fund work through numerous resources, from crowd sourcing to government grants. Where no such avenue exists in Australia. I have not yet ventured into the politics of the United Kingdom, but this might be an option in the future. I will continue to work with contacts and publishers I have contacted to find funding. In the meantime, if you have any questions on what is required to finance a current book project, what criteria meets best with publishers requirements or have interest in my work, please feel free to contact me.
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157646982912294%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157646982912294%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157646982912294" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157646982912294%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157646982912294%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157646982912294" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-32908237672871087472014-10-19T15:31:00.000+07:002016-10-21T18:01:45.128+07:00Reflections: Nikhom Phatthana Temple<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGM1wPHItIF46aYekTAgb2rnSugF8p1rGAQosqhIYvhLd5F6NwYigBx9ZyY_GggMaynuUwQwEg18IBNntNxzLm9t6nw72og3upPCuY8tVX8ti_iyQ98mon3PjFl4GmrzXJlxXSltnei-f/s1600/Nikhom+Phatthana+temple.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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Nikhom Phatthana Chinese Temple is located at the heart of the township of Nikhom Phatthana in the District of Nikhom Phatthana, Rayong Province, Thailand. The temple architecture is common to this style of Thai-Chinese temple; those that note this particular branch of Thai-Chinese Buddhism. Dedicated to Guan Yin the Goddess of Compassion, Mercy and Kindness (Thai: Kuan Eim กวนอิม or Prah Mae Kuan Eim). Guan Yim in her current form (female) a reflection of the Lotus Sutra, with the power to transform in appearance to relieve suffering. Nikhom Phatthana temple is also home to a range of other deities such as the Laughing Buddha (Bodai), the God of Wealth and Fortune, the ubiquitous dragon creature Pi Yao (Pixiu;"to ward off evil spirits"), and depictions of Guan Yu (Guan Gong) the God of Protection, etc. Don't forget to bang on the drum and ring the bell!
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<b>Questions?</b> If you have any further questions about Nikhom Phatthana Chinese Temple, tours to Nikhom Phatthana from Pattay City or would like to purchase some of the artwork contained in this article, please feel free to contact me using the details provided.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157648855567875%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157648855567875%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157648855567875" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157648855567875%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157648855567875%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157648855567875" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-84940335265040420692014-10-06T16:11:00.002+07:002016-10-21T18:06:58.221+07:00Reflections: Najasaataichue Chinese Temple<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ28N9236tc22mxkwDWz4f8hcV1pxRG1Df-5fKJ6Fvgn7uFBgOZU-BnmWu3vhe7kAYdBom3OOp0gtfR4lOYrBQHFvR3QiqlQEtYSP-oDLZSAd87DtGgLkOC-1G8CPQmp73DbLorVbLSihF/s1600/Najasaataichue.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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Najasaataichue Chinese Temple is located on the coastal fringe of Chonburi City, Chonburi Province, Thailand. It is believed to be the largest Chinese temple of its style and architecture in Thailand. Dedicated to the God of Success, Najasaataichue temple underwent renovations between 1995 and 1999 as part of Rama, the King of Thailand's 72nd Birthday Anniversary, when its name was officially changed to "Thep Sathat Phra Kiti Chaloem."
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Like most locations I visit and photograph in Thailand there is very little translated information to help. Although the temple is commonly referred to as Najasaataichue Chinese Temple, it is better referred to, and searched for under the name "Thep Sathat Phra Kiti Chaloem". The temple is located in the town of Angsila on the coastal road of Angsila-Bangsaen close to the beach resort of Bang Saen. It is built on foundations laid down by Somchai Choesiri, while gaining popularity and expanding to its current form. The temple architecture is common to this style of Thai-Chinese temple. There are predominantly two forms of Buddhist temple found in this region of Thailand, classic Thai of the Theravada school and Chinese Buddhist. Both types of temples offer differing architectural and decorative styles.
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Najasaataichue is situated between Bangkok 14km to the North and Pattaya City 40km to the South. It is quiet and secluded during the week, with peak times around Chinese New Year and calendar festivals. Only a handful of tourist currently make the day trip to Thep Sathat Phra Kiti Chaloem, and as such travel can be difficult. The best way to get to the temple from Bangkok is by taxi, at a cost of approximately 800 Baht, via Sukhumvit Rd. It is possible to drive or ride a motorcycle for the more experienced traveler.<a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2014/09/reflections-hdr-travel-photography.html#.VDEcs_mSz3o">Read More...</a>
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<b>Questions?</b> If you have any further questions about this article, tours to Najasaataichue temple or would like to purchace some of the artwork contained in this article, please feel free to contact me using the details provided.
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157648428433962%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157648428433962%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157648428433962" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157648428433962%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157648428433962%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157648428433962" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-83852613787453977682014-10-05T18:16:00.002+07:002015-02-21T11:45:19.894+07:00Reflections: Urban Exploration Thailand<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZD0VKgOnrI_GdPvp2j9ilgFqjsqItMXryewhu5oGQt60dxJ3UYbHciQcnJuZLJPVogkTw-5ORVPszM5D8__HB9oh54DJQr9VxB6eykE-cGrPfu9oGtEta8lXy_vDBHPpUl1g42c9Vc4nd/s1600/16392771412_7524da9f69_c.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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The photograph (above) was taken at a temple under construction in Nong Khai Province, Thailand. Note: The temple complex is situated just shy of the Laos-Thailand border crossing Nong Khai, in close proximity to the friendship bridge that links Laos and Thailand over the Mekong River.
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For the large majority of people Thailand is a holiday destination. It has a warm tropical climate and short monsoon season. Tourism is localized in regions that border the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, with inland mountainous destinations such as Changmai often more appealing to tourism over areas like the central plains and Khorat Plateau. Nevertheless, large areas of Thailand are still worth exploring. With a predominantly Buddhist population, Thailand offers an abundance of temples and religious sites, as well as industrial and agricultural centres with little or no western tourism.
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My current project gives me a first-hand look at these areas; A first person account of some of the more interesting places encountered in regional Thailand. By putting aside the glossy travel brochures and venturing into the often lost and forgotten regions, one is able to build a better picture of Thailand and its socio-political and economic landscape.
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When I returned to Thailand in 2013, it became apparent that the best way to explore the country was by motorcycle. My objective: to document and photograph the abundance of temples in the region. While also exploring other sites of interest as they arise; a road map to exploring the greater geographical network of cities, towns and villages was born. This has lead to the discovery of some extremely interesting locations. Often abandoned, and in various states of use and decay. Thailand is in a state of perpetual death and rebirth. Communities seem to under go sporadic commercial development. Often leading to half completed projects. These projects can lay dormant for years without further investment. The same is true for all forms of development in regional Thailand, whether commercial, industrial or residential. The inhabitants do their best to live in and among these structure. Nevertheless, it becomes quite clear that the environment plays second fiddle to such ventures. This said, I have photographed and documented some examples of these urban areas and will continue to update this post with images as they come. <a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2014/09/reflections-hdr-travel-photography.html#.VDEcs_mSz3o">Read More...</a>
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<b>Questions?</b> If you have any further questions about this article or would like more information on urban tours of Thailand by motorcycle, please feel free to contact me using the details provided.
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</span><br />Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-84777117593520327232014-09-28T20:45:00.004+07:002015-02-21T11:42:34.381+07:00Reflections: HDR Travel Photography<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PDx5vKCQQ7ATBqR-W5f56pO35EYZZuXWfQ2uo8vC1-EBTL9IsFA3Ozs_WlzMJw5M2mTvYlIbb282zYiOo2mOjtPzEOHGusz4YPIZ_XMDYgn2Cs3UzAd5d2JowBbwGmnv_zNgbC9tM1sC/s1600/Temple+Architecture.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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Since 2008 I've been blogging travel, with my more recent articles covering the use of High Dynamic Range for professional photography. The medium of HDR is growing, and with it, more and more photographers both amateurs and professionals alike are using the process to document their travels. In this article I'm going to cover some of the best locations for making the most out of the process of High Dynamic Range.
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Urban Exploration, Urbex or UE is a world wide phenomenon. It is in simple terms, the act of exploring urban relics; venturing to lost and often forgotten locations, no longer of use to society, while falling into disrepair and abandonment. HDR photography has played a role in this activity from it's early concept. And, through its use in UE, High Dynamic Range has gained a wider ordinance. Regardless of quality, UE photography makes best use of the process, with sites that often contain dark earthy tones and textures - those associated with rot and decay - make best use of the medium. There are in essence a multitude of explores world wide. Nevertheless, not all of these places are HDR friendly. Some of the best examples of this medium come out of Eastern Europe and Russia where the collapse of the Soviet Union has given rise to abandonment on a large industrial scale. The pinnacle of these explores is Chernobyl and the abandoned city of Pripyat, Ukraine.
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When photographing people, HDR can be a tricky business. The general concept of bracketing exposures - which simpily means, one should take multiple exposures on subject - often leads to blurred images that involve movement. Therefore, it has become standard practice to use the medium with stationary objects, still life and landscapes. Nevertheless, there are means by which a single exposure can be used in the process of HDR. And as such, we're able to generate exceptionally realistic portraits and group shots. Some of the best examples of HDR portrait photography come from the Burning Man festival in Nevada's Black Rock Desert. With a unique and often other worldly charm the location attracts oddities and individuals from steam-punk enthusiasts to outlandish aesthetics of all genres. It is, one of the top locations in the U.S. to make use of HDR portrait photography outside that of professional stills for film and art photography. Asia also offers an abundance of characters from minority tribes, cultures and religious backgrounds.
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I've personally spent a large portion of the past ten years living in Southeast Asia and China. It is here where I first discovered High Dynamic Range, while working as a Teacher of Visual Arts in Guangdong Province, China - also known as Canton. China is a world of undiscovered locations. A sample of these would be the Province of Chongqing and Sichuan that offer both cultural and rural vistas, with areas of large urban and industrial populations in cities that have yet to see excessive international exposure. The abundance of cultural relics and Buddhist sites are perfect for those seeking a pure Chinese aesthetic, beyond the Great wall and the modern metropolis of Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing.
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Nevertheless, the city skyline of Hong Kong is fantastic subject matter for HDR photographers. It is among one of the top destinations for cityscape photography. Hong Kong boasts a modern skyline and street level with curb-appeal. It has always been one of my favorite cities to photograph. There seems to be a conflict going on between the hustle and bustle at street level and the monolithic structures that tower above. With mountainous terrain encompassing apartment buildings, skyscrapers and housing blocks in The New Territories, there are plenty of vantage points to capture that perfect long exposure HDR image. More recently, Singapore and Dubai spearhead the modern architectural aesthetic in HDR photography. However, for a city that offers traditional culture, as well a modernism, Hong Kong is still a personal favorite.
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Asia is a cultural mecca, it has a long and relatively undisturbed history; a melting pot of both modern and old world charm. I currently find myself in and among some of the best examples of religious architecture, alongside modern development and diversity of people. There is a focus on everyday life in Asia that feels far from the materialistic values that act to sterilize life as a developed world consumer. This aspect of life is best reflected in my current projects, those that cover Buddhism, and street life in Thailand. Interestingly enough, the process of High Dynamic Range works best where color, clarity and a real vibrancy of life exists. It also has a unique ability to expose the bland and mundane. <a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2014/09/reflections-exploring-thai-temples.html#.VCgqsvmSz3o">Read More...</a>
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-36868436836493054112014-09-20T23:17:00.000+07:002016-10-21T18:13:19.208+07:00Workflow: Print Resolution Panorama<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKNbYHWCTsKWpsbw56wc2WXVVh7hnPPwBZoZj7F0u1U0jt4o73bf_ysJ_eCyGUdPjLs3n4bYzRKlqHSHHPb90YC-bKiDj2ZeoXfPjI8vUxQCs5LHEZOKmhdJmCXCyDbSH_F-R1z0WTtzUM/s1600/Alice.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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This article covers the basic process of stitching photographs for the purpose of high-quality panoramic images, using Photoshop. And, insights into shooting for the purpose of stitching groups of 300dpi shots to create panorama artwork. The article also includes information about general High Dynamic Range photography and examples of this technique.
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The Process: There are an abundance of ways to take panoramic images. Some cameras and smart-phones offer software that will capture panoramic photographs and 360 degree vistas directly to your device with minimal work. Nevertheless, these images are generally created to a resolution of 72dpi. A topic I've discussed before. A small format picture is only good for digital viewing, rather than print, or the process of making digital artwork. Along with creating a small file, these in-device panorama options often cause artifact issues; areas where the photographic stitching has been unsuccessful, the automated process can often produces contrast and brightness anomalies between different images, those that combine to create the finished panorama file. For these reasons it is best to stick with print standard 300dpi images strait from your camera. Using print standard images is not a guarantee that full resolution shots will not have difficulties while stitching occurs. Nevertheless, it is better to start out with the largest images possible to create your picture and correct any errors as they arise, using Photoshop tools.
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The Sofftware: Photoshop offers a Photomerge environment that will automatically merge your selected images at a high resolution. Photoshop: File > Automate > Photomerge or in its Elements form: File > New > Photomerge Panorama. This process works by using a similar method as in-camera and phone software, albeit on a much larger scale. Here we are using images at 300dpi rather than 72dpi. The images must also be taken manually. A method that can be tricky to master effectively. Nevertheless, for stationary objects such as buildings or landscape photography the process is much easier than one might first expect. As with in-camera and phone software, Photomerge will also create "artifact issues" if the images are incorrectly aligned, or the wrong perspective options are selected. However, Photomerge seems to do a much better job at stitching and rendering images than most in-camera and mobile phone software tends to do. The biggest draw-back to this method is the requirement of a large amount of memory and CPU usage while rendering occurs. With output images in the tens of mega-pixels at 300dpi you can be sure of producing a large enough print quality image to be used in creating your next digital artwork.
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Once your final rendering has been created in the Photoshop environment it's just a matter of flattening the final layer results and cropping to size, before saving. For those of you wishing to run your image through the HDR process, now would be the best time to split your work into differing exposure values. Saving each separate file to your preferred image format.
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The artwork on this page has been created using the methods outlined above. If you have any questions or are interested in purchasing a signed and certified print(s) please feel free to contact me.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157647832571325%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157647832571325%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157647832571325" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157647832571325%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157647832571325%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157647832571325" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-36283815092696980612014-09-05T18:14:00.001+07:002016-10-21T18:15:47.513+07:00Reflections: Exploring Thai Temples<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2wvDK8TtmGJVYz2-Bi4IAASFEOAbJIpHsqx3jP_zLMoJADkAJebO0pYK_OAGRb6hOpgJgd09CLWb_JZi_lWKbQPSYKL4QyoA5fDEhRe32Wr9EoZkgLnh-m6pJeNi81M6E7Xu9iHEViqu/s1600/16325102531_2100fedbc2_c.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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For those of you who follow my blog and Flickr posts, this is an insight into my current photographic work dedicated to Thailand, and the abundance of temples and monasteries that frequent both the urban and rural landscapes. In this post I will cover in more depth my motivation behind the project.
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<b>Why photograph temples?</b> I'm currently working with a photographic process known as High Dynamic Range. Much like the old 35mm film cameras your shots are only half-way to completion once the exposure is taken. The final part of the process is run on my lap-top, where one is able to see if the resulting exposure(s) has created a satisfying image, or not. Through trial and error, and a lot of luck, I found that the temple Wat or temple complex buildings lend themselves to the process, very well. With a high amount of intricate detail and a rather stylized architectural aesthetic I was able to work on a formula that makes best use of the process of High Dynamic Range, and the abundance of wats in the region.
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<b>What's the appeal?</b> Part of the appeal of photographing temples is the journey. The idea of the journey also rings true in Buddhist philosophy, and is a compliment to the reflection of creativity and process in general. Although, I'm not religious, aspects of Buddhism are extremely appealing to me. And, as such, it's intentions seem transparent enough to pursue out of a heartily interest.
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<b>How do you find Temple Wats?</b> With little means at my disposal it's hard to set my mind on large and ambitious projects. I'm an explorer at heart. So, I use this drive and the assistance of a late model 125cc motorcycle in the hunt for new subject matter. I'm presently located close to the murky metropolis of Pattaya, Chonburi Province. A melting pot of industrial, commercial, residential and agricultural land which blends seamlessly into the outer suburbs of Bangkok, to the West; on through rural landscapes to Rayong, Trat and Cambodia to the East. Trips I've made on multiple occasions via the network of roads and public transportation infrastructure that connect Thailand's towns, cities and villages.
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I became aware after a short while that most of the larger roads (in England we call B roads) connect temple wats (temple compounds). Like schools in China or Walmart in the states. The temple Wat is often the center of the community. Therefore, all roads lead to the communal hub of the village or town. Often signed by a large gate marker. Sometimes not more that a few kilometers apart the wat is a statement of the communities wealth and devotion. Each compound has it's own finger print; no two are the same. I find myself navigating by temple. Slowly building a picture of geographical markers rather than the help of a map or GPS. In some respects, it feels much like exploring in past centuries. One is unsure what might be around the next corner, a few miles down the track. Maybe the next big picture. Or, what you might encounter on your journey. That in it's self is inspiration enough to keep riding and exploring Thailand and it's ubiquitous culture of Buddhism.
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<b>Questions?</b> If you have any further questions about this article or would like to tour Thailand by motorcycle please feel free to contact me using the details provided.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157638463363183%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157638463363183%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157638463363183" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157638463363183%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157638463363183%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157638463363183" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-11777429553641633752014-08-26T20:15:00.002+07:002016-10-21T18:20:23.456+07:00Reflections: Circle Series<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKFWzvvmkNfTNniGd9TXbmMyHPGiwAGeacsxqXKEdGS_9HRUPxGbXvn88uvBbU1II7QQ2PjvEULWJvy4X-NkGkDFajtLooc7YfQnnPg2w-grTBNR4Ut6-eCQ2hrmymCU8HgQvoy_ULAHp5/s1600/15436862630_0bb9a4a1d3_z.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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If you were to ask me about my inspiration behind this series of photographs I would be hard pressed to give you a finite answer. I tend to define most of my work as project based; a theme or set of characteristics that best describe each. Nevertheless, when working in any particular medium for long periods of time it will inevitably branch in different directions. Like the "<a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2014/06/reflections-portrait-of-gaia.html#.U_yCN_mSz3o" target="_blank">Gaia Series</a>" this is one such instance.
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With elements of all my previous photographic projects the <i>Circle Series</i> breathes life into those oddities that would otherwise seem out of place among my general catalog of landscapes. It's a defining point, an example of what can be achieved from the application of applied methods in digital photography and post-processing to reach an end result; A formula that is tidy, well laid out and consistent. Until now my work with High Dynamic Range has been one of processing for stock photography. Although, a large percentage of my work offers artistic merit it has yet to find a level where consistency of actions, values, methods and principles, etc, define its integrity. Thus, these works stand as examples of what is achievable using this medium, and a point where I personally feel the work can be labeled as artwork.
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If you have any further questions about this work or would like to purchase a signed and certified print(s) please feel free to contact me using the details provided.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157646471277188%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157646471277188%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157646471277188" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157646471277188%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2Fdrchristophers%2Fsets%2F72157646471277188%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157646471277188" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-8803800982480654782014-08-17T12:16:00.001+07:002015-02-21T11:46:50.609+07:00Camera Modes for DSLRs<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOAzEWcUeXXdFx9KW1qWRQ9WI5XHTYnCUQyBAU00WbWLWGtK5QOsskNIOUnat6nJHFKFuwIzOt7RT85cRZ5U5LvPiAeM7AAeJ1jNcCOWKRiqClbiP_fSepGDez2EWxrZzNtE5u5DHIMxTN/s1600/camera-modes.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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This article covers the basic shooting modes found on most DSLR cameras. And, insights into shooting for the purpose of converting to High Dynamic Range. The article also includes information about general High Dynamic Range photography. <br />
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<b>(AUTO)</b> The automatic settings on most DSLR cameras will generally set ISO, f-stop, shutter-speed and implement flash when required. We use AUTO when it isn't possible to run through your settings at speed and decide which combination best suits the environment. Such as, "happy-snaps", photographing in crowds, moving objects and animals, etc; in situations where shutter speed and depth of field (DOF) is not that important. Generally, the AUTO setting shoots for a crisp clear image based on point of focus. It can be used with single shot High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography, where one might plan to split the resulting image into three separate exposure values (EV) in post processing. However, AUTO has its limitations: In situations where the photographer wants control over the cameras functions. For example, where multiple exposures at differing exposure values (EV) are required for High Dynamic Range imaging it's use is not recommended.
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<b>Shutter-Priority (S)</b> The shutter-priority setting on your camera is used in situations where shutter speed is most important. The camera will set-up the ISO and aperture (f-stop) for you. This setting is best used in sporting events; in situations where one requires the cameras shutter speed to be set to capture fast moving action shots. Or, long exposures where we would like to create atmosphere within our shot - the blurring effect of moving water over rocks is a good example. I personally tend to use this mode when there's not quite enough light to shoot in Aperture-Priority. Nevertheless, this setting is more specialized, and for use in more general photography my preference is that of Aperture-Priority. Shutter-priority can be a very effective means of capturing great mood shots.
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<b>Aperture-Priority (A; Av)</b> Aperture Priority is a great general purpose mode. It gives you the ability to freely set your cameras ISO speed and scroll through f-stop to set your depth of field on the fly. The camera will select the right exposure for your image based on the ISO and f-stop selection to produce a well exposed shot. I find Aperture Priority to be the most useful camera mode in respects to my current needs. It covers a wide selection of photographic conditions. However, if the cameras ISO speed is not selected correctly for the light conditions, or one forgets to change the f-stop values, your shots will not be exposed correctly. To the beginner who uses Aperture Priority incorrectly, this mode can produce poor quality images. Often reverting them back to using the AUTO mode. Note: After shooting a series of shots in this mode I tend to set my camera back to a general setting such as, f9 ISO400, in the event I forget to set the camera for the next shot and conditions. Leaving it set at a mid-point where it should take adequate all purpose shots.<br />
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<b>Manual (M)</b> Your cameras manual setting is a function where you can freely set ISO, f-stop and shutter speed. I find myself more often than not using Manual where I require a longer exposure time with a clear image. Usually, from a tripod. Nevertheless, In the event I'm shooting a sunset, Manual mode will give me the ability to select the right shutter speed and f-stop combination based on ISO sensitivity for a hand-held exposure. Where Aperture Priority would induce camera shake. This is fantastic for professional shots where the photographer is unable to use a tripod. It is also a useful mode for Urban Exploring and HDR photography in any abandoned, dimly lit locations with or without the use of a tripod<br />
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I hope this article helps you get to grips with my personal use of program modes for DSLRs. Please check-out some of my other articles to view examples of this process in action. If you are interested in purchasing a signed and certified print(s) please feel free to contact me.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1914433192878104574.post-83784045910176059162014-08-09T21:04:00.000+07:002016-10-25T12:43:27.144+07:00Workflow: DSLR Tips for Photographic Art<a><img alt="" border="0" cross="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHLrn2qwVKQn6oCYCWQbjfW09BVPXFbK8V7HRF-vj1Z5PrW8exgbY3FLr7fXPlPWCFeK2so_LrvRAwNkFotkQkKzXJ888ZWAk-C5_Fb4hmGwNAYNyQvXUy_S1HVK5jhxai2-PzPpVGdf64/s1600/Alice.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a><a href="http://www.benhodson.com/"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPPEp-9Px65xcQNMS64SlJN-00LiQqcO5-zpdjNRDXSVtUGh_ewqVM3KGhGatzg2GpjcaNt8KmNWZNU0qeWl5ufTewy9TeZeH55eT_2iBDciZscavP4MHjA2M2vv9r7ObtA6HgmNaRmbW/s1600/info-bar-bh.jpg" hand="" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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In this article you will cover the basic process behind producing photographic artwork for print. Insights into camera requirements and software workflow tips. The article also contains examples of photographic art created by using this workflow method.
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<b>The Camera:</b> Camera companies would have you believe that their product best suits your needs. However, to produce high-quality photographic art it is as much in the skills of the artist as in the equipment they use. Nikon, Canon and Sony all produce high-quality cameras that differ in size, functionality and price. Nevertheless, what is not achievable with one camera, in camera, is often achievable with editing software or optional equipment.
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As mentioned in my article <a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2014/07/dispelling-myth-dslr-vs-iphone-all-i.html">DSLR vs iPhone</a>, it's more pressing that we start out with an image at a base-line print quality; losely, 300dpi (ppi) at a size of no less than seven megapixels for magazine quality prints. Thankfully, camera manufactures have moved forward in recent years and the base-line standard required to capture good print quality images has been far surpassed. More importantly, as a digital artist, I find the most important aspects of the capturing process - sensor aside - is lens quality and a high degree of camera functionality. Such as, good optics with vibration reduction (VR), f/stop, ISO and shutter speed functionality; in, manual mode(M), Aperture-priority mode (A) and a good automatic function (AUTO). It is wise to know which settings work best under different circumstances and conditions, which means not only shooting in Manual Mode or AUTO. I will get into why I use these settings more than others in a later post and reference it. For now, let me give you an insight into why these things matter by guiding you with an example:
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Lets say I'd like to capture a street scene: Firstly, my camera needs to introduce a high-quality image to a good quality sensor at or above standard. For those without a tripod, good optics on a VR lens will reduce movement or camera shake, while minimizing distortion and chromatic abrasion. Even though your options for lenses are wide and varied, most models of DSLRs offer 'Vibration Reduction' as standard. Secondly, having the option to adjust DOF (Depth of Field; f/stop), ISO and Exposure Values (EV) gives you more control over the general mood of your photograph. Finally, the most important thing for me, is to capture a sharp and well exposed image. These are the hardest aspects of the post production process to fix. They can mean the difference between a great shot and an average one. The best way to achieve this is good focus and exposure. So, at this point, it's not that important whether your camera is made by Sony or Nikon, if it does that job well. Let's say we took one great shot. It's now time to edit your work in post.
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<b>The Software:</b> For the process of editing "Bitmap" images apposed to "Vector" based images we use the standard photo editing tool Adobe Photoshop editor - it comes in various editions. I personally use Photoshop Elements, which is a lighter version of Photoshop. For the artist who requires a set of tools to manipulate images, Elements does that job well. Although, Elements is lighter on masking options and layer styles, etc, it offers all the important features needed to create high-quality artwork for print. Therefore, it is the first stop for my new digital image fresh from the memory card. "What about Lightroom?" I hear you say. "Fuck Lightroom!" I say. But, seriously, I personally find Adobe Lightroom to be more of a hindrance than a help with my hardware set-up. Most often, I prefer to select and import either a batch of images directly into Photoshop for Panorama or a single image respectively, before converting it to High Dynamic Range ( <a href="http://blog.benhodson.com/2013/07/creating-high-dynamic-range.html">Creating HDR</a> ).
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After adjusting contrast, levels and color the image is cropped to composition and converted into those files required by Photomatix HDR. Photomatix is the next step in creating a professional looking image. Photomatix software merges two or more differing exposure values to create a dynamic range image. That is, an image which looks more like that which we see with our naked eyes. Most photographers have their own opinion on HDR imaging. Nevertheless, as an artist using the process, it is just one small step among many that is used to create the final artwork. The majority of my editing is done using Photoshop, in it's Elements form. The most important feature beyond basic tools is the layering feature. My images are comprised of anything up to and exceeding fifty layers. Layering and how you manipulate these are the key to post processing your final work.
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Once you've achieved the look and feel of your image it is time to clean and finish it. There are lots of different Photoshop plug-ins. They vary in quality and as such I find myself drawn to just a few to help me create that final result. Topaz offers a range of Photoshop plug-ins that give your image a professional finish, as do, onOne and Nik effects, etc. Nevertheless, if your image is just a nice capture and collection of effects, it might not be grounds for good artwork. In support of this, I wouldn't categorize all of my work as "Art", more a work in progress. As they themselves are not yet art in the true sense of the word, Art.
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<b>Note:</b> As I mentioned earlier, your finished image should be at a minimum standard format or above. In the case that you are wishing to publish your work or print your image in the future it is best that the standard be exceeded where possible. It is better to take the time to render as best a quality image as possible, than to work with speed at low resolution. Your work can then be used as stock imagery for future projects.
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I hope this article helps you get to grips with my personal workflow process. The images on this page were personally created and are examples of this process in action. If you are interested in purchasing a signed and certified print(s) please feel free to contact me.
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<a href="http://society6.com/benjaminhodson"><img alt="" border="0" hand="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczxT3xFCCv2ZrCBNjN79dfvUksrs0dY-8oYQORNk1ABtdZrSKjJdJQsNXODZw_WCX_5tyd_9pqzlM4_1Kf4oWgeB6uSpGGwyZ1ZMRgQRokpVCZJm2tAb1uUb-KKZuIUmvrct_cbW7Urao/s1600/SOCIETY6HEADER.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px;" /></a>
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<div style="width:500px;height:500px;text-align:center;margin:auto;" ><object width="500" height="500" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"> <param name="flashvars" value="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157663723785220" /> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /> <param name="src" value="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" /> <embed width="500" height="500" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="https://www.flickr.com/apps/slideshow/show.swf?v=71649" flashvars="offsite=true&lang=en-us&page_show_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2Fshow&page_show_back_url=%2Fphotos%2F62433437%40N02%2Fsets%2F72157663723785220%2F&user_id=62433437@N02&set_id=72157663723785220" allowFullScreen="true" /> </object><br /></div>Stephen J Christophershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03168310741958656927noreply@blogger.com